Phụng Island: A Unique Cultural Retreat in My Tho, Tien Giang

Phụng Island, also known as Phoenix Island or Cồn Phụng, is a captivating 50-hectare islet located 3 km from My Tho in Tien Giang, renowned for its historical and cultural significance tied to the Coconut Monk, Nguyễn Thành Nam. This Mekong Delta gem offers a blend of quirky architecture, serene canals, and vibrant local life, making it a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts, eco-tourists, and those seeking unique Mekong experiences. From exploring the Coconut Monk’s sanctuary to cruising lush waterways, Phụng Island is a window into Tien Giang’s rich heritage. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-friendly tours to immerse you in Phụng Island’s unique charm while supporting local communities. Start your adventure—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Note

Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as its vibrant hub, now includes the former Dong Thap Province, enhancing its appeal as a premier eco-tourism destination. Upgraded infrastructure, including cycling paths and electric boat networks, supports sustainable visits to Phụng Island and My Tho’s attractions, aligning with the “Green Delta” initiative.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable tour operator, dedicated to showcasing Vietnam’s cultural and natural treasures. Our Phụng Island tours combine eco-friendly transport—bicycles and electric boats—with cultural explorations, fruit tasting, and local interactions, guided by expert locals. Supporting Phụng Island’s artisans and farmers, we offer transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our tours via links on this page for an authentic, eco-conscious experience!

Located in Tân Thạch Commune, 3 km from My Tho along the Tien River, Phụng Island is one of the four sacred islets (Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle, Phoenix) in Tien Giang. Historically, it was the home of the Coconut Monk, who founded a unique religion blending Christianity and Buddhism, with followers consuming coconut-based diets. The island’s iconic sanctuary, featuring dragon-emblazoned columns and a quirky nine-dragon tower, reflects its eccentric past. Today, Phụng Island thrives on tourism, fruit farming, and handicrafts, with lush orchards and canals creating a serene backdrop. Tien Giang’s tropical climate—dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F)—enhances its verdant beauty, making it ideal for year-round visits.

1. Visit the Coconut Monk Sanctuary

Explore the Coconut Monk’s open-air sanctuary, featuring dragon columns, a nine-dragon tower with a metal globe, and a replica Apollo rocket. Though faded, the site’s kitsch architecture offers a glimpse into its vibrant history.

• Cost: Entry $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Quirky architecture, historical insights, photo ops.

• Tips: Join a guided tour for Coconut Monk stories; included in our Phụng Island Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

2. Canal Boat Cruises

Glide through Phụng Island’s canals on eco-friendly electric boats, passing water coconut palms and rural homes.

• Cost: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND) per boat (fits 4–6 people).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–4:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Scenic waterways, tranquil views, sustainable transport.

• Tips: Morning cruises offer cooler weather; included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450).

3. Fruit Tasting and Orchard Tours

Sample VietGAP-certified fruits like longans, sapodillas, and mangoes in Phụng Island’s orchards, with opportunities to learn about local farming.

• Cost: Entry $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND); guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Fresh fruit tastings, farmer interactions, lush greenery.

• Tips: Visit during summer (May–August) for peak harvests; included in our Phụng Island Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

4. Coconut Candy Workshops

Learn to make Phụng Island’s famous coconut candy at local workshops, tasting fresh candies and preserves.

• Cost: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND) per workshop.

• Hours: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Hands-on learning, sweet treats, local craftsmanship.

• Tips: Buy candies as souvenirs; included in our Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

5. Homestay Dining and Stays

Savor Mekong specialties like Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho or chuối quết dừa at homestays, or stay overnight for an immersive experience.

• Cost: Meals $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND); homestays $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Hours: Dining 8:00 AM–8:00 PM; check-in after 2:00 PM.

• Highlights: Authentic cuisine, rural hospitality, cozy accommodations.

• Tips: Try longan honey tea; included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450).

From Ho Chi Minh City (75 km, ~1.5–2 hours)

1. By Bus and Ferry

   • Route: Take a bus from Mien Tay Bus Station (395 Kinh Duong Vuong, Binh Tan District) to My Tho, then a ferry from My Tho Tourist Wharf (8 Đ 30 Thang 4) to Phụng Island.

   • Cost: Bus $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND); ferry $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND, 10 minutes).

   • Providers: Futa Bus (Tel: +84 1900 6067), Thanh Buoi.

   • Tips: Book via VeXeRe or Baolau; ferries run frequently.

2. By Car/Taxi and Ferry

   • Route: Follow National Highway 1A to My Tho, then ferry from My Tho Tourist Wharf.

   • Cost: Car/taxi $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND); ferry $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

   • Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84 2773 686 868), Grab app.

   • Tips: Ideal for groups; confirm wharf location.

3. By Motorbike and Ferry

   • Route: Follow Kinh Duong Vuong Street to National Highway 1A, then ferry from My Tho Tourist Wharf.

   • Cost: Rental $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); fuel $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND); ferry $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

   • Providers: Mekong Moto Rentals, HCMC (+84 938 456 789).

   • Tips: Use offline maps (Maps.me); not for inexperienced riders.

From My Tho (3 km, ~10–15 minutes)

1. By Ferry

   • Route: From My Tho Tourist Wharf (8 Đ 30 Thang 4) to Phụng Island.

   • Cost: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

   • Tips: Ferries run every 15–30 minutes; confirm schedules at the wharf.

2. By Guided Tour (Recommended)

   • Cost: $70–$90/person for a day tour; $300–$450 for a 2–3 day Mekong Delta immersion.

   • Details: Includes ferry, boat tours, guide, and activities like coconut candy workshops.

   • Tour Option: Phụng Island Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

   • Tips: Book via Legend Travel Group for seamless travel.

• Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for boat cruises, cycling, and orchard visits; Tet (January–February, lunar calendar) features festive activities and vibrant markets.

• Rainy Season (May–November): Lush greenery, abundant fruit harvests; enjoy 10–20% tour discounts.

• Tips: Visit in the morning (8:00 AM–11:00 AM) for cooler weather; book 3–4 weeks in advance for Tet. Check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

Pack for a sustainable island visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire for dry season; raincoat ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes; sandals for orchards; waterproof shoes for rainy season.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone or camera for photos; portable charger.

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for fruit or candy purchases, bamboo straw for sustainability.

Tip: Carry VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for ferry fees and vendors; use a waterproof backpack in rainy season.

• Ferry to Phụng Island: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND) per person.

• Activities:

  • Canal boat cruises: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Orchard tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Coconut candy workshops: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Bicycle rental: $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Dining: Meals at homestays or My Tho eateries: $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND); drinks $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Accommodation:

  • Homestays (e.g., Phụng Island Eco Homestay): $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

  • Hotels (e.g., Central Plaza Hotel My Tho): $20–$50/night (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

  • Resorts (e.g., Mekong Riverside Resort): $80–$150/night (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

• Transport to My Tho:

  • Bus from Ho Chi Minh City: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Taxi within My Tho: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $15–$35 (bus, ferry, homestay, meals).

• Mid-range: $35–$70 (guided tours, hotel, dining).

• Luxury: $100–$180 (resorts, private tours, upscale dining).

Tip: Use ATMs in My Tho for cash; carry small VND notes for ferries and vendors.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for Tet or summer.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Pack sunscreen; ideal for cycling and boat cruises.

  • Rainy Season: Bring waterproof gear; enjoy lush orchards.

• Sustainability: Support local artisans and farmers; use eco-transport like electric boats.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save My Tho Tourist Wharf as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables on ferries; respect sanctuary boundaries.

• Cultural Respect: Greet locals with “xin chào” (hello); tip guides or boat drivers $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); apply mosquito repellent near canals.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Tien Giang’s cultural and natural gems:

• Phụng Island Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Explore the Coconut Monk sanctuary, cruise canals, and enjoy fruit tasting. Includes ferry, boat transfers, guide.

• Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Savor Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, coconut candy, and join craft workshops. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Visit Phụng Island, Vinh Trang Pagoda, and My Tho Night Market. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Explore Phụng Island, Cai Be Floating Market, and homestays ($10–$25/night). Includes meals, activities, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links around this page!

Phụng Island in My Tho, Tien Giang, is a unique cultural retreat, blending the Coconut Monk’s quirky legacy with lush canals and vibrant orchards. From exploring its eccentric sanctuary to savoring steamed crabs, this island offers an unforgettable Mekong Delta experience. Legend Travel Group’s Tien Giang Tours guide you through Phụng Island’s charm, ensuring a sustainable Tien Giang Travel experience that supports eco-friendly practices and local communities. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your island adventure today!
Ready to explore the unique allure of Phụng Island? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into My Tho’s cultural heart!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.