Thinking about Phu Quoc surfing? You’re in for a unique and rewarding experience. While Vietnam’s Pearl Island may be more famous for its tranquil bays, a growing community of wave riders is discovering its gentle, welcoming surf. We at Corona Resort & Casino Phu Quoc have crafted this guide to help you find the best swells, whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned surfer looking for a new adventure.
Top Phu Quoc Surfing Spots
Finding the right beach is key to a great session. The best spots for surfing in Phu Quoc are primarily located on the western and northern coasts, each offering a different vibe and wave type.
Long Beach (Bai Truong) – Best for beginners
If you’re new to surfing in Phu Quoc, Long Beach (Bai Truong) is where your journey should start. Stretching over 20 km along the west coast, it offers gentle, rolling waves ideal for learning balance and technique. Local instructors occasionally offer private lessons, and you can easily find surfboard rentals in Phu Quoc right along the shore.
After your surf session, unwind with a cold coconut or enjoy sunset views from nearby beach bars. The golden light reflecting on the water makes it one of the best beach Phu Quoc experiences for both surfers and spectators.
Ong Lang Beach – Calm waves and fewer crowds
For travelers looking for serenity, Ong Lang Beach is a quiet stretch perfect for light surfing in Phu Quoc and relaxing swims. The waves here are softer, making it ideal for beginners or those who want a more meditative surf experience.
This area also offers excellent snorkelling Phu Quoc spots nearby, so you can easily combine your surf session with exploring coral reefs just a few meters offshore. The surrounding eco-resorts and beach cafés add to the calm, local vibe.
Vung Bau Beach – Shared spot for surfing & kitesurfing
Vung Bau Beach is one of the most versatile destinations for surfing in Phu Quoc. Its wide bay offers consistent mid-size waves perfect for both surfing and kitesurfing, depending on the wind. On breezier afternoons, you’ll spot both surfers and kiteboarders carving across the sea in harmony.
If you prefer a full-day adventure, Vung Bau is also known for nearby eco-lodges where you can rent surfboards, SUPs, or kayaks. This area embodies the untamed spirit of Phu Quoc: raw, beautiful, and full of adventure.
Ganh Dau & Bai Dai – Hidden gems for adventure seekers
For those craving solitude, Ganh Dau and Bai Dai beaches are true hidden treasures. Located near the island’s northern tip, they offer rugged beauty and stronger swells, particularly during the dry season.
Locals who enjoy surfing in Phu Quoc often head here for early morning sessions when the wind is calm and the sea glassy. While facilities are limited, the tranquility and pristine scenery make it worth the effort. It’s also close to Corona Resort & Casino Phu Quoc, making it a convenient escape for a morning surf before exploring the island’s northern attractions.
Surfboard Rentals in Phu Quoc
You don’t need to bring your own board to enjoy surfing in Phu Quoc. Rentals are readily available and affordable.
Where to rent surfboards, bodyboards, or SUPs
You’ll find most surfboard rentals in Phu Quoc around Long Beach, Ong Lang, and Vung Bau. Local surf shops and beachfront resorts rent boards by the hour or day. Many also provide stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) for calmer days or bodyboards for beginners.
Popular surf rental spots include small local operators who not only rent equipment but also offer guidance on daily wave conditions. Some resorts even include rental discounts for their guests.
Average rental prices and packages
The cost of surfing in Phu Quoc is quite reasonable compared to other surf destinations in Asia. Expect prices to range between 5 – 11 USD per hour for surfboards, and around 15 – 22 USD for a full-day rental. Lessons with local instructors start from 19 USD per hour, depending on group size.
For those planning to explore multiple beaches, daily or weekly rental packages are the most convenient, allowing you to take your board from one best beach Phu Quoc location to another.
Safety Tips and Local Surfing Etiquette
Enjoying the waves safely and respectfully is paramount. The relaxed atmosphere is a huge part of what makes the experience special, so following a few key guidelines ensures a great time for everyone. Keep these tips in mind for a fantastic surfing in Phu Quoc session.
Understanding local ocean conditions
Phu Quoc’s seas are generally gentle, but they are still a powerful force of nature. Understanding the local environment is the first step to staying safe.
- Know the seasons: Wave conditions are heavily influenced by the monsoon seasons. From May to October (rainy season), the west coast (Long Beach, Ong Lang) sees more consistent swells. From November to April (dry season), the winds shift, and you might find small, clean waves on the east coast. This knowledge is crucial for a successful day of surfing in Phu Quoc.
- Identify rip currents: Even on calm days, rip currents can form, especially near headlands or piers. Look for signs of a rip: a channel of choppy, churning water; a noticeable break in the incoming wave pattern; or a line of foam and debris moving steadily out to sea. If you get caught in one, stay calm, don’t fight it by swimming directly to shore. Instead, swim parallel to the beach until you are out of the current, then head back to land.
- Check the tides and seabed: Tides can significantly alter wave quality and expose underwater hazards. Most beaches for surfing in Phu Quoc have sandy bottoms, which is ideal for beginners. However, some areas, particularly around rocky outcrops at Ong Lang or Ganh Dau, can have submerged rocks or coral. Always ask a local or at a rental shop about the specific spot you plan to surf.
Respecting swimmers and fishermen
The beaches of Phu Quoc are a shared resource for tourists and the local community. Showing respect is key to maintaining the island’s friendly and welcoming vibe.
- Give space to swimmers: On popular beaches like Long Beach, there are often informal zones where families and swimmers congregate. As a surfer, it’s your responsibility to stay clear of these crowded areas. Find a less populated stretch of beach to practice. Your board can be dangerous to others, so always be in control.
- Mind the fishing operations: Local fishermen have been using these waters for generations. Be highly aware of their small basket boats (thuyền thúng), fishing lines in the water, and buoys that may mark nets or traps below the surface. Getting tangled can be dangerous for you and can damage their livelihood. Always give them a very wide berth. The friendly atmosphere is part of what makes surfing in Phu Quoc so special, and respecting local traditions is a big part of that.
- Basic surf etiquette: While the lineups are rarely crowded, basic rules still apply. The surfer closest to the peak of the wave has the right of way. Don’t “drop in” on someone else’s wave. A simple smile and a nod go a long way in the water.
Essential surf safety & sun protection
Your personal safety is your own responsibility. The tropical environment requires specific precautions.
- Sun protection is non-negotiable: The sun in Phu Quoc is incredibly strong, even on cloudy days.
- Wear a rash guard: It protects you from the sun and prevents board rash.
- Use high-SPF, reef-Safe sunscreen: Apply waterproof sunscreen generously and reapply every 90 minutes. Choosing a “reef-safe” option helps protect the island’s delicate coral ecosystems.
- Cover up: A3 wide-brimmed surf hat and polarized sunglasses (with a strap) are excellent investments for long sessions.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration happens quickly when you’re active in the heat. Drink plenty of water before and after your session. Buying a fresh coconut from a beach vendor is a perfect way to rehydrate with natural electrolytes.
- Always use a leash: A surfboard leash is not optional. It keeps your board, your primary flotation device, attached to you if you fall. It also prevents your board from being washed ashore or hitting other people.
- Know your limits and surf with a buddy: If you are a beginner, don’t go out in conditions that look too challenging. It’s better to be on the shore wishing you were out there than to be out there wishing you were on the shore. Never surf alone, especially if you are new to the area. The buddy system ensures someone is always looking out for you.
FAQs About Surfing in Phu Quoc
– Can you surf year-round in Phu Quoc?
Yes, but the best spots change with the monsoon seasons. The west coast is best during the rainy season (May-Oct) when swells arrive, while the east coast can occasionally get small, clean waves during the dry season (Nov-Apr).
– Is it beginner-friendly?
Absolutely. Phu Quoc is considered one of the best places in Southeast Asia to learn surfing due to its gentle, rolling waves and sandy-bottom beaches. The uncrowded waters create a low-pressure environment perfect for beginners.
– Are lifeguards available on main beaches?
Lifeguards are generally not on duty on Phu Quoc’s beaches, even the popular ones. It is very important to be aware of the conditions, know your own limits, and always surf with a friend for safety.
– Can I bring my own surfboard to Vietnam?
Yes, you can bring your own board. Most airlines allow surfboards as checked sports equipment, but it’s crucial to check their specific size, weight, and fee policies before you travel to avoid any surprises at the airport.
Phu Quoc surfing offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation that sets it apart from more intense surf destinations. It’s an opportunity to connect with the ocean in a peaceful, stunningly beautiful environment. Whether you’re catching your first wave at Long Beach or seeking solitude at Bai Dai, the island provides a memorable experience for all. We hope this guide helps you plan your aquatic adventures on our beautiful island. Should you need any more local advice or a world-class place to stay, the team at Corona Resort & Casino Phu Quoc is always here to help you make the most of your trip.