Tucked away on the powdery shores of Khem Beach, the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay isn’t just a hotel — it’s a destination all its own. What was once imagined as a 19th-century French university, “Lamarck University,” has been transformed by architect Bill Bensley into one of Vietnam’s most imaginative and luxurious resorts.
From the moment I arrived, I felt like I’d stepped into another world — a place where colonial-era charm meets modern five-star indulgence, with quirky surprises waiting at every turn.
The Design: A Storybook University by the Sea
One of the things that sets this resort apart is its playful, fictional backstory. Each building represents a different “faculty” — from the Department of Zoology to the Department of Chemistry — and every detail, from antique curios to the whimsical signage, feels like part of a living story.
Strolling the grounds was like exploring a movie set. Every hallway, courtyard, and corner is Instagram-worthy, and yet the atmosphere stays relaxed and inviting, never pretentious.
The Rooms: Pure Comfort Meets Curated Style
My room was spacious, bright, and beautifully appointed. High ceilings, a freestanding tub, and a private balcony with ocean/pool views made it almost too tempting to leave the room at all.
The bed — hands down one of the most comfortable I’ve ever slept in — felt like sinking into a cloud after a day of beach-hopping and cocktails.
The Beach: Khem’s White Sands
The resort’s private stretch of Khem Beach is postcard-perfect, with soft white sand and calm, clear turquoise waters. Whether I was lounging under a parasol, paddleboarding, or simply floating in the sea, or swinging in a hammock it was the definition of relaxation.
Early mornings were my favorite: the sun rising, the beach quiet, and the water like glass.
The Food: A Culinary Journey Around the World
Dining at the JW Marriott Phu Quoc is an experience in itself. Every meal felt like a curated event:
• Tempus Fugit — where breakfast was a daily highlight, with everything from traditional Vietnamese pho to made-to-order eggs, pastries, fresh tropical fruits, and even dim sum.
• Pink Pearl — the resort’s signature fine-dining restaurant, housed in a pastel-pink mansion, offered an unforgettable evening of French-inspired haute cuisine. The setting alone, with its old-world glamour, was worth dressing up for.
• Red Rum — beachfront dining with the freshest seafood, grilled to perfection under the stars. Simple, fresh, and full of flavor.
The Spa & Activities: Balance for Body and Soul
If you want to treat yourself to a massage at Chanterelle Spa by JW, which will be an experience straight out of Alice in Wonderland — mushroom motifs, calming tones, and the kind of treatment that leaves you floating back to your room.
For the more adventurous, the resort also offers:
• Paddleboarding & kayaking in the bay.
• Yoga classes overlooking the ocean.
• Cultural workshops and guided tours around the island.
The Service: Warmth with a Personal Touch
What truly made the stay exceptional was the staff. Every encounter, from the front desk to the beach bar, felt genuine and thoughtful. Small surprises — like handwritten notes, perfectly timed room turndown treats, and tailored recommendations for exploring Phu Quoc — reminded me why luxury is as much about people as it is about the place.
Final Thoughts
The JW Marriott Emerald Bay isn’t just a resort, it’s an experience — a mix of art, architecture, relaxation, and gourmet indulgence, all set against one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a luxury retreat, or simply want to soak up some island magic, this place belongs on your bucket list.
My last thoughts on this whimsical hotel.
Sometimes you can encounter a bit of a language barrier and I did have a few issues ordering drinks around the pool area because of this.
But after speaking with management this was all resolved.
Pro Tip:
• Best Time to Visit: November to April for clear skies and calm seas.
• Don’t Miss: Sunset drinks at the Department of Chemistry bar — the cocktails are as creative as the decor.
• Perfect For: Honeymooners, design lovers, and anyone who wants to escape the ordinary.