An Thoi Islands,Vietnam
The An Thoi Islands (Quần đảo An Thới) form the southern archipelago of Phu Quoc Island in Kiên Giang province, Vietnam. They are important for their rich marine biodiversity, extensive coral reefs and clear tropical waters, making them a key natural heritage area for snorkeling and diving. Historically, An Thoi's sheltered channels and anchored bays have supported local fishing communities and served as strategic maritime points in regional trade and naval history. Culturally, the islands sustain traditional livelihoods tied to the sea—fishing, boat-building and seafood processing—reflecting southern Vietnamese island life.
Places to visit
- Hon Thơm (Pineapple Island) — known for white-sand beaches, the Phu Quoc cable car and a small seaside park
- Hon Móng Tay (Finger Island) — prized for excellent snorkeling and clear lagoons
- Hon Mây Rút (May Rut Island) — sheltered bays and coral gardens
- An Thoi Harbor — gateway for island-hopping tours, early-morning fish market and boat trips
- Diving and snorkeling sites around the archipelago — vibrant coral reefs and diverse reef fish
Unique Aspects
- Crystal-clear waters with good visibility for snorkeling and freediving
- Healthy coral reefs and diverse marine life, including reef fish, sea cucumbers and occasional turtles
- The Phu Quoc (An Thoi–Hon Thơm) cable car — a scenic and record-famous sea-crossing cable car
- Traditional fishing villages and floating fish farms near An Thoi
- Protected lagoons and natural anchorages ideal for boat excursions
Things to do
- Island-hopping day trips from An Thoi Harbor (half-day and full-day options)
- Snorkeling and scuba diving on coral reefs around Hon Móng Tay and neighboring islets
- Sunbathing, swimming and picnicking on small sandy beaches
- Riding the cable car to Hon Thơm for views and beach access; short hikes on some islets
- Fishing tours with local fishermen and sunset boat trips
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (November to April) — calmer seas, clearer water and more reliable boat services. Avoid the center of the monsoon season (May–October) when rough seas can disrupt trips.
Weather Conditions
Tropical maritime climate: warm year-round. Dry season brings sunny, low-humidity conditions; the wet season (late spring to autumn) brings higher humidity, heavy rain and occasional storms.
Accessibility
Access is via Phu Quoc Island: fly to Phu Quoc International Airport and travel ~30–50 minutes by road to An Thoi Harbor (south Phu Quoc). Regular boats, speedboats and tour operators run island-hopping trips from An Thoi Harbor. The Hon Thơm cable car offers an alternative for reaching Hon Thơm without a boat; some smaller islets are only accessible by private boat.
Recommended Duration
For a meaningful visit: day trip for quick snorkeling and cable car; 2–3 days if you want relaxed island-hopping, diving and to visit multiple islets. Overnight stays are limited — base yourself in southern Phu Quoc (An Thoi or nearby) for convenience.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Bring light tropical clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, a sun hat, polarized sunglasses, water shoes (rocky/shallow reef landings), a snorkel/mask if you prefer your own, waterproof dry bag and a light rain layer in shoulder seasons.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Fresh seafood is a highlight — grilled fish, squid, prawns and local shellfish dishes. Try Phu Quoc fish sauce (nước mắm Phú Quốc) and dried seafood as souvenirs. Handicrafts include woven items and small maritime-themed keepsakes sold in An Thoi markets.