ベトナム南部・ラムドン省(旧ビントゥアン省エリア)の沖合に浮かぶPhu Quy Island (Phu Quy), which has been namedNo. 2on "10 Southeast Asian destinations worth visiting in 2026," a list chosen by the major Thai outlet "Khaosod." Distinct from the world-famous Phu Quoc Island, it's a volcanic-rock island not yet worn down by tourism. The distance—about 2.5 to 3 hours by speedboat from Phan Thiet—has, as a result, preserved the island's untouched scenery.
Unlike the usual "best 10" lists of previous years, this selection took a different tack, focusing on "simple, hidden corners" where Southeast Asian character still runs deep. No. 1 was Ulu Temburong National Park in Brunei, and Phu Quy Island was praised as "preserving the way it looked 30 years ago."
"Another island" reached by speedboat from Phan Thiet
Phu Quy Island lies about 120 km off the coast, southeast of Phan Thiet, which is known for its beach resorts. To get there, first head to Phan Thiet, then board a speedboat such as Superdong. The crossing takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on the vessel, with fares of roughly 350,000 to 580,000 VND one way (about 2,200 to 3,600 yen). The extra effort from the mainland is exactly what keeps the crowds down and the calm intact.
Scenery carved by volcanoes—Cao Cat Peak and Ganh Hang
The island's highlights are the distinctive rock formations born of volcanic activity. At Cao Cat Peak (Cao Cat), volcanic rock has been eroded into horizontally striped cliffs, like a museum of geological strata. At Ganh Hang (Ganh Hang), seawater collects in wave-carved hollows in the rock to form a natural infinity pool, a spot that has become popular for social media photos. Combined with the crystal-clear sea, the island is even called "Vietnam's Bali" and "a little Maldives."
Island hopping and snorkeling
Small islands such as Hon Tranh (Hon Tranh), Hon Den (Hon Den), and Hon Hai (Hon Hai) are scattered around Phu Quy Island. Taking a boat out to these uninhabited islands and snorkeling over the coral reefs is a classic island activity. The clear waters of Trieu Duong Bay (Trieu Duong Bay) and the area around the northeastern fishing village of Dong Hai are also good for snorkeling.
Practical travel information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | ラムドン省(旧ビントゥアン省エリア)・フォーティエット沖 約120km |
| Access | About 2.5 to 3.5 hours by speedboat from Phan Thiet |
| Rough fare guide | One way 350,000 to 580,000 VND (about 2,200 to 3,600 yen) |
| Best season | The dry season, December to June (the calm seas of March to April make swimming easier) |
| Main highlights | Cao Cat Peak, Ganh Hang, snorkeling around the uninhabited islands |
*Currency conversions are approximate. Boat services vary with the weather, so check the latest information before you set out.
Summary—getting a head start on "the next island"
While Phu Quoc and Nha Trang draw the crowds, Phu Quy Island is a rare destination where you can savor quiet island time before the rush. Now that overseas media have ranked it No. 2 is a good chance to visit while avoiding the crowds. Come see the volcanic-rock scenery and the seas around its uninhabited islands with your own eyes.
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