A Record-Breaking Year in the Making
Recent data confirms the island's meteoric rise. In the first seven months of 2026, Phu Quoc welcomed an astonishing 6.8 million visitors, a massive 30% increase compared to the same period last year. The growth in international travellers is even more
dramatic, with arrivals surging by over 53% to reach 1.5 million. This influx has translated into significant economic benefits, with tourism revenue estimated at nearly VND 36.5 trillion. The island's airport is also seeing record traffic, handling over 4.48 million passengers and nearly 28,000 flights in the same seven-month span. These figures not only put Phu Quoc on track to smash its annual targets but also position it as one of the fastest-growing destinations in the region, even outpacing established hotspots like the Maldives in visitor growth.
The Secret to Its Success
Phu Quoc's boom isn't accidental; it's the result of a perfectly crafted strategy. The single biggest driver is its unique visa policy. The island is the only destination in Vietnam offering a 30-day visa exemption for tourists of all nationalities, including Indians, provided they fly directly to the island and stay there. This has been a game-changer, removing a significant barrier to entry. This policy is supported by a rapid expansion of international flights, with new direct routes from key markets like South Korea, Taiwan, and, importantly, India. Major investments from hospitality giants like Sun Group and Vingroup have also created a world-class ecosystem of resorts and attractions, ensuring there is plenty to see and do.
More Than Just Stunning Beaches
While the island boasts world-famous beaches like Bai Sao and Kem Beach, its modern attractions are what truly set it apart. A signature experience is a ride on the Hon Thom Cable Car, the world's longest oversea cable car, which offers breathtaking aerial views of the An Thoi archipelago. For families and thrill-seekers, the island is home to VinWonders, Vietnam's largest theme park, and the Vinpearl Safari, a semi-wild conservation park. A newer, must-see development is Sunset Town in the south. This Mediterranean-inspired area features the iconic Kiss Bridge, a stunning piece of architecture designed for photo opportunities, alongside nightly fireworks and spectacular multimedia shows like 'Kiss of the Sea'.
An Easy Getaway for Indian Travellers
For travellers from India, Phu Quoc has become an incredibly appealing option. The combination of direct flights and visa-free entry makes it one of the most accessible tropical destinations in Southeast Asia. Several carriers and travel platforms have established direct flight connections from Indian metro cities, particularly New Delhi. The 30-day visa exemption means Indian passport holders can simply book a flight, prove their onward travel, and enjoy a holiday without the usual paperwork, as long as their trip is confined to the island. However, travellers should be aware of this limitation; a separate e-visa is required to visit mainland Vietnam. The Indian consulate advises getting a visa even for Phu Quoc-only trips to avoid complications in case of emergencies that require travel to the mainland.
