Sao Beach Phu Quoc
Where cream-white sands meet turquoise waters.
🥈 Highly Recommended
3.9 ⭐ (7.4K)
Introduction
Sao Beach Phu Quoc (Bãi Sao) is a public beach on the southeastern coast of Phu Quoc island, recognized for its crescent-shaped bay and exceptionally fine, white sand that has a powder-like consistency. The beach is sheltered from westerly winds, resulting in calm, shallow, and clear turquoise waters, particularly during the region's dry season. Its accessibility and natural features make it one of the most frequented beaches on the island.
The Crescent Coastline
The defining feature of Sao Beach is its gently curving, seven-kilometer shoreline. The fine, white silica sand creates a soft, comfortable surface, while the calm, shallow entry into the water makes it suitable for wading and relaxed swimming.
The Palm Tree Swing
A highly photographed spot on the beach is a simple swing tied between two leaning palm trees over the water. It serves as a popular backdrop for photos, encapsulating the tropical setting. A small fee is typically required to use it.
Watersports and Activities
Several vendors along the beach offer watersport rentals. Visitors can engage in activities like kayaking to explore the calm bay, or opt for more dynamic options like jet skiing.
Beachfront Dining
A number of local restaurants and beach clubs are situated directly on the sand. They provide fresh seafood, drinks, and shaded seating, often with the rental of a sun lounger included with a minimum purchase.
Getting there
From Duong Dong Town to Sao Beach (approx. 25 km):
🚗 Taxi: 35-45 mins | 350,000 - 450,000 VND ~ $14 - $18 USD
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Xanh SM): 35-45 mins | 300,000 - 400,000 VND ~ $12 - $16 USD
🛵 Motorbike: 40-50 mins. This is a popular option for independent travelers. Rental costs are around 150,000 VND (~$6 USD) per day.
⚠️ The main road to Sao Beach is paved, but the final access roads leading to the sand can be unpaved and bumpy; ride with caution on a motorbike. Grab is readily available for the trip there, but finding a ride back can sometimes take longer.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 24/7 (Public beach)
- Notes: Restaurant and service hours are typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Access may be unrestricted, but services are not available overnight.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Entrance: Free
- Parking: 10,000 - 20,000 VND ~ $0.40 - $0.80 USD
- Sun Lounger Rental: 50,000 - 100,000 VND ~ $2 - $4 USD (often waived if you purchase food/drinks at the managing restaurant).
- Freshwater Shower: ~20,000 VND ~ $0.80 USD
🚶 Best time to visit:
- The dry season, from October to May, offers the best conditions with calm seas, clear water, and minimal rainfall. To avoid the midday sun and peak crowds, plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Allow for at least half a day (3-4 hours) to swim, relax, have a meal, and enjoy the setting without rushing.
Tips from locals
Local tips
🌊 Arrive early in the day (before 10 AM) to experience the beach at its most peaceful and find a prime spot before the tour buses and day-trippers arrive. The lighting is also better for photography in the morning.
🍴 Skip the main public entrance, which can be less maintained. Instead, head to one of the beachfront restaurants like Paradiso Beach Club. By purchasing a drink or meal, you gain access to their cleaner stretch of sand, facilities, and a more comfortable experience.
📸 The famous palm tree swing is a must-find for a classic photo. Be aware that the operators usually charge a small fee (around 20,000 VND ~ $0.80 USD) per person for a few minutes of use for photos.
💡 The name "Bãi Sao" means "Star Beach", stemming from local folklore that describes thousands of starfish washing ashore at night. While you are unlikely to see this phenomenon today, you can manage expectations and visit Rach Vem Beach (Starfish Beach) in the north of Phu Quoc if seeing starfish is a priority.
Be aware
🗑️ The most common complaint from recent visitors is the presence of trash and plastic debris, particularly outside the areas maintained by restaurants and during the rainy season (June-September). While some sections are clean, be prepared that other parts of the beach may not meet expectations of being pristine.
💰 Prices for food, drinks, and services at Sao Beach are considerably higher than in Duong Dong town or other parts of the island. Expect to pay a premium for the convenience of beachfront service.
⚠️ While not a constant threat, be mindful of their possible presence, especially when swimming during certain tides or times of the year.
FAQs
Is Sao Beach Phu Quoc clean?
Visitor experiences vary greatly. The sections managed by beachfront restaurants are generally cleaner, but public access areas and the water's edge can have significant amounts of trash, especially during the rainy season.
Is there an entrance fee for Sao Beach Phu Quoc?
No, the beach itself is free to enter. However, you should expect to pay for parking, renting sun loungers, using showers, and any food or activities.
What is the best time of year to visit Sao Beach Phu Quoc?
The dry season, from October to May, is the ideal time. During these months, the water is calmest and clearest, and there is less chance of debris washing ashore.
Can you swim at Sao Beach Phu Quoc?
Yes, swimming is one of the main activities. The water is known for being very calm, clear, and shallow, making it suitable for all swimming levels.
How far is Sao Beach Phu Quoc from Duong Dong town?
Sao Beach is located approximately 25 kilometers southeast of Duong Dong, which takes about 35-50 minutes to reach by car or motorbike.
Are there starfish at Sao Beach Phu Quoc?
Despite its name ("Star Beach"), it is not the primary location for seeing starfish in Phu Quoc. For a higher chance of seeing them, you should visit Rach Vem Beach, often called "Starfish Beach", on the island's northern coast.
What is the best part of Sao Beach Phu Quoc to go to?
Most travelers recommend bypassing the main, crowded entrance and instead heading to a beach club or restaurant. Paying for a chair or a drink there usually grants you access to a cleaner, more organized section of the beach with better amenities.
Are there showers and changing rooms?
Yes, most of the larger restaurants and beach clubs offer basic freshwater shower and changing facilities, usually for a small fee or included with a food and beverage purchase.
Is Sao Beach Phu Quoc good for families?
The calm and shallow water makes it physically safe and appealing for families with young children. However, parents should be mindful of the variable cleanliness in certain areas.
What should I bring to Sao Beach Phu Quoc?
Aside from swimwear, bring cash for small purchases, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. While you can rent chairs, a towel is always useful.
Last updated:
