Xuong Island Phu Quoc: A Quiet Escape in An Thoi Archipelago
20/02/2025I’ve taken more than 40 groups to Xuong Island Phu Quoc since 2021. And here’s the part most travel blogs won’t tell you:
Hon Xuong is no longer the “untouched paradise” you keep seeing online.
The coral near the main beach is damaged. The beach itself is small. And if you visit it on its own, the trip often feels underwhelming for the time and money you spend.
But that doesn’t mean you should skip it completely.
In 2026, Xuong Island still works — just not in the way most people expect.
This guide shows you what the island actually looks like now, how much it really costs, and the one way to visit it that still makes the trip worth it.
Hon Xuong Island Phu Quoc — 30-Second reality check
- Location: An Thoi Archipelago, southern Phu Quoc
- Best for: Quick photo stop, sea cave
- Coral (2026): Degraded near the pier
- Beach size: Small (~50m), gets crowded fast
- Smart way to visit: Combine with Mong Tay Island & Gam Ghi
- Best time: November–April, mornings 8:00–11:00 AM
- Worth it? Yes — if you want something different from the usual island tour
So…Is Xuong Island worth visiting in 2026?
If you visit Hon Xuong Island Phu Quoc as a standalone destination, the honest answer is: probably not.
The beach is small, the coral near the main area is no longer what it used to be, and there isn’t enough to do to justify a full trip on its own.
But that doesn’t mean it’s a bad stop.
Hon Xuong still works — just in a very specific way.
As part of a 3-island route, it becomes a short, scenic stop for photos, a quick swim, and a visit to the sea cave before moving on to better snorkeling spots nearby.
Xuong Island Phu Quoc 2026: The Reality Most Blogs Don’t Tell You
Most articles still describe Hon Xuong as a “pristine island” with untouched coral and empty beaches.
That description is outdated.
The shallow reef near the pier has been heavily impacted by tourism over the years. Boat anchors, foot traffic, and sunscreen pollution have significantly reduced the coral quality in the main swimming area.
The beach itself is also much smaller than it looks in photos — around 50 meters — and can feel crowded when several boats arrive at the same time.
The island still has natural beauty, especially the cove, the limestone cliffs, and the sea cave.
But if you come expecting a hidden paradise, you’ll likely be disappointed.
What Hon Xuong is actually good for (Fingernail Island)
Once you adjust your expectations, Hon Xuong starts to make more sense.
It’s not a place for a full beach day, and it’s not where you’ll find the best snorkeling in Phu Quoc.
But it does work well as:
- A short photo stop with a unique cove structure
- A quick visit to one of the few accessible sea caves in the area
- A quiet break between more active stops like Gam Ghi Island (for snorkeling) and Mong Tay Island (for swimming)
Most groups spend around 45–60 minutes here, which is enough.
Stay longer, and you’ll start to feel like there’s not much left to do.
Used the right way, though, it’s still a worthwhile stop.
Hon Xuong vs Nearby Islands — Which One Is Better?
Here’s the comparison most blogs avoid:
| Island | Best for | Reality |
| Hon Xuong | Quiet, less crowded, cave | No facilities, not easy to access |
| Mong Tay | Swimming, photos | Can be crowded |
| Gam Ghi | Snorkeling | Limited beach time |
| May Rut | Food, relaxing, beach setups | More commercial, busy |
If this is your first time in Phu Quoc, Mong Tay Island or May Rut will feel more complete.
If you’ve already done those, Hon Xuong adds variety.
If you’re still deciding, this comparison of the best islands in Phu Quoc will help you choose the right combination based on your travel style.
5 Things still worth doing at Fingernail Island (Hon Xuong)
45–60 minutes is enough for Hon Xuong Island. It’s not a full-day island — but there are still a few things worth doing if you use that time well.
Swim away from the Pier
Most people swim right next to the boat.
That’s the worst spot.
The water there is crowded, warm, and often cloudy from sand and engines.
Instead, swim about 30 meters toward the western rocks.
The water gets cooler, clearer, and quieter. Visibility is around 6–8 meters on a good morning — enough to actually enjoy it.
Bring water shoes. The rocks are sharp.
Visit the Sea Cave
This is the only thing you shouldn’t skip.
Walk a few minutes along the shore to the east, and you’ll reach a large limestone cave facing the sea.
It’s quiet, slightly echoing, and looks much better in person than in photos.
Spend 10–15 minutes inside. That’s enough.
Go early. After 10:30–11:00, it starts getting crowded.
Take photos from the Water
The best angle of Hon Xuong is not from land.
Ask your boat to circle the island for a few minutes before stopping. The view of the cove from the water is much better.
On land, climb the rocks at the far end of the beach for a wider view.
Skip the pier. It doesn’t look good in photos.
Snorkel — But Don’t Expect Too Much
The reef near the main area is no longer in great condition.
You can still see fish — small reef fish, maybe a pufferfish or parrotfish — but it’s not a highlight anymore.
If you want real snorkeling, go to Gam Ghi Island instead.
Treat snorkeling here as optional, not the main activity.
For the best experience exploring Xuong Island’s vibrant coral reefs, consider joining a snorkeling tour that includes equipment, guides, and safe access to the island’s stunning underwater world.
Stay Overnight (If You Want Something Different)
This is where Hon Xuong still stands out.
After the day boats leave, the island becomes completely quiet.
No noise, no crowds — just the sea and cliffs.
Overnight tours usually include:
- Tent setup
- BBQ dinner inside the cave
- Drinks
- Sunrise kayaking
Important: you cannot camp here on your own. Everything must be arranged through a tour
Eating at Hon Xuong Island: What Actually Exists
Here’s the straight answer: Hon Xuong has no permanent restaurants, no cafés, no food stalls. The island is too small and too protected for that.
What you eat depends on how you visit.
On a day tour: Floating restaurants between islands
Most day tours usually stop at floating seafood restaurants, often closer to Hon Gam Ghi or Hon May Rut — where fresh catch is cooked to order on a wooden platform over the water.
Expect:
- Grilled squid — 180,000–250,000 VND/plate
- Steamed crab — 400,000–600,000 VND/kg (market rate)
- Mantis shrimp (bề bề) — 600,000–900,000 VND/kg
- Grilled barracuda — 250,000–350,000 VND/plate
- Sea urchin — 80,000–120,000 VND/piece
- Herring salad (gỏi cá trích) — 150,000–200,000 VND/plate
Prices vary by catch and season.
On a private charter: BYO beach picnic
Some private charters can arrange a basic BBQ if you request it in advance.
The usual flow:
- Stop at An Thoi market to buy seafood
- Bring charcoal + grill
- Cook and eat on the beach
Budget around 300,000–500,000 VND/person for a decent spread.
It’s more flexible than a floating restaurant, but takes extra time (2–3 hours).
On an overnight trip: Dinner in the sea cave
If you join an overnight trip, some tours can set up a simple BBQ inside the sea cave.
You’ll usually get:
- Grilled seafood
- Basic drinks
- A quiet space after all day boats leave
It’s not luxury — but it’s a different experience you won’t get on other islands.
What to bring:
- Drinking water — at least 1.5L/person
- Snacks — fruit, energy bars, bánh mì
- Cash
For proper meals after your trip, this guide to what to eat in Phu Quoc covers where to go on the main island.
Things you should know before going
- No restaurants or services on the island
- Access depends on sea conditions
- Not all tours include it
- Bring water, sunscreen, and essentials
- Best time is morning (before crowds arrive)
FAQ about Hon Xuong Island Phu Quoc
Is Hon Xuong the same as Fingernail Island? Not exactly. Hon Xuong is sometimes called “Southern Fingernail Island”, but most travelers refer to Mong Tay Island when they say Fingernail Island.
Is Hon Xuong good for snorkeling? It’s possible, but not the main highlight. Other islands offer better coral.
Can you stay overnight? There are no hotels or facilities. Overnight trips require planning and are not common.
How do you get there? Usually by private speedboat from An Thoi. Group tours rarely include it.
Is it worth visiting? Yes, if you want a quieter and less commercial island. Otherwise, there are easier options.
Final Verdict
Hon Xuong Island Phu Quoc in 2026 is not the paradise it used to be.
If you expect that, you’ll be disappointed.
But if you treat it as a short stop in a well-planned island route, it still delivers:
- A unique cave
- A beautiful cove
- A quieter moment between busier islands
The island itself hasn’t changed as much as the way people use it.
Rooty Trip
- Address: 191 Tran Hung Dao Street, Cua Lap Ward, Phu Quoc Special Zone, An Giang Province
- Phone: 0936 828 328
- Email: ota.rootytrip@gmail.com
- Website: https://rootytrip.vn/
