Most detailed travel tips for South Phu Quoc Island during Lunar New Year.

1. Introduction to Phu Quoc South Island and reasons to visit during Tet

1.1. Geographical location and overview of Phu Quoc South Island

Phu Quoc South Island is located in the southern area of Ngoc Island, about a 20-30 minute drive by car or motorbike from the center of Duong Dong town. This area is home to many beautiful beaches such as Kem Beach, Sao Beach, along with a rich marine ecosystem, very convenient for resort and sea entertainment activities. The transportation infrastructure connecting the airport to the South Island is currently quite convenient, helping tourists easily arrange short sightseeing itineraries.

South of Phu Quoc Island gathers many vibrant entertainment areas (Source: Quy Coc Tu)

Besides natural landscapes, the South of the island is also a place where large-scale entertainment – leisure – resort complexes are strongly developed, notably the Sunset Town area and the Sun World Hon Thom complex. Thanks to the combination of nature and modern tourism services, the South of the island becomes a suitable destination for many different groups of tourists, from families, couples to young groups who love new experiences.

1.2. Why should you travel to the South of Phu Quoc Island during Tet?

During the Lunar New Year (Tet), the weather in Phu Quoc in general and the South of the island in particular enters the most beautiful season of the year, with gentle sunshine, calm seas, and little rain. This creates ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, visiting small islands, or playing at water parks. Compared to many destinations in the North or Central regions still affected by cold weather, the South of Phu Quoc Island offers a true sense of vacation in the early days of the year.

Visitors enjoy admiring the fireworks at Sunset Town (Source: Collected)

Besides the weather, Tet is also a time when many tourist areas in the South island organize special events, shows, and entertainment activities for visitors. Choosing this time makes the trip both relaxing and filled with a vibrant festive atmosphere, very suitable for those who want to “change the scenery” after a busy year of work. This is also why many tourists seek tips for traveling to South Phu Quoc during Tet to plan early and make the most of the long holiday.

1.3. Tet atmosphere in South Phu Quoc

During Tet, the central tourist areas in the South island are brightly decorated with spring miniatures, lanterns, flowers, and activities imbued with festive colors. Visitors can easily find Tet-themed check-in spots, street performances, music, and interactive activities for families and children, creating a bustling atmosphere while still retaining the relaxed vibe of the island region.

Besides the lively part, the South island still maintains a slow pace of life at the nearby beaches and fishing villages, where visitors can fully experience the peacefulness of the early days of the year. The combination of modern festivals and local life makes the exploration journey of the South island during Tet multi-faceted, both joyful and authentic, embodying the spirit of relaxation and cultural experience during the New Year.

2. Travel tips for getting to South Phu Quoc during Tet

2.1. Getting from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and major provinces to Phu Quoc

Currently, Phu Quoc has many direct flights from major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hai Phong, Can Tho…, making travel during Tet much more convenient. The flight time from Ho Chi Minh City is only about 1 hour, and from Hanoi about 2 hours, suitable for even short trips. During the Tet peak season, airlines often increase flights, but ticket prices also increase significantly, especially for prime time slots in the morning and afternoon.

Airplanes are a popular means of transport from cities to Phu Quoc (Source: Collected)

Round-trip ticket prices during Tet usually range from about 3–5 million VND/person from Ho Chi Minh City and 5–8 million VND/person from Hanoi, depending on booking time and airline. To save costs, tourists should book tickets at least 4–8 weeks in advance, prioritizing early morning or late evening slots for softer prices. Additionally, flexibility in flight dates before or after Tet also helps reduce cost pressure and avoid airport congestion.

2.2. Moving around Phu Quoc island and to attractions in the South of the island

From Phu Quoc airport to the southern area of the island, the distance is about 15–25 km depending on the accommodation, with an average travel time of 25–40 minutes. Tourists can choose taxis, ride-hailing services, or book hotel shuttle services, with taxis being suitable for families, while motorbikes are suitable for young groups who want to be proactive with their itinerary and save costs.

Renting a motorbike in Phu Quoc during Tet costs about 150,000 – 250,000 VND/day, while taxis moving between points in the South of the island usually range from 100,000 – 300,000 VND/trip depending on the distance. For distant attractions or packed itineraries, many tourists choose to book all-inclusive day tours or use shuttle buses from major entertainment areas to save time and avoid looking for parking. An important tip is to book vehicles or tours early during the peak Tet season to ensure timely transportation and avoid sudden price hikes.

3. Must-visit places and experiences in South Phu Quoc during Tet

3.1. An Thoi Archipelago

An Thoi Archipelago is the most prominent destination in South Phu Quoc with dozens of large and small islands, among which popular Tet tours often take tourists to visit 3–4 islands such as Mong Tay Island, Gam Ghi Island, May Rut Trong Island, and May Rut Ngoai Island. These are islands with beautiful beaches and clear water, suitable for swimming, taking photos, and snorkeling in the calm seas at the beginning of the year.

During Tet, stable weather makes boat travel safer and more convenient, very suitable for families and groups of friends. Tours often include lunch on the island, relaxation, and light beach games, helping tourists explore nature while having a complete relaxing day.

3.2. Sun World Hon Thom

Sun World Hon Thom is the largest entertainment complex in the South of the island, featuring the world's longest sea-crossing cable car line connecting An Thoi town and Hon Thom island. The cable car journey offers panoramic views of the An Thoi archipelago from above, very suitable for enjoying the sea and taking photos in clear weather during Tet.

Upon arriving at Hon Thom, tourists can enjoy the water park with many modern slides, a children's play area, and a private beach for relaxation. This is a suitable destination for families with young children as well as young groups who want to combine activity and relaxation in a single day.

3.3. Sunset Town

Sunset Town is an architectural complex in the Mediterranean style located on a hillside overlooking the sea, featuring iconic structures such as the Kiss Bridge, clock tower, sea square, dragon staircase, and colorful terraced streets. During Tet, this area is brightly decorated, combined with a festive atmosphere, creating an extremely vibrant check-in spot for visitors of all ages.

The most ideal time to visit is from 4:30 PM until after sunset, when the sunlight bathes the sea and the architecture in gold, creating a very romantic scene. After taking photos and strolling, tourists can combine watching evening shows, dining at seaside restaurants, or continue to Vui Phet night market to conclude the evening in the bustling Tet atmosphere.

3.4. Ho Quoc Pagoda

Ho Quoc Pagoda is located on a mountainside, facing the sea, possessing a spacious area and a clear view, very suitable for sightseeing and praying at the beginning of the year. During Tet, many tourists visit the pagoda to pray for peace, health, and luck for their families in the new year.

Besides its spiritual significance, the pagoda grounds are also a check-in spot with scenery of mountains, forests, sea, and sky, bringing a sense of peace and relaxation. When visiting, tourists should choose polite attire and visit in the morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds.

3.5. Vui Phet Night Market

Vui Phet Night Market is a vibrant evening spot in the South of the island, especially bustling during Tet with many food stalls, souvenir shops, and street performance activities. Tourists can enjoy grilled seafood, local snacks, and Phu Quoc specialties in a lively festive atmosphere.

Besides dining, the night market is also a suitable place to stroll, buy souvenirs, and clearly feel the spring travel atmosphere in the South of the island. Combining a visit to the night market after watching a show or strolling by the beach in the afternoon helps make the evening itinerary more complete and less rushed.

3.6. Sao Beach

Sao Beach is rated as one of the most beautiful beaches in Phu Quoc with fine white sand, clear blue water, and gentle slopes, very safe for children and the elderly. During Tet, the beach usually has calm waves, suitable for swimming, walking along the shore, or simply relaxing under the coconut trees.

Here there are many services for renting sun loungers, umbrellas, kayaks, and seaside seafood restaurants serving meals throughout the day. Tourists can combine morning activities and have lunch right at the beach before continuing their itinerary to nearby attractions.

4. Tips for choosing accommodation in the South of the island by area

4.1. Sunset Town: Festival center, convenient for check-in and evening shows

Sunset Town (Sunset Town) is the most vibrant area in South Phu Quoc during Tet, where iconic structures such as the Kiss Bridge, sea square, Mediterranean-style streets, and a series of night shows are concentrated. Staying here allows tourists to easily walk around, take photos, dine, and combine watching fireworks shows, which is very suitable for young groups and families who want to fully enjoy the early year festival atmosphere without needing to travel much.

La Festa Phu Quoc, Curio Collection by Hilton is the only 5-star hotel located in Sunset Town (Source: Collected)

Suggested resorts and hotels in the area of Sunset Town:

La Festa Phu Quoc, Curio Collection by Hilton: right in the center of Sunset Town, convenient for walking and sightseeing

Fella Hotel Sunset Town: 3-4 star hotel, beautiful location, affordable price

Moonlight Hotel Sunset Town: suitable for couples, near the walking street

4.2. Kem Beach: Beautiful beach resort, suitable for families and relaxing holidays

Kem Beach is famous for its fine white sand and clear blue water, making it an ideal choice for travelers prioritizing relaxation, swimming, and enjoying a peaceful atmosphere during Tet. This area features many high-end resorts with all-inclusive services, large swimming pools, and private beaches, suitable for families with young children or groups of travelers looking to combine relaxation with light entertainment.

Seaview villas are a favorite choice for many tourists at JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay (Source: Collected)

Suggested resorts and hotels in Bai Kem area:

Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay: beachfront resort, many family amenities

New World Phu Quoc Resort: private villas, spacious area, suitable for large groups

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay: luxury resort, unique architecture, 5-star standard service

4.3. Mui Ong Doi: Private space, suitable for luxury resort during Tet holiday

Mui Ong Doi is located at the southern tip of the island, characterized by its dual-sea views and secluded space, making it ideal for Tet trips focused on complete relaxation. When staying in this area, visitors primarily enjoy the resort's amenities such as the spa, restaurant, swimming pool, and private beach, with limited excursions outside. This setting is perfect for couples and families seeking tranquility and privacy during the New Year holiday.

Visitors have the opportunity to admire both sunrise and sunset when staying at Premier Village Phu Quoc Resort (Source: Collected)

Suggested resorts and hotels in the Mui Ong Doi area:

Premier Village Phu Quoc Resort: seaside villas, suitable for long stays

4.4. An Thoi: Convenient for island tours and Hon Thom cable car, reasonable cost

An Thoi town is a suitable choice for tourists focusing on 3-4 island tours, coral diving, and playing at Sun World Hon Thom thanks to its location near the pier and cable car station. This area has many hotels and homestays with more affordable prices compared to resort areas, suitable for independent travel, young groups, or those who prioritize experiences over luxury resorts.

Suggested hotels and homestays in the An Thoi area:

Phung Hung Boutique Hotel: center of An Thoi, convenient for sea tours

Hotel D’Anna An Thoi: new rooms, suitable for couples

Lien Thong Hotel: reasonable price, near the pier

Homestays around An Thoi area : cost-saving, easy to book

5. Suggested itinerary for a 3-day, 2-night Tet holiday trip to South Phu Quoc

Day 1: Arrive in Phu Quoc – Check-in Sunset Town – Beach stroll and evening show

After landing at Phu Quoc airport, visitors move to their hotel in the South Phu Quoc or Bai Truong area to check in and rest briefly. The afternoon is the ideal time to visit Sunset Town – a town with a Mediterranean style featuring prominent check-in spots like the Kiss Bridge, clock tower, sea square, and streets along the hillside. The gentle sunlight and sunset scenery create beautiful photo opportunities in the early days of the year.

Foreign tourists enjoy experiencing Vui Phet night market (Source: Collected)

In the evening, tourists can combine dining at seaside restaurants, then admire the brilliant fireworks display with the Symphony of the Sea show. After the show ends, you can stroll through Vui Phet night market, enjoy the night sea atmosphere and experience local street food.

Day 2: 3-Island Tour – Hon Thom Cable Car – Water Park Fun

The second day is dedicated to island and sea activities and entertainment. In the morning, tourists join the 3-island tour with a popular itinerary including spots for swimming, snorkeling to see coral, and taking photos on small islands around South Phu Quoc. The weather during Tet is usually sunny and beautiful, with calm seas, making it very convenient for water activities and travel by speedboat.

Morning is a suitable time to experience sea sports activities (Source: Collected)

After the island tour, visitors continue to experience the world's longest sea-crossing cable car to reach Hon Thom and play at Sun World water park. Here there are many games suitable for both adults and children, combined with relaxing on a private beach. In the evening, return to the hotel to rest or continue exploring the cuisine in the central areas of the South Island.

Day 3: Ho Quoc Pagoda – Buy specialties – Return

The last day is suitable for gentle activities and cultural experiences. In the morning, visitors can visit Ho Quoc Pagoda to admire the scenery and pray for peace at the beginning of the year, then move to Before heading to the airport, visitors can take the opportunity to visit specialty shops to buy pepper, fish sauce, dried seafood, or souvenirs. Arranging a gentle itinerary on the last day helps the trip not be too rushed, while still allowing time to travel to the airport or pier as planned.

With beautiful weather, developed entertainment and resort systems, and a bustling festival atmosphere, the South Island is becoming an ideal destination for the early year holiday in Phu Quoc. Hope the sharing in this article will help you gain more experience traveling to the South Island of Phu Quoc during Tet to proactively plan, choose a suitable destination, and fully enjoy the Tet holiday with many memorable experiences with family and friends.