Phu Quoc Island Travel in May: Weather, Travel Tips & What to Expect

Phu Quoc Weather in May

If you visit Phu Quoc in May, you’ll experience one of the most peaceful and tranquil months of the year on this lovely pearl island. May is the period of transition from the dry season to the wet season, and it sees just a little bit of each,  warm sun and soft rain.

• Temperature: It’s 25°C to 32°C, warm enough for swimming and sunbathing, but not blazing. It’s generally sunny mornings,  perfect for basking in Sao Beach, trekking through Phu Quoc National Park, or heading to Dinh Cau.
• Rainfall: May bring short, light rain showers in the late afternoon. These rains are not long or strong, and they often help cool the air. You’ll still have plenty of time each day for outdoor activities like snorkeling, visiting farms, or sightseeing.
• Humidity and Sunshine: The air is more humid, but with 6–8 hours of sun per day, it’s still extremely travel-friendly. Just bring a light raincoat or umbrella,  you won’t even use it!

Compared to April (very dry) or June (more rain), May is the most favorable time when you enjoy good weather as well as empty beaches. There are fewer tourists, and there are many resorts that offer you cheaper prices. You have the indulgence of fresh seafood at the night market as well, visit pepper plantation villages, and become a part of the island’s local culture.

Top Things to Do in Phu Quoc in May

Relax on Phu Quoc’s Iconic Beaches

May is the best time for beach lovers. Blue is the color of the morning sky, and afternoon light showers keep the air refreshed. The sea is calm, and the white sandy beach is clean and silky. These four beaches must be visited:

• Sao Beach (Bai Sao) – Silky white sand and turquoise sea. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or flying a drone.

 Address: Group 3, Bai Sao Hamlet, An Thoi Town

• Khem Beach (Bai Khem) – Secluded and peaceful, surrounded by green forest. Typical location for luxury resorts. 

Address: Near Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, An Thoi

• Long Beach (Bai Truong) – The longest beach on the island, the best spot for sunset watching, cocktail sipping, and beach BBQ.

 Address: Tran Hung Dao, Duong To

• Ong Lang Beach (Bai Ong Lang) – Relaxed setting with palm trees and golden sand. Ideal for honeymooners or those who need solitude.

Address: Ong Lang Hamlet, Cua Duong Commune

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving – Explore Phu Quoc’s Underwater World

Before the rainy season comes, May has peaceful seas and excellent visibility — the perfect time for enjoyable underwater fun.

• May Rut Island (Hon May Rut) – Beginner-friendly. Shallow coral reefs, colorful fish, and boat picnics.
• An Thoi Archipelago – A Collection of islets with picturesque dive spots for experienced divers.

Tip: Go early morning to avoid the shower of the afternoon shower. Bring underwater cameras to capture coral reefs and ocean creatures.

Visit Local Farms: Pepper, Pearl & Bee Experiences

One of the most unique things about visiting Phu Quoc in May is that it’s pepper harvest time. The farms are open to visiting and contributing.

• Khu Tuong Pepper Farm –a large pepper farm where you can walk among vines help with harvesting, and taste pepper products.

Address: DT973, Cua Duong commune

• Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm – Learn how pearls are cultivated in oysters and purchase fine pearl jewelry. 

Address: 124 Tran Hung Dao, Ward 7, Duong Dong

• Phu Quoc Bee Farm – Explore bee gardens, taste fresh honey, and learn about eco-farming methods.

 Address: Hamlet 2, Cua Can Commune

Recommended activity: On one day, take an eco-tour guide to all 3 farms. These farms are great places to experience local culture and discover special souvenirs.

Trekking & Birdwatching in Phu Quoc National Park

Phu Quoc National Park is absolutely beautiful in May, thanks to light rain and plenty of sunshine. Nature enthusiasts, don’t miss out!

• Activities:
  • Trek to Nui Chua (603 meters), the highest point on the island
  • Watch for hornbills, langurs, and orchids
  • Walk through the Rach Vem mangrove forest and freshwater streams
• Main access points: Ganh Dau (northwest) and Bai Thom (northeast)
• Address for entrance: Phu Quoc National Park, Bai Thom commune or Ganh Dau commune

Tip: Wear good shoes, bring bug repellent, and go early (6:00–10:00 AM) to avoid heat and rain.

Learn Vietnam’s History at Phu Quoc Prison

Also known as Coconut Tree Prison, this site is perhaps the most emotionally intense place to discover Vietnam’s past.

• What to expect:
  • Strut along reconstructed prisoner cells and “tiger cages"
  • Listen to audio guides about the lives of revolutionary prisoners
  • View historical photographs and original artifacts
• Address: 350 Nguyen Van Cu, An Thoi Town

Tip: Spend 1–1.5 hours here. It’s a poignant, dignified experience — one that adds to your island time.

Sunset at Dinh Cau Temple – Where Spirituality Meets Scenery

Dinh Cau Temple perches on a rock outcropping above the sea, and on May evenings, the scenery is stunning.

• What to do:
  • Climb stone steps to the temple
  • See the sunset over the ocean from the town’s best spot
  • Enjoy street food stalls close to the temple complex
• Address: Vo Thi Sau Street, Ward 2, Duong Dong

Tip: Come at 5:30 PM for golden hour lighting. Then, just take a short 5-minute walk to the night market.

 Festivals & Local Events in May

Nghinh Ong Festival (Whale Worship Festival)

• Time: Mid-to-late May (Lunar calendar – around 15th day of the 4th lunar month)
•  Location: Dinh Ba Thuy Long Thanh Mau, Duong Dong Town, Phu Quoc Island

Local fishermen celebrate this ancient festival to pay respects to Ca Ong (the Whale God), who is said to watch over them in the sea. Prepare for vibrant processions, traditional music, floral offerings, and prayers on the beach.

• Locals wear ceremonial attire, presenting incense and food at Dinh Ba Temple.
• The main ritual typically begins early morning and runs all day through to the afternoon.
• Visitors are welcome to observe and participate respectfully in the ceremony.

It is a sweet moment to see spiritual life beyond temples,  a genuine slice of the season in Phu Quoc that few visitors are privileged to encounter.

Lunar Calendar Offering Days (1st and 15th)

• Time: 1st & 15th of the lunar month — typically early and mid-May
•  Locations:
  • Dinh Cau Temple – Vo Thi Sau Street, Duong Dong
  • Sung Hung Co Tu Pagoda – 7 Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong

Locals revere these days very much. Pagodas and temples across Phu Quoc Island are filled with people presenting fruit, flowers, and symbolic offerings. Vegetarian dishes and religious items are plentiful in many markets, particularly the night market and morning stalls around Duong Dong.

• Visit between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM to observe rituals.
• You can burn incense sticks, listen to chanting, and enjoy complimentary tea offered by temple volunteers.

This peaceful, close-up look at island spirituality is one of the strongest reasons to travel to Phu Quoc in May.

Pepper Harvest Season Activities

• Time: All of May
•  Locations:
  • Khu Tuong Pepper Farm – DT973 Road, Cua Duong
  • Ngoc Ha Pepper Garden – Suoi Da Hamlet, Duong To

May is the final stage of pepper farming: drying, sorting, and packaging preparation. Visiting at this moment offers an experience-based glimpse into farm life:

• Witness locals spreading pepper in the sun to dry.
• Visit mini-workshops (provided by larger farms).
• Buy fresh pepper products directly from the farm.

Weekly Night Market Vibes (Cultural Mini-Festival!)

• Time: Every evening – especially lively on Friday, Saturday & Sunday
• Location: Phu Quoc Night Market, Bach Dang Street, Duong Dong

Though not an “official" event, May’s night market possesses a special atmosphere. With tourist throngs still manageable and the weather mostly dry until the evening, it is like a Saturday street festival every evening.

• Enjoy new seafood, souvenirs, street performances, and bright lanterns.
• Try local foods like bun khen, goi ca trich, squid grilled, and coconut candy.

Tip: Arrive around 6:30 PM when the food is freshest and not so crowded.

Essential Packing & Travel Tips for May

Pack for Comfort and the Tropics

The temperature ranges from 25°C to 32°C on average in May, warm and humid. Lighten up! Here’s your must-have list:

• Light, airy clothing: Cotton T-shirts, tank tops, and maxi dresses are your saviors.
• Quick-dry shorts and swimwear: Come in handy for spontaneous dips at Sao Beach or snorkeling in the An Thoi Archipelago.
• Waterproof layer: A small rain jacket or collapsible umbrella will be your savior when those sudden afternoon showers blow through.
• Sun protection: Sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and reef-safe sunscreen are not optional.
• Mosquito repellent: Especially if you plan to wander around farms or trek in Phu Quoc National Park.

Smart Travel Gear for a Smooth Adventure

To ensure a smooth experience throughout your journey around Phu Quoc Island, bear in mind:

• Dry bag or ziplock bags: Safeguard electronics while taking boats or unexpected drizzle.
• Power bank & waterproof phone case: Convenient when you’re out all day long, especially at night market strolls or sunset on the beach.
• Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated while basking in the island’s natural beauty.

How to Handle Rainy Afternoons Like a Pro

When you visit Phu Quoc in May, rain usually arrives in short, refreshing bursts, usually between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM. The trick? Plan your day accordingly:

• Mornings: Perfect for snorkeling, beach-hopping, and pepper farm visits.
• Afternoons: Chill in cafes, tour cultural attractions such as Dinh Cau Temple, or indulge in a massage.
• Evenings: Head to the night market for seafood, local crafts, and lantern ambiance.

May rain rarely disrupts travel plans; in fact, it makes the island’s hues even more vibrant and chills the climate.

Booking Tips to Save Time and Money

May is a shoulder month, which means fewer crowds and incredible bargains but book soon!

• Flights: Book flights at least 2–3 weeks in advance to book the lowest domestic rates, especially from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.
• Ferries: If taking ferries in from Ha Tien or Rach Gia, look for high-speed boat schedules as early as possible, especially on weekends.
• Tours: Book tours like scuba diving or fishing trips, and always ask about cancellation policies in case of rain delays.

For a more detailed guide to when and how to plan your visit, look at the best time to visit Phu Quoc 2025. It breaks down all the weather patterns and high and low seasons so you can tailor your perfect island escape.

Conclusion

Visit Phu Quoc in May if you want to find serene beaches, some green scenery, and some real local culture with fewer crowds of peak season tourists. Get to experience the warm mornings, light rain showers in afternoons, and vibrant nights spent at the night market, it’s the perfect blend of leisure and excitement.

For the trendsetters, read the best time to visit Phu Quoc 2025 to see how May compares to the rest of the year. But in case you are itching for an experience not soon to be forgotten, then this is your best time to get the true essence of Pearl Island.

FAQ

Should I visit Phu Quoc in May?

Yes, sure! Visit Phu Quoc in May if you prefer warm sunshine, fewer tourists, and affordable resorts. May is a shoulder month,  neither dry season nor rainy season,  and therefore perfect for beach activities, simple treks, or a trip to Phu Quoc National Park. You might receive some sudden rain showers, but brief and most likely in the afternoon, so they will not ruin most of your outdoor activities.

When to avoid Phu Quoc?

It’s recommended to avoid Phu Quoc during the period from July to early October when the rainy season peaks. During this period, the island experiences torrential rainfall, turbulent seas, and poor visibility for snorkeling or island-hopping. Beach activities and boat tours are not a high priority if they coincide with this period.

What is the best month to visit Phu Quoc?

The best months to visit Phu Quoc are November to May, and peak season is December to March. But if you want fewer visitors but still excellent weather, go visit Phu Quoc in May is an excellent option. You’ll have the tail-end of the dry season, improved rates, and still have access to the white sandy beaches, fresh seafood, and vibrant local culture.