1. Experience world-class entertainment at Sun World Hon Thom
A one-of-a-kind thrill: Vietnam's sole wooden roller coaster
At Sun World Hon Thom, excitement awaits every kind of traveler. For thrill-seekers, Exotica Village is home to the Angry Wooden Snake - Vietnam’s first-ever wooden roller coaster. Stretching over 900 meters and reaching speeds of up to 80 km/h, this wild ride delivers a heart-pounding rush through twists and turns between lush forest and sparkling sea.
Aquatopia Water Park offers enjoyable attractions for guests of any age
Meanwhile, Aquatopia Water Park stands as one of Southeast Asia’s most modern attractions, offering more than 20 rides - from exhilarating slides to safe, playful pools for kids. With its vibrant themed zones and family-friendly atmosphere, Sun World Hon Thom is among the most unusual things to do in Phu Quoc, bringing fun, adventure, and island magic together for visitors of all ages.
Price: Included in the cable car trip.
Tip: Come on weekdays for shorter lines and a more peaceful experience.
2. Take a walk and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere of Sunset Town
Nestled on Phu Quoc’s sun-drenched southwestern coast, Sunset Town is where Mediterranean charm meets island serenity. Rows of pastel-colored buildings with wrought-iron balconies and cobblestone streets slope gracefully toward the turquoise sea, creating postcard-perfect views at every turn. It’s not just a destination to see — it’s a place to stroll, linger, and let time slow down. Every corner feels cinematic, bathed in golden light and seaside breezes. For photographers and dreamers alike, exploring Sunset Town is among the most unusual things to do in Phu Quoc, capturing the island’s beauty through a lens of art and romance.
Sunset Town from the sky, an enchanting view crwned by the architectural marvel of the Kiss Bridge
Snap a golden-hour portrait on Kiss Bridge, admire the glowing Campanile Tower, or frame the Dragon Stairway draped in bougainvillea. At Sunset Bay Beach, watch silhouettes stroll as the sun sets, while La Festa Square charms like southern Europe. Every view is cinematic, making it one of the most romantic and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Tip: Visit between 4:30 and 6:00 PM for the best light and wear pastel colors to match the town’s warm tones.
3. Sunset Town: Breath-taking Ocean Shows
'The Kiss of the Sea' was awarded a Guinness World Record for being the largest permanent water projection theater on the globe
When the sun dips below the horizon, Phu Quoc transforms into a dazzling stage of light and sound. The Kiss of the Sea show gathers more than sixty international performers in a breathtaking blend of acrobatics, water fountains, fireworks, and 3D mapping. Together, they tell a poetic love story between the sea and the sky - a spectacle that feels both cinematic and deeply emotional. Every element, from the glowing lights to the synchronized dance of water and fire, creates an unforgettable night of magic. Watching this performance is truly one of the most unusual things to do in Phu Quoc, capturing the island’s spirit of creativity and wonder.
"Symphony of the Sea" presents a magnificent display, weaving together water and light into an unforgettable performance
Just a short distance away, the Symphony of the Sea offers a shorter yet equally captivating spectacle of laser lights, music, and gravity-defying flyboard stunts that illuminate the entire bay. The dazzling reflections on the water create a living light show that feels both futuristic and dreamlike. Together with the Kiss of the Sea, these performances turn Phu Quoc’s nights into a realm of pure magic — a fusion of art, technology, and nature. Experiencing these shows is undoubtedly one of the most unusual things to do in Phu Quoc, where the island’s evenings shine as brightly as its days.
Price: Kiss of the Sea - VND 1,300,000 for two (≈ USD 50). Symphony of the Sea - VND 700,000 for two (≈ USD 26).
Tip: Get ready to get splashed by the performances!
4. Ride the World’s Longest Cable Car to Hon Thom Island
Discover a stunning paradise from above with a ride on the Hon Thom Cable Car
The journey itself feels like a masterpiece painted across the sky. Soaring above the sea on the world’s longest three-wire cable car is undoubtedly among the most unusual things to do in Phu Quoc. Spanning nearly eight kilometers from An Thoi to Hon Thom Island, the ride offers the sensation of drifting through a dream of turquoise waters and emerald islets. From above, fishing boats scatter across the ocean like colorful specks, coral reefs glisten under the sunlight, and the An Thoi Archipelago stretches gracefully into the horizon. With sweeping 360-degree views from the cabin, every frame is a living postcard. More than just a journey, it’s a sky-high experience that defines the magic and allure of Phu Quoc.
Price: Adults VND 600,000-650,000 (USD 24-26); children VND 550,000–600,000; under 1.0 m free.
Tip: Take the earliest cable car for golden light and clear visibility, the photographs will look ethereal.
5. Catch the Morning Rush at Duong Dong Market
Duong Dong Market is a bustling hub for fresh seafood every morning, popular with locals and tourists alike
The truest way to feel the island’s heartbeat is at Duong Dong Market. From dawn, the air hums with the sounds of bargaining, chopping, and laughter. Fishermen unload their fresh catch onto the docks, while locals gather for seafood and breakfast. Stroll past stalls brimming with tropical fruits, pepper, and barrels of fish sauce, or enjoy a steaming bowl of noodle soup by the pier. Experiencing this lively scene is one of the most authentic and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc, offering a glimpse of the island in all its vibrant, flavorful energy.
Price: Free; local breakfasts 15,000-40,000 VND.
Tip: Arrive by 6:00 AM when the morning light and market bustle are at their peak.
6. Visit Phu Quoc Bee Farm and Sip Forest Honey Tea
Tucked away in the lush heart of Cua Can village, the Phu Quoc Bee Farm is a peaceful retreat where visitors can discover how local farmers live in harmony with nature. Nestled among fruit trees and blooming forest flowers, this eco-garden nurtures native stingless bees and champions organic farming - a serene and educational stop among the most unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Harvesting honey is a special process that requires a strong focus on safety
Visitors can stroll through the lush gardens, observe bees buzzing at work, and sample raw honey straight from the comb. The charming on-site café offers refreshing herbal drinks, from honey lemongrass tea to iced ginger honey, all made with ingredients grown on the farm. Relaxing under bamboo huts, sipping a cool beverage while listening to the gentle hum of bees, you’ll experience a slower, more tranquil side of the island - one of the most peaceful and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc that few tourists discover.
Price: Free entry.
Tip: Visit between 8:00 and 10:30 AM for a guided tour and the chance to join a mini beekeeping workshop.
7. Visit Rach Vem During Starfish Season
At Rach Vem, famously called Starfish Beach, nature offers a serene spectacle. From December to April, hundreds of bright crimson starfish dot the shallow turquoise waters. Wooden piers stretch out to floating seafood huts, where visitors can savor grilled crab, fresh sea urchin, or a steaming hotpot while watching the sparkling water below - one of the most picturesque and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
A beautiful visual contrast is on display at Rach Vem, where bright red starfish dot the emerald-green waters.
The pace at Starfish Beach is calm and tranquil, ideal for travelers looking to escape the crowds. Watching sunlight shimmer across the crystal-clear water as starfish lie quietly beneath the waves is pure enchantment - a simple yet truly unusual thing to do in Phu Quoc that lingers in your memory long after you leave.
Price: Free; food extra.
Tip: Visit early morning for calm water and better light for photography.
8. Make Your Own Sauce at Bun Quay Kien Xay
At Bun Quay Kien Xay, dining is an interactive adventure. Before your noodles arrive, you craft your own dipping sauce using fish sauce, lime, chili, sugar, and freshly ground Phu Quoc pepper. Stir until it foams, taste, and adjust - each mix is uniquely yours.
Bun Quay Kien Xay is renowned for combining the freshest seafood with a truly distinctive dining experience.
When the noodles come, filled with freshly stirred shrimp paste, the flavors are light yet rich, perfectly enhanced by your homemade sauce. This is not just a meal; it is a hands-on, authentic experience, making it one of the most unusual things to do in Phu Quoc for food lovers.
Price: 50,000-60,000 VND
Tip: Visit mid-morning to avoid the rush, and watch how locals mix their sauces for inspiration.
9. Dare to Try Tiet Canh Cua - Raw Crab Blood Pudding
Tiet canh cua, a renowned delicacy from Phu Quoc, is created by meticulously preparing the freshest, most flavorful crabs
For adventurous eaters, Phu Quoc serves a daring specialty: Tiet Canh Cua, or raw crab blood pudding. Made from freshly drawn crab blood mixed with herbs, lime, peanuts, and minced crab meat, the dish offers a smooth texture and a flavor that blends the sea’s saltiness with zesty citrus and nutty crunch. Considered a local delicacy and a source of vitality, it’s often enjoyed at early morning gatherings in fishing villages like Ham Ninh. Bold yet deeply traditional, tasting this dish is one of the most authentic and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc, offering a flavorful glimpse into life by the sea.
Price: Varies depending on freshness and season.
Tip: Only try this dish at clean, reputable seafood restaurants recommended by locals, and eat it fresh for the best flavor and safety..
10. Take a Scenic Motorbike Ride to Ganh Dau Cape
Discover the authentic charm of Phu Quoc's fishing villages and natural scenery at your own pace with a motorbike
For those who love adventure on the open road, rent a motorbike and ride north to Ganh Dau Cape, where lush jungle opens up to the sparkling sea. The journey winds past pepper plantations, fruit stalls, and quiet fishing villages before reaching a tranquil beach with views stretching toward Cambodia. Pause for a fresh coconut or a seafood meal by the shore and soak in the peaceful surroundings. The mix of twisting roads, sea breeze, and natural scenery makes this one of the most thrilling and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc for adventure seekers.
Price: 120,000-150,000 VND per day.
Tip: Leave early to enjoy the soft morning light and cooler temperatures.
11. Drink Honey Coffee in a Hidden Jungle Café
The hidden cafés tucked away in the forest offer the perfect blend of privacy and comfort
Located in the hills of Cua Duong, family-run jungle cafés lie hidden among pepper farms and banana groves. These cozy wooden spaces feel like homes, complete with hammocks, open terraces, and the gentle chorus of forest birds. Savor a cup of robust Vietnamese coffee sweetened with local honey, or enjoy an iced lime soda made from freshly picked fruit. With no Wi-Fi or city noise, these cafés offer a serene escape - one of the most tranquil and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: 30,000-60,000 VND.
Tip: Go early in the morning when sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a golden shimmer over your cup.
12. Pick Live Seafood and Dine on a Floating Raft
At Ganh Dau, seafood goes straight from the sea to your plate. Floating raft restaurants let you select live fish, crab, or shrimp from cages suspended in the water. As you wait, the breeze carries the aromas of garlic and lemongrass from nearby grills.
Many travelers prefer the authentic culture and cuisine of seaside fishing villages over luxury dining
The dishes are simple, fresh, and seasoned in true island style, served above the gentle waves. Each bite bursts with the taste of the sea, the salt air, and the freedom of open water. Watching the sun set behind fishing boats while dining here is rustic, authentic, and one of the most genuine and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: 100,000-200,000 VND per dish.
Tip: Arrive before noon for the best seafood selection and calm seas, and bring cash as card payments are not always available.
13. Taste Sim Wine and Walk Through the Orchards
Take a tour of local sim fruit farms and their production workshops
Phu Quoc’s red soil gives rise to a unique fruit: hồng sim, or wild myrtle berry. Between March and May, the hills bloom in vibrant purple, and family-run wineries welcome visitors. At Sim Son and Bay Gao, you can stroll among the berry trees, learn the art of fermentation, and taste sweet-and-sour sim wine - a perfect companion to fresh seafood. The rustic, welcoming atmosphere reflects the island’s authentic charm, making it one of the most culturally rich and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: Free entry; tastings optional.
Tip: Visit in spring for blooming flowers and freshly bottled wine.
14. Join Afternoon Prayer at Duong Dong Cao Dai Temple
The Cao Dai Temple is a perfect destination for visitors with an interest in spiritual and religious sites
In the center of Duong Dong town, Cao Dai Temple welcomes visitors eager to explore this unique Vietnamese faith. Inside, pastel pink, blue, and yellow walls glow softly in the morning light. At 4:00 PM, local worshippers in white robes gather for their daily prayer, bowing and chanting in harmony beneath the watchful Divine Eye. The temple embodies unity, blending Buddhist, Christian, and Confucian traditions into a serene philosophy. Watching the ceremony offers a rare moment of calm and cultural insight, making it one of the most fascinating and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: Free.
Tip: Remove your shoes before entering, keep quiet during prayers, and avoid flash photography.
15. Visit Dinh Cau Shrine and Hear Sea Guardian Legends
Perched on a rocky outcrop where the Duong Dong River meets the sea, Dinh Cau Shrine has protected fishermen for over 300 years. Dedicated to Thien Hau, the sea goddess, it serves as both a spiritual symbol and a breathtaking viewpoint.
The iconic Dinh Cau shrine, set on seaside rocks, is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to watch sunsets and pray for safe sea voyages.
A short climb up stone steps brings you to the shrine, where the scent of incense and the sound of waves fill the air. Locals leave offerings of fruit and flowers before heading out to sea. From the terrace, watch fishing boats glide home as the sun sets - a serene and captivating moment, making it one of the most historic and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: Free.
Tip: Visit before sunset to enjoy both the ceremony and the panoramic sea view.
16. Hike to Suoi Tranh Waterfall and Picnic Like a Local
Nestled in the forest about ten kilometers southeast of Duong Dong, Suoi Tranh Waterfall offers a refreshing escape from the island heat. A short trek winds through lush greenery, moss-covered rocks, and charming wooden bridges before revealing the gentle cascade. Locals gather here for picnics, laying mats on smooth stones, grilling snacks, or relaxing in hammocks strung between trees.
A growing number of families are opting for camping adventures near waterfalls over traditional beach vacations.
The soothing sound of flowing water blends with birdsong and rustling leaves, creating a peaceful rhythm that instantly calms the mind. Bring your camera, a picnic basket, and your sense of wonder - Suoi Tranh is one of the most serene and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc, a hidden haven away from the crowds.
Price: 10,000 VND per person.
Tip: Visit in the morning for cool air and soft light, and avoid rainy days when the path can become slippery.
17. Kayak Along the Peaceful Cua Can River
Paddle along the tranquil Cua Can River, one of Phu Quoc’s most peaceful natural gems. Kayaking here takes you through dense mangroves, quaint fishing villages, and calm stretches of reflective water where palm trees arch gracefully overhead.
The Cua Can River is a perfect fit for visitors who prefer the freedom of exploring natural river scenery on their own
The gentle current makes it ideal for beginners, while wildlife - herons, kingfishers, and sunbathing monitor lizards - adds a touch of magic to the journey. This serene adventure offers a side of the island far removed from beaches and resorts. With every stroke of the paddle, you’ll be swept into nature’s soothing rhythm - a quiet, unforgettable, and truly unusual thing to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: 100,000-150,000 VND per hour.
Tip: Go early in the morning for calm water and soft light, or late afternoon to enjoy the sunset reflecting on the river.
18. Soak in a Natural Mud Bath at Galina Wellness Spa
Taking a mud bath is a unique experience with proven health benefits for your skin and body
After days of island adventures, nothing feels more rewarding than a natural mud bath at Galina Wellness Spa. Tucked within tropical gardens near Long Beach, this spa uses mineral-rich mud renowned for its skin-softening and detoxifying properties. Relax in open-air tubs surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle chorus of birds as the warm mud soothes tired muscles. Afterwards, rinse in a mineral pool and unwind in a herbal steam. With the fragrant breeze and tranquil setting, time seems to stand still - a deeply relaxing and rejuvenating experience, making it one of the most restorative and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: 200,000-400,000 VND depending on the package.
Tip: Visit in late afternoon when the sunlight is soft and the garden is shaded.
19. Climb Ham Ninh Mountain for Sunrise Views
For an unforgettable adventure, rise before dawn and hike Ham Ninh Mountain, one of Phu Quoc’s highest peaks. The trail weaves through dense bamboo groves and over mossy rocks, challenging yet immensely rewarding. At the summit, the eastern coast unfolds as the sun rises in shades of pink and gold over the ocean.
Ham Ninh Mountain overlooks the sunrise above the fishing village, creating a poetic and picturesque scene.
Morning mist drifts across the treetops, accompanied by the distant hum of fishing boats heading out to sea. Few travelers attempt this climb, making it a rare and serene experience - a moment of solitude above the island, surrounded by clouds, light, and one of the most unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: 300,000-500,000 VND for a local guide.
Tip: Begin hiking by 4:30 AM to catch the sunrise, and wear good shoes as the path can be slippery.
20. Stand-Up Paddleboard into the Sunset
A breathtaking view of the vast ocean, its surface transformed into a sea of glittering diamonds by the sun
Few experiences rival watching the sunset from the water. Rent a paddleboard at Sunset Town and drift across the tranquil bay as the sky lights up in hues of orange, pink, and violet. The Mediterranean-style buildings along the shore mirror beautifully on the water, and the only sound is the soft splash of your paddle. Whether standing or sitting, the experience is meditative, capturing the island’s serene charm. Ideal for couples, this is one of the most romantic and truly unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: 200,000-400,000 VND per hour.
Tip: Start around 5:00 PM for the best light and calmest sea.
21. Watch Sunrise and Hear Bells at Ho Quoc Pagoda
The ringing of the temple bell at Ho Pagoda is a daily ritual that signals the peaceful start of each morning.
Perched on a seaside cliff in Phu Quoc’s southeast, Ho Quoc Pagoda is both a spiritual sanctuary and a scenic marvel. Its tiled roofs curve gracefully toward the ocean, while stone dragons guard the stairways. At dawn, temple bells chime and monks’ chants float softly through the mountain air. From the terrace, watch the sun rise over the sea as the scent of incense drifts around you. This serene experience offers a profound connection to the island’s spiritual side, inviting travelers to pause, reflect, and breathe — one of the most peaceful and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: Free.
Tip: Arrive before 6:30 AM for sunrise and dress modestly to show respect.
22. Go Night Squid Fishing Under the Stars
Experience one of Phu Quoc's most beloved nighttime adventures: squid fishing
After dark, head to the harbors of Duong Dong or An Thoi for a night squid fishing adventure. Beneath a canopy of stars, local fishermen lead you into calm waters where green lights shimmer on the sea surface. With simple rods and hooks, try your hand at catching squid as they are drawn to the glow. The crew grills your catch right on deck, serving it hot with lime, salt, and chili. Even if the squid eludes you, the gentle night breeze and endless starlit horizon create a serene and unforgettable experience - one of the most peaceful and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: 300,000-400,000 VND per person including dinner.
Tip: Bring a light jacket, and avoid slippery shoes while moving around the deck.
23. Try Goi Ca Trich - Raw Herring Salad
Don't leave Phu Quoc without tasting the herring salad, a celebrated local specialty
Phu Quoc’s iconic raw herring salad is a culinary masterpiece. Thinly sliced fresh herring is marinated in lime juice and mixed with shredded coconut, fresh herbs, onions, and peanuts, then wrapped in rice paper with crisp greens. The result is bright, tangy, and refreshingly vibrant, perfectly complementing the island’s sea breeze. Enjoying it by the ocean, eating with your hands, you’ll see why this dish has become a signature and one of the most unusual things to do in Phu Quoc for food enthusiasts.
Price: 150,000-200,000 VND for two.
Tip: Ask for extra herbs and try it with tamarind fish sauce for the true local taste
24. Take a Local Cooking Class and Make Goi Ca Trich
Dive into island life with a cooking class at local gems like The Spice House or Cassia Cottage. Begin at the bustling market, guided by a local chef who shows you how to select the freshest seafood, herbs, and vegetables.
Visitors can enjoy eating Goi Ca Trich and also try preparing it themselves under the guidance of local people
In the kitchen, you will learn to prepare traditional dishes such as Goi Ca Trich (raw herring salad) and caramelized fish in clay pots. The hands-on process is lively, fun, and full of laughter. Once the cooking is complete, share the meal with your group while hearing stories about local traditions. This immersive experience is more than just cooking - it is one of the most engaging and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc, offering a true taste of the island’s community spirit.
Price: 600,000-900,000 VND including lunch.
Tip: Choose a morning class to include the market visit and enjoy your dishes for lunch.
25. Eat Bun Ken for Breakfast
Among Phu Quoc’s must-try dishes, Bun Ken shares the spotlight with Bun Quay as a true local specialty
Kick off your day like a true local with Bun Ken, one of Phu Quoc’s most distinctive noodle dishes. Minced mackerel is cooked in coconut milk with turmeric and lemongrass, forming a golden, flavorful sauce that’s poured over rice noodles and garnished with fresh herbs, green papaya, peanuts, and crispy shallots. Slightly spicy and fragrant, it’s traditionally enjoyed at sidewalk stalls on tiny stools while chatting with neighbors. Bun Ken Ut Luom is the most famous spot, serving steaming bowls to early risers - a delicious and authentic unusual thing to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: 25,000-30,000 VND.
Tip: Arrive before 9:00 AM, as bun ken is sold out quickly every day.
26. Ride the Island Loop by Motorbike
For adventurous travelers, the Island Loop provides an exciting drive with access to the island's best scenic viewpoints
One of the most liberating and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc is to rent a motorbike and explore the island loop for the ultimate sense of freedom. The route winds from Duong Dong to Ham Ninh, then south to An Thoi, passing beaches, pepper farms, and roadside cafés along the way. Every turn brings a new surprise: children waving from the roadside, hidden coves, and tiny bridges leading to fishing hamlets. Stop whenever something catches your eye, swim in the sea, or sip coconut water beneath swaying palms. Riding the loop isn’t about reaching a destination - it’s about embracing the journey itself, a vivid reminder of why travel matters.
Price: 120,000-150,000 VND per day.
Tip: Start early, wear sunscreen, and take breaks often to enjoy the scenery.
27. Meet the Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dogs
The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is known for being agile and loyal, and is easily identified by the ridge of hair along its back
Animal enthusiasts will love a visit to the Phu Quoc Ridgeback Conservation Center near the old airport. This rare, island-native breed is famous for the distinctive ridge of fur running backward along its spine. Agile, loyal, and intelligent, these dogs were traditionally trained to hunt in Phu Quoc’s dense forests. At the center, visitors can watch agility demonstrations, learn about the breed’s history, and interact with playful puppies under staff supervision. Meeting these remarkable dogs is a memorable and heartwarming experience, making it one of the most unique and unusual things to do in Phu Quoc.
Price: Donation appreciated.
Tip: Call ahead or ask your hotel to confirm visiting hours or training sessions.
