Asia’s Second-Best Island in DestinAsian Ranking

Vietnam’s largest island, Phu Quoc, has achieved a remarkable milestone in global tourism by being ranked the second-best island in Asia in the prestigious DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, surpassing the world-famous Maldives. The recognition marks a major moment for Vietnam’s tourism industry and highlights the island’s rapid rise as one of the most desirable tropical destinations in the world. 

The annual DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards are widely regarded as one of the most influential rankings in the travel industry. Each year, thousands of travelers from around the world vote for their favorite destinations, hotels, airlines, and tourism experiences. The results reflect the preferences and satisfaction of global travelers who have personally visited these places. 

In the 2026 ranking, Indonesia’s Bali secured the top spot once again, while Phu Quoc climbed to second place, pushing the Maldives down the list. This achievement is particularly impressive because the Maldives has long been considered the gold standard for tropical island tourism, famous for its luxury resorts and crystal-clear lagoons. 

A Rapid Rise in Global Rankings

Phu Quoc’s rise in the rankings did not happen overnight. Over the past few years, the island has steadily gained international recognition. In 2024, it ranked sixth among Asia’s best islands, then climbed to fifth place in 2025, before reaching second place in 2026. 

This consistent progress reflects a combination of improved infrastructure, world-class tourism facilities, and increasing global awareness of Vietnam as a travel destination. As more international travelers discover the island’s natural beauty and hospitality, its reputation continues to grow.

Often called the “Pearl Island,” Phu Quoc is located in the Gulf of Thailand and is known for its long stretches of white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical forests. These natural features have helped the island become one of Southeast Asia’s most attractive holiday destinations.

Natural Beauty and Unique Experiences

One of the main reasons behind Phu Quoc’s rising popularity is its extraordinary natural scenery. The island is home to some of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches, including Bai Sao and Bai Kem, where powdery white sand meets calm blue waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving, and sunset cruises along the island’s stunning coastline.

Beyond its beaches, Phu Quoc also offers rich ecological diversity. Nearly half of the island is protected within Phu Quoc National Park, a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve filled with tropical forests, hiking trails, and rare wildlife. Nature lovers often explore the island’s mountains, waterfalls, and coral reefs.

In addition to nature, Phu Quoc has developed a wide range of tourism attractions, including luxury resorts, amusement parks, cable car rides to nearby islands, night markets, and cultural experiences that highlight Vietnam’s heritage.

Tourism Growth and Visitor Numbers

Phu Quoc’s tourism sector has grown rapidly in recent years. In 2025, the island welcomed around 8.3 million visitors, including nearly 1.9 million international tourists. This represented a significant increase compared with previous years and demonstrated the island’s expanding global appeal. 

Government investments in infrastructure have also played a key role. Modern airports, improved roads, and large-scale resort developments have made it easier for travelers to reach and explore the island. Direct international flights from major Asian cities have further boosted tourism.

The Vietnamese government has also introduced policies to encourage tourism, including visa exemptions and simplified entry procedures for international visitors traveling to Phu Quoc.

Competing with the World’s Best

Phu Quoc’s ability to surpass the Maldives in the DestinAsian ranking highlights a shift in global travel trends. While the Maldives remains a luxurious destination, travelers today increasingly seek places that combine natural beauty, cultural experiences, and diverse activities.

Phu Quoc offers all of these elements at competitive prices, making it attractive to a wide range of visitors—from backpackers and families to luxury travelers. The island’s mix of modern resorts and authentic Vietnamese culture provides a unique travel experience that distinguishes it from many other tropical destinations.

A Bright Future for Vietnam’s Tourism

The recognition of Phu Quoc as Asia’s second-best island is more than just an award—it is a symbol of Vietnam’s growing presence in the global tourism industry. As the country continues to invest in sustainable tourism and improve visitor experiences, destinations like Phu Quoc are expected to play an increasingly important role.

For travelers seeking a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, rich culture, and modern amenities, Phu Quoc is quickly becoming one of Asia’s most exciting destinations.

With its rising global reputation and continued development, the “Pearl Island” of Vietnam may soon challenge even the world’s most famous island destinations for the top spot in future travel rankings.