Land Tour 2: Discover the North – Kayaking & Starfish beach Phu Quoc (Not Lunch)

Discover the North of Phu Quoc: Kayaking & Starfish Beach Experience

Taking a trip around Phu Quoc’s northern highlights doesn’t have to break the bank or involve long travel days. This group land tour offers an engaging mix of nature, culture, and fun activities like kayaking, forest walks, and relaxing time on stunning beaches—all for just $30 per person. With a solid 4.5-star rating from hundreds of travelers, it’s clear many find this trip worthwhile.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the inclusion of kayaking right in the pristine Cua Can River offers a peaceful escape into nature. Second, the visit to Starfish Beach gives you a chance to swim with plentiful starfish in their natural habitat—an experience many reviews call “fantastic.” However, a single consideration is that some parts of the day, like the long boat ride to the proper starfish beach, aren’t included, which may add extra costs.

This tour is perfect for adventurous souls, nature lovers, and those wanting an authentic look at local life away from crowded tourist spots. It’s also ideal for travelers on a budget, thanks to its great value and group setup, which keeps costs low while still delivering a memorable experience.

Key Points

• Affordable Price Point: At $30, this tour offers excellent value considering the array of activities and included transport.
• Variety of Activities: From forest walks and river kayaking to beach relaxation and visiting a bee farm, it’s a well-rounded experience.
• Inclusive Transfers & Equipment: Hotel pickups, bottled water, and kayaks are included, simplifying logistics.
• Authentic Encounters: Visiting local spots like the floating village and bee farm provides genuine insights into Vietnam’s rural life.
• Flexible & Guided: The tour’s guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and flexibility, making the day enjoyable.
• Potential Extra Costs: Some reviewers mention that the boat ride to the starfish beach might cost around 100K VND, so be prepared for additional expenses.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Phu Quoc National Park – A Forest Walk Among Centuries-Old Trees

The day kicks off with a visit to Phu Quoc National Park, where you’ll walk along well-maintained trails amid trees that are over 100 years old. This part offers a peaceful start, giving you a chance to breathe in the fresh forest air. Reviewers highlight how this walk is a gentle, scenic introduction that’s perfect for nature lovers. While some found the visit to the park relatively short, it’s a good way to experience some of the island’s lush greenery without strenuous hiking.

Mui Ganh Dau Beach – A Viewpoint Over Cambodia

Next, you’ll stop at Mui Ganh Dau Beach, which offers sweeping views of Cambodia across the water. This spot presents an excellent photo opportunity and a peaceful place to soak in the scenery. Approximately 25 minutes are allocated here, allowing enough time to snap pictures and appreciate the landscape. Reviewers mention that this view is a highlight, especially for those interested in geography or just wanting a quiet moment by the sea.

Floating Village Rach Vem – A Local Flavor with Beach Time and Starfish Swimming

A major highlight is the stop at Rach Vem, a traditional fishing village. Here, you’ll enjoy a local-style lunch and have ample free time to relax, explore, and swim with starfish at nearby beaches. Many guests call the floating village “charming,” appreciating the chance to see authentic Vietnamese fishing life. The starfish beach is often cited as a standout—reviewers describe swimming with dozens of starfish as “fantastic” and “the biggest hit” for families and solo travelers alike.

One reviewer notes that the boat ride to the real starfish beach costs about 100K VND, so travelers should plan for that extra expense if they want to visit the famed spot. Despite this, the reviewers consistently mention the joy of swimming among the starfish, describing it as an unforgettable experience.

Cua Can River Kayaking – A Peaceful Paddle in Nature

Later in the day, you’ll enjoy a 45-minute kayak trip along the Cua Can River. This is a quiet, scenic paddle that allows you to be immersed in the island’s mangroves and riverine landscapes. Reviewers frequently praise the kayak activity for its tranquility and the chance to connect with nature. The kayaks are included, making this a hassle-free way to enjoy the water.

Optional Extended Visits and Flexibility

Some reviews mention that guides are flexible and willing to adapt the schedule based on weather or group interests. When weather causes a cancellation of certain activities, guides are known to add extra fun or sightseeing options, which travelers appreciate.

What to Expect From the Experience

Transport and Group Size

Transportation is included with round-trip hotel transfers, making logistics straightforward and stress-free. The tour’s group size is typically under 100 travelers, fostering a lively yet intimate atmosphere. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort, especially after a day out in the sun.

Duration and Pacing

The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, with each stop timed to balance exploration and relaxation. While some reviewers found the second half a little long—particularly the extended beach time—it generally provides a good overview without feeling overly rushed.

Guides and Local Insights

Guides like Viet and Woa stand out for their knowledge and engaging manner. Reviewers praise them for their humor, fluency in English, and their willingness to add extra activities when weather or time constraints come into play. Several mention that guides go “above and beyond,” making the day more memorable through storytelling and local tips.

Food and Extras

The tour includes a lunch at a local restaurant in the floating village, which receives positive comments for being tasty and authentic. Bottled water is also supplied, helping you stay refreshed. However, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks if you prefer. The boat ride to Starfish Beach is an extra expense, around 100K VND, which some travelers found worth the cost for the experience.

The Value of This Tour

At just $30 per person, this tour is a pretty good deal. Considering the inclusion of transportation, kayaking, entry fees, and a knowledgeable guide, you’re getting a comprehensive look at some of the best natural and cultural sights in northern Phu Quoc. Reviews confirm that many find the experience worth the price, especially given the variety of activities packed into the day.

While it’s true that some parts may feel lengthy—like the extended beach visits—these give travelers time to relax and soak in the atmosphere. The optional boat ride to the real Starfish Beach does cost extra, but many reviewers say it’s worth the small additional expense for the chance to swim among vibrant starfish in their natural environment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, nature, and local culture. It suits those who enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking and walking, as well as anyone interested in seeing authentic fishing villages. It’s also great for families, solo travelers, or couples seeking an affordable day out with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a genuine taste of northern Phu Quoc’s natural charm and local life at a reasonable price. The combination of forest walks, river kayaking, and beach swimming makes for a varied day that keeps you engaged from start to finish. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge add a personalized touch that enhances the overall experience.

If you’re looking for an active, authentic, and affordable way to explore the island’s less touristy side, this trip ticks many boxes. Just be prepared for some additional costs if you want to visit the real starfish beach, and be ready for a full, fulfilling day of sightseeing and nature.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from hotels in Phu Quoc are included, making transport simple and convenient.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, allowing enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are kayak and entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour provides kayaks and all admission fees for the national park, Ganh Dau Beach, and floating village.

Do I need to bring extra money?
You might want to budget for an additional 100K VND if you plan to take the boat ride to the actual Starfish Beach, as it’s not included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Most travelers, including families, find it suitable, especially since the activities are gentle and engaging. Guides are known for their friendly, accommodating approach.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear for the beach, a towel, and possibly some snacks or extra water if you’re particularly hungry or thirsty.

Can the schedule change due to weather?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this Discover the North of Phu Quoc tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking an affordable, adventure-filled day with a focus on nature, local culture, and authentic experiences. Thanks to attentive guides, stunning scenery, and a good mix of activities, it delivers significant value for its reasonable price. Perfect for those eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and enjoy a day immersed in the island’s natural beauty.