Want to enjoy Phu Quoc after dark? Here are some ideas to help you create fun memories and explore local life once the sun goes down.

If you still have energy after a day at the beach, on the golf course, or exploring the island, Phu Quoc has plenty to offer. While it’s not as lively as Vietnam’s major cities, the island becomes pleasantly active when the heat fades. You can enjoy sunset drinks, taste local dishes, listen to live music, dance by the beach, or dive into Vietnamese culture.

Savor beach sunsets

Phu Quoc is famous for its stunning sunsets. Make it your daily mission to catch the glowing sky while sipping something refreshing. You’ll find many beaches, restaurants, lookout points, and bars that offer postcard-perfect views.

For a laid-back moment, grab a lounger along Long Beach’s public or private stretches. As daylight fades, squid boats light up the horizon, adding a distinctly Vietnamese charm to the scene. Some beaches even feature outdoor sculptures for the perfect sunset photo.

If you prefer comfort, head to the beach bars around Duong Dong. Relax on soft beanbags, or enjoy hotel pools at stylish spots like Le Bar at La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc. For a peaceful garden setting by the sea, the Malabar bar at Cassia Cottage is another great choice.

Many beach bars also host fire shows at night. Sit back, dig your toes into the sand, and enjoy the performance.

Sample the foodie fare

Tasting the local cuisine is one of the best ways to experience a new destination. Phu Quoc caters to every taste and budget. Food lovers can enjoy fine dining by the sea, beachfront BBQ dinners, or gourmet hotel meals. Budget travelers can choose from casual cafés and bustling street stalls.

A must-visit spot is the Dinh Cau Night Market. From 5 pm to midnight, the streets near the Dinh Cau rock temple transform into a lively pedestrian market. More than half of the 100 stalls serve food and drinks at friendly prices. Seafood lovers will find it hard to resist the many fresh stalls. Pick your favorite dish, sit on a stool, and enjoy a cold local beer while people-watching. Before you leave, buy some of the island’s famous specialties like fish sauce, black pepper, dried seaweed, or cashews.

After eating, take a stroll along the pier. You’ll see families enjoying the cool evening air, teens playing hacky sack, and tour-boat skippers winding down after a day at sea.

Enjoy the island’s nightlife

If you enjoy live music with a cocktail in hand, Phu Quoc will surprise you. The island is home to many musicians who perform at luxury hotel bars. You can listen to talented bands as mixologists craft special drinks for you. Several local bars in Duong Dong also host live music, bringing locals, travelers, and expats together. If you like karaoke, some bars offer regular sing-along nights.

If you want to dance by the sea, head to beach clubs like Sailing Club or Sunset Beach Bar & Restaurant. Dance to DJ beats while the ocean breeze cools you. When you need a break, relax on comfy outdoor seating with snacks. During certain seasons, DJs and electronic artists from across Vietnam and beyond host beach parties, so keep an eye on event calendars.

Couples can enjoy romantic views from rooftop restaurants and cocktail lounges. For a memorable night out, visit INK 360 at InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort. Its octopus-inspired design makes it perfect for selfies.

Experience the local culture

When squid boats light up the sea at night, the island offers unique cultural experiences.

To learn how local fishers work, book a night squid fishing tour. They’ll teach you how to catch your own squid, which you can enjoy fresh afterward.

Culture lovers shouldn’t miss a traditional water puppet show. This art form dates back to the 11th century. Puppeteers stand in water and bring wooden figures to life, telling ancient stories through music and humor. The Phu Quoc Theatre is the only venue on the island that performs this tradition. Watching a show helps preserve this centuries-old heritage.