November in Phu Quoc marks a beautiful and significant transition. As the rainy season bids farewell, the island begins to reveal its peak-season splendor, with clearer skies, calmer seas, and lush, vibrant landscapes. It’s a month of change, offering a unique blend of post-monsoon freshness and approaching dry-season perfection. To help you decide if this is the ideal time for your island escape, Corona Resort & Casino Phu Quoc shares this objective and detailed guide to the Phu Quoc November weather and what you can expect from a visit during this special time.
Phu Quoc Weather in November: A Detailed Forecast
The Phu Quoc November weather is best described as transitional. The island moves from the wet season (May-October) to the dry season (November-April), meaning conditions improve steadily as the month progresses.
- Temperature: You can expect warm and pleasant temperatures. The average daily temperature hovers around 27°C (81°F). Daytime highs often reach 30-31°C (86-88°F), while nighttime lows cool down to a comfortable 23-25°C (73-77°F).
- Rainfall: This is the most variable factor. In early November, you might still experience some brief, intermittent showers, which are remnants of the rainy season. However, rainfall decreases significantly towards the end of the month. On average, Phu Quoc sees about 100-150mm of rain over 10-12 days in November, a sharp drop from October’s levels. These showers are typically short-lived and unlikely to disrupt your entire day.
- Sunshine: As the month goes on, cloud cover diminishes, and sunshine hours increase. You can look forward to an average of 6-7 hours of sunshine per day, perfect for beach activities and exploration.
- Humidity: Humidity levels begin to drop, making the Phu Quoc November weather feel much more comfortable and less oppressive than in the preceding months.
- Sea conditions: The sea becomes progressively calmer and clearer. While early November might still have slightly choppy waters, by the middle and end of the month, the seas are generally calm and turquoise, with visibility improving dramatically, creating excellent conditions for marine activities.
Is November a good month to visit Phu Quoc?
Absolutely. For many travelers, the Phu Quoc November weather offers the best of both worlds. Here’s why it’s an excellent time to visit:
- Fewer crowds: November precedes the peak tourist rush of December and January. You can enjoy the island’s main attractions and beautiful beaches with more space and tranquility.
- Pleasant climate: You get to experience the beautiful, sunny days of the high season without the intense heat that can come later in the year. The comfortable Phu Quoc November weather is ideal for all kinds of activities.
- Lush green scenery: The island is incredibly lush and vibrant after months of rain. Waterfalls are still flowing, and the national park is at its greenest, offering stunning landscapes.
- Good value: You may find better deals on flights and accommodations compared to the peak months of December through February.
The main consideration is the potential for rain in early November. However, for most, the benefits of visiting during this shoulder season far outweigh the chance of a few passing showers. The Phu Quoc November weather is a fantastic compromise.
Things to do in Phu Quoc in November
The improving Phu Quoc November weather makes it a perfect time for a wide range of activities, both on land and at sea.
Vin Wonders Phu Quoc
As Vietnam’s largest and most modern theme park, VinWonders Phu Quoc offers a world of entertainment that is perfect for the transitional Phu Quoc November weather. The park is divided into six distinct zones, including European Streetmosphere, Fantasy World, and the thrilling Typhoon World water park.
The warm-but-not-scorching November temperatures make it ideal for enjoying both the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and the refreshing water slides. Furthermore, VinWonders serves as an excellent all-weather option; should one of November’s brief passing showers occur, you can easily take shelter in the impressive “The Sea Shell” aquarium, one of the largest in Vietnam, and continue your adventure uninterrupted.
Vinpearl Safari
Adjacent to the theme park, Vinpearl Safari is Vietnam’s first and only open-range zoo, providing a sanctuary for thousands of rare animals from across the globe. The experience is split into two main areas: an Open Zoo for walking exploration and the Safari Park, where guests ride in a specialized bus through vast enclosures to see animals like giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and tigers roaming in semi-natural habitats.
The pleasant Phu Quoc November weather, with its lower humidity and comfortable temperatures, is particularly beneficial here. The animals are often more active and visible during the day than in the hotter months, making for a more engaging and memorable wildlife experience for visitors of all ages.
Snorkeling and Diving in Clear Waters
November is when Phu Quoc’s underwater world truly begins to shine. As the monsoon recedes, the seas become progressively calmer and the water clarity improves dramatically, especially in the latter half of the month. This makes it a fantastic time for snorkeling and diving. The prime location for this is the An Thoi Archipelago, a cluster of 15 small islands and islets off the southern coast.
A boat tour to Hon Mong Tay (Fingernail Island), Hon Gam Ghi (Dam Ngang Island), and Hon May Rut will reveal shallow, pristine coral reefs teeming with colorful parrotfish, clownfish, and other tropical marine life. The comfortable sea temperatures and the excellent visibility provided by the favorable Phu Quoc November weather create a world-class underwater adventure.
Visit Pepper Farms
Phu Quoc is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest black pepper, and a visit to a local pepper farm is a unique cultural and sensory experience. In November, the pepper plantations are exceptionally beautiful, with the vines a lush, vibrant green after the rainy season.
You can walk amongst the rows of towering pepper plants, see the clusters of green and ripening red peppercorns up close, and learn about the organic cultivation process from the friendly local farmers. The air is filled with the distinct, spicy aroma of fresh pepper. It’s a fantastic opportunity to take photos and purchase high-quality, authentic pepper and other local products to take home as a souvenir.
Hike in Phu Quoc National Park
Covering more than half of the island’s northern region, the Phu Quoc National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that is at its most beautiful in November. The trails, which may have been muddy and slippery during the peak rainy season, begin to dry out, making hiking and trekking much more accessible and enjoyable.
The forest is incredibly dense and verdant, waterfalls and streams are still flowing with water, and the air is fresh and clean. The mild Phu Quoc November weather is perfect for a jungle trek, allowing you to immerse yourself in the island’s rich biodiversity and perhaps spot wildlife like macaques, hornbills, and various reptiles without the oppressive heat of the later dry season months.
Watch a Spectacular Sunset at a Beach Bar
The clearing skies characteristic of the Phu Quoc November weather create the perfect canvas for some of the most dramatic and colorful sunsets of the year. The west coast of the island is the place to be as evening approaches. Find a comfortable spot at a beachfront bar or restaurant along Long Beach or the more tranquil Ong Lang Beach.
Ordering a tropical cocktail or a fresh coconut and watching the sun paint the sky in brilliant hues of orange, pink, and purple as it dips below the horizon is an essential and deeply relaxing Phu Quoc ritual. The gentle sea breeze and the sound of the waves make it a truly magical experience.
Try Night Squid Fishing for a Unique Experience
As the seas become calmer in November, one of the island’s most unique and beloved evening activities becomes widely available: night squid fishing. These tours typically depart just before sunset. You will board a traditional wooden fishing boat and head out to sea.
As darkness falls, bright lights are turned on to attract the squid to the surface. You’ll be given a simple line and jig and taught the local technique for catching them. It’s a peaceful, meditative, and exciting experience all at once. The best part is enjoying the fruits of your labor, as the crew will cook your fresh catch for you right on the boat—a delicious end to a memorable night on the water.
What to eat & essential travel tips for November
What to eat: November is a fantastic time for seafood lovers. The seas are rich with life, and local markets and restaurants are overflowing with fresh catches. Don’t miss trying:
- Goi Ca Trich (Herring Salad): A signature Phu Quoc dish made with fresh raw herring, vegetables, and a special dipping sauce.
- Bun Ken: A unique fish noodle soup with a rich, coconut-based broth.
- Fresh Seafood: Head to the Duong Dong Night Market or Ham Ninh fishing village to enjoy grilled sea urchins, steamed crab, scallops, and more.
Essential travel tips for the Phu Quoc November weather:
- Pack smart: Bring lightweight clothing, swimwear, and sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses). Also, pack a light rain jacket or umbrella, especially for the first half of the month.
- Book in advance: While it’s not the absolute peak season, November is the start of the high season. It’s wise to book flights and accommodation a few weeks in advance to secure better prices.
- Be flexible: If visiting in early November, be prepared for the possibility of a brief shower. Plan some indoor activities, like visiting a pearl farm or a fish sauce factory, as a backup.
- Stay hydrated: Even with comfortable temperatures, it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
In conclusion, the Phu Quoc November weather presents a wonderful opportunity to experience the island in all its glory. With beautiful landscapes, pleasant temperatures, and fewer tourists, it is arguably one of the best times to visit. From thrilling adventures to serene relaxation, the island is ready to welcome you. The improving Phu Quoc November weather provides a perfect setting for an unforgettable holiday. We at Corona Resort & Casino Phu Quoc hope this guide helps you plan your perfect trip and we look forward to sharing the beauty of our island with you.