Gieng Tien (The Fairy Well)
A few kilometres from Bai Khem beach, tucked between coastal scrub and forest, sits one of Phu Quoc's strangest and most quietly compelling secrets: a freshwater well that refuses to turn salty no matter how high the tide rises around it. Locals call it Gieng Tien — the Fairy Well — and have been drawing from it for centuries.
A Natural Phenomenon Wrapped in History
Gieng Tien is a coastal well fed by an underground freshwater spring whose water remains completely fresh even when the tidal sea washes to its very edge — a hydrological curiosity that continues to baffle and delight visitors who crouch down and taste it for themselves.
The well is tied to one of Phu Quoc's most dramatic historical episodes: according to local legend, Prince Nguyen Anh — later Emperor Gia Long, founder of the Nguyen Dynasty — struck his sword into the ground here while hiding from the Tay Son rebels in the late 18th century, and fresh water miraculously sprang forth to save his troops from thirst.
The site is considered sacred by local fishermen, who stop to offer prayers for safe voyages before heading out into the Gulf of Thailand — a living ritual that connects the well to the island's seafaring present as much as its royal past.
How to Visit & What to Combine
Gieng Tien sits approximately 2 km from An Thoi Ward near the end of Bai Khem beach, reachable by motorbike along a coastal track or by a short boat ride — the journey through coastal scrub and forest is part of the charm.
The well is surrounded by green trees and sits in a quiet mountainous area, making it a cool, shaded contrast to the open beach — bring water, wear shoes suitable for a short walk on uneven ground, and allow 30–45 minutes for the visit.
Combine Gieng Tien with Bai Khem beach and a pearl-farm visit at Ngoc Hien for a full southern-tip half-day itinerary that covers nature, history and craft in one easy loop — all within a few kilometres of An Thoi town.
Gieng Tien (The Fairy Well) on video
More of An Thoi
Discover where to stay, what to do and the best deals for your trip.
Explore An Thoi →
