Sao Beach, or Star Beach, in the southeast is the picture most people have in mind when they think of Phu Quoc: a long curve of fine white sand, clear shallow water and coconut palms. It is the most popular beach in the south, and a day here is easy to enjoy with a towel, a book and a plate of grilled seafood from a shack. The tour linked here is a land tour of the south that includes Sao Beach, so you can see several stops without arranging your own driver. The south is also where you find the pepper and pearl stops many tours include, plus Ham Ninh fishing village on some routes. A south-coast day tour is a good first excursion for anyone who wants to see more than their own resort beach, and it can be quite affordable when shared.
What to expect
Beach clubs and cafes along the sand offer sunbeds and umbrellas for the cost of a drink or a small fee. The water is shallow for a long distance, which makes it good for children and weak swimmers, though waves can pick up in the wetter months. Facilities include showers, toilets and simple restaurants. Crowds build at midday and at weekends, so arrive early or choose the north end of the beach for a quieter spot. Watch your belongings and use sun cream liberally.
The tour
Typical south-coast tours pick you up in the morning and visit a few stops such as a pepper farm, a pearl or fish sauce workshop, a pagoda or the prison museum, then spend the afternoon at Sao Beach with lunch. Itineraries differ, so read the product details and ask what is included, whether lunch is covered and how long you will spend on the beach.
Most tours finish around late afternoon and return you to your hotel. If you want more time on the sand, go independently by taxi or motorbike and stay for sunset.
Seasons and tips
The dry season from about November to April is the best time, with calm seas and long, sunny days. In the wetter months from roughly May to October, the sea can be rough and the water cloudier, but the beach is quieter and the scenery is greener. Avoid midday sun, bring a hat and keep an eye on the tide line.
Combine the beach with a visit to Sunset Town or the cable car for a full day in the south. If you are travelling with children, set boundaries near the water, and use a rash vest to save on sun cream. Keep the beach clean by taking your rubbish with you.
Beach etiquette and safety
Respect marked swimming areas, watch children closely in shallow water and avoid leaving valuables unattended on the sand. Beach clubs may offer sunbeds in exchange for ordering food or drinks, so ask about conditions before settling in. Sun protection matters, since the reflective white sand intensifies exposure, so bring a hat and a long-sleeved cover-up.
Rubbish is a constant challenge on popular beaches, so carry out what you carry in. If you want a quieter experience, walk to the less developed end of the bay and enjoy the view from the edge of the trees.
What to expect
The experience
A south-coast day tour with stops at a few local sights and a long afternoon at Sao Beach.
Best time
The dry season from about November to April, arriving before the midday crowds.
How long
Plan a full day, with pickup in the morning and return in the late afternoon.
Tips
Bring sun cream, a hat and a towel, ask what is included and agree a time to leave.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Beach lovers who want the best sand and shallow water on the island.
- Families
- Calm, shallow water and simple restaurants make it easy with children.
- Couples
- Claim a quieter corner and stay for the late afternoon light.
- Pair with
- Sunset Town, the cable car or the prison museum.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Is Sao Beach good for swimming?+
Yes. The water is shallow and clear in the dry season, though waves can be stronger in the wet months.
Does the tour include lunch?+
Many do, but check the product details for what is covered.
Is it crowded?+
It can be at midday and at weekends. Go early or choose a quieter stretch of sand.
Are there facilities?+
Yes, including beach clubs, showers, toilets and simple restaurants.
When is the best time to go?+
The dry season from about November to April.