Snorkeling in Phu Quoc: 6 Best spots & local tips 2026

Some of the most unforgettable experiences in Phu Quoc don’t happen on the beach or on a boat. They happen just a few meters under the surface.

In many parts of the An Thoi Archipelago, coral reefs begin in water only 2–3 meters deep, which means you don’t need diving experience to see vibrant marine life. Simply floating on the surface with a mask can reveal colorful coral gardens, tropical fish, and surprisingly clear water.

But here’s something many travelers don’t realize: not every snorkeling tour in Phu Quoc visits the same reefs. Some spots are crowded and heavily visited, while others remain quiet and full of marine life.

In this guide,  Rooty Trip will share 6 coral spots locals often recommend for snorkeling in Phu Quoc, along with useful tips to help you plan the best trip to Phu Quoc in 2026.

What most travelers don’t know about snorkeling in Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc has become one of the most popular snorkeling destinations in Vietnam, but the experience can vary depending on where and when you go.

Three factors make snorkeling here consistently enjoyable when you choose the right locations.

The southern islands protect the best coral reefs

Most of the healthiest coral reefs are located in the An Thoi Archipelago in the south of Phu Quoc. The surrounding islands act as natural barriers that protect the reefs from strong seasonal winds.

Because of this, coral ecosystems here remain relatively healthy compared to many other coastal areas in Vietnam.

Snorkelers commonly see:

• Butterflyfish
• Parrotfish
• Sea urchins
• Sea cucumbers
• Small reef octopus
• Occasionally stingrays gliding along sandy patches

On calm mornings, the reef feels surprisingly alive even in shallow water.

Water visibility can reach 15–20 meters

One of the biggest reasons travelers love snorkeling in Phu Quoc is the clarity of the water, especially during the dry season.

On good days, visibility underwater can reach 15–20 meters, allowing you to see large coral patches even while floating on the surface.

Morning tours usually provide the best conditions, because winds tend to increase later in the day.

The reefs are beginner-friendly

Many snorkeling destinations require strong swimming skills or deeper water exploration.

In Phu Quoc, most coral reefs sit in shallow water between 3–6 meters, making them suitable even for beginners.

Most tours provide:

• Life jackets
• Full-face snorkeling masks
• Floating safety rings
• Guides supervising the group

This makes snorkeling here accessible for families, couples, and first-time snorkelers.

6 Best coral spots for snorkeling in Phu Quoc

The southern islands of the An Thoi archipelago offer the best coral reefs. Each island has slightly different underwater terrain and marine life.

Hon Gam Ghi

Local guides often call Hon Gam Ghi the “Coral Kingdom” because the reefs start incredibly close to the surface.

Large coral fields stretch across shallow water, creating one of the richest snorkeling environments in Phu Quoc. On calm days, you can float above colorful coral gardens while schools of fish move through the reef.

Because of its biodiversity, this island is often considered the best snorkeling spot in Phu Quoc.

Hon May Rut

Hon May Rut is divided into  May Rut Trong and May Rut Ngoai, both offering clear water and relaxed island scenery.

While the coral density is slightly lower than Hon Gam Ghi, the combination of snorkeling and beautiful beaches makes this island extremely popular.

Many tours stop here for lunch, swimming, and beach time after snorkeling.

Hon Mong Tay

Also known as Fingernail Island, Hon Mong Tay is famous for its white sand beaches and calm turquoise water.

Snorkeling here is easy because coral areas begin close to the shore. Visibility is often excellent, making it a great place for beginners or travelers who simply want a relaxing snorkeling experience.

Hon Kim Quy

Hon Kim Quy is less visited compared to the main tour routes, which helps preserve its coral areas.

The reefs here are spread across shallow rocky terrain with gentle currents, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a quieter snorkeling environment away from crowds.

Hon Buom

Hon Buom remains one of the quieter islands in the archipelago. The water is usually very clear, and coral formations are diverse.

Because of the lighting and visibility, many underwater photography enthusiasts enjoy snorkeling here.

It’s also a great choice for travelers looking for less crowded reef areas.

Hon Doi Moi

Hon Doi Moi is a lesser-known snorkeling spot, but it offers calm conditions and a mix of soft and hard coral.

Because the reef sits in shallow water and currents are usually mild, it’s a comfortable location for beginners or travelers seeking a slower pace.

Snorkeling in Phu Quoc offers an unforgettable underwater adventure with vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters. If you’re looking for a trusted local experience, check out our Snorkeling Tour Phu Quoc for full itineraries, expert guides, and hidden spots you won’t find on your own.

Comparison of the best snorkeling islands

If you only have one snorkeling day in Phu Quoc, choosing the right island makes a big difference. It’s often better to spend two hours exploring one great reef than rushing through several locations too quickly.

Best snorkeling tours in Phu Quoc

Most snorkeling tours follow a 3-island route in the An Thoi Archipelago, usually including:

A typical itinerary includes:

• Hon Gam Ghi
• Hon May Rut Trong or May Rut Ngoai
• Hon Mong Tay

This route gives travelers a good mix of coral viewing, clear water, and beach time. Most tours already include:

• Speedboat transportation
• Snorkeling equipment
• Lunch on an island
• Fresh fruit and drinks
• Professional photography and videography

So the experience feels quite convenient from start to finish. For couples or small groups, private tours are a better choice if you want a more flexible schedule and a quieter pace.

See more: Essential Snorkeling Gear Checklist for Your Next Trip

When is the best time to snorkel in Phu Quoc?

The best time for snorkeling in Phu Quoc is from November to May, when the sea is calmer, rainfall is lower, and underwater visibility is usually much clearer. 

Morning trips, especially from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM, often offer the best conditions before the wind gets stronger later in the day.

Local tips for snorkeling in Phu Quoc

If it’s your first time snorkeling, or even your tenth, here are some small things that make a big difference

• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs from harmful chemicals.
• Check your mask seal in shallow water before moving toward deeper areas.
• Stay horizontal in the water helps maintain balance and prevents accidental contact with coral.
• Listen to your guide to know the safest areas and current conditions.
• Never touch coral reefs because coral is fragile and easily damaged.

Is snorkeling in Phu Quoc worth it?

If you are wondering whether to spend a day at sea, the short answer is yes but it depends on what you are looking for.

Compared to other famous spots in Vietnam like Nha Trang or Con Dao, snorkeling in Phu Quoc offers the perfect “middle ground.” It is highly accessible for families and beginners and it still harbors reefs that feel wild and untouched if you don’t know where to go.

You get a mix of two worlds,  the “Coral Kingdom” of Hon Gam Ghi, which rivals some of the best shallow reefs in Southeast Asia, and the postcard-perfect white sands of Hon May Rut.

How Rooty Trip helps you discover the best coral reefs

At Rooty Trip, we’ve always believed that the best way to see Phu Quoc is to treat it with care. We don’t like crowded, rushed schedules. Instead, we focus on:

• Small, private groups: We prefer taking smaller groups so you can move at your own pace. If you want to spend an extra 20 minutes watching a specific school of fish, you can.
• Better equipment: We provide well-maintained masks and fins that actually fit, because a leaking mask can ruin a great view.
• Capturing the moment: Our team also helps capture photos and videos during the trip, so you can simply enjoy the experience and the beautiful scenery around you. 

Phu Quoc’s ocean is a place where you can truly disconnect from the hustle of daily life. We hope this guide helps ensure your experience of snorkeling in Phu Quoc becomes a memory that stays with you long after you’ve returned home. If you have any questions or want to find a quiet reef away from the typical tourist trails, just reach out to us. Rooty Trip will make your underwater journey truly unforgettable.

Rooty Trip

• Address: 191 Tran Hung Dao Street, Cua Lap Ward, Phu Quoc Special Zone, An Giang Province, Viet Nam
• Phone: 0936 828 328
• Email: ota.rootytrip@gmail.com
• Website: https://rootytrip.vn/