The Beaches of Phu Quoc

A white sand paradise, breathtaking scenery and excellent fresh fish. Here's the perfect itinerary on a Vespa to discover the secrets of this beautiful island.

Duration: a full day, starting early in the morning

Itinerary: from Duong Dong, roundtrip, going through Lang Chai Chua and Long Beach, around 68 kilometres

Equipment: fresh drinking water, a bandana to cover your face on dirt roads and high protection sunscreen

Let’s be poetic for an instant: Vietnam is a long and varied territory that occupies the eastern side of South East Asia, and here, like a teardrop, lies the beautiful island of Phu Quoc. With its compact and sandy beaches scattered with palm trees, Phu Quoc island is only 55 kilometres long, making it the perfect place to tour on a Vespa, driving through forests and villages frozen in time. Most hotels overlook the West coast of the island, and you can find an array of hotels varying in price ranges from Bai Cua Can to Long Beach. From here, you'll head out to discover the most solitary and fascinating corners of Phu Quoc.

The less frequented beaches are in the North (mark on your map Vung Bau Beach, Rach Tram & Rach Vem Beaches), but the island is interesting throughout its length and is worth an adventure on the road. The central part is crossed by a paved road, but you will have to travel on dusty dirt trails, therefore make sure you pack your sunglasses and a sarong or bandana to cover your mouth and nose when necessary.

Leave early in the morning from Duong Dong to make the most of your time. Before the midday sun gets too hot, beaches are populated only by fishermen and coconut gatherers, and you can have the Island all to yourselves. Put your helmet on and head southwest. Before enjoying the sea, visit Suối Tranh Waterfall, a true haven of lush nature that stands out from the dry surrounding vegetation.

Head to the Phu Son Village resort and go up a short portion on the East coast of the island, to the curious and modern Ho Quoc Pagoda for selfie with the breathtaking panorama. Stop for some food in the village of Lang Chua Chai, where life is slow-paced and fishermen haven't changed their habits in a century. After enjoying fresh fish or a classic pho (Vietnamese soup with vegetables and noodles), head to a historical and curious place: Coconut Prison, commonly called Phú Quốc Prison. Located in the village of An Tho, it was built during the Indochina war and reused in the Vietnam war. It is a relic of the country's once unstable period in history, and well worth a visit.

Get back on your Vespa; time to dip your feet in the sand and dive into the warm waters of Sao Beach, also known as White Beach, one of the most beautiful and loved beaches on the island. Here, you can enjoy the calm sea, and look at the starfish resting on the seabed. Enjoy some freshly peeled fruit from one of the ladies who walk with baskets under their arm: this is your chance to taste the best mango you’ve ever had.

When the sun begins to set, get back on the road and head towards Duong Dong, stopping in the Long Beach area: 20 kilometres of paradisiacal beach with palm trees and white sand. Visit one of the many resorts and dive into the turquoise waters and stop near the Rory's Beach bar and have a delicious non-alcoholic fruit cocktails by the sea – the perfect way to enjoy an unforgettable sunset before going back to your hotel.