The Ultimate Guide to Starfish Beach Phu Quoc: Best Time to Visit & Things to Do
If you’re wondering what to do at Starfish Beach and the best time to visit Starfish Beach, this guide has you covered. We combine essential planning advice with a complete list of activities—from snorkeling and photography to simply relaxing—to help you plan your perfect day at this iconic Phu Quoc destination.
Timing Your Visit Perfectly
The good news is that thanks to Phu Quoc’s warm climate, you can see starfish all year round. However, the quality of your experience depends hugely on when you choose to visit. .
The Ideal Time: Dry Season (November – April)
This is undoubtedly the best time to visit Starfish Beach. During these months, you’ll be rewarded with calm seas, minimal wind, and brilliantly clear, turquoise water. These perfect conditions make it easy to see the starfish in their full glory, creating those stunning, crystal-clear photographs the beach is famous for. The boats from Rạch Vẹm fishing village run smoothly, ensuring a comfortable and scenic journey directly to the best spots.
What to Know in the Rainy Season (May – October)
A visit during the rainy season requires adjusted expectations. Heavy rains and stronger winds can churn up the seabed, making the water very murky and difficult to see through. The increased wind can also make the boat ride from the village noticeably rougher.
Most importantly, the weather and sea conditions directly impact the starfish. During the rainy season, the water quality and currents at the main beach (Bãi Tắm Hàm Rồng) often become less ideal. To find a more sheltered environment with better conditions, the starfish populations frequently migrate to a different, more protected area of the coast.
This means that while you can still see them, we often have to visit a secondary, less famous beach instead. While still a beautiful adventure, this alternative spot is generally not quite as picturesque or reliable for sightings as the primary location is during the dry season.
Experiences & Activities
Once you arrive at Starfish Beach, a world of simple, natural pleasures awaits. It’s a place to disconnect and immerse yourself in the environment. Here’s what you can look forward to doing:
Snorkel with the Starfish
The number one activity here is, of course, snorkeling. The water is shallow and calm, making it perfect for beginners and a relaxing float for experienced snorkelers. Glide effortlessly above the sandy bottom and be amazed as dozens of vibrant red starfish come into view below you. Remember to look closely—you might spot other small marine life hiding nearby!
Relax in Beachside Comfort
After exploring the water, there’s nothing better than kicking back and soaking up the serene atmosphere. You can rent a comfortable sun lounger right on the beach for 50,000 VND. This fee is for the entire day, so you can relax, read a book, or simply enjoy the view for as long as you like without any pressure.
Capture Unforgettable Photos
This is a photographer’s paradise. The contrast of the red starfish against the white sand and turquoise water creates a truly stunning scene.
A crucial reminder for photography: The best and only way to take a photo with a starfish is to get your camera close to the water. Please never lift a starfish out of the water. It is incredibly harmful to them, even for a few seconds. Let’s protect them so everyone can enjoy this beauty.
Simply Enjoy the Scene
Sometimes the best activity is no activity at all. Walk along the pristine shore, feel the soft sand between your toes, and take a moment to appreciate being in one of Phu Quoc’s most unique and beautiful natural settings.
3. Planning Your Trip & Making It Easy
Now that you know when to go and what to do, here’s the final piece of the puzzle: how to make it all happen smoothly.
How to Get There: A Quick Recap
The most common way to reach the starfish is by boat from Rạch Vẹm Fishing Village. This avoids a long, hot 4km walk and takes you directly to the best spots.
Upon arrival at Rạch Vẹm, you will find many local boat operators. The locals are famously enthusiastic and may approach you offering their services. To ensure a fair price and a smooth experience, it’s a good idea to know the standard rate beforehand.
For a clear and reliable reference, you can check the pricing on our dedicated Starfish Beach page. This way, you can negotiate with confidence or simply book with us for a guaranteed, hassle-free rate.
Want the Ultimate Experience?
Combine your adventure with the freshest seafood. Our Fishing Village Combo includes your boat trip plus a fantastic lunch or dinner at our floating restaurant. It’s the perfect way to experience the best of Phu Quoc.
