Travel and leisure: Phu Quoc ranked Asia-Pacific’s second-best island

“The internal storm does not stop when the rain does—Phu Quoc has emerged as ‘the new era of tropical tourism,’ named the second-best island in the entire Asia-Pacific region.”

Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island has secured the No. 2 spot among the finest islands in the Asia-Pacific region at the 2026 Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards. Celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and the breathtaking beauty of Khem Beach, the “Island of Records” is redefining tropical tourism. By seamlessly blending untamed natural wonders with ultra-luxury resorts, world-record cable cars, and a highly traveler-friendly 30-day visa exemption, Phu Quoc has firmly established itself as a premier global escape.

This year, Phu Quoc rose to second place among the Best Islands in Asia-Pacific. Ranked just behind Koh Samui (Thailand), Phu Quoc was also the only Vietnamese representative to make the list. The achievement extends a remarkable streak of international accolades for the island. In 2025, Condé Nast Traveler, one of the world’s most influential travel magazines, named Phu Quoc the Best Island in Asia and the third-best island in the world.

Earlier this year, in March, Phu Quoc also climbed from fifth to second place in the Best Islands in Asia 2026 category at the DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards.

Notably, DestinAsian described the island as “the new era of tropical tourism,” highlighting its rapid rise as a premier leisure destination.

Beyond its breathtaking coastline, Phu Quoc is often referred to as the “Island of Records,” home to the world’s longest three-cable aerial ropeway connecting visitors to Hon Thom Island.

Phu Quoc is also known as the “Island of Records,” home to the world’s longest three-rope cable car system connecting the main island to Hon Thom Island. (Photo: Courtesy of DNCC)

As Vietnam’s largest island, Phu Quoc is famous for its stunning beaches, including Khem Beach and Sao Beach, its year-round pleasant climate, and iconic local products such as pearls, fish sauce, and black pepper.

Yet the island’s appeal extends far beyond its natural assets. Over the past decade, Phu Quoc has developed into one of Vietnam’s most dynamic tourism destinations, featuring a diverse hospitality landscape ranging from budget-friendly accommodations to ultra-luxury resorts, alongside a collection of iconic entertainment attractions and Guinness-recognized landmarks.

Recent additions to the island’s tourism portfolio include nightly artistic fireworks displays at Sunset Town, the multimedia spectacles Kiss of the Sea and Symphony of the Sea, and the landmark Kiss Bridge, all of which have become major draws for visitors.

Meanwhile, Hon Thom Island continues to introduce new experiences, including Santo Beach Club, a vibrant beachfront venue featuring two infinity pools overlooking the spectacular sunsets of southern Phu Quoc.

JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort was also recognized among the Best Island and Beach Resorts.

The island is also home to internationally acclaimed resorts such as JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort, Premier Village Phu Quoc, La Festa Phu Quoc – Curio Collection by Hilton, and New World Phu Quoc Resort.

Among them, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay was recently recognized by Travel + Leisure as one of Vietnam’s Best Island Resorts in the 2026 Luxury Awards.

This expanding tourism ecosystem has helped extend visitor stays, increase tourism spending, and strengthen Phu Quoc’s competitiveness as a destination. It has also attracted growing numbers of travelers from South Korea, China, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, India, and Southeast Asian countries.

The emergence of Sun PhuQuoc Airways on the aviation map is expected to enhance connectivity between Pearl Island and travelers from around the world. 

Industry experts attribute Phu Quoc’s continued rise to a combination of factors. One key advantage is Vietnam’s generous 30-day visa exemption policy for international visitors arriving on the island, one of the country’s most traveler-friendly entry policies.

At the same time, expanding air connectivity has steadily positioned Phu Quoc as an emerging regional aviation hub. The launch of Sun PhuQuoc Airways in late 2025 is expected to further strengthen direct links between the island and major international markets, making travel more convenient and boosting inbound tourism in the years ahead.

Looking forward, Phu Quoc’s growth potential remains substantial as the island prepares to host activities related to APEC 2027.

Major infrastructure projects are currently being accelerated, including the expansion of Phu Quoc International Airport and the development of a large-scale APEC Complex featuring numerous strategic facilities.

Beyond supporting one of the region’s most important diplomatic events, these projects are expected to elevate Phu Quoc’s standing as a leading center for tourism, luxury hospitality, and international events in Asia.

For travelers seeking an unforgettable tropical escape, Phu Quoc is only one part of Vietnam’s rich tourism offering. From the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay and the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An to the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City and the cultural heritage of Hanoi, Vietnam offers an extraordinary blend of natural wonders, history, cuisine, and modern experiences. Visitors from around the world are warmly invited to discover the country and experience firsthand why Vietnam has become one of Asia’s most exciting travel destinations. 

(Tuoi tre News)