The north of Phu Quoc is the island's wilder side, a stretch of forest, fishing villages and quiet beaches that sits mostly within the national park area. A guided day here is the best way to see it. The tour linked here visits Rach Vem, a small fishing community on the northeast coast known for its calm bay and starfish, and includes a kayaking session and time on Starfish Beach, so you can walk in shallow water and look at starfish in their natural setting. It is a gentle outing, not a hike. Most of the day is spent travelling by road between stops, with short walks and a paddle. It is a good choice for couples, families with school-age children and anyone who wants to see the less commercial side of the island.
What to expect
Pickup from your hotel is usually in the morning, followed by a drive north along the coastal road. Typical stops include Rach Vem, a short kayak or boat session in the bay, a swim or beach break and a lunch of local seafood or rice dishes. Some tours add a pepper farm, a pearl or fish sauce stop, or a viewpoint. The exact itinerary varies, so read the product details to see what your version includes. Wear a hat, sun cream and quick-drying clothes and bring sandals you can wet.
On the beach
Starfish Beach is known for its sandy, shallow water where starfish are sometimes seen. Please look but do not lift them out of the water, because handling can harm them and removing them is discouraged. The number of starfish varies by season and tide, so treat any sighting as a bonus and not a guarantee. Local operators and conservation groups have asked visitors to leave the animals alone, and a respectful approach protects the beach for future visitors.
Timing and seasons
The dry season from about November to April brings calm water, clear skies and the best kayaking conditions. In the wetter months the roads and bays can be muddier and some activities may be changed. Leave early to avoid midday heat and arrive at the beach when the light is soft. If you are staying in the south, allow for a long drive, since the north is a good hour or more from An Thoi.
A private tour gives you more control over timing and stops, while a shared tour is cheaper and sociable. Combine this with a southern island day and a night market evening to get a balanced picture of Phu Quoc.
A note on the beach itself
Starfish Beach has become popular, and so the number of visitors, boats and stalls has grown. Choose a quieter hour, keep a respectful distance from the starfish and take only photographs. Wear reef shoes, since the shallows can have sharp shells and urchins, and keep an eye on the tide, which changes how much of the sandbank is exposed.
If the beach is crowded, the surrounding northern bays and the Rach Vem fishing community offer calmer scenes, and a few quiet minutes there can be the most memorable part of the day.
What to expect
The experience
A guided day trip north by road, with a kayak session in Rach Vem bay, beach time and a local lunch.
Best time
The dry season from about November to April, setting off early to beat the heat.
How long
Plan a full day with pickup and return.
Tips
Bring sun cream, sandals and a hat, look at starfish without lifting them and agree the itinerary with your guide.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want to see the quieter, less developed north.
- Families
- Easy for school-age children, with shallow water and short paddles.
- Couples
- A calm day out with kayaking and quiet beaches.
- Pair with
- A southern island day, or dinner at the night market.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Can I touch the starfish?+
Please do not lift them out of the water. Look and photograph them in place so they are not harmed.
Is kayaking difficult?+
No. The paddle is gentle and guides help beginners, though you should be comfortable in water.
How long is the drive?+
Roughly an hour or more each way from the south, less from Duong Dong, depending on traffic and stops.
Is lunch included?+
Most tours include a meal, but check the product details.
When is the best time to go?+
The dry season from about November to April, with an early start.