Culture- travel
Explore the Must-Try Experiences on Hon Thom
Phu Quoc has countless ways to make visitors fall in love: turquoise waters, golden sunshine, dazzling sunsets and a free-spirited resort lifestyle. But to experience the Pearl Island in a more vibrant, energetic way, head south, cross the sea and sky of An Thoi, and arrive at Hon Thom for a journey filled with unforgettable moments.
Make a Splash on Wavy Whirl, the World’s First PowerRAPIDS Attraction
Located within the An Thoi archipelago, Hon Thom carries the charm of a “mini Phu Quoc” in the middle of the ocean. The island is blessed with crystal-clear waters, long stretches of sand, lush tropical greenery, a rich marine ecosystem and mesmerising sunset views.
This natural beauty is the first reason visitors come to Hon Thom. Yet what makes the island so easy to fall for is its constant sense of renewal. With every return, travellers find something new to explore — from the over-sea cable car and an internationally acclaimed water park to rides making their world debut.
The world’s longest three-rope cable car not only brings visitors to Hon Thom, the “mini Phu Quoc”, but also offers sweeping views over the sea and sky of An Thoi.
One of the must-try experiences on Hon Thom is the world’s longest three-rope cable car, taking visitors across the skies of An Thoi. It is the first highlight of the journey from Sunset Town to Hon Thom. From the cabin, the southern part of Phu Quoc unfolds in spectacular fashion, with small islands scattered across the ocean, shades of blue shifting with the depth of the sea and the angle of sunlight. The cable car has therefore become an iconic experience, opening the Hon Thom journey from above.
Once on the island, the holiday rhythm instantly shifts into a more dynamic mode at Sun World Hon Thom. At the heart of the complex is Aquatopia Water Park, which was honoured as Asia’s Leading Water Park by the World Travel Awards. Inspired by a tropical deserted island, Aquatopia offers a multi-level world of water attractions, suitable for both families and thrill-seeking travellers.
This summer, Aquatopia introduces a major new highlight: Wavy Whirl – Tropical Cyclone, a PowerRAPIDS attraction appearing for the first time in the world. It is the newest “star” on Hon Thom’s experience map, while also showing how the destination is embracing modern entertainment trends. The ride does not follow a fixed script; instead, it constantly surprises participants along the way.
Unlike traditional water slides that send riders down by gravity, Wavy Whirl lets the water guide the entire journey. Riders sit on single or multi-person rafts and begin a “rapid-crossing” adventure through curves, acceleration zones, whirlpools and unexpected changes in direction. At times, the current pulls the raft forward with force; at others, it pauses for a split second before suddenly pushing the raft ahead again.
The most captivating part of Tropical Cyclone lies in its unpredictability. Each ride feels different. The raft may spin with the current, change direction unexpectedly, speed up without warning or be swept into a new swirl of water. Even riders sitting on the same raft may experience the journey in different ways. This spontaneity turns every ride into a small adventure — exciting enough for active groups of young travellers, yet fresh and accessible enough for families to enjoy together.
Wavy Whirl is also designed to match the pace of the peak travel season. With a capacity of up to 1,440 guests per hour and launch intervals of only around 10–20 seconds, the ride helps keep the experience smooth and uninterrupted. This is a valuable plus for summer travellers, when everyone wants to make the most of a day on the island.
The spirit of discovery continues at Exotica Village. Alongside familiar icons such as Wrath of the Wood — Vietnam’s first wooden roller coaster — and Eagle Eye, the area has recently added a series of new rides, including Crab Dance, Quail Eggs Revolt, Dragon Cyclone, Eagle Nest, Storm Voyage and Ladybug Battle. Each attraction has its own character: playful for young children, a test of agility for some, or thrilling enough for young travellers to release all their energy.
Choose Your Own Style of Seaside Escape
Hon Thom also pampers visitors with layered seaside experiences designed for different holiday moods, with each space created for a distinct rhythm of enjoyment.
For those seeking a quiet pause between sea and sky, Ciao Beach on Bai Trao is the place to unwind. The setting is ideal for relaxing on the sand, listening to the waves, feeling the sea breeze and slowing down after hours of lively exploration.
In a livelier rhythm, Santo Beach Club awakens the spirit of summer with youthful, vibrant energy. Inspired by Santorini on the Mediterranean coast, the space impresses with white structures, blue domes, stairways following the natural rocky slopes and open views toward the ocean. Two adjoining infinity pools, music, DJ performances, Beer & BBQ parties and a festive atmosphere turn Santo Beach Club into an ideal rendezvous for those who want to enjoy sunset in a more spirited way.
For travellers who love a youthful, vibrant and lively atmosphere, Santo Beach Club is a rewarding choice.
Without visiting Hon Thom, travellers may also miss another sought-after check-in spot: Santo Port. Inspired by a Mediterranean harbour, this space features free-spirited architecture and a youthful ambience. It is a fitting stop for visitors who love photography, leisurely walks and distinctive frames during their island journey.
From the over-sea cable car and Asia’s award-winning water park to the world’s first new-generation water slide, the new rides at Exotica Village, Santo Beach Club and Santo Port, Hon Thom is proving the appeal of a destination that constantly renews itself.
That is why a trip to Phu Quoc without Hon Thom would surely feel as though it were missing one of its most radiant pieces. This is a must-visit destination on the Pearl Island — and one that can easily make visitors start planning their return the moment they leave.
Author: DUONG NAM HOANG