Hon Thom is the largest and most famous island in the An Thoi archipelago, located at the northern end of the island group. Covering an area of approximately 3 km², it is known as the “raw pearl” of Phu Quoc thanks to its untouched landscape, crystal-clear waters, and one of the most vibrant coral ecosystems in Vietnam.
Magnificent Nature – Crystal Waters, White Sand, Vibrant Coral Reefs
Hon Thom boasts deep, clear waters, unique rock formations, and long stretches of picturesque soft-sand beaches. Beneath the surface lies a pristine coral forest with an impressive density of colorful marine life. This is why Hon Thom is considered one of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Phu Quoc, especially around Ky Lan Cape in the northern part of the island.
Along the shore are the island’s famous beaches such as Bai Nom, Bai Nam, Bai Chuong, and Bai Trao. Coconut trees gently sway over silky white sand, while turquoise water reveals everything down to the seabed—creating a mesmerizing scene that captivates visitors at first sight.
Hon Thom and the surrounding southern waters of Phu Quoc contain over 9,720 hectares of coral reefs, the largest coral system on the island. This area is part of a biosphere reserve and is strictly protected due to its biological value and exceptional marine scenery. With multi-layered coral reefs in vibrant colors, this is a paradise no ocean-lover should miss.
Here, visitors can stroll along powdery white beaches, snorkel among schools of tropical fish, or simply relax under the sun and enjoy the pure essence of the sea.
Hon Thom’s Tourism Development History
Before the 2000s, Hon Thom was still a small, remote island of Phu Quoc, almost completely separated from the busy tourism scene in Duong Dong town. The island remained truly untouched: clean beaches, dense natural forests, unexploited coral reefs, and a peaceful fishing community living off traditional seafood harvesting.
Transportation at that time was limited. Visitors had to travel by canoe or wooden boat from An Thoi Port, heavily depending on weather conditions. During the monsoon season, reaching the island was nearly impossible. As a result, very few travelers visited Hon Thom—mainly locals, fishermen, or adventurous backpackers.
Tourism services were almost nonexistent. Only a few households sold drinks or fresh seafood; some rented small boats. There were no amusement areas, no restaurants, and no accommodations. Yet, this simplicity made Hon Thom exceptionally charming: empty pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, coral reefs close to shore, and a remarkably intact marine ecosystem. It was a wild, serene, and immaculate island—perfect for those seeking pure nature.
2015: Hon Thom was officially planned for eco-tourism development. That same year, Sun Group began construction of the over-sea cable car system. 2018: The cable car was completed and opened to the public, marking a new era for tourism in southern Phu Quoc.
Since then, Hon Thom has become a favorite destination among international travelers—especially from Korea, India, Thailand, and Europe—thanks to its untouched natural beauty and increasingly high-end tourism facilities.
Hon Thom Cable Car – A Spectacular Way to See the South of Phu Quoc
The Hon Thom Cable Car stretches 7,899.9 meters, starting from An Thoi Station, passing Hon Dua and Hon Roi, and ending at Hon Thom Island. A cable car ride offers an exhilarating “flight over the sea” while showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of southern Phu Quoc.
On its opening day, the cable car was recognized by Guinness World Records as the “Longest 3-rope sea-crossing cable car in the world.”
As the cabin rises over 160 meters above sea level, visitors are treated to a magnificent panorama: endless blue ocean, clusters of small islands, fishing villages, boats gliding across the water, and coral reefs visible beneath the clear surface. The cabins are spacious, modern, comfortable, and incredibly smooth, accommodating up to 30 passengers per ride.
This is more than just transportation—it is one of the most unique sightseeing experiences in Vietnam.
An Inspiring Journey Through Hon Thom
During their first visit to Hon Thom, the Travelin team enjoyed a perfect day:
- Morning swim at Bai Trao, water park fun, and photo taking in crystal-clear waters
- Afternoon canoe trip to Tiger Island (Hon Su Tu) to watch a fiery sunset
- Next morning, snorkeling tour at Ky Lan Cape, exploring majestic rock formations, and ending with a night squid-fishing excursion offshore
For us, Phu Quoc is not just a “must-visit once in your life” destination—Hon Thom and the southern islands are a true paradise for every ocean lover.
Best Time to Visit Hon Thom
The prime season to visit Phu Quoc is from November to June.
During this period, the sea is calm, the sky is clear, and the water is exceptionally transparent—perfect for: Swimming, Snorkeling & scuba, diving, Kayaking, Water playground activities, Check-in photography, Ocean sports…
It’s also the season of the freshest seafood, including sea urchin, conch, squid, and a variety of local fish.
