Discover the Beauty of Starfish Beach: A Tropical Heaven in Phu Quoc

Starfish Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and crystal-clear waters, is one of Phu Quoc’s most serene and picturesque spots. With its unique name derived from the abundance of starfish found in its shallow waters, it offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and beachgoers. Whether you’re here to swim, relax, or simply enjoy the stunning views, Starfish Beach promises a peaceful escape in the heart of Phu Quoc.

1. Overview of Starfish Beach 

Starfish Beach is located in Ganh Dau Commune, Phu Quoc island, nestled in the southern part of the country. It is situated along the western coast of the island, specifically on the Bai Sao Beach area.

Starfish Beach is known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, offering an idyllic, peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation. The beach is particularly famous for the presence of starfish, which can often be spotted in the shallow waters.

This destination attracts many visitors due to its serene beauty, shallow waters that are ideal for swimming, and the unique sight of starfish scattered along the shoreline. The gentle waves make it an ideal spot for families, nature lovers, and those seeking a tranquil retreat.

The Starfish Beach has a peaceful and picturesque landscape (Source: Internet)

Starfish Beach is named after the numerous starfish that inhabit the area. The shallow waters along the shore provide an ideal environment for these marine creatures, and visitors can often spot them while wading in the clear waters. However, it’s important to be respectful of marine life and avoid disturbing the starfish.

2. Difference Between Starfish Beach And Sao Beach Phu Quoc

Many visitors tend to confuse Starfish Beach (also called Rach Vem Beach) with Sao Beach due to their similar appeal: both offer stunning beaches with white sand and clear waters. However, the main difference lies in their accessibility and crowd size. While Starfish Beach is relatively more secluded and tranquil, Sao Beach is a more developed area with higher foot traffic, restaurants, and other amenities, making it a more tourist-centric destination.

Besides, Starfish Beach is located on the northern coast of Phu Quoc Island, which is known for its quiet, undeveloped atmosphere. Sao Beach is situated on the southern coast of Phu Quoc and is one of the most popular tourist beaches on the island, known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful coastline.

The best time to visit both beaches generally falls within the dry season from November to April. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and more solitude, Starfish Beach (Rach Vem Beach) would be ideal as it sees less tourist activity compared to Sao Beach, which can get crowded during peak tourist season. For both locations, it’s best to avoid the rainy season when visibility is poor, and the weather might not be as enjoyable.

Rach Vem Beach is still quite pristine because the tourism services here are not yet highly developed (Source: Internet)

3. How To Get To Starfish Beach

From Duong Dong Town (the center of Phu Quoc), visitors can get to Rach Vem Beach by following transportation:

• By Motorbike: The journey takes around 40 to 50 minutes depending on traffic and road conditions. You can follow the main roads leading to the northern part of the island. The route will guide you through scenic areas, and the road to Starfish Beach is mostly paved but can get a bit bumpy in some sections. Be sure to bring a map or GPS as some parts of the route can be tricky to navigate.
• By taxi or private car: Taking a taxi or private car from Duong Dong is a comfortable alternative, especially for those who do not wish to drive themselves. The journey takes about 40 to 50 minutes and the taxi fares typically range from VND 200,000 to 300,000

There are no public transportation options available for tourists to get to Starfish Beach. Visitors must rely on private means of transport such as taxis, motorbikes, or private cars.

The Starfish Beach has some decorative spots for taking photos (Source: Internet)

4. 4+ The Best Things to Do at Starfish Beach

4.1. Swimming and Sunbathing By The Beach

One of the best things to do at Starfish Beach is to simply swim and sunbathe by the shore. The beach boasts crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming or wading, with calm, shallow areas that are ideal for people of all ages. The fine, powdery white sand offers a perfect spot to lay down and soak up the sun, making it a great place for relaxation.

With fewer crowds compared to other beaches, Starfish Beach provides a peaceful and serene atmosphere, allowing visitors to unwind while enjoying the beauty of the tropical surroundings. Whether you’re looking to cool off with a swim or just bask in the sun, this beach offers an ideal setting for both.

The water is clean and the waves are calm, making it perfect for swimming (Source: Internet)

4.2. Enjoy the Beautiful Sunrise and Sunset

Another unforgettable experience at Starfish Beach is enjoying the beautiful sunrise and sunset. The beach offers stunning views of both, with the sun rising over the horizon in the morning and setting in the evening, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple.

The calm waters reflect these colors, creating a picturesque scene. Whether you’re an early riser or prefer a peaceful evening, the quiet and tranquil atmosphere of the beach makes it the perfect spot to witness these natural wonders. The stunning views provide the perfect backdrop for photography or simply taking in the beauty of Phu Quoc’s natural landscapes.

The scenery at Rach Vem Beach is enchanting at dusk (Source: Internet)

4.3. Participate in Various Beach Activities

At Starfish Beach, visitors can participate in various fun beach activities. The shallow, clear waters are perfect for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, offering a chance to explore the coastline at a leisurely pace. For those who enjoy a more active experience, there are opportunities for beach volleyball and frisbee with friends or family.

The serene environment makes it an ideal spot for relaxing beach walks, while the soft sand invites you to build sandcastles or just enjoy a peaceful stroll along the shore. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Starfish Beach provides a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy.

You can paddleboard to explore the surroundings (Source: Internet)

4.4. Take Photos with Starfish

One of the most popular activities at Starfish Beach is taking photos with the starfish. The best time to spot starfish is during the dry season, typically from November to April, when the waters are clear and calm, making it easier to spot these beautiful marine creatures in the shallows. When photographing starfish, try to capture them against the backdrop of the beach’s white sand and crystal-clear water to create stunning, vibrant images.

A great photo angle is to get down to their level, capturing the starfish from a low angle, allowing the sunlight to reflect off the water and enhance the colors. Additionally, framing your shot with the surrounding palm trees or distant coastline can add depth and beauty to your photos.

Taking pictures with starfish is a favorite activity of tourists (Source: Internet)

5. What To Eat At Starfish Beach Phu Quoc?

5.1. Herring Salad (Goi Ca Trich)

Herring Salad, is a local delicacy made from fresh herring fish, sliced thinly and mixed with various herbs, peanuts, and a tangy fish sauce dressing. It’s a perfect combination of flavors - salty, sour, and savory - and is a must-try dish when visiting Phu Quoc.

The dish is refreshing with a sweet taste from fresh sea fish (Source: Internet)

5.2. Grilled Horn Scallop (So Diep Nuong)

So Diep Nuong refers to grilled horn scallops, a popular seafood dish in Phu Quoc. These scallops are grilled over charcoal and typically served with a flavorful garlic and butter sauce, making them tender, aromatic, and absolutely delicious.

Scallop dishes are expensive but of high quality and rich in nutrients (Source: Internet)

5.3. Grilled Sea Urchin (Nhum Nuong)

Nhum Nuong, or grilled sea urchin, is another local specialty that you should definitely try at Starfish Beach. The sea urchins are grilled in their shells and often served with a sprinkling of herbs and spices. The delicate, briny flavor of the sea urchin makes for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Grilled sea urchins with scallion oil are delicious and nutritious (Source: Internet)

Here are some places to enjoy quality seafood and Phu Quoc specialties at Rach Vem Beach

6. Insider Tips for Visiting Starfish Beach Like A Local

To fully enjoy your visit to Starfish Beach and experience it like a local, here are a few insider tips to make your trip more comfortable and safe:

• Clothing: Dress comfortably in lightweight, breathable clothes and swimwear for a day at the beach. Don't forget to bring a hat or sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
• Essentials to bring: Bring sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong tropical sun. It’s also a good idea to pack a towel, water shoes for the rocky areas, and a waterproof phone case for photos.
• Safety tips for beach activities: Always keep an eye on the tide, especially when swimming or wading in the shallow waters. Be cautious while interacting with marine life like starfish, and avoid touching or disturbing them.

The unique scenery can only be found at Rach Vem Beach (Source: Internet)

7. Starfish Beach Nearby Attractions

• Rach Vem Fishing Village: This Village offers a glimpse into local life, where you can see traditional fishing boats and interact with friendly locals. It’s a great place to experience the authenticity of Phu Quoc’s fishing culture, and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood straight from the sea.
• Ham Rong Beach: It is known for its stunning natural beauty and quiet atmosphere. It’s perfect for a peaceful swim or a relaxing day by the water, away from the more crowded tourist spots. The beach is also surrounded by lush greenery, adding to its tranquil charm.

Visiting Starfish Beach is more than just a day at the beach; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy the simple beauty of the island, and make lasting memories. From its quiet shores to the starfish that grace its waters, the beach remains one of Phu Quoc’s hidden gems. Don’t miss the chance to experience this tranquil paradise for yourself on your next visit.

To explore Starfish Beach, book your Flight to Phu Quoc with Vietnam Airlines today! For more details on flights, baggage policies, and travel itineraries, contact Vietnam Airlines via their hotline at 1900 1100, or through Fanpage or Zalo for expert advice.