Getting off the beaten path in Phu Quoc often means joining a guided tour — and this particular day trip, offered by John’s Tours Phu Quoc, is a well-reviewed way to see some of the island’s most authentic sights without breaking the bank.
Priced at just $30 per person, this 7-hour adventure packs in a surprising amount of activity, from paddling along river currents to wandering among ancient trees, and finally relaxing at the famed Starfish Beach.
What we love about this experience is how it balances value and authenticity—you’ll get a taste of local life, scenic landscapes, and some fun outdoor activities, all with the comfort of round-trip hotel transfers. The chance to kayak on the Cua Dan River and enjoy a free swim on a beach famed for its starfish is especially appealing.
However, potential travelers should note that lunch isn’t included, and some may find the schedule a bit long or the optional extra boat ride to Starfish Beach a little costly or inconvenient.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, nature, and small-group settings where guides are knowledgeable and friendly. If your idea of a perfect day involves a mix of active exploration and relaxing coastal vistas, then this trip offers quite a good value without sacrificing genuine local experiences.
Key Points
- Affordable Group Tour: At $30, it offers great value, especially with included admission fees and hotel transfers.
- Diverse Activities: Kayaking, forest walking, visiting a bee farm, and exploring local villages make for a well-rounded day.
- Stunning Views: Expect impressive vistas, from Cambodia border views at Mui Ganh Dau to lush forest scenery.
- Authentic Encounters: Visiting a floating fishing village and a bee farm provides a glimpse of local livelihoods.
- Flexibility & Guide Knowledge: The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often adding extra activities when weather disrupts plans.
- Optional Extra: The boat ride to Starfish Beach costs additional, which some reviews suggest should be included.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary
This tour starts early, with hotel pickups arranged for a seamless start. First stop is Phu Quoc National Park, a place where we appreciated the chance to walk among century-old trees. The 35-minute walk offers a glimpse of the island’s lush flora and provides some shade, a welcome break from the tropical sun. The admission fee is included, meaning no surprises at the entrance.
Next, you’re taken to Mui Ganh Dau Beach, a scenic spot with spectacular views of Cambodia’s coastline. The 25-minute stop is enough for a quick photo and to take in the border scenery—an often overlooked but fascinating perspective. The view of neighboring Cambodia adds an international flavor that makes this part of the tour memorable.
The highlight for many is the Floating Village Rach Vem, which combines a local seafood lunch with relaxed beach time. Here, travelers have 1.5 hours to enjoy the beach, swim with starfish, or explore the small village. Multiple reviews mention how much families enjoyed the abundance of starfish, with some travelers commenting that they’d never seen so many at once. The included lunch at a local restaurant complements the experience, offering authentic Vietnamese flavors, and allows for some downtime before the next activity.
The tour then moves to Cua Can, where you can paddle a kayak along a pristine river. This 45-minute free activity is appreciated for its tranquil natural scenery. Several reviews praise the guide Viet for going above and beyond—adding extra fun activities when weather interfered with the original plans. The calm river setting offers peaceful views and a chance to observe the lush surroundings up close.
Finally, the tour ends with a visit to Starfish Beach, famed for its clear waters and abundant marine life. The boat ride to the proper beach costs about 100,000 VND, which some reviews mention as a potential area for improvement if it were included in the package. The swim and beach experience here are highly praised, with many noting it as the most memorable part of the trip.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Phu Quoc
What Travelers Are Saying
The reviews paint a picture of a generally positive experience. Many highlight the knowledgeable, friendly guides—with “Ren” often praised for his fluency in English and his effort to make the trip engaging. One reviewer said, “Ren made this tour even more wonderful,” emphasizing the importance of a good guide in making a day memorable.
Others appreciated how the tour packed in diverse sights and activities. One traveler noted that “the North Island Phu Quoc tour packed a lot into a short time,” and the flexibility of the guide was a highlight. The ability to customize the experience was a plus, especially when weather caused cancellations or delays.
The stunning views and authentic local experiences come through strongly in reviews. The Starfish Beach was called “fantastic” and “incredible,” with some travelers being surprised at how many starfish they could see in one place. Several reviewers also mentioned the fish farm visit and forest walk as valuable components of the day.
However, feedback also hints at some areas for improvement. A few noted that the second half of the tour felt a bit long, especially the extended beach time. One individual pointed out that the boat ride to Starfish Beach was not included in the original price, which they felt could be made clearer or included for better value.
Transport, Duration, and Group Size
The tour’s round-trip transfers are a clear benefit, removing the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads. The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, which is quite a full day of activity — perfect if you want a comprehensive look at the island’s northern highlights.
With a maximum of 100 travelers, the group size tends to be moderate, though most reviews indicate it’s a more intimate experience, especially with the guides’ attentiveness. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during transfers, and bottled water is provided, keeping you hydrated during the warm day.
Value and Practical Considerations
At $30, the tour offers good value, considering the inclusion of admission fees, kayak rental, and round-trip transport. The lunch at Rach Vem is a highlight for many, providing an authentic meal that complements the day’s outdoor activities. Keep in mind, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for other meals.
The optional boat ride to Starfish Beach at 100,000 VND is an extra expense some travelers felt should be part of the package, especially considering the effort to reach this iconic spot. Still, many agree that the swim and scenery make it worthwhile.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring nature, and experiencing local life firsthand. Families, couples, and small groups looking for a full day of varied activities will find plenty to love. If you’re comfortable with a moderate amount of physical activity — walking, paddling, and swimming — this tour will suit you well.
Those who prefer a more relaxed, less structured day might find some parts too long or busy, but overall, the tour provides a balanced mix of exploration and downtime.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Phu Quoc
The Sum Up
This Phu Quoc tour offers an engaging, affordable way to see the island’s natural beauty, local culture, and scenic spots. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both informative and fun. The combination of kayaking, forest walks, and beach relaxation allows travelers to sample diverse aspects of northern Phu Quoc in one day.
It’s especially well-suited for those seeking authentic encounters and outdoor adventure. The price point, inclusive admissions, and hotel transfers make it a convenient choice that delivers good value. While the optional boat ride to Starfish Beach costs extra, most visitors agree that the stunning waters and marine life are worth the small additional expense.
If you’re after a day of active exploration with an emphasis on nature, scenery, and local flavor, this tour ticks many boxes without overwhelming your budget or schedule.
Land Tour 2: Discover the North – Kayaking & Starfish beach Phu Quoc (Not Lunch)
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip transfers from hotels in Phu Quoc, making logistics seamless.
How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 7 hours, including travel, activities, and breaks.
What is the tour price?
The basic price is $30 per person, which covers admission fees, kayak use, and transportation.
Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but a local restaurant in Rach Vem provides a meal option.
Can I swim at Starfish Beach?
Yes, you’ll have time to swim and relax at the beach, which is known for its many starfish.
Is kayaking included?
Yes, you get your own kayak for paddling along the Cua Can River.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water, swimwear, and possibly some cash for extras like the boat ride.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, especially those comfortable with outdoor activities and walking.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Does the tour visit a bee farm?
Yes, you’ll stop at a bee farm as part of the journey, which provides insights into local honey production.
This tour in Phu Quoc strikes a nice balance between active adventure and relaxed coastal scenery, all while keeping costs reasonable. It’s a smart pick for travelers who want to see a diverse slice of the island’s natural and cultural side, guided by friendly experts who make every step enjoyable.
