For many Indian travellers, Vietnam usually means a holiday in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang. However, there is another side to the country that is worth discovering. Off Vietnam’s southwestern coast, Phu Quoc offers a very different holiday experience. You can spend your days here by moving between beaches, exploring fishing villages, trying local seafood or taking a boat to the smaller islands nearby.

Known as the Pearl Island, Phu Quoc has gradually found its place on the travel map. If you are planning a trip beyond Vietnam’s familiar cities, here are seven experiences to consider.

1. Visit Sao Beach

Being one of the most recognisable places on the island, Sao Beach has white sand and clean waters, which makes it an ideal place for tourists to spend their day at the seaside. Another beach to visit in the south of the island is Khem Beach. Both are suitable for a relaxed day of swimming, sunbathing and enjoying the coastline without a schedule.

2. Ride the cable car to Hon Thom

The cable car ride between An Thoi and Hon Thom Island is among the best things to see and do in Phu Quoc. It gives an opportunity to travel above the sea and view the surrounding islands and fishing vessels. Once you are there, you can swim, try water sports or explore the island’s entertainment attractions.

3. Explore the greener side of Phu Quoc

Apart from numerous beaches, there is a lot of greenery on the island. The national park of Phu Quoc has beautiful landscapes including streams, dense forests and various wild animals. Those who want to see something other than beaches can explore the trails inside the park.

4. Visit Ham Ninh fishing village

A visit to Ham Ninh offers a look at the island’s fishing traditions. The village has a waterfront lined with fishing boats and small restaurants serving freshly caught seafood. Crab is among its local specialities and is worth trying during a visit. The setting is simple, but that is precisely what makes it a pleasant stop between the island’s more developed attractions.

5. Try local food at Duong Dong Night Market

Evenings are a good time to explore Duong Dong Night Market. The stalls serve everything from grilled seafood and oysters to local snacks and desserts. Visitors can also browse shops selling souvenirs, pepper and Phu Quoc fish sauce, products closely associated with the island. For anyone interested in local food, the market is a good place to spend an evening.

6. Watch the sunset at Sunset Town

Located in southern Phu Quoc, Sunset Town has colourful European-inspired buildings, waterfront restaurants and open spaces overlooking the sea. The Kiss Bridge is one of its best-known landmarks and attracts visitors looking for a good sunset view. The area also has evening performances and entertainment, making it a convenient place to spend a few hours after sightseeing.

7. Go island-hopping around An Thoi

A trip to the An Thoi Archipelago adds another dimension to a Phu Quoc holiday. Boat trips take visitors to smaller islands where they can swim, snorkel or simply spend time on quieter beaches. The surrounding waters are known for coral reefs and marine life. Keeping a day aside for an island excursion is a good idea, particularly for travellers who enjoy being out on the water.

A different side of Vietnam

Phu Quoc is not a destination that needs a packed sightseeing schedule. Its appeal lies in having different experiences within easy reach, from a morning at the beach to an afternoon exploring local food and an evening by the waterfront. For travellers who have already explored Vietnam’s cities, or those planning their first visit and looking for something beyond the usual itinerary, the island offers a reason to see the country from a different perspective.