EN 
VI 
CN 
KM 
KO 
JA May Rut Island Long known as one of the most pristine and beautiful islands in Phú Quốc. Recently, this small island located south of the pearl island has become a tourist hotspot that attracts many domestic and foreign visitors. So what makes Hon May Rut so special? Let's explore in detail its historical name, natural landscape, tourist experiences, special cuisine, and useful tips for visiting this island paradise.
Where is Hon May Rut Phú Quốc?
Hòn Mây Rút actually consists of two separate small islands, Hòn Mây Rút Trong and Hòn Mây Rút Ngoài, located in the south of the An Thới archipelago, in Hòn Thơm commune, TP. Phú Quốc, Kiên Giang province. These two islands are located near the town of An Thới (An Thoi port) about 10km by sea, completely separate from Phú Quốc Island. Tourists usually travel by boat or canoe from An Thoi Port, taking about 20 minutes by canoe or nearly 1 hour by large boat to reach Hon May Rut Trong.
In terms of size, Hon May Rut Trong is larger and closer to Island Phú Quốc, while Hon May Rut Ngoai is farther from the shore to the southwest. Both are pristine, with crystal clear water and fine white sand beaches, like hidden gems in the open sea. Currently, Hòn Mây Rút Trong is better known to tourists thanks to its stunning scenery and a number of on-site tourist services, while Hòn Mây Rút Ngoài has retained its original pristine beauty and is rarely visited by tourists.
Explanation of the name “Hòn Mây Rút”
Unique name “Rút Cloud Island” It arouses much curiosity among tourists. Although there are no official records, folklore has passed down some interesting explanations about the origin of this name:
- Unique natural phenomena: The sea around the island has strong currents that create large whirlpools. Seen from a distance, the white whirlpools look like clouds rolling in and then slowly “sinking” into the sea. This fascinating sight is believed to have inspired the island's name, Mây Rút (Sinking Clouds).
- The Legend of the Fairy: A local legend tells of a beautiful fairy who used to fly around the island. She often landed on the island to rest amid the floating white clouds that surrounded it. This fairy-tale-like beauty captivated the fairy, making her reluctant to leave. The locals named it Hon May Rut (Cloud Island) in memory of the fairy and the magical clouds that swirl around this place.
- The positions “inside” and “outside”: The names Mây Rút Trong and Mây Rút Ngoài were added to distinguish between the two islands. The island closer to the shore (near An Thới port) is called Mây Rút Trong, while the island farther out to sea is called Mây Rút Ngoài. Many people liken Mây Rút Trong Island to being hidden behind Mây Rút Ngoài Island, as if it were concealed behind a curtain of clouds, hence the name.
Regardless of the interpretation, the name Hon May Rut evokes a sense of romance and mystery, perfectly suited to the scenery here – where the clouds and the sea blend together to create a vivid natural landscape.
What is special about Hòn Mây Rút Trong and Hòn Mây Rút Ngoài?
Both Inner Cloud Island and Outer Cloud Island possess rare, pristine beauty, but each island has its own unique attractions:
- Rút Trong Island: This is the most visited island. Mây Rút Trong is famous for its long stretch of fine white sand, emerald green waters, and rows of green coconut trees leaning over the sandy shore. The waters around the island are shallow and calm, making it very safe for swimming and water sports. Surrounding the island are natural rock formations of various shapes, creating beautiful scenery for visitors to enjoy taking photos. There is currently a seafood restaurant on the island serving visitors right next to the beach, run by a local family. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood dishes, freshly picked coconuts, and even request to stay overnight if they want to experience the feeling of a deserted island at night. Mây Rút Trong is likened to a “mini paradise” for its simple yet charming beauty, making it a favorite stop on 3-4 island tours in Phú Quốc.
- Outer Mây Rút Island: Located just a short distance across the sea from Mây Rút Trong, Mây Rút Ngoài is equally beautiful, boasting many pristine beaches with long stretches of fine white sand and a rich marine ecosystem. The island has a fresh, cool atmosphere thanks to its lush greenery, making it ideal for visitors to enjoy the tranquil surroundings and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the sea and island. The south side of the island has a beautiful beach for swimming and picnics, while the north side features smooth, stacked rocks, creating an intriguing landscape for those who enjoy mountain climbing and exploration. Hon May Rut Ngoai is still very quiet, with almost no tourist services except for the house of the “island queen” and her family. It is precisely this pristine tranquility that attracts those who love exploration and want to experience the authentic life of a deserted island.
A unique cultural feature of Hòn Mây Rút is that for decades, each island has been home to only one family. They are likened to “island lords” and “island queens” for their dedication and hard work in developing the islands. On Hòn Mây Rút Trong, Mr. Lê Thành Ẩn (nicknamed “island lord”) has lived there since the 1960s when his family moved to the island to escape the war. Hòn Mây Rút Ngoài is associated with the name of Mrs. Bảy Yên, who is considered the resilient “island queen.” Her husband was a revolutionary soldier who, during the war, was pursued and brought his wife to the deserted island of Mây Rút Ngoài to hide in the 1960s. Starting from scratch, Mrs. Bảy and her husband built a life on the island, growing coconuts, fishing, and raising children amid countless hardships. Today, the “island queen's” family has nearly 30 members gathered on Hon May Rut Ngoai, transforming the former deserted island into a lush garden of coconut and fruit trees. Visitors are often impressed by the genuine hospitality of these special residents. They are happy to chat and invite guests to enjoy simple meals made with the island's self-sufficient produce, from sea urchins and squid caught by their own hands to coconuts and sweet potatoes they have grown. It is the stories and people here that contribute to the unique appeal of Hon May Rut, which is both romantic and legendary, steeped in heroic historical value and a spirit of tenacious land development.
Experience sightseeing and recreation at Hon May Rut
Dubbed the “hidden gem” in the middle of the ocean, Hon May Rut offers visitors countless memorable experiences:
- Swimming and snorkeling: The crystal-clear waters around Hon May Rut are among the most vibrant coral reefs in Phú Quốc. Visitors need only put on diving goggles to admire the colorful coral reefs just below the surface. If you're lucky, you may also spot tropical fish swimming freely and many other rare marine creatures. Snorkeling is always on the “must-try” list when visiting here.
- Taking “fake” photos: The pristine blue sea, white sand, and golden sun at Hon May Rut create a flawless backdrop for memorable photos. On the beach, wooden swings, hammocks swaying under coconut trees, and small wooden bridges extending out to sea all make for excellent photo spots. Many visitors also bring drones to capture panoramic views of the island from above, resulting in breathtaking footage.
- Overnight camping on the island: If you have time, try camping overnight right on the beach of Hon May Rut Trong. As night falls, you can light a campfire, host a BBQ party with fresh seafood you caught yourself, and sing songs together to the sound of the waves. The experience of sleeping in a tent under the vast sea and sky, gazing at the starry sky, and welcoming the sunrise on the island will surely be unforgettable. Note that you need to prepare tents and equipment in advance (or contact tour operators that offer camping services) to ensure a safe and complete experience.
- Fishing for fish and squid with fishermen: For those who enjoy the challenge of being a fisherman, join a daytime fishing trip or night squid fishing with the locals. The waters around Hon May Rut are teeming with fish, from grouper and red snapper to barracuda, so you can easily bring back fresh catches to cook on the spot. At night, take a boat with the fishermen to cast your squid bait, then grill your freshly caught squid on a charcoal stove right on the beach. It's a rustic but incredibly exciting experience. The catch itself is sometimes less important than the moment you immerse yourself in the nighttime sea life, feeling the vast tranquility of the ocean and the diligence of the islanders.
- Watching the sunrise and sunset: The sunrise and sunset at Hon May Rut are considered by many tourists to be among the most beautiful in Phú Quốc. In the morning, the sun slowly rises above the calm sea, painting the horizon and clouds pink. In the evening, the sunset casts a brilliant glow over the western horizon, casting the shadows of coconut trees against a romantic orange-red sky. This moment of transition between sky and sea is breathtakingly beautiful; anyone who has seen it once will surely be captivated. Don't forget to bring a camera or a good phone to capture the magical beauty of the sunrise and sunset here.
Additionally, if traveling in a large group, you can organize beach sports games such as volleyball, tug-of-war, or simply relax on the sand and listen to the waves. Some island tours now provide a variety of colorful floats and SUP boards for visitors to have fun on the water, swim in the sea, and take beautiful photos. Whatever activity you choose, Hon May Rut promises to give you unforgettable moments. absolute relaxation, dispel all daily stress.
Culinary specialties at Hon May Rut
Nature has blessed Hon May Rut with an incredibly rich source of seafood. Visitors here should not miss the opportunity to enjoy the island's fresh and delicious specialties. Although the island only has simple eateries run by locals, the menu satisfies everyone with its freshness and rich flavors. Some of Hon May Rut's notable specialties include:
- Grilled abalone: Abalone caught in the Phú Quốc sea area, with thick, crispy meat, grilled over a charcoal stove and brushed with fragrant onion oil, becomes a nutritious, irresistibly delicious dish.
- Grilled sea urchin with scallion oil: Fresh sea urchins (cầu gai) are split in half and grilled with garlic oil and peanuts. The rich, creamy sea urchin meat melts on the tongue, with a unique sweetness of the sea. This is signature dish“ of many tourists when visiting Phú Quốc.
- Steamed squid & grilled squid: The squid here is incredibly fresh, each one plump and meaty. Simply steam it until tender to preserve its natural sweetness, then dip it in a simple salt, pepper, and lime sauce for an absolutely delicious treat. As for the large squid, you can grill it with spicy satay sauce, savoring it with a cold beer in the sea breeze—nothing compares.
- Fresh seafood: Fish such as grouper, pomfret, and seabass are caught locally by the people and prepared in a variety of ways—steamed, grilled, or cooked into porridge—all of which are delicious. The fish meat is firm and sweet, with a fragrant ocean aroma, especially when grilled over charcoal, releasing a scent that is hard for diners to resist.
Additionally, if you're lucky enough to visit during the crab or jumping snail season, you can buy them directly on the island and have them cooked for you to enjoy. Don't forget to try the famous grilled conch – a specialty of Phú Quốc, or simply sip on a cold coconut freshly picked from the tree. A simple lunch on the island with grilled seafood, boiled wild vegetables dipped in delicious fish sauce, and garden-fresh fruit will surely leave a lasting impression.
(Note: Prices for food items on the island may be slightly higher than on the mainland due to transportation difficulties. Visitors should ask for prices before ordering and bring cash, as there are no ATMs or card machines on the island.)
The ideal time to visit Hon May Rut
Phú Quốc is a year-round destination, but for the most fulfilling exploration of Hon May Rut, you should consider visiting during the dry season. According to the experience of many travelers, the dry season from November to April of the following year is the ideal time to visit Hon May Rut. Especially around March and April, the weather in Phú Quốc is sunny, the sea is calm like a lake, and the water is emerald green, which is very favorable for swimming, snorkeling, or taking a boat trip to visit the islands.
During the dry season, when storms are rare, you can feel more at ease traveling by canoe or boat to the island. Conversely, during the rainy season (May to October), Hon May Rut is still beautiful and the sea water is still clear, but there are sometimes large waves or sudden thunderstorms, which can easily interrupt your trip. If you are traveling during this time, you should closely monitor the weather forecast and avoid days when the sea is rough.
Additionally, keep in mind that during peak season (roughly December to February), tourist numbers surge, and services ranging from train and plane tickets to hotels sell out quickly. Therefore, book your transportation and accommodation in advance if you plan to travel during the Tet holiday or peak summer season to secure good prices and a smooth itinerary.
In summary, November to April is the best time to enjoy Hon May Rut. But if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, you can choose May-June (the beginning of the rainy season, when it doesn't rain much yet) – there are fewer tourists, the scenery is still beautiful, and sometimes you'll have the entire beach to yourself!
Directions to Hon May Rut Phú Quốc
Go to Phú Quốc (from the mainland)
To visit Hon May Rut, visitors must first travel to Phú Quốc Island. Currently, visitors can reach Phú Quốc by air or sea. If flying, you will land at Phú Quốc Airport in about 1 hour (from Ho Chi Minh City) or 2 hours (from Hanoi). However, direct flights are limited and costs are often high during the tourist season. A more popular and economical option is to take a twin-hull high-speed boat to Phú Quốc – a fast and exciting experience as you enjoy the sea views along the way.
Currently, there are two main seaports for traveling to Phú Quốc by high-speed boat: Rạch Giá and Hà Tiên. Depending on the departure location and schedule, visitors can choose the most convenient port:
- Port Rạch Giá: High-speed train departing from Pier Rạch Giá (Address: Nguyen Cong Tru Street, Vinh Thanh Ward, Rạch Giá City, Kien Giang Province). This is a convenient departure point for tourists traveling from Ho Chi Minh City or the provinces of the Southwest region. The distance from Rạch Giá to Phú Quốc is approximately 120 km, travel time by high-speed train is approximately 2:20 PM – 2:30 PM depending on weather conditions. Reputable shipping companies such as Phu Quoc Express, Superdong operates multiple trips daily on this route.
- Port Hà Tiên: Ship departs from Pier Hà Tiên (Address: Kim Du Street, To Chau Ward, Hà Tiên City, Kien Giang Province). Route Hà Tiên – Phú Quốc is convenient for visitors from the western region (Kien Giang, An Giang, etc.) or visitors traveling by road through the Cambodian border. The distance from Hà Tiên to Phú Quốc is only approximately 45 kilometers, so the high-speed train travel time is faster, approximately 1:20 PM – 1:30 PM We're here.
Both train lines stop at Bai Vong Port (Bai Vong Hamlet, Ham Ninh Commune, Phú Quốc) on the east coast of Phú Quốc Island. From Bai Vong Port, visitors can take a car or taxi for about 25km (30-40 minutes) along the provincial road to An Thoi Town at the southern tip of the island – this is the departure point for boats/canoes to Hon May Rut.
Currently, booking train tickets for Phú Quốc is extremely easy. Travelers can access the website phuquocexpress.com or call hotline 0901868878 of the company Phu Quoc Express To check the ship schedule and book tickets online. Phú Quốc Express is a modern twin-hull high-speed fleet, meeting 5-star standards with a capacity of nearly 300 passengers. The large catamarans are highly stable, run smoothly, and minimize seasickness even in light seas, making the sea journey comfortable and safe. You should book your tickets early, especially during peak season, to secure your seat and receive great deals. With daily schedules and multiple departure times, travelers can easily choose the departure time that best suits their Phú Quốc trip.
From Phú Quốc to Hon May Rut
After arriving at Phú Quốc, the next leg of the journey is to travel from the main island to Hon May Rut (part of the An Thoi archipelago south of Phú Quốc). First, you will travel to An Thoi Port (located in An Thoi town). This is a tourist port where many boats carrying passengers to visit the small islands gather. From the center of Duong Dong town (Bai Truong) to An Thoi is about 25km, which can be reached by taxi, shuttle bus, or rented motorbike.
At An Thoi Port, visitors have two transportation options. to Hòn Mây Rút:
- Take a large wooden boat: The wooden boat can carry about 50-60 passengers. It's slow but can carry a lot of people. The large boat takes about 50-60 minutes to reach Hon May Rut (because it usually stops at other islands along the route). If you are traveling in a large group and want to enjoy the scenery leisurely on the deck, you can rent the entire boat. The price for renting a large boat is about 5-10 million VND for a day trip to visit several islands.
Take a speedboat: This is currently the most popular method. Modern motorboats carry around 15-20 passengers and travel very quickly, reaching their destination in about 20 minutes. You can purchase individual tickets for a motorboat tour visiting 3-4 islands or rent a private motorboat if traveling in a group of 10 or more people. The advantages of motorboats are their speed and flexibility, allowing them to approach the shores of small islands. The price for renting a private speedboat ranges from 3 to 5 million VND for a round-trip tour of several islands (depending on the number of passengers), while joining a tour costs around 700-800 thousand VND per person, including lunch.
Tips: If traveling with a small group, you should sign up for a 3-island or 4-island tour with reputable travel companies in Phú Quốc. The itinerary usually includes Hon May Rut Trong (or Hon May Rut Ngoai), Hon Gam Ghi, Hon Mong Tay, etc., in one day. Taking a shared tour by speedboat is more cost-effective while still allowing you to visit many places. A tour guide will take care of everything, including transportation, meals, and snorkeling equipment. You can simply enjoy the trip without worrying about making arrangements.
Experience and notes when traveling to Hon May Rut
Hon May Rut remains an unspoiled, pristine island region, so visitors should prepare thoroughly to ensure a safe and smooth trip. Here are some useful tips:
- Check the weather: Before departure, always check the Phú Quốc weather forecast. Avoid traveling to the island during tropical depressions or rough seas. Light rain is still manageable, but extra caution is needed when swimming or diving.
- Appropriate attire: Pack your swimwear, towels, and a change of dry clothes. Bring sandals or non-slip beach shoes for easy movement on sand and rocks. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat, as the sun on the island can be quite intense.
- Supporting equipment: If you have them, bring your own diving goggles and snorkel for comfortable coral reef diving (though rentals are available on the island). Bring a waterproof bag for your phone and camera when taking pictures underwater.
- Personal items: There are no convenience stores on the island, so you should bring your own drinking water, snacks, insect repellent, motion sickness medication, and allergy medication (if needed). In particular, bring enough cash because there are no ATMs on the island.
Safety while playing: Only swim or snorkel in areas designated by guides or boat operators – typically in front of the main beach, where the water is shallow and there are few hidden rocks. When snorkeling to view coral reefs, wear a life jacket and use goggles properly. If paddling a SUP or kayak, wear a life jacket and do not venture too far from shore. Always keep an eye on young children if they are with you.
Environmental protection: The island remains pristine thanks to minimal human impact, so let's work together to preserve it. Visitors should not litter; instead, collect trash and bring it back to the mainland if possible. Avoid breaking coral or uprooting plants on the island. Everyone's awareness will help Hòn Mây Rút maintain its natural beauty.
Overnight stay: As mentioned, there are currently no resorts or hotels on Hon May Rut Island. If you wish to spend the night on the island, you must camp or stay with local residents (which is very limited and only possible if you know someone or join a special tour). Therefore, most visitors explore Hon May Rut Island during the day and return to Phú Quốc for overnight stays. In Phú Quốc, there are many resorts and hotels ranging from budget to luxury around the towns of Duong Dong and An Thoi for you to choose from. Some famous 5-star resorts such as Vinpearl, JW Marriott, InterContinental, etc., located on beautiful beaches, will provide a wonderful vacation experience after a day of exploring the wild island. You should book your room in advance to get a discount, especially during the peak tourist season.
Ready to explore Hon May Rut Phú Quốc
Boasting pristine natural beauty and fascinating tales, Hon May Rut Phú Quốc is truly a “must-visit” destination for those who love the sea and islands. From the pristine white sandy beaches where the footprints of mythical fairies are said to linger, to the shimmering coral reefs beneath the turquoise waters, and the warm hospitality of the “island lord” and “island lady” – all combine to create an allure rarely found elsewhere. What are you waiting for? Plan your trip and pack your bags to Hòn Mây Rút to experience this pristine and peaceful island paradise for yourself!
Currently, you have many convenient options to reach Phú Quốc and visit Hon May Rut. In particular, traveling with the Phú Quốc Express high-speed ferry will help you shorten your travel time and enjoy a smooth, safe journey on a modern catamaran. Visit phuquocexpress.com or call 0901868878 to book your high-speed ferry ticket to Phú Quốc today, departing at any time that suits you. The large catamaran and professional crew will take you to the pearl island quickly and smoothly, allowing you to admire the beautiful sea views along the way and get ready to explore the heroic history of this mythical island.
If you are planning to conquer Hòn Mây Rút Phú Quốc – The sacred, beautiful land of the Motherland, don't hesitate to choose the Phú Quốc Express high-speed train as your companion. An exciting adventure awaits, so book your ticket now and prepare for a memorable experience in the pristine island paradise of Hon May Rut! Wishing you a pleasant journey and many memories at Phú Quốc.
Photo source: Collected
