Top 7 Snorkeling Spots in Phu Quoc (Tour Options Included)

Astrid Freja

2025-05-06

Having called Vietnam home for eight enriching years, I've gathered countless authentic stories that I'm now eager to share with you. As a VietAdvisor contributor, my passion lies in the freedom of discovery, allowing me to deeply immerse myself in Vietnam's rich, diverse cultures from north to south. Let my experiences help you forge a deeper connection with this extraordinary country.

Phu Quoc’s got this magic that hits you the moment you step off the plane—salty air, turquoise waves, and a vibe that screams “you’re on island time.”

For snorkelers, it’s pure gold. The island’s coral reefs are bursting with life, and the snorkeling spots in Phu Quoc are some of the best you’ll find in Southeast Asia without the hefty price tag of, say, the Maldives.

This guide’s for international travelers new to Vietnam, written like a friend who’s been there, done that, and wants you to have the best trip ever. Think practical tips, real-deal insights, chill, honest, and packed with stuff you actually need to know.

Quick Summary for Busy Travelers

No time to read all the words? Here’s the cheat sheet for the top 7 snorkeling spots in Phu Quoc and what you need to plan:

• An Thoi Islands: Southern cluster of islets with dazzling reefs, clownfish, and calm waters. Speedboat tours are the move. All skill levels.
• Starfish Beach (Rach Vem): Northern beach with starfish everywhere and beginner-friendly reefs. Great for a chill day. Scooter or taxi to get there.
• Coral Mountain (Crystal Reef): Huge cactus coral colony in the south. Shallow and stunning but needs eco-care. Guided tours recommended.
• Half-Moon Reef: Colorful corals and anemone gardens in deeper waters. Perfect for intermediate snorkelers or free-divers.
• Ganh Dau: Quiet northwestern bay with turtles and rays. Less touristy, great for explorers. Scooter vibes all the way.
• Turtle Island: Shallow reefs, family-friendly, and sea turtles if you’re lucky. Tours or kayaks work. Check tides.
• Fingernail Island: Tiny northern islet with nudibranchs and vibrant reefs. Canoe or tour access. High tide’s best.
• When to Go: October-May for clear waters, calm seas. June-September’s rainy and rough.
• Must-Know: Pack reef-safe sunscreen, rent quality snorkel gear, and consider guided snorkeling tours for insider tips.
• Beyond Snorkeling: Hit Sao Beach, Duong Dong night market, or a fish sauce factory. See our Phu Quoc travel guide.
• Planning: Fly to Phu Quoc International Airport or ferry from Rach Gia. Book beachfront stays for easy access.

Wanna dive in? Check out snorkeling adventures or dig into more Phu Quoc tips. Now, let’s get into the good stuff with all the details you need to make your trip epic.

Why Phu Quoc’s a Snorkeling Hotspot

Phu Quoc sits in the Gulf of Thailand, where the water’s warm, the corals are thriving, and the vibe’s just right. It’s not as overrun as Phuket or Bali, which means you’re snorkeling in spots that still feel wild and untouched.

The island’s got 252 coral species, 172 types. TAG of fish, and critters like nudibranchs that look like they swam out of a sci-fi movie. Data from local dive shops like OnBird shows coral bleaching is low here compared to other tropical spots, so the reefs are in great shape.

The best time to hit the snorkeling spots in Phu Quoc is October to May, when the dry season brings clear waters and visibility up to 10-12 meters. You’re floating over reefs with zero hassle from waves or rain. Compared to pricier destinations, Phu Quoc’s a steal—think $50 – $70 for a full-day snorkeling tour versus $200+ elsewhere. Plus, the island’s got this laid-back charm, with fishing villages and beach shacks that make you feel like you’re in on a secret.

Want more on Vietnam’s coastal gems? Check our guide.

Top 7 Snorkeling Spots in Phu Quoc

These are the seven snorkeling spots in Phu Quoc that’ll make your trip unforgettable. Each one’s got its own personality, from bustling coral gardens to quiet bays where you’re the only snorkeler in sight. We’ve loaded up on details—where to go, how to get there, what to expect, and tips to avoid rookie mistakes. Let’s dive in.

1. An Thoi Islands

The An Thoi Islands are Phu Quoc’s snorkeling MVP. This cluster of 15 tiny islets off the southern coast is like a postcard—think crystal waters, reefs exploding with color, and schools of clownfish zipping through anemones.

Spots like Gam Ghi and May Rut Trong are the stars, with soft corals, table corals, and fish like parrotfish and angelfish stealing the show. Depths range from 3-6 meters, so it’s chill for beginners but still exciting for pros.

Most folks hit An Thoi via speedboat tours from Duong Dong or An Thoi port. A typical tour costs $15-25, including gear, a guide, and lunch—often fresh seafood grilled on the boat. You’ll stop at 2-3 snorkeling sites, maybe even Hon Thom, where you can ride the world’s longest over-sea cable car for insane views. Guides point out hidden marine life, like octopuses camouflaged in the coral, and keep you safe in busier waters.

What to Expect:

• Marine Life: Clownfish, angelfish, sergeant majors, and occasional octopuses or cuttlefish.
• Conditions: Calm waters, 5-10m visibility in dry season. Slight currents at Gam Ghi.
• Vibe: Lively but not overcrowded, with boats spaced out.

Practical Tips:

• Getting There: Book small-group snorkeling tours online or at Duong Dong’s travel kiosks. Morning trips (7-8 AM start) dodge the heat.
• Gear: Tours provide masks and fins, but bring your own if you’re picky. A rash guard saves your back from sunburn.
• What to Bring: Reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof bag, and a cheap underwater camera ($20 rentals at ports).
• Skill Level: All levels. Beginners stick to shallow areas; pros can explore deeper reefs.
• Pro Tip: Ask your guide to point out “Nemo” (clownfish) for kids—it’s a hit. Pair with a cable car ride—see our Hon Thom guide.
• Cost: $25-55 for group tours, $50+ for private boats.

Eco Note: Don’t touch corals or pick up shells—it messes with the ecosystem. Local operators on Facebook push sustainable tours, so go with ones like John’s Tours or VinWonders that follow eco-guidelines.

Nearby: After snorkeling, chill at a beachfront cafe in An Thoi or explore Sunset Town’s colorful streets.

2. Starfish Beach (Rach Vem)

Starfish Beach, or Rach Vem, is the kind of place you’d see on a travel influencer’s post—white sand, turquoise shallows, and starfish scattered like confetti. Tucked in Phu Quoc’s north, it’s one of the easiest snorkeling spots in Phu Quoc for beginners, with depths of 1-3 meters and gentle waves.

The reefs here are modest but colorful, with soft corals and schools of tiny damselfish. The real draw? Starfish in every shade of red, orange, and pink, visible even without a mask.

The beach is backed by a fishing village, where you can grab a $5 plate of grilled prawns or wander past stilted houses for a slice of local life. It’s less polished than southern beaches, but that raw charm is what makes it special.

What to Expect:

• Marine Life: Starfish, damselfish, small corals, occasional crabs.
• Conditions: Super calm, 3-5m visibility. Shallow enough to wade in.
• Vibe: Relaxed, with local families and a few tourists. Busier on weekends.

Practical Tips:

• Getting There: Scooter ($5/day) or taxi ($15 one-way) from Duong Dong, about 30-40 minutes. Stay at seaside bungalow in Ong Lang for easy access.
• Gear: Rent masks ($2-3) at the beach or bring your own. Water shoes help with rocky patches.
• What to Bring: A towel, snacks, and a hat—shade’s limited. Beach shacks sell water and coconuts.
• Skill Level: Beginner heaven. Kids love it too.
• Pro Tip: Go at 7-9 AM to beat crowds and catch the starfish before they burrow. Pair with Vinpearl Safari—check our northern Phu Quoc itinerary.
• Cost: Free to snorkel; $2-5 for gear rentals, $5-10 for food.

Eco Note: Don’t pick up starfish—they’re alive and hate it. Stick to marked paths to avoid trampling seagrass.

Nearby: Hit Ganh Dau for more snorkeling or explore the fishing village’s market for souvenirs.

3. Coral Mountain (Crystal Reef)

Coral Mountain, nicknamed Crystal Reef, is a snorkeling unicorn in southern Phu Quoc. This massive cactus coral colony—200-300 square meters—is one of the largest in Vietnam, sitting in shallow waters (0.2-1 meter) that make it a breeze to explore.

The corals shimmer under sunlight, giving the reef its “crystal” vibe. You’ll see honeycomb corals, butterflyfish, and schools of sergeant majors darting around like they own the place.

Because the reef’s so close to the surface, you’ve gotta be extra careful. Eco-friendly snorkeling tours are the best bet—they come with guides who know the reef like their backyard and keep you from accidentally harming it. Tours often bundle Coral Mountain with An Thoi stops for a full day of underwater awesomeness.

What to Expect:

• Marine Life: Butterflyfish, sergeant majors, small morays, rare sea slugs.
• Conditions: Glassy waters, 5-8m visibility. Can get murky at low tide.
• Vibe: Quiet, almost sacred. Guided groups keep it low-key.

Practical Tips:

• Getting There: Book a guided reef tour from An Thoi port ($20-30). Private tours ($80+) offer more flexibility.
• Gear: Full-face masks ($5 rental) are great for shallow snorkeling. Tours include gear.
• What to Bring: Reef-safe sunscreen (a must), a waterproof phone pouch, and a rash guard.
• Skill Level: All levels, but you need to float carefully to avoid coral.
• Pro Tip: Snorkel at high tide (check tide apps) for deeper water. Combine with Hon Thom’s cable car—see our southern Phu Quoc guide.
• Cost: $100-150 for private tours, $5-10 for extra gear rentals.

Eco Note: No sunscreen? Don’t snorkel here—it’s that sensitive.

Nearby: Relax at a beachside cafe in An Thoi or visit Sunset Town for Insta-worthy shots.

4. Half-Moon Reef

Half-Moon Reef, named for its crescent-shaped coral formations, is a southern gem for snorkelers with some experience. Depths range from 4-8 meters, and the reef’s a riot of color—toadstool corals, finger corals, and anemone gardens packed with clownfish. It’s a hotspot for free-divers, with dramatic underwater drop-offs and the occasional moray eel or barracuda cruising by. The visuals are next-level, so bring a camera.

Private reef excursions are ideal for Half-Moon, letting you linger at the best spots and avoid the midday rush. Group tours work too, often pairing this reef with An Thoi stops for variety.

What to Expect:

• Marine Life: Clownfish, morays, barracudas, sea fans, and colorful wrasses.
• Conditions: Moderate currents, 6-10m visibility. Deeper than most spots.
• Vibe: Adventurous, with a wilder feel than touristy reefs.

Practical Tips:

• Getting There: Book a snorkeling tour from Duong Dong or An Thoi ($20-30). Private boats ($70+) for free-divers.
• Gear: Fins are a must for currents. Rent GoPros ($10) for epic shots.
• What to Bring: A dive watch, energy bars, and a dry bag for gear.
• Skill Level: Intermediate. Beginners can stick to shallower edges with a guide.
• Pro Tip: Morning light makes the corals pop—aim for 8 AM tours. Pair with Sao Beach—check our Phu Quoc photography guide.
• Cost: $20-30 for group tours, $10-15 for gear rentals.

Eco Note: Don’t kick up sediment—it smothers corals. Travelers share free-diving tips for Half-Moon, emphasizing light fins to minimize impact.

Nearby: Unwind at Sao Beach or grab seafood at a local shack in An Thoi.

5. Ganh Dau

Ganh Dau’s a hidden gem in Phu Quoc’s northwest, perfect for travelers who want to escape the tourist trail. This quiet bay has calm, shallow waters (2-5 meters) with reefs that surprise you—think stingrays gliding by, sea turtles munching seagrass, and schools of tropical fish. It’s one of the less crowded snorkeling spots in Phu Quoc, giving you that “I discovered this” buzz.

The area’s got a rugged charm, with rocky shores and jungle trails nearby. Local eateries serve killer seafood—$3 for a plate of grilled squid—and you can rent a scooter to explore the cape’s dirt roads.

What to Expect:

• Marine Life: Stingrays, turtles, damselfish, occasional seahorses.
• Conditions: Super calm, 4-7m visibility. Shallow and easy to navigate.
• Vibe: Remote, with a local feel. You might share the water with fishers.

Practical Tips:

• Getting There: Scooter ($5/day) or taxi ($20 one-way) from Duong Dong, 45 minutes. Stay at cozy guesthouses in Ong Lang.
• Gear: Rent masks and fins ($3-5) at Ganh Dau’s small stalls. Bring your own for comfort.
• What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, and a towel. No ATMs nearby, so carry cash.
• Skill Level: All levels. Great for relaxed snorkeling.
• Pro Tip: Snorkel early (7-8 AM) for max peace. Pair with a hike in Ganh Dau Cape—see our Phu Quoc scooter guide.
• Cost: Free to snorkel; $3-5 for gear, $3-8 for food.

Eco Note: Keep noise low to respect fishers’ nets. Toss any trash in bins to keep the bay pristine.

Nearby: Explore Ganh Dau’s trails or hit a local market for snacks.

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6. Turtle Island

Turtle Island’s a tiny islet off Phu Quoc’s southern coast, named for the sea turtles that sometimes cruise its waters. With depths up to 10 meters, it’s a family-friendly snorkeling spot with thriving reefs—brain corals, sea fans, and schools of wrasses.

The shallow areas are perfect for kids or beginners, while deeper sections offer enough to keep seasoned snorkelers hooked.

You can get here via family-friendly tours ($15-20) or rent a kayak ($5/hour) from nearby beaches for a DIY vibe. The island’s got a chill, castaway feel, with sandy patches for post-snorkel lounging.

What to Expect:

• Marine Life: Turtles (if lucky), wrasses, damselfish, soft corals.
• Conditions: Gentle waves, 5-8m visibility. Shallower near shore.
• Vibe: Laid-back, great for families or solo adventurers.

Practical Tips:

• Getting There: Book a guided tour from An Thoi or kayak from Bai Dai Beach. Tours include gear and snacks.
• Gear: Kid-sized masks ($3) available at rental stalls. Fins optional for shallow areas.
• What to Bring: Snacks, a beach umbrella, and a waterproof phone case.
• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly. Deeper areas for intermediates.
• Pro Tip: Snorkel at high tide for easier access. Pair with Bai Dai Beach—check our family travel guide.
• Cost: $15-20 for tours, $5-10 for kayak/gear rentals.

Eco Note: Don’t chase turtles—they stress out. Kayak gently to avoid stirring up sediment. Everyone loves Turtle Island’s chill vibe, so keep it clean.

Nearby: Relax at Bai Dai or visit a nearby seafood shack.

7. Fingernail Island

Fingernail Island, a speck of land in Phu Quoc’s north, is named for its tiny, crescent shape. It’s one of the quieter snorkeling spots in Phu Quoc, with reefs packed with nudibranchs—those neon sea slugs that look like underwater graffiti. Hard and soft corals create a textured seascape, and you’ll spot wrasses, gobies, and maybe a pipefish if you’re sharp-eyed.

Access is via canoe rentals ($5/hour) from Vung Bau Beach or northern tours ($40-60). The island’s low-key vibe makes it perfect for a morning snorkel followed by beach time.

What to Expect:

• Marine Life: Nudibranchs, wrasses, gobies, pipefish, mixed corals.
• Conditions: Calm, 4-7m visibility. Best at high tide.
• Vibe: Secluded, with a desert-island feel.

Practical Tips:

• Getting There: Paddle from Vung Bau or book a northern tour. Stay at beachside resorts in Ong Lang.
• Gear: Bring your own mask for comfort; rentals ($3) available at Vung Bau.
• What to Bring: A macro camera lens, water, and a towel.
• Skill Level: All levels. Shallower at high tide.
• Pro Tip: Snorkel at 8-10 AM for calm waters. Pair with Vung Bau Beach—see our northern Phu Quoc guide.
• Cost: $5 for canoes, $3-5 for gear, $20-30 for tours.

Eco Note: Paddle softly to protect shallow reefs. Don’t touch nudibranchs—they’re delicate.

Nearby: Chill at Vung Bau or explore Ong Lang’s local cafes.

Practical Tips for Snorkeling in Phu Quoc

Here’s the real talk on how to snorkel like a pro in Phu Quoc, from gear to safety to respecting the locals.

• Gear: A solid mask, snorkel, and fins make all the difference. Rent top-rated snorkel gear in Duong Dong ($5-10/day) or bring your own. Rash guards ($5 rental) protect against sun and coral scrapes. Full-face masks are great for beginners but can fog up—test before you go.
• Safety: Newbies, stick with guided tours—they know safe zones and keep you from drifting into boat paths. Check tides on apps like TideChart; low tide exposes corals, making snorkeling tough. Don’t touch anything underwater—coral cuts hurt, and marine life doesn’t like it.
• Tours vs. DIY: Tours ($15-30) are hassle-free, with boats, gear, and guides who spot hidden critters. DIY’s cheaper ($5-10 for gear/scooter) but needs planning—best for Starfish Beach or Ganh Dau. An Thoi and Coral Mountain? Go guided.
• Eco-Conscious Snorkeling: Use reef-safe sunscreen (Stream2Sea or Badger, $10 at Duong Dong shops). Don’t stand on corals—it kills them. Pick up any trash you see, even if it’s not yours. Travelers share horror stories of littered reefs—don’t add to it.
• Cultural Tips: Smile and nod at local fishers—they’re chill and might share snorkeling tips. Don’t swim near their nets or boats. Learn a few Vietnamese phrases like “cảm ơn” (thank you) for brownie points at beach shacks.

Want more on sustainable travel? Our Vietnam eco-tourism guide has you covered.

Beyond Snorkeling: What Else to Do in Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc’s not just about snorkeling spots. Here’s how to fill your days with beaches, food, and culture.

• Beaches: Sao Beach is a stunner with powdery sand and turquoise water—perfect for a lazy day. Long Beach has bars and beachfront resorts for nightlife vibes. Ong Lang’s quieter, great for reading by the waves. See our best beaches in Phu Quoc guide.
• Activities: Duong Dong’s night market is a sensory overload—grilled squid, mango smoothies, and $2 souvenirs. Tour a pearl farm ($5) to see Phu Quoc’s gem industry, or ride the Hon Thom cable car ($7) for views that’ll blow your mind.
• Food: Beach shacks serve $3-5 seafood plates—think grilled lobster or fish with tamarind sauce. Try bun quay (spicy noodle soup) at stalls like Huynh Nhu for $2. Culinary tours dive deep into local flavors.
• Culture: Visit a fish sauce factory ($3 tour) to learn about Phu Quoc’s famous export—it’s pungent but cool. Cao Dai temples are colorful and spiritual; Ham Ninh fishing village feels like stepping back in time.

Check our guides to Phu Quoc’s night markets or Mekong Delta day trips for more.

Planning Your Phu Quoc Snorkeling Adventure

Ready to make it happen? Here’s how to plan your trip to the snorkeling spots in Phu Quoc.

• Getting There: Fly to Phu Quoc International Airport from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or international hubs like Bangkok. Budget carriers like VietJet keep fares low. Ferries from Rach Gia or Ha Tien are scenic but take 2-3 hours.
• Where to Stay: Duong Dong has everything from hostels ($15/night) to luxury beachfront stays like Vinpearl Resort ($70+). An Thoi is closer to southern snorkeling spots; northern areas like Ong Lang suit Starfish Beach trips.
• Tour Operators: Reputable companies like John’s Tours or VinWonders offer top snorkeling experiences with English-speaking guides. Book early for small-group vibes. Travelers often rave about local operators, so check for deals.
• Budget Tips: Eat at local stalls ($2-5/meal), rent a scooter ($5/day), and book tours in advance for discounts. Hostels and mid-range hotels keep costs down.
• When to Go: October-May for perfect snorkeling weather. Avoid June-September for rain and rough seas.

For a full itinerary, see our Vietnam travel planner. If you’re extending your trip, explore Hanoi’s street food or Halong Bay’s limestone karsts.

Wrap-Up

Phu Quoc’s snorkeling spots are a slice of underwater heaven, blending vibrant reefs, colorful marine life, and that classic Vietnam charm. From the coral wonderland of An Thoi to the starfish-strewn shores of Rach Vem, there’s a spot for every traveler. Pair your underwater adventures with beach days, fresh seafood, and a peek into island culture for a trip that hits all the right notes.

Ready to dive into the snorkeling spots in Phu Quoc? Browse Phu Quoc guided tours, book a cozy beach stay, and start planning your Vietnam escape. Got questions or tips? Drop them in the comments or check our blog for the latest traveler buzz. Happy snorkeling!