When planning your trip to Phu Quoc, the first thing to do is understand the island's weather. This will help you pick the best time to visit Phu Quoc island.
In fact, Phu Quoc is a great destination all year round, thanks to its monsoon climate characteristics. However, to find the best answer to the question, "When should I visit?" it's a good idea to read this article.
About Phu Quoc weather
Phu Quoc Island, nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, enjoys a pleasant climate all year due to its unique position surrounded by the sea.
The island experiences a tropical monsoon climate, bringing an average annual rainfall of 3,000 millimeters, which can soar up to 4,000 millimeters in the northern regions. Phu Quoc's weather is divided into two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
During the dry season, the Northeast monsoon impacts Phu Quoc, bringing stronger winds with an average speed of 3.2 meters per second and maintaining the humidity around 78%.
Seascape with tropical palms on beautiful Sao sandy beach in Phu Quoc
The temperature peaks in April and May, reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius, while the average temperature hovers between 27 to 28 degrees Celsius.
On the flip side, the rainy season sees the influence of the West-Southwest monsoon, with wind speeds averaging 4.5 meters per second. Sunny days become a rarity as the island receives an average of 414 millimeters of rainfall per month, and humidity levels shoot up to between 85% and 90%.
Visiting Phu Quoc in Low Season
The low season in Phu Quoc, spanning from July to October, is also known as the rainy season due to the frequent and heavy downpours that can last all day, nearly every day.
During this period, the island might also experience hurricanes. However, the cooler weather, with average temperatures ranging from 20-24°C, presents its own unique charm.
Though the skies might be overcast without sunshine, it shouldn't deter your plans. Whether you enjoy the rain or not, a trip to Phu Quoc during these months can still be quite enjoyable.
The island's natural beauty, including its lakes, streams, and waterfalls, remains stunningly attractive, and the local cuisine continues to be exceptionally tasty.
Moreover, the low season in Phu Quoc brings advantages such as lower prices and fewer crowds. Some places might close for refurbishment, but this also means you can enjoy serene moments, perhaps with a spa treatment to the soothing sound of rainfall, or explore the lush, vibrant landscapes of Phu Quoc National Park.
This untouched natural paradise becomes even more enchanting under the gentle touch of the monsoon.
Sunbeds on tropical beach in Phu Quoc island
Visiting Phu Quoc in High season
During the high season, which runs from November to March, Phu Quoc transforms into a paradise with less rainfall, abundant sunshine, low humidity, and clear skies. This period is often considered the best time to visit the island by many travelers.
With temperatures averaging between 25-28 degrees Celsius, the weather is pleasantly mild and comfortable. This season offers the perfect conditions for sea voyages, allowing visitors to enjoy the stunning landscapes and gentle ocean waves along the island's pristine white-sand beaches.
An added advantage of visiting Phu Quoc during these months is the affordability of flights, boat rides, and accommodations, making it an attractive option for many.
However, this is also when the island sees its highest influx of tourists. To ensure a smooth experience, it's advisable to book your tours and hotels well in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
Phu Quoc in the Dry Season (November to April)
The best time to visit Phu Quoc is during the dry season, characterized by abundant sunny days and serene waters. Temperatures range between 25 to 35°C, creating an excellent backdrop for engaging in water sports and adventurous pursuits.
November is the transitional month ending the rainy season, featuring an average temperature of 28°C and about 80% humidity.
From December through February, the weather turns exceptionally pleasant, with an average temperature of 27°C. Rainfall becomes scarce, paving the way for numerous sun-filled days. The sea water turns crystal clear with gentle waves, perfect for a variety of leisure activities.
March and April heat up as the hottest months, with temperatures soaring above 32°C, paired with a relative humidity of 70%.
Water sports at Phu Quoc
What to do in Phu Quoc
Snorkeling and Beach Activities: Phu Quoc, adorned with beautiful beaches and quaint islands, shines in the dry season. Many visitors, particularly from India, find themselves enchanted by the pristine coastlines of Long Beach or Starfish Beach.
The opportunity to dive into the cool, transparent waters and relax on the soft, white sands is unparalleled. Beyond sunbathing, these beaches offer exciting activities like kayaking, coral viewing, scuba diving, and cycling along the beach.
Island Exploration: Venturing to islands such as Hon Thom, Mong Tay, Gam Ghi, and May Rut is a highlight. Hon Thom is notable for its breathtaking beaches and an array of activities like coral diving, squid fishing, and jet skiing.
It also hosts a water park featuring 20 exciting games, perfect for families seeking fun.
For those looking to explore further, island hopping tours are available. These tours offer a chance to visit multiple islands, including the unique Hon Dam, also known as Robinson Island of Phu Quoc.
Hon Dam offers a rare experience, devoid of internet, powered by solar energy, and offering cozy bamboo and wood bungalows for accommodation.
Phu Quoc National Park: A visit to this expansive park is a must for nature enthusiasts. Spanning over 31,400 hectares, it houses an array of wildlife and plant species across diverse ecosystems like mountains, forests, seas, and waterfalls (Suoi Tranh waterfall,...).
This park allows visitors to connect deeply with nature, offering a serene escape from the bustling world outside.
Phu Quoc in the Wet Season (May to October)
The wet season in Phu Quoc spans from May to October, characterized by high rainfall and the potential for storms. During this period, the temperature averages around 28°C, with humidity levels fluctuating between 85 to 90%.
While mornings may offer cloudy skies and light sunshine, afternoons and evenings often bring heavy downpours.
In May, the island enjoys cooler weather with sporadic showers, and daytime temperatures range from 25 to 28°C. From June to September, the rainfall increases, maintaining an average temperature of about 28°C. October signals the end of the rainy season with a noticeable reduction in rainfall.
What to do in Phu Quoc
Vinpearl Safari: Beyond its beaches and islands, Phu Quoc boasts top-tier entertainment areas like Vinpearl Safari. This wildlife park houses over 3,000 birds, animals, and reptiles across 175 species, split into open zoo and semi-wild areas.
You can take a ride through these areas in specialized vehicles for an unforgettable journey through nature.
Next to the Safari is the VinWonders entertainment complex, brimming with exciting and adventurous games, as well as an aquarium. It’s a fantastic venue for both kids and adults to have fun and unwind.
Water Puppet Show: Tourists, in particular, are keen on experiencing Phu Quoc's Water Puppet Show.
This traditional Vietnamese performance art offers a fascinating insight into the local culture, with skilled puppeteers using intricate puppets underwater to tell legendary Vietnamese tales, accompanied by the sound of traditional musical instruments. It’s an unparalleled cultural experience on the island.
The wet season is also a paradise for food enthusiasts. This time of year, seafood is plentiful and affordable.
You can enjoy a wide array of delicious dishes from street vendors, including herring salad, Ham Ninh crab, abalone, sea urchin, and the unique seafood noodle dish known as Bún quậy, as well as beef hotpot.
Phu Quoc Night Market: For a taste of local life, the Phu Quoc Night Market is an essential visit. This bustling marketplace offers a variety of stalls selling fresh seafood, local delicacies, handicrafts, and clothing. It’s an ideal spot for dining and shopping in Phu Quoc, embodying the vibrant spirit of Phu Quoc after dark.
The Best Time to Visit Phu Quoc
While the high season offers numerous benefits for travelers to Phu Quoc, it's arguably not the prime time for a visit. Instead, the transition period from October to early November is often hailed as the best time to explore the island.
This timeframe offers a unique blend of favorable conditions: the heavy rainfall of the wet season has subsided, and the tourist crowds of the high season have not yet arrived, allowing for a more tranquil and undisturbed experience.
During these months, tourism services and accommodations on the island begin to reopen for the new season, presenting an opportunity to be among the first guests to enjoy the refreshed offerings without the inconvenience of long waits or crowded venues.
This period is also excellent for engaging in water sports, making it an ideal time for those looking to add some aquatic adventure to their vacation.
Phu Quoc is a serene paradise that not only boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam but also offers a plethora of engaging activities.
Whether you're interested in scuba diving to explore the coral reefs, fishing or octopus fishing on a boat, or trekking through the National Park, Phu Quoc has something for everyone.
Regardless of when you decide to visit, we hope your trip to Phu Quoc will be filled with delightful and memorable experiences, cementing its status as a top destination for travelers.
>>Read more: Car Rental In Phu Quoc
Wooden Fishing Boat at Phu Quoc
Tips for visiting in Phu Quoc, Vietnam
When planning a trip to Phu Quoc, while it's crucial to consider the island's weather, there are additional factors to keep in mind to ensure your journey is flawless.
Advance Bookings: Secure your flight or bus tickets and arrange taxi services ahead of time to sidestep any unforeseen complications. This foresight can save you from last-minute rushes and potential disappointments.
Itinerary Planning: Draft a clear itinerary before setting out. Decide on the length of your stay, the places you wish to visit, and the means of transportation. A well-thought-out plan can enhance your travel experience by maximizing your time and ensuring you hit all your must-see destinations.
Financial Preparation: Ensure you have a solid financial plan for your trip. Carry all necessary documents such as your ID card, passport, and tickets for smooth check-ins and check-outs, and to be prepared for any emergencies that might arise.
Season-Appropriate Gear: Pack clothing and accessories that are suitable for the season you are visiting in. For instance, sunglasses, hats, and lightweight clothing are essential for the dry season, while you might want to pack an umbrella or raincoat if you're visiting during the rainy season. Don't forget other essentials like masks and hand sanitizers for health and safety.
By keeping these tips in mind and preparing accordingly, you can ensure a more enjoyable and hassle-free visit to Phu Quoc, regardless of the weather conditions.
