Phu Quoc is a huge archipelago, how are you gonna make the most of your time here?
If you’re thinking of spending five days there, bravo – that sounds like a plan so you don’t have to squeeze everything into one short trip.
With a very long coastline spanning 150 kilometers, Phu Quoc is split into multiple areas, blanketed with thick vegetation and pristine jungles. While celebrating the great outdoors is the best thing to do in Phu Quoc, that’s not the only thing the island has to offer.
From sun-kissed beaches to top-tier theme parks, from amazing water sports to historical relics, you name it.
In this article, I’ll be showing you how to spend five days on this fabulous tropical island, from getting there to choosing the best area to stay, plus a sample itinerary later down the article.
Read More: 10 Best Places to Visit in Da Nang, Vietnam for An Enjoyable Vacation
Do You Need A Visa For Phu Quoc?
The latest update from the Vietnam Immigration Department declared that no visa requirement is needed for all foreigners entering Phu Quoc in less than 30 days.
The only thing you should be mindful of is that your passport has at least six months of validity and two blank pages.
How To Get To Phu Quoc?
You only have two ways to reach the island that’s 40 kilometers off the sea: by air and by sea.
By Air
Major flight carriers in Vietnam such as Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar Pacific, VietJetAir, Vsaco, and Bamboo Airways have been operating frequent flights into Phu Quoc Airport from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (the two biggest cities with the most frequent flights) as well as Hai Phong, Da Nang, and Can Tho (in the Mekong Delta).
In case you can’t find a direct flight from your departure point, consider a layover at either Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho before connecting to another domestic flight or switching to a bus + ferry to get to Phu Quoc.
By Sea
Taking a ferry or express boat comes in handy if you’re located in the southern part of Vietnam such as Ho Chi Minh City or the Mekong Delta. Phu Quoc ferries depart at either Ha Tien or Rach Gia (both of these cities are located in Kiên Giang Province.
Super Dong and Phu Quoc Express (express boats only) are the best ferry operators you can consider with daily routes (about two to eight trips a day). The ticket prices hover between VND 300,000 to 600,000 (non-holiday) depending on seat types (economy/VIP) and times.
Is a Ferry Or Express Boat Better?
The ferries take longer to arrive without causing seasickness. On the other hand, express boats are an hour faster but are prone to motion sickness. No matter what you choose, both options can handle vehicles if you’re on a motorbike.
Should You Depart From Rach Gia Or Ha Tien?
The answer boils down to your nearest location. Ha Tien is only 40 kilometers away from Phu Quoc while Rach Gia is 120 kilometers away.
Where To Stay In Phu Quoc Island?
Phu Quoc Island is huge! In fact, it’s an archipelago that spans 574 square kilometers. The biggest one is the namesake island covering the northern part while the much smaller ones are off the southern coast known as Dua Island, Thom Island, Roi Island, May Rut Island, Vong Island, and many more.
Now let’s get back to where we are: Phu Quoc Island – the main island of all.
The island itself is broken down into the North, Central – Duong Dong Town, East, and South.
If you wanna make the most of it on a first-time trip to the island, stay at Duong Dong Town – smack dab in the center core.
Why, you may ask?
Well, it’s easy to travel from there to the airport, boat station, convenient services, and major sights of interest.
On top of that, you’ll find a heap of accommodations of all price ranges. Most of these hotels/guest houses are nestled in the downtown core, Ong Lang Beach (more quiet), or Bai Truong (aka Long Beach, the “holy land” of the Vinpearl Group Hotel chain).
The east and the south, meanwhile, are more like a sanctuary with lesser-known streams, fishing villages, Sunset Senato Beach, and the home of the famous Hon Thom Cable Car.
Higher-end hotels such as Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, New World Resort, and the JW Marriott group surround the lush Khem Beach (southeastern Phu Quoc).
Best Hotel In The South Of Phu Quoc: Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay.
Last but not least, the north of Phu Quoc serves as the centerpiece of famous theme parks like VinWonders, Vinpearl Safari, and Grand World.
Best Hotel In The North Of Phu Quoc: Wyndham Grand Phu Quoc Island.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Phu Quoc?
Phu Quoc, with its welcoming climate typical of Southern Vietnam, boasts an average temperature of 27°C and treats its visitors to two distinct seasons: dry season and rain season.
The rainy season lasts from May to September. Even amidst its brilliant sunshine, Phu Quoc still teases you with unexpected showers during these months. It’s a unique charm of the island, where sunny skies and quick rainfalls coexist, adding to the adventure.
The dry season occupies the October – April window, promising clear skies and gentle sea breezes, creating the perfect backdrop. With minimal rainfall, the weather is delightfully mild, making it the prime time for exploring this tropical paradise. This is the best time to visit Phu Quoc.
The weather remains quite welcoming, but it’s wise to come prepared for those sudden rains with an umbrella and some spare clothes in your daypack.
Best Ways To Get Around Phu Quoc
By Rental Motorbike
Navigating Phu Quoc Island on a rental motorbike offers you the perfect blend of freedom and affordability. If you’re not quite sure of your way around, no worries! Keeping Google Maps handy and chatting with friendly locals for directions can turn into its own adventure.
It’s easy to get a bike ready in no time, with numerous options available at hotels or local shops, and the prices are pleasantly budget-friendly, ranging from VND 120,000 to 200,000 a day.
By Taxi/Grab
For those looking for a bit more comfort, there are plenty of taxi operators for you to choose from. Grab is also available if you’re looking for a cheaper option compared to traditional taxis.
By Shuttle Bus
Free shuttle services offered by VinGroup and Sun Group are great deals for those staying at one of their hotels, ensuring a seamless adventure.
Best Things To Do In Phu Quoc
Unleash Your Inner Child At Phu Quoc’s Best Theme Parks
Grand World Phu Quoc
Located by the sun-kissed shore of Long Beach, Grand World is one of the three entertainment complexes north of the island. Open 24/7 and free to visit, Grand World is beckoning your attention with the colorful canal dubbed “Little Venice”, Teddy Bear Museum, and Vietnam’s largest bamboo building.
Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc
Vietnam’s first safari demands at least four hours to complete. It’s more than just a zoo but indeed a well-organized open space where the animals are treated with love. Since most of the areas are outdoors, come prepared as the scorching heat may hold you back in doubt.
VinWonders Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc’s rising star has become one of the top-rated theme parks on the island. It’s split into several themed zones with thrilling rides, a colorful European Streetmosphere, and a heap of seasonal festivals.
Sun World Hon Thom Nature Park
Mostly famous for the Aquatopia Water Park, Sun World Hon Thom Nature Park is located off the southern tip of Phu Quoc where you can reach by cable car. Snag the combo ticket for the best deal that includes a round-trip cable car ride, entrance to the Aquatopia, and a buffet.
Watch Sunset At Pristine Beaches
Starfish Beach
Sandwiched between Hang Cape and Khem Beach, Starfish Beach is one of the most visited spots in the south of Phu Quoc. Serving as the beacon of colorful starfishes, the beach becomes a hot spot to watch the sunset with quirky “friends”.
Sunset Sanato Beach
It’s the northern part of Long Beach with mild waves and golden sunsets. The only downside is that it costs a few pennies per person to enter as it’s private.
Delight Your Taste Buds
Duong Dong Night Market
An absolute must-see for big foodies! Come with an empty stomach if you don’t wanna be overwhelmed by the huge selection of food. Though busy, the market retains an excellent local vibe and affordable food options.
It’s open every day from around 3 PM until midnight but the best time to get there is around 7 to 8 PM when most shops are up and running.
There are plenty of street food vendors with proper eating establishments dotting all over the market if you need a nice seating area. Try going further into the center where the prices are less expensive than the ones at the entrance.
Make sure to try the wax coconut (Dừa Sáp) if you’re looking for a local dessert. The juice is super slurpy with a thick, velvety texture but the meat is the best part, creamy and sweet.
Con Sao Quan
This little floating market is just off the shore of Rach Vem Beach on the very northern tip. I recommend getting there for lunch as it serves as a nice getaway to wind down after a long morning swim. The food is super fresh and reasonable with all kinds of seafood offerings served with either rice or noodles, especially the salted fish fried rice and the crunchy squid are super delicious!
Spruce Up Your Insta Feeds At The Kiss Bridge
Launched in December 2023, Phu Quoc’s Kiss Bridge is an incredible artistic masterpiece. With a 30-centimeter gap in between, the bridge is made for kissing, and not for crossing. Tickets are required to enter, which can be purchased on its own or in a package that includes a seat at Kiss Of The Sea Show.
5 Days In Phu Quoc: My Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival To Phu Quoc
Check in to Wyndham Grand Hotel and hail the free shuttle to visit Grand World Phu Quoc at night.
Day 2: Visit Vinpearl Safari Park in the morning and VinWonders in the afternoon. If smushing two attractions in a day sounds strenuous, break it down to one spot a day.
Day 3: Check out the beaches to celebrate the sunny day out and cap off with a scrumptious foodie’s evening.
Day 4: Sun World Nature Park
Day 5: Departure.
Looking for more travel ideas in Phu Quoc? Check out my ultimate guides below: