North Phu Quoc is the quieter, greener half of Vietnam’s Pearl Island, around 25–30 km north of Duong Dong town. It runs from Ganh Dau cape in the northwest to Bai Thom and Rach Vem in the northeast, and it holds the island’s biggest attractions — Grand World, VinWonders and Vinpearl Safari — alongside long, calm Bai Dai Beach.
This guide covers the main things to see in North Phu Quoc, how to get there from the town centre, and a sample one-day itinerary. Ticket prices and opening hours change with the season, so check the official sources before you go.
Where is North Phu Quoc?
North Phu Quoc is the northern part of the island, about 25–30 km from Duong Dong. It covers the Ganh Dau, Cua Can and Bai Thom areas plus the Bai Dai coastal strip along the northwest shore. While the south of the island is known for the Hon Thom cable car and busy swimming beaches, the north leans towards nature, fishing villages and large resort–entertainment complexes.
Much of North Phu Quoc lies inside Phu Quoc National Park, so the drive out here runs through forest, with pepper farms and sea-view slopes along the way.
Ganh Dau — the far northwest cape
Ganh Dau is the far northwestern tip of Phu Quoc, where on a clear day you can make out the coastline of Cambodia in the distance. A few spots worth stopping for:
- Ganh Dau cape: a rocky headland reaching into the sea, with waves year-round — a good place for views and photos over the Gulf of Thailand.
- Ganh Dau Beach: a small, clear-water beach with a few seafood eateries run by the local fishing community.
- Nguyen Trung Truc Temple: where locals honour the national hero tied to Vietnam’s southwestern seas. It is a quiet space, suitable for a respectful visit and a little of the island’s history.
Ganh Dau is about 30 km from Duong Dong. The road is paved but has a few hilly, winding stretches, so ride slowly and keep a firm grip on the handlebars.
Bai Dai Beach and the big attractions
Beyond Ganh Dau, the Bai Dai strip and the northeast offer something for every kind of traveller.
Bai Dai Beach
Bai Dai Beach is a long stretch of sand along the northwest shore, with wide sunset views. It is also where most of the northern resorts and entertainment complexes are clustered, so it makes a natural base for exploring the area.
Grand World Phu Quoc
Grand World Phu Quoc is a walk-and-play complex beside Bai Dai, with a Venice-style canal, rows of shophouses and evening performances. The outdoor areas are generally open to stroll through, while some shows and rides are ticketed — check the current programme before you visit.
VinWonders Phu Quoc
VinWonders Phu Quoc is a large theme park with rides, a water park and show zones — an easy choice for families with children. Ticket prices vary by season and promotion, so book ahead or check the official price list to plan your budget.
Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc
Vinpearl Safari is a semi-wild animal park where you tour by shuttle bus to see the animals up close. It pairs well with VinWonders for a full family day out on the Bai Dai side of the island.
Rach Vem fishing village and the northeast
In the northeast, Rach Vem fishing village is often mentioned for its starfish and the seafood huts built out over the water. Starfish are living animals — look and take photos, but avoid lifting them out of the water for long. Nearby Bai Thom is a calm stretch of coast for travellers who prefer somewhere quiet and uncrowded.
How to get to North Phu Quoc
From Duong Dong, you have a few options for reaching the north:
- Rent a motorbike: flexible and good for independent explorers; bring your licence, fill up the tank and travel in daylight, as some stretches are remote.
- Taxi or ride-hailing: convenient for families with small children or older travellers; agree on the fare or fix the trip in advance.
- Car with or without a driver: suits larger groups covering several stops in one day.
Inside large complexes like Grand World you can get around by electric buggy. For more on reaching the island and moving around once you arrive, see our guide on how to get to Phu Quoc and get around.
A one-day North Phu Quoc itinerary
A simple frame to help you plan the day:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Leave Duong Dong; stop at Ganh Dau — the cape and Nguyen Trung Truc Temple |
| Midday | Seafood lunch at the fishing village, then a midday rest |
| Afternoon | VinWonders, Safari or Grand World, or swim at Bai Dai Beach |
| Late afternoon | Watch the sunset at Bai Dai |
| Evening | Catch a show at Grand World, then head back to the centre |
Prefer something quieter? Swap the afternoon parks for Rach Vem fishing village and Bai Thom. To fit the north into a longer trip, see our Phu Quoc itinerary suggestions.
Tips for visiting North Phu Quoc
- Travel in daylight and keep the tank full if you ride a motorbike — some stretches are remote with few petrol stations.
- Bring water, a hat and sunscreen; many spots are beaches and rocky headlands with little shade.
- For Rach Vem, go at low tide to spot the starfish more easily; keep the area clean and do not take marine life away.
- Check opening hours and ticket prices for the parks before you arrive, and book ahead in peak season.
- Dress modestly and respect the quiet when you visit the temple.
North Phu Quoc FAQ
How far is North Phu Quoc from the town centre?
About 25–30 km from Duong Dong depending on the spot, roughly 40–60 minutes by road.
How should I get around North Phu Quoc?
A motorbike if you like exploring on your own, a taxi or ride-hailing car if you are travelling with children or older family members, or a car for larger groups.
How long do I need for North Phu Quoc?
One day is enough to see a few main spots; if you want both the parks and the fishing villages at a relaxed pace, split it over two half-days or fold it into a multi-day trip.
North Phu Quoc is worth adding to your trip if you like nature and a mix of experiences. For the full picture, see our Phu Quoc travel guide, or browse more Phu Quoc attractions.