Discovery Phu Quoc Land 1 Southern Tour and Sao Beach

Introduction

Exploring Phu Quoc doesn’t have to mean splurging on luxury trips; a well-priced tour like the Discovery Phu Quoc Land 1 Southern Tour offers a solid glimpse into the island’s diverse charm — all in about seven hours. For just $16 per person, you get a taste of local culture, history, and natural beauty, with highlights like a pearl farm, war museum, and the famously beautiful Sao Beach.

What we particularly like about this tour is its blend of authentic experiences—learning about pearl harvesting, visiting a war prison, and stopping at a family-run pepper farm—plus the relaxed beachside lunch. It’s a practical way to see some of the island’s highlights without feeling rushed. A potential downside? Some stops, like the Coconut Tree Prison, might be more meaningful if they were open for longer or included more detailed commentary.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced, budget-friendly look at Phu Quoc’s history, culture, and scenery without the need for intense planning or expensive excursions. If you prefer guided insights and a structured day out, this could be a perfect fit.

Good To Know

• Authentic Cultural Stops: Visit a pearl farm, fish sauce factory, and pepper farm for real local flavor.
• Historical Insight: Learn about the island’s war history at Coconut Tree Prison.
• Natural Beauty: Relax at Sao Beach with a scenic lunch spot and enjoy some sunbathing.
• Affordable Price: At $16, this tour offers good value with included transportation and guide.
• Limited Duration: A 7-hour schedule keeps the day manageable for most travelers.
• Optional Lunch: Lunch isn’t included, giving you flexibility to choose your own or bring snacks.

Exploring Phu Quoc’s Landmarks and Local Life

The tour kicks off with convenient pickup from John’s Tours office or your hotel in Duong Dong, making logistics simple. Once on the road, the journey through the island starts with a visit to the Pearl Farm, where you’ll learn about how these gems are cultivated and designed into jewelry—definitely a highlight for those interested in local craftsmanship. The guide’s insights help you understand the long-standing tradition of pearl harvesting on the island, which has become a key part of Phu Quoc’s identity.

Next, you’ll stop at the Sim Wine Factory, a small but interesting peek into local wine production. Unlike the mass-produced wines many might expect, Phu Quoc’s wine is crafted locally, often using native fruits and techniques that have been passed down generations. Reviewers mention that the tasting and explanation were engaging, adding a flavorful local dimension to the experience.

From there, a Pepper Farm visit offers a glimpse into the island’s agricultural life. The tour highlights how a local family harvests pepper, and you’ll get to see the plants up close. This stop is especially appreciated by visitors interested in sustainable, family-run businesses and local farming methods.

Learning About History and Culture

A key part of this tour is the Coconut Tree Prison, also known as the War Museum. Although temporarily closed for maintenance until December 2022, the site usually offers a sobering look into the island’s wartime history, with prisoners of war held there during difficult times. Reviewers noted that even the brief visit to this site provided meaningful insight, with some describing it as a “deeply moving experience.”

Other notable stops include Ho Quoc Pagoda, a serene Buddhist temple, perfect for a moment of reflection amid the busy day. While not the most elaborate temple, it offers tranquility and a chance to appreciate local spiritual life.

Enjoying the Beach and Relaxation

The highlight for many will be Sao Beach, where you get a well-earned break for lunch and sunbathing. The tour’s timing allows you to relax, swim, and soak in the stunning scenery—an ideal spot to unwind after a morning of sightseeing. The tour mentions that lunch is at the beach, giving you a chance to enjoy fresh seafood or snacks from nearby vendors at your own pace.

After lunch, you may choose to chill at a beach bar or take a quick swim. Visitors note that the beach’s soft white sand and gentle waves make it an excellent spot to relax, with some reviewers mentioning that they appreciated the less crowded, peaceful atmosphere.

Practical Details and Overall Value

At just $16, the tour offers a good value for a full day of sights and stories. The price includes transportation around the island, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, and a bottle of water—making it straightforward and stress-free. It’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included, so you should budget separately for a meal or bring snacks.

The group size is limited to 20 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly, intimate atmosphere. Pickup is available from central locations, but if you are staying outside the main area, an extra fee might apply. The tour starts at 8:00 am, which is perfect for getting a full day in without feeling rushed.

One thing to keep in mind is the Coconut Prison’s temporary closure**, which might impact that part of the experience. Planning for that, or checking in advance, can ensure you get the most out of your visit.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers eager to see a mix of cultural, historical, and natural highlights without the fuss of independent planning. It suits those interested in local crafts, history, and beaches, especially if they enjoy guided insights and organized convenience. It’s great if you prefer structured tours that cover key sights but still want some free time at the beach.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, this tour offers a good balance of education and relaxation. Just remember to pack sunscreen and your camera — you’ll want to capture those beautiful moments at Sao Beach and the fascinating stops along the way.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides transportation around Phu Quoc in a shared vehicle, including pickup and drop-off.

Do I need to bring lunch?
Lunchtime at Sao Beach is not included, so you should bring your own snacks or plan to buy food at the beach.

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back at the initial meeting point.

Are there any additional costs?
Additional fees may apply if your pickup or drop-off location is outside the main area. Entrance fees for sites are free, but optional activities or meals are not included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour will not be refunded.

Is this suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the stops are generally suitable for all ages, but consider mobility needs especially at sites like the prison or the beach.

In Summary, the Discovery Phu Quoc Land 1 Southern Tour offers an accessible, well-rounded look at the island’s history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to see key sights without spending a fortune or dedicating multiple days. Expect a mix of authentic local experiences, beautiful scenery, and educational stops that paint a genuine picture of Phu Quoc. Whether you’re interested in pearls, war history, or just relaxing at Sao Beach, this tour gives you a practical, enjoyable way to spend your day.