Tucked away on the remote northwestern tip of Phu Quoc, Ganh Dau Beach offers a serene and authentic escape from the island’s more bustling tourist hubs. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know to plan your visit in 2026, from the top things to do to practical travel tips. Get ready to discover one of the island’s most precious hidden gems.
Overview of Ganh Dau Beach
Ganh Dau Beach is a pristine sanctuary that embodies the untouched, natural beauty for which Phu Quoc was originally famed. This remote corner of the island offers a unique combination of stunning landscapes, calm seas, and authentic local culture.
The Crescent-Shaped Shore and Calm, Clear Waters
The most defining physical feature of Ganh Dau Beach Phu Quoc is its beautiful, gentle crescent shape, which creates a calm and protected bay. The beach stretches for about 500 meters, with soft, golden-yellow sand that slopes gently into the sea.
The water here is remarkably calm and clear, almost like a natural swimming pool, thanks to its sheltered position. The gentle waves and shallow entry make it an incredibly safe and pleasant spot for swimming and wading, especially for families with young children. The clarity of the water is exceptional, allowing you to see small fish darting around your feet as you walk along the shore.
Stunning Views of the Cambodian Coastline
One of the most unique aspects of visiting Ganh Dau Beach is its proximity to Cambodia. From the shoreline, you are treated to a clear and stunning view of the Cambodian mainland and its nearby islands.
On a clear day, you can see the mountains of Cambodia rising in the distance, a sight that serves as a powerful reminder of Phu Quoc’s unique geographical position. This international vista provides a dramatic and unusual backdrop that you won’t find on any other beach on the island.
A Tranquil Escape from the Crowds
Perhaps the greatest appeal of Ganh Dau Beach is its profound sense of peace and seclusion. Located far from the main tourist centers, it receives significantly fewer visitors. This tranquility allows you to experience the island in its most natural state.
While there are some resorts in the wider Ganh Dau area, the main beach itself retains a low-key, undeveloped charm. You won’t find rows of noisy jet skis or crowded beach clubs here. Instead, you’ll hear the gentle lapping of waves, the rustle of palm trees, and the distant hum of a fishing boat.
Authentic Local Life at Ganh Dau Fishing Village
Adjacent to the beach is the charming Ganh Dau Fishing Village, which adds a rich layer of cultural authenticity to the area. This small, traditional village is home to a community of fishermen whose lives are deeply intertwined with the sea.
As you walk through the village, you can observe their daily routines: mending nets, sorting the day’s catch, and preparing their colorful wooden boats for the next voyage. The presence of the fishing village ensures that Ganh Dau remains a living, breathing community rather than just a tourist spot, offering a genuine glimpse into the soul of the island.
Top Things to Do at Ganh Dau Beach
The activities at Ganh Dau are centered around its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Here are the best things to do in Ganh Dau to make the most of your visit.
Relaxing and Swimming in the Serene Bay
The number one activity at Ganh Dau Beach is simply to relax and enjoy the incredibly calm and inviting water. The bay is like a giant, natural swimming pool, with warm, clear, and shallow water that is perfect for a leisurely swim or just floating peacefully.
The soft sand is ideal for sunbathing, and the swaying palm and casuarina trees that line the shore provide ample shade when you need a break from the sun. It’s an environment that encourages you to slow down, unwind, and just be present in the moment.
Savoring Fresh Seafood at a Beachside Restaurant
A trip to Ganh Dau would be incomplete without indulging in the local seafood, which is as fresh as it gets. The beachfront is dotted with several simple, family-run restaurants and stalls that serve the day’s catch, often purchased directly from the fishermen in the adjacent village.
You can choose from live fish, crabs, shrimp, and squid kept in tanks and have them cooked to your liking – steamed, grilled, or in a hotpot. Dining on delicious, freshly prepared seafood with your feet in the sand and a view of the sea is a quintessential Phu Quoc experience.
Here are some popular Ganh Dau Beach restaurants:
- Bien Hai Quan Restaurant: Ganh Dau, Phu Quoc
- Gio Bien Restaurant: Ganh Dau, Phu Quoc
- Hai Dang Restaurant: Ganh Dau, Phu Quoc
- Con Sao Restaurant: Gành Dau, Phu Quoc
Exploring Ganh Dau Cape (Mui Ganh Dau) for Panoramic Views
For the best views in the area, take a short walk or ride to Ganh Dau Cape (Mui Ganh Dau), the rocky headland that forms the northern point of the bay. From here, you can climb onto the large rock formations to get a stunning, panoramic view of the entire beach, the fishing village, and the vast expanse of the sea stretching towards Cambodia.
The cape is also a great spot for photography, especially in the late afternoon as the sun begins to set, casting a golden light over the landscape. It’s a place that truly makes you feel like you’ve reached the edge of the island.
Visiting the Nguyen Trung Truc Temple
Just a short distance from the beach is the Nguyen Trung Truc Temple, a site of great historical and cultural significance. The temple is dedicated to the revered Vietnamese hero Nguyen Trung Truc, a 19th-century fisherman who became a leader of the resistance movement against the French colonial forces.
He is a celebrated figure in Vietnamese history, and this temple was built to honor his memory. The temple is a peaceful and beautifully maintained place of worship, offering visitors a chance to learn about a local hero and experience the spiritual customs of the region.
Planning Your Visit to Ganh Dau
A little planning will help ensure your trip to this remote corner of the island is smooth and enjoyable.
How to Get to Ganh Dau Beach
Ganh Dau is located on the northwestern coast of Phu Quoc, approximately 30-35 kilometers from Duong Dong town.
- By Motorbike: This is the most popular and adventurous way to get there. The journey from Duong Dong takes about 45-60 minutes. The main road is paved and scenic, taking you through parts of the Phu Quoc National Park.
- By Taxi or Private Car: For more comfort, especially for families, a taxi or a hired car is a great option. A one-way taxi fare from Duong Dong can cost between 400,000 to 500,000 VND. Hiring a car for a full-day tour of North Phu Quoc, including Ganh Dau, is also a very convenient choice.
The Best Time of Year to Visit
The best time of year to visit Ganh Dau Beach is during Phu Quoc’s dry season, which runs from November to April. During this period, the weather is consistently sunny, the humidity is low, and the sea is at its calmest and clearest.
This is the ideal time for swimming and enjoying the best possible views of the Cambodian coast. While you can visit during the rainy season (May to October), be prepared for occasional showers and potentially rougher seas on the journey there.
Tips for a Perfect Day Trip
Planning a day trip to Ganh Dau Beach is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty and local charm of northern Phu Quoc. To make the most of your visit, below are some practical tips for a smooth and enjoyable getaway.
- Bring Cash:
Most local seafood restaurants, beach cafés, and small shops in the Ganh Dau area operate on a cash-only basis. ATMs can be limited, so it’s wise to bring sufficient Vietnamese Dong (VND) with you to cover meals, drinks, and small purchases throughout the day. - Pack Essentials:
Prepare for a comfortable and enjoyable beach day by bringing sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent. A light beach towel, reusable water bottle, and a change of clothes are also useful. If you plan to relax by the shore, a good book or some music can make the experience even more pleasant. - Combine with Other Attractions:
Make the most of your northern island adventure by combining your visit to Ganh Dau Beach with nearby attractions. You can explore Rach Vem (Starfish Beach) to see its iconic red starfish or venture into Phu Quoc National Park for a nature walk through tropical forests and wildlife habitats. This combination offers a perfect mix of relaxation, photography, and eco-exploration all in one day. - Respect the Local Culture:
Ganh Dau is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its traditional fishing village and local temple. When visiting these areas, show respect for residents and their customs. Dress modestly, speak politely, and always ask for permission before photographing people or private spaces. A friendly smile and courteous attitude go a long way in creating a positive interaction with the community. - Time Your Visit:
Plan your trip to arrive in the late morning or early afternoon, allowing enough time to enjoy the calm waters and gentle sunlight before watching the sunset in the late afternoon. The light during golden hour enhances the beauty of the bay and makes for stunning photographs to remember your visit.
By following these simple but practical tips, you can enjoy a smooth, meaningful, and memorable day trip to Ganh Dau Beach.
Attractions to Visit Near Ganh Dau Beach
The northern part of Phu Quoc is rich with attractions that you can easily visit before or after your time at Ganh Dau.
VinWonders Phu Quoc and Vinpearl Safari
Just a 15-20 minute drive (approximately 10-12 kilometers) from the tranquil shores of Ganh Dau Beach lies the massive entertainment complex of VinWonders and Vinpearl Safari, offering a complete contrast in energy and experience. VinWonders Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest theme park, sprawling across an area of nearly 50 hectares.
The park is divided into six distinct subdivisions, including “European Streetmosphere” and “Fantasy World,” and features over 100 entertainment activities, from thrilling rollercoasters and elaborate water park slides to captivating live entertainment shows, providing a full day of excitement for visitors of all ages.
Vinpearl Safari is the country’s first semi-wildlife conservation park, where you can see a wide variety of animals roaming in large, naturalistic enclosures. These attractions offer a complete contrast to the tranquility of Ganh Dau and are a great option for families.
Starfish Beach (Rach Vem)
Located about 15 kilometers southeast of Ganh Dau is the famous Rach Vem Fishing Village, more popularly known by its enchanting nickname, Starfish Beach. The prime time to visit is during the dry season, from November to April, when the sea is calm and the water becomes crystal-clear.
The experience at Rach Vem is rustic and authentic. The beach is lined with several simple, floating restaurants built on stilts and connected to the shore by rickety wooden bridges. Here, you can enjoy an incredibly fresh seafood meal while being gently rocked by the waves.
It is important to remember the cardinal rule of responsible tourism: admire the starfish in their natural habitat and never lift them out of the water, as this can cause them severe harm. Be prepared for the journey, as the final stretch of road leading to the village is a red dirt track that can be bumpy and dusty, adding to the sense of adventure. A visit to both Ganh Dau and Rach Vem makes for a perfect “north coast” day trip.
Phu Quoc National Park
The main road leading to Ganh Dau cuts right through a portion of the Phu Quoc National Park, a vast UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that covers an immense 31,422 hectares (more than 50% of the entire island). This protected area is a treasure trove of biodiversity, with dense tropical jungles, unique wildlife, and ancient trees. Instead of just driving through, you can immerse yourself in this lush, natural interior by taking a short hike on one of the designated nature trails.
For those visiting the area, the most convenient option is the Ganh Dau trail Phu Quoc. This relatively easy 5-kilometer trail offers a wonderful introduction to the park’s ecosystem, taking you through the forest where you might spot macaques or even the rare silver langur.
The park is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including hundreds of plant species and numerous types of birds like the hornbill. Exploring even a small part of this magnificent park provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with the wild heart of the island.
Where to Stay When Visiting Ganh Dau Beach
While Ganh Dau Beach in northern Phu Quoc offers a few small resorts and guesthouses, travelers seeking a more comfortable, family-friendly, and full-service experience will find it rewarding to stay in the south and make a scenic day trip to the area.
Among the island’s premier accommodations, Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay stands out as the perfect base for exploring both the tranquil north and the vibrant south of the island. Located approximately 49 km (around 1 hour’s drive) from Ganh Dau Beach, the resort offers easy access for a picturesque coastal journey across the island.
After a day spent soaking up the sun and discovering the untouched beauty of Ganh Dau’s remote coastline, returning to the elegant comforts of Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay feels like coming home.
Nestled on Khem Beach, one of the 100 most beautiful beaches in the world, the resort blends natural beauty, comfort, and tranquility. Its serene seaside setting invites guests to relax, rejuvenate, and experience Phu Quoc’s unique coastal charm in an unforgettable way.
For families, Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay offers a unique blend of space, privacy, and convenience. The Superior Suite 2 King Beds apartments cover an impressive 107 square meters, featuring two king-sized bedrooms, private bathrooms, a spacious living area, and two balconies with sweeping ocean views. These apartment-style accommodations are ideal for families traveling with children, providing both togetherness and the comfort of a home-like environment.
The resort also provides a wide variety of recreational and wellness activities for guests of all ages. Parents can rejuvenate with sunrise yoga sessions, Pilates classes, or a soothing treatment at the Emerald Spa, while children can enjoy fun activities and the expansive infinity pool.
For those interested in culture, the resort’s Vietnamese cooking class offers an engaging way to learn about local cuisine and create delicious memories together.
Guests can also take advantage of complimentary bicycle rentals to explore nearby fishing villages and scenic coastal roads, capturing the authentic pace of island life.
As the day comes to an end, families can gather at the resort’s Clubhouse Restaurant, an inviting beachfront dining venue where they can enjoy freshly prepared seafood and local specialties while watching the sunset over the Gulf of Thailand. Afterwards, they can head to the Herring Bar to relax with signature cocktails and enjoy the vibrant beachside atmosphere with live music.
Choosing to stay at Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay not only enhances your trip to Ganh Dau Beach but also transforms it into a complete island experience.
Combining comfort, elegance, and genuine hospitality, this five-star resort ensures that every guest can relax, reconnect, and enjoy the best of Phu Quoc, from the natural beauty of Ganh Dau to the refined serenity of Khem Beach.
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The perfect resort for families, couples and groups of friends
Thinking of a getaway in Phu Quoc? Check out our rooms and pricing to see what fits your vibe.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has given you a comprehensive overview of Ganh Dau Beach, one of Phu Quoc’s most peaceful and scenic coastal destinations. With its clear waters, soft white sand, and views stretching toward Cambodia, Ganh Dau offers the perfect escape for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty away from the crowds.
To complete your island experience, stay at Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, located on the breathtaking Khem Beach in the island’s southern region. Book your stay early to take advantage of special offers and enjoy a seamless balance of discovery and relaxation on Vietnam’s island paradise.
