Hidden Gems Near Phu Quoc: 10 Stunning Islands You Must Explore. Surrounded by the emerald waters of the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is more than just Vietnam’s most famous island destination—it is the starting point of an entire ocean world filled with hidden archipelagos, untouched beaches, coral kingdoms, and quiet fishing communities.
Beyond the main island lies a scattered chain of smaller islands, each with its own identity. Some are developed and vibrant, others remain wild and untouched, and a few still preserve a deeply traditional way of coastal life.
Below is a detailed and expanded guide to 10 stunning islands near Phu Quoc, with their English names and in-depth descriptions.
🌴 I. Southern Paradise – An Thoi Archipelago
Phu Quoc is the largest island in Vietnam, with a total area of 574 square kilometers. The island is a city under Kien Giang Province, with natural terrain running from north to south, including nearly 100 hills and mountains and a large forest.
Phu Quoc has countless gorgeous places of interest and high-class services. Moreover, as a familiar destination for many tourists, Phu Quoc always has new check-in points attracting tourists.
From October to April, when other parts of Vietnam enter the rainy season, it is the most beautiful time on Phu Quoc. Autumn on Phu Quoc is considered a paradise, offering a wonderful harmony between warm temperatures and romantic scenery. The weather is suitable for entertainment and relaxation, especially exploring Thom Islet, May Rut Islet, Mong Tay Islet and Gam Ghi Islet. Tourists can take a boat ride from the An Thoi port to explore all the four islets in one day.
Thom Islet (Hon Thom) is about three kilometers south of Phu Quoc. The islet attracts tourists with its fresh and green beauty, white sandy beaches, golden sunshine and clear blue water shaded by tall coconut trees.
Thom Islet has a vibrant, bustling life. Tourists can experience many entertainment activities, especially the impressive 8-kilometer-long cable car system across the sea connecting Phu Quoc and the islet.
Unlike Thom Islet’s bustle, May Rut Islet (Hon May Rut) lures tourists with its wild nature and quiet atmosphere. The beach is full of white sand and a crystal clear blue sea. Moreover, there is a diverse ecosystem with 125 sea species. On May Rut Islet, tourists can dive, see corals, enjoy squid fishing and visit pearl culture areas and floating houses.
The An Thoi archipelago, located south of Phu Quoc, is the most iconic island-hopping region in Vietnam. It is famous for crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and tropical landscapes that look like a postcard.
🏝️ Hon Thom
Hon Thom is the largest and most developed island in the An Thoi archipelago, but it still preserves a strong natural identity.
The island features long stretches of golden sand beaches, calm turquoise waters, and wide coastal areas perfect for swimming and relaxation. From above, Hon Thom appears as a large green mass surrounded by smaller islets scattered across the sea, creating a dramatic ocean panorama.
The island is also known for its mix of natural scenery and tourism development. While some areas are modernized, many beaches remain quiet, open, and framed by coconut trees. The coastline is ideal for both leisure and light exploration.
🌊 Hon Mong Tay
Hon Mong Tay is one of the most famous islands near Phu Quoc and is often called the “Maldives of Vietnam.”
What makes this island special is its untouched beauty. There are no permanent residents, no major construction, and very minimal human impact. The beach is extremely soft and white, the water is crystal clear, and the surroundings feel completely natural.
The island has a raw, untouched charm—everything is simple, quiet, and peaceful. It feels like stepping into a tropical postcard where nature is fully preserved.
🌴 Hon May Rut Trong
Hon May Rut Trong is the more lively and social of the two islands. It features long sandy beaches, shallow waters, and open spaces where visitors can relax comfortably.
The water here is calm and clear, making it perfect for swimming and floating. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, often with small beach setups that add comfort without taking away the natural feel.
The island is ideal for spending a slow afternoon by the sea, enjoying the tropical breeze and wide ocean views.
🌿 Hon May Rut Ngoai
Hon May Rut Ngoai offers a more secluded and natural environment.
It has fewer visitors and less development, giving it a quieter and more private atmosphere. The coastline feels more untouched, and the surroundings are dominated by open sea views and soft waves.
This island is ideal for those who want peace, silence, and a deeper connection with nature. It is especially beautiful during calm weather when the sea becomes mirror-like.
🐠 Hon Gam Ghi
Hon Gam Ghi is widely known as one of the best snorkeling destinations in the entire Phu Quoc region.
The island is surrounded by dense coral reefs located very close to the shore, making underwater exploration easy and accessible. The water is shallow, calm, and extremely clear, allowing visitors to see marine life without needing to go far offshore.
The underwater ecosystem is vibrant and diverse, with colorful coral formations and tropical fish moving freely around the reefs. It feels like a natural underwater garden just beneath the surface.
🤿 Hon Buom
Hon Buom is a quieter and less commercialized island, making it a true hidden gem for underwater exploration.
The island is known for excellent water clarity and rich coral ecosystems that remain relatively untouched. Unlike more popular islands, Hon Buom feels raw and natural, with fewer boats and fewer tourists.
This creates a more intimate experience with the ocean. The marine life here feels more abundant, and snorkeling conditions are often ideal for those who want a deeper, more immersive underwater adventure.
🌿 II. Northern Hidden Islands
The northern islands near Phu Quoc offer a completely different atmosphere compared to the south. Instead of coral-rich tourism hotspots, they are quieter, greener, and more closely connected to nature and local ecosystems.
🌳 Hon Mot
Hon Mot is a very small island located extremely close to Phu Quoc mainland.
It is surrounded by mangrove forests and shallow tidal waters, creating a unique ecosystem where land and sea blend together. A wooden walkway allows visitors to slowly explore parts of the island, offering a peaceful and reflective experience.
The island is not about activities or entertainment, but about observing nature—still water, mangroves, birds, and the quiet rhythm of coastal life.
🌇 Hon Doi Moi
Hon Doi Moi is known for its rugged landscape and dramatic sunset views.
Unlike sandy tropical beaches, this island has rocky coastlines and open sea horizons. Waves crash against stone formations, creating a strong and natural coastal atmosphere.
At sunset, Hon Doi Moi becomes especially beautiful. The sky changes colors, reflecting over the water and rocks, making it one of the most romantic spots in the region for photography and quiet reflection.
🚤 III. Local Experience Archipelagos
These island groups offer a more authentic and cultural perspective of Vietnam’s coastal life, far away from resort tourism.
🏴☠️ Hai Tac archipelago
The Hai Tac archipelago is famous for its historical name, which is linked to legends of sea pirates who once used the islands as hiding places.
Today, the islands are peaceful and home to small fishing communities. Life here is simple and traditional, with wooden boats, quiet beaches, and daily routines centered around the sea.
The archipelago feels untouched by modern tourism, offering a raw and authentic coastal experience where visitors can observe real island life.
🌊 Nam Du archipelago
Nam Du archipelago is one of the most beautiful and underrated archipelagos in southern Vietnam.
It consists of many small islands scattered across clear blue waters. The landscape includes green hills, rocky shores, coconut groves, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the sea.
Life on Nam Du is slow and peaceful. Fishing remains the main livelihood, and the islands maintain a natural, unpolished charm that feels far from urban life. It is a destination for travelers seeking exploration, simplicity, and raw beauty.
🏝️ Hon Dua
Hon Dua is the closest island to Phu Quoc mainland.
The island is covered with coconut trees and surrounded by calm, shallow waters. Its environment is extremely simple and peaceful, with minimal development and a strong natural feel.
Hon Dua is ideal for short escapes, quiet relaxation, and enjoying the coastal atmosphere without crowds or noise. Its charm lies in its simplicity and accessibility.
Getting to the Islands Near Phu Quoc
To explore the beautiful islands surrounding Phú Quốc, travelers can choose from several transportation options depending on their budget, comfort level, and travel style. Most island trips are done within a day, especially in the southern An Thoi archipelago, where multiple islands are located close to each other.
Below are the most common ways to travel between Phu Quoc and the nearby islands:
🚤 1. Speedboat (Cano) – Fastest and Most Popular Option
Speedboats are the most commonly used transportation for island-hopping tours in Phu Quoc.
- Very fast travel time (usually 15–30 minutes between islands)
- Ideal for visiting multiple islands in one day
- More stable and less time exposed to waves compared to traditional boats
- Widely used in organized island-hopping tours
👉 Best for: travelers who want to explore many islands in a short time with maximum efficiency
🚢 2. Wooden Boat (Fishing Boat) – Local Experience Style
Wooden fishing boats are the traditional way locals travel between islands.
- Slower travel, offering a more relaxed journey
- Strong local and cultural experience
- Often used for fishing trips or small-group tours
- May stop at less crowded or more remote areas
👉 Best for: travelers who want an authentic, local-style sea experience
🏝️ 3. Island-Hopping Tour – Most Convenient Option
Island-hopping tours are the easiest and most popular way to explore multiple islands such as Hon Mong Tay, Hon Gam Ghi, and Hon May Rut.
- Includes speedboat transport, guide, and fixed itinerary
- Usually covers 3–4 islands in a single day
- Equipment for snorkeling is often provided
- No need to plan logistics in advance
👉 Best for: first-time visitors and travelers who prefer a hassle-free experience
🌊 Conclusion
Exploring the islands around Phu Quoc is a truly unforgettable experience. From the pristine beaches of Hon Mong Tay, the vibrant coral reefs of Hon Gam Ghi and Hon Buom, to the peaceful nature of Hon Mot and Hon Doi Moi, each island offers its own unique beauty and atmosphere.
Together, they create a diverse tropical paradise perfect for adventure, relaxation, and discovery.
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