JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay sits on Khem Beach, a soft-sand cove on the island's southeast coast, and it is the resort most people mean when they talk about Phu Quoc's design hotels. The whole property is built around a playful story, a fictional university with colonial-style buildings, quirky details and lush gardens, which gives it a character you rarely see in a beach hotel. It is a good pick for couples and anyone who wants the hotel itself to be part of the trip.
Location and setting
Khem Beach is in the southeast, around 45 minutes to an hour from the airport depending on traffic, and the resort faces a calm bay. You are away from the Duong Dong night market, so most guests plan to eat in the resort, take taxis for dinners out and base themselves for a few nights. The southern attractions, including Sao Beach, Sunset Town and the Hon Thom cable car, are within a short drive.
Rooms and facilities
Expect a range of rooms and suites, some with garden or sea views, and larger villa-style options for families and groups. The resort has a large pool area, a beachfront, a spa, several restaurants and bars and activities for children. Because room categories, bed types and what is included vary, check the details of each rate before you choose. Breakfast is a highlight in many reviews, but confirm whether it is included in your rate.
Good to know
This is a resort you pay for, so the value comes from using it. Plan to spend a full day on site, enjoying the pool, the beach and the design. If you are travelling with young children, ask about the kids' programme and pool depth. Food and drink prices on site are resort level, and some guests mix hotel dinners with trips to town.
In the wetter months from roughly May to October, the sea on this side can be rougher and rain more frequent, so look for flexible rates. The dry season from about November to April is the best time for the beach.
Making the most of your stay
Khem Beach rewards slow mornings. Take a walk along the shore before breakfast, explore the gardens and buildings, which reward a close look, and use the afternoon for the pool or spa. For an evening out, ask the hotel to arrange a driver to Sunset Town or Sao Beach, both reachable in a short drive, and consider booking a boat trip or a cooking class through the concierge.
Pack insect repellent for the gardens, bring beach shoes for walking on the rocks at either end of the bay and ask about dinner reservations in peak season.
Why stay here
- ✓Beachfront on Khem Beach
- ✓Large resort pools
- ✓Spa and wellness
- ✓Several restaurants and bars
- ✓Kids club and activities
- ✓Distinctive themed design
- ✓Fitness centre
- ✓Family villas and suites
Good questions
Where is the resort?+
On Khem Beach in the southeast of the island, an hour or less from the airport depending on traffic.
Is it good for families?+
Yes, with family rooms, pools and activities for children, though you should check rates and age rules for the kids programme.
Can I walk to restaurants?+
The area around the resort is quiet, so most guests eat on site or take a taxi to town or Sunset Town.