Phuong Thao during her trip to Phu Quy Island in March, 2025
With a 5-day break from work and school, a family from Hanoi enjoyed an unforgettable getaway to Phu Quy Island, diving into emerald waters, staying in a homestay surrounded by the sea, and exploring a peaceful island where every coastal mile feels untouched by time.
Among countless beach destinations in Vietnam, Phuong Thao and her family remain loyal to one special spot: Phu Quy Island. It’s the only place she’s returned to three times in just as many years.
Earlier this March, Thao, her husband, and their two young children embarked on a 5-day, 4-night adventure to the so-called “paradise in the open sea.” The trip was packed with laughter, wonder, and wide-eyed amazement as the kids discovered the magic of nature.
Their journey began in Hanoi, with a flight to HCM City and a taxi ride to Phan Thiet. The family stayed overnight to rest before catching the early-morning high-speed ferry to the island.
The ferry departs at 7.30 am and takes about 2.5 hours to reach Phu Quy. Tickets cost VND370,000 per adult, and children under seven ride for free.
“As we approached the island, the sea turned a breathtaking shade of blue, like something out of a painting,” Thao recalled.
On arrival, they checked into LaMer Homestay, a charming wooden house right by the water with open sea views on all four sides. Priced at around VND1.9 million per night, it was a peaceful escape from the mainland.
“The kids were thrilled to fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake up with the ocean right outside their window,” Thao shared.
Island highlights on two wheels
On the first day, the family explored the island’s must-see spots: the Lonely Tree, the fishing village reminiscent of Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, Phuot Slope, Ganh Hang, the Wheel Lake, and the sovereignty flagpole.
Thao rented a motorbike for just VND100,000-150,000 per day, which made exploring the island easy and flexible.
“Riding along coastal cliffs, with the sea right next to us, was an experience both the adults and kids loved. We kept stopping to snap photos or just to take it all in,” she said.
Freediving & family fun
The second day was dedicated to Thao’s passion: freediving, diving without an oxygen tank. Despite not knowing how to swim, she could participate thanks to a professional instructor.
The two-session experience cost VND1.5 million, including underwater photos and video.
“For first-timers, I’d say the most important thing is to stay relaxed. Don’t be afraid, the instructors are always nearby. Just take a deep breath and enjoy the colourful world beneath the surface,” she advised.
“Swimming in crystal-clear water, surrounded by coral and fish, with only your breath and the ocean, it’s unforgettable.”
While Thao was underwater, her husband took the kids on a boat tour to Hon Tranh, home to a stunning beach often compared to the Maldives. The kids watched fish swimming right under their feet, played on soft white sand, and swam in turquoise waters. The tour costs between VND250,000 and VND500,000 per person, depending on the package.
A slower pace by the sea
The following day was more laid-back. The family rose early to watch the sunrise at Phuot Slope, visited the local seafood market, and had breakfast by the beach. The children were fascinated watching the locals haul in nets, grill squid, and prepare fishing boats for the day ahead.
The following day, the family boarded the ferry back to the mainland. A private car picked them up in Phan Thiet and brought them to HCM City for their evening flight back to Hanoi.
Food on the island was surprisingly affordable, with meals ranging from VND50,000 to 100,000 per dish. The family spent around VND5 million on food over five days.
The trip costs around VND30–32 million (approximately USD1,200–1,300), covering flights, ferry tickets, private transport, homestay, meals, snorkelling, tours, and other activities.
Even though they didn’t have time to explore the island’s deeper cultural side, Thao felt the trip was more than worth it.
“It was just the right mix of adventure and relaxation. For anyone who loves unspoiled nature and calm seas, Phu Quy has a way of capturing your heart,” she said.
Phu Quy Island is a small island about 120km from Phan Thiet City in Binh Thuan Province. It is known for its untouched natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and warm, welcoming locals.
Despite covering just over 17 square kilometres, Phu Quy offers a range of attractions, including Linh Son Pagoda, a scenic lighthouse, the national sovereignty flagpole, and Bai Nho- Ganh Hang beach.
Thanks to its fresh climate, affordable travel costs, and a variety of activities like snorkelling, fishing, and motorbike exploration, the island has become increasingly popular, especially among young families and adventure-seeking groups of friends.
