Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, measures 50 kilometres in length and 25 kilometres in width at its broadest point. It is covered in lush jungle and has vast lengths of magnificent sand. It was formerly a peaceful fishing community known for its pepper plantations and fish sauce, which is said to be the best in Vietnam, rather than for tourism.
All of this is about to change as the Vietnamese government works to draw in a large number of foreign investors in an effort to establish Phu Quoc as the country’s top vacation spot. The island is rapidly developing new hotels, roads, and resorts, but for the time being at least, it still has some of the laid-back, tropical beauty that draws both luxury and budget tourists to the island.
All of this means that word is getting out about the island, so if you were looking for a sign to go to Phu Quoc Island, this is it.
Unfortunately, with hidden gem status comes a lack of information online. Knowing where to stay in Phu Quoc can get a little confusing as there are no clear start and endpoints for the various settlements along the island. You’ll need to do a little research in advance on where to stay in Phu Quoc.
Luckily for you, as one of the few backpackers that have ventured to this beautiful corner of Vietnam I have those answers! After doing the hard job of exploring this beautiful island (it was tough but someone’s got to do it), I’ve compiled the five best places to stay. Whether you want calm, culture or coasts – I’ve got you covered.
So, let’s dive right in!
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Phu Quoc?
- Phu Quoc Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Phu Quoc
- Phu Quoc’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Phu Quoc
- What To Pack For Phu Quoc
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Phu Quoc
- Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Phu Quoc?
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Phu Quoc Island is small, but, oh, is it mighty. Trying to find a place to stay can turn into a real struggle sometimes. And if there’s one thing you do not want while backpacking Vietnam, it’s wasting valuable exploring time by looking for something on your phone. So here are my top three places in Phu Quoc!
Golden Topaz Phu Quoc Resort | Best Budget Hotel in Phu Quoc
This resort is surrounded by greenery, charming décor, and is very clean. This whole resort is super green, giving off a wonderful jungle vibe. The rooms are spacious, fully equipped with everything you could possibly need, and if you’re lucky, some even offer views of the outdoor swimming pool. In the morning and evening, the pool is a great place to relax and unwind.
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa | Best Luxury Hotel in Phu Quoc
Ready to splurge? Look no further than this five-star gem! It is located right on Bai Khem, giving you unbeatable access to the white sands and crystal clear waters. Emerald Bay Resort even boasts its own private beach area with sun loungers and umbrellas. The extensive spa and wellness centre offers a wide range of treatments – including couples’ massages and facials.
Phu House | Best Hostel in Phu Quoc
Nestled among a shortage of hostels, it’s an affordably priced beacon. Their dorms provide the social buzz that solo travellers in Vietnam are looking for, whilst the individual rooms provide a haven for those seeking seclusion. But what actually steals the show is their rooftop café, which provides panoramic views of both sunrise and sunset, a celestial display that is simply magical. Convenience is also a plus, given its ideal location next to the bustling nightlife district.
Hanumia | Best Airbnb in Phu Quoc
This spacious bungalow is part of a larger holiday resort where you get the chance to mingle with other guests. It is within walking distance of the beach but the surrounding neighbourhood has a more secluded feel, filled only with the noise of native wildlife. Each suite comes with a private kitchen and a private balcony; they also offer smaller options for solo travellers and couples.
Duong Dong Town
Duong Dong is the largest town in Phu Quoc – and, for many tourists, the best hub for easily getting around. This is why we recommend it for first-time visitors, as it is a great place to gather your bearings before exploring the rest of the island.
Long Beach
Sometimes referred to as Long Beach in guidebooks, Bai Truong stretches from the southern edge of Duong Dong right down the West Coast of the island. This beach is over 20km long, but you’ll find most of the tourist areas near the northern end.
Ong Lang Beach
Here to relax? Look no further than Ong Lang Beach! North of the main town, Ong Lang Beach has smaller tourist numbers, making it a peaceful retreat away from life’s stresses. Families love this region not just for its serenity, but for the great selection of family-friendly accommodations to suit all budgets.
Khem Beach
Right on the southern tip of the island, Bai Khem is easily the most exclusive resort in Phu Quoc. Known as Emerald Bay in English, this small beach is home to lavish resorts and upscale restaurants. There aren’t many attractions in the area, so this is where you come to kick back and relax.
Duong To
Duong To is a thriving beach and entertainment destination with brilliant golden sands lined with palm trees, excellent restaurants and shopping.
Phu Quoc’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Phu Quoc has a little bit of everything. More than half of Phu Quoc Island is National Park. Home to mountains, lush tropical jungle, EPIC hiking and enchanting wildlife – oh, the exploring to be done! Of course, you can always spend your days lounging under the palm trees on a pretty and deserted beach.
Generally, the centre of the island is where you will find the most tourists – with it getting quieter as you head further north, and more exclusive as you head south. If you can, rent a scooter so you can check out all the areas mentioned in this guide, regardless of where you choose to stay.
Duong Dong Town is the largest settlement on the island and has quite an international feel. First-time visitors will feel more comfortable here, with easy access to home comforts.
Just south of Duong Dong Town, you will find Long Beach – known as Bai Truong in Vietnamese. This 20km stretch of land is the longest to walk across but is nevertheless doable in a day. The huge beach will give you unspoiled views and secluded sunbathing spots. It’s also one of the more budget-friendly options on the island – but really, everywhere is super affordable.
Photo: @taya.travels
Right in the far south is Khem Beach. This never used to be a major tourist area, but now that more people are learning about Phu Quoc Island, you will start to find more and more exclusive resorts popping up here. These lavish hotels and the beautiful Vietnam beaches surrounding them make this an excellent option for couples in need of a romantic retreat. It’s also the closest area to Phu Quoc International Airport if you don’t have much time to visit so you can cut down on travel time.
A few minutes north of Duong Dong Town is Ong Lang Beach. While this has a more local vibe, making it great for adventure travellers, it is also much quieter than the resorts in the south. This makes it the perfect destination for families.
Finally, the most southern point on my list is Duong To. Duong To is home to the longest cable car system in the world and should definitely be at the top of your bucket list. It’s the latest point of investment on the island and has some weird and wonderful attractions for you to scope out. I’ll leave it up to you to find them either weird or wonderful.
Still undecided? I know it’s a tough choice, so I’ve broken down every neighbourhood even further below. I’ve also included my top accommodation picks and things to do in each.
1. Duong Dong Town – Where to Stay in Phu Quoc for Your First Time
Duong Dong is the largest town on Phu Quoc Island- and, for many tourists, the best hub for easily getting around. This is why I recommend it for first-time visitors, as it is a great place to gather your bearings before exploring the rest of the island. It also has some great tourist attractions in its own right, including the picturesque harbour area.
Duong Dong Town can get a little noisy, but it’s only a small town, so you can easily get away from the centre to enjoy some peace and quiet. That being said, many visitors love the hustle and bustle of central Duong Dong. It’s also home to some great bars and beach clubs for you to grab a cocktail at sunset.
Lahana Resort Phu Quoc & Spa | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Duong Dong Town
Lahana Resort in Duong Dong, Phu Quoc, is surrounded by natural flora and offers eco-friendly accommodations. The resort features an outdoor swimming pool and an on-site restaurant. The bungalows in the heart of the forest are adorable, and the rooms are really comfortable. The rooftop infinity pool is awesome, and the views are perfect for a sunset pina colada by the pool.
Fine9 Hostel | Best Hostel in Duong Dong Town
As the highest-rated hostel in Duong Dong, Fine9 is immensely popular with the backpacker crowd. Expect cosy pod-style beds surrounded by privacy curtains, each with its own charging plug, ensuring that every tired traveller can recharge, literally and metaphorically. And don’t forget about the free lockers – perfect for stashing your stuff so you can feel safe and explore the island without a care in the world!
Horizons Phu Quoc | Best Airbnb in Duong Dong Town
Many of the holiday homes on Phu Quoc Island are actually part of a larger resort village. This gives you added peace of mind and means you have plenty of opportunities to mingle with other visitors. Horizons Phu Quoc offers comfortable accommodations for those who would prefer Western-style houses. The grounds are beautifully landscaped and have gorgeous views of the sunset.
Things to See and Do in Duong Dong Town
Photo: @taya.travels
- If you’re arriving by boat, you’ll get to see Phu Quoc’s beautiful harbour, but there are also some great tour companies offering trips around the coast.
- Check out the local eateries at Phu Quoc Night Market.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Long Beach – Best Place to Stay in Phu Quoc on a Budget
Traditionally referred to as Bai Truong in Vietnamese, Long Beach stretches from the southern edge of Duong Dong Town right down the West Coast of the island. This beach is over 20km long, but you’ll find most of the tourist areas near the northern end. Long Beach is much quieter than the largest town, while still benefiting from extensive tourism infrastructure.
Literally a stone’s throw away from Phu Quoc International Airport, Long Beach is perfect for a short trip from mainland Vietnam. I visited Phu Quoc from Ho Chi Minh City and it felt like as soon as we were in the air we were touching back down again to land on the island!
Everywhere in Vietnam, including Phu Quoc Island, is great for budget backpackers! Long Beach, however, is home to the most hostels and cheap hotels on the island, meaning you can get a whole ‘lotta bang for your buck. Even private rooms are well-priced. The nightlife here is clustered near the hotels and is much more affordable than the city centre.
Praha Hotel | Best Budget Hotel on Long Beach
For families on a tight budget, this hotel is a haven with family rooms and triples. Enjoy quick access to the beach and a convenient exploration of Long Beach’s best attractions from this beachfront property. And the cherry on top? Complimentary shuttle service ensures that all guests have a flawless adventure.
Phu House | Best Hostel on Long Beach
While not a party hostel in the typical sense, Phu House is right next to the main nightlife district – making it a great choice for those ready to hit the bars and clubs. Inside you will find vibrant social spaces, including an ambient rooftop café where guests can enjoy a heavily discounted menu. They also run various tours every day hosted by local guides.
Thanh Bungalow | Best Airbnb on Long Beach
Tiny homes are a great way to save money on accommodation. This cute little bungalow is part of a holiday village, so you’ll be able to mingle with other visitors. There are loads of small social spaces around the resort, as well as a larger dining area where you can kick back and relax with other guests. Beer is available from the front desk at discounted rates for guests. Result!
Things to See and Do in Long Beach
Photo: @taya.travels
- Hike from the edge of Duong Dong to Bai Dat Do – the entire length of Bai Truong will take you a day but will reward you with gorgeous scenery.
- Take a small snorkel boat tour to see the vibrant coral reefs that lie around this beautiful island.
- Go to Sim Son Phu Quoc winery and try some of the local wines made on the island.
3. Ong Lang Beach – Best Neighborhood in Phu Quoc for Families to Stay In
Here to relax? Look no further than Ong Lang Beach! North of the main town, Ong Lang Beach has smaller tourist numbers, making it a peaceful retreat away from life’s stresses. Families love this region not just for its serenity, but for the great selection of family-friendly accommodations to suit all budgets.
Photo: @taya.travels
It’s not unusual to pop down to the beach and discover you’re the only person there. The luscious forest surrounding the beach gives it a secluded charm, and the crystal-clear waters are safe for paddling in. All of this makes Ong Lang Beach one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam.
Golden Topaz Phu Quoc Resort | Best Budget Hotel in Ong Lang Beach
This resort is surrounded by greenery, charming décor, and is very clean. This whole resort is super green, giving off a wonderful jungle vibe. The rooms are spacious, fully equipped with everything you could possibly need, and if you’re lucky, some even offer views of the outdoor swimming pool. In the morning and evening, the pool is a great place to relax and unwind.
Chen Sea Resort & Spa Phu Quoc | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Ong Lang Beach
This Ong Lang seaside resort is situated in a quiet bay. Every bungalow and villa has a sea view veranda and is in a super tranquil setting. Everything about my time here, from the spotlessly clean rooms to the wonderful breakfast spread, exceeded my expectations.
Hanumia | Best Airbnb in Ong Lang Beach
This spacious bungalow is part of a larger holiday resort where you get the chance to mingle with other guests. It is within walking distance of the beach but the surrounding neighbourhood has a more secluded feel, filled only with the noise of native wildlife. Each suite comes with a private kitchen and a private balcony; they also offer smaller options for solo travellers and couples.
Things to See and Do near Ong Lang Beach
Photo: @taya.travels
- VinWonders Phu Quoc is a unique theme park that has certainly copied a few things from Disney – nevertheless, it’s great for keeping the kids entertained.
- Just behind VinWonders, you will find Vinpearl Safari – an extensive wildlife park with open enclosures that you can drive through with a car (they also have a bus).
- Discover an island paradise off the south coast of Phu Quoc Island and snorkel at 3 different spots in the Gulf of Thailand.
- Ong Lang Beach is a great spot to relax, but on the rare occasion that you find it getting busy, head up to the even more secluded Cua Can.
- Kayak up to Starfish Beach and join a Bee Farm tour to see the sights of Northern Phu Quoc.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Khem Beach – Exclusive Neighborhood in Phu Quoc for Couples
Right on the southern tip of the island, Khem Beach is easily the most exclusive resort on Phu Quoc Island. “Bai Khem” or “Emerald Bay” in English is home to luxury accommodations including lavish resorts and upscale restaurants. There aren’t many attractions in the area, so this is where you come to kick back and relax.
Sao Beach is close to this region and is arguably one of the most beautiful stretches of pristine beach on the island.
Couples, in particular, will find this destination rewarding. While backpackers and families stick to the west of the island, Bai Khem is home to beautiful beaches that are empty and well-kept. It’s also the best spot for catching the sunrise in the morning.
Phu Nam House | Best Budget Hotel in Bai Khem
Nestled among the forests surrounding Bai Khem, this idyllic holiday resort is great for couples looking for a cheap hotel. These tiny houses are fully self-contained units – a few of which even come with their own kitchenettes. Social spaces are available, but a calm and easy-going atmosphere is encouraged. If you’re looking for something truly unique, this is a great option.
Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay | Best Mid-Range Hotel in Bai Khem
The resort has everything you could wish for, including a pool, spa, fitness centre, and beach. Accommodations range from streamlined rooms with free Wi-Fi, marble bathtubs, and rainfall showers to two-story three-bedroom apartments with balconies, private pools, and kitchenettes, as well as gulf views, so there is something for everyone. It boasts a pristine beach as the resort personnel always clean it early in the morning.
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa | Best Luxury Hotel in Bai Khem
Ready to splurge? Look no further than this five-star gem! It is located right on Bai Khem, giving you unbeatable access to the white sands and crystal clear waters. Emerald Bay Resort even boasts its own private beach area with sun loungers and umbrellas. The extensive spa and wellness centre offers a wide range of treatments – including couples’ massages and facials.
Things to See and Do in Khem Beach
Photo: @taya.travels
- Take a walk to nearby Sao Beach – a popular day trip destination with unique local attractions.
- Discover the southern part of Phu Quoc Island by visiting a pearl farm and fish sauce factory.
- Visit Sunset Town, a complex that recreates famous landmarks worldwide, such as Arc de Triomphe, Pompeii Ruins, the Colosseum, etc
- Khem Beach is one of my favourite beaches on the whole island, with unspoiled sands, gorgeous blue water, and excellent photo spots.
- Hop over to four surrounding islands and BBQ on a boat tour!
5. Duong To – Best Area to Stay in Phu Quoc for Luxury Resorts
Duong To is a thriving beach and entertainment destination with brilliant golden sands lined with palm trees, excellent restaurants and shopping. The longest beach in Phu Quoc Districts is located on the commune’s western coast and is surrounded by multiple world-class 5-star luxury accommodations.
Day trips in the region include viewing a popular waterfall, temple hopping, or making your way down to An Thoi, a commune just south of Duong To that is home to numerous lovely islands.
Photo: @taya.travels
Just south of Duong To is the newly built Sunset Town, built by Sunworld, the Vietnamese equivalent of Disney. The complex is an area that recreates famous landmarks worldwide, such as Arc de Triomphe, Pompeii Ruins, the Colosseum, etc.
Sunset Town was oddly quiet whether due to its new construction or the fact that I arrived during the off-season. Ghost town-like, I would call it. If you have the time to meander through its European-style streets, it’s a fantastic photo opportunity, and I sincerely hope it grows in popularity as more tourists learn about it.
This southern part of Phu Quoc is home to the world’s longest cable car system, which CANNOT be missed. The views as you go over Hon Dua and Hon Roi islands before landing on Hon Thom island are unparalleled and are worth a visit to Duong To on its own merit.
SOL by Meliá Phu Quoc | Best Budget Resort in Duong To
The gorgeous hotel SOL by Meliá Phu Quoc has an AMAZING ambience and bedrooms. There are three dining options, two bars, and a lagoon-style pool with sun loungers among the amenities. There’s also a gym, a kids’ club, an airy lounge with hammocks and a complimentary breakfast. I’m a sucky for a free brekky.
Novotel Phu Quoc Resort | Best Mid-Range Resort in Duong To
Located amongst the palm trees on Truong Beach, this modern, tropical resort is only a fifteen-minute drive from the airport, making it ideal for a quick getaway. All rooms include Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, rainfall showers, and tea & coffee-making facilities. If you choose a villa, you can take pleasure in breezy patios, private pools, and outdoor tubs that overlook the Gulf. Perfect, if you ask me!
Regent Phu Quoc | Best Luxury Resort in Duong To
This resort has a beautiful beachfront setting and excellent amenities; they even provide complimentary bikes so you can spend the afternoon exploring the island. The rooms are very contemporary and inviting, as is the entire resort. The rooftop infinity pools are a wonderful touch of luxury. Regent definitely knows how to spoil you on your vacation.
Things to See and Do in Duong To
- Visit the Kiss Bridge, an iconic construction in Phu Quoc inspired by the famous Vietnamese folklore and modern Western architecture.
- Embark on a local squid fishing boat and learn how to fish for squid in the night with the local fishermen.
- Visit Suoi Tranh Waterfall.
- Take a ride on Hon Thom cable car, the world’s longest cable car in the world.
- Spend a day learning a bit about the island’s history at Phu Quoc Prison History Museum.
- Ice Jungle Phu Quoc is a great amusement park to take the kids out for the day.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Phu Quoc
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Phu Quoc and where to stay.
What To Pack For Phu Quoc
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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What is the best neighbourhood in Phu Quoc for families?
Ong Lang Beach is the best area for families. There is plenty to do here for all ages and the accommodation is plentiful and is great value so you can spend your precious dong on activities and days out.
Which is the best side to stay on Phu Quoc?
If you want to see Phu Quoc without the crowds and construction, spend your time in the east and north. The east and north coasts include beautiful beaches that can be enjoyed for a whole week (or more). If you want to be in the heart of the island’s action while also having access to the greatest cafes and restaurants, stay on the East Coast.
Can you swim in Phu Quoc?
Of course! You’ll be best sticking to quieter beaches on the East Coast though. Unfortunately, when I went snorkelling near Ong Lang Beach there was a fair bit of rubbish and glass in the sea which sucks.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Phu Quoc
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Phu Quoc.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Phu Quoc?
Despite its growing popularity and the development of more resorts, Phu Quoc retains much of its local character when compared to other prominent locations in the Southeast region.
With its stunning beaches, lush green hills, rich jungles, and delicious seafood, you’ll quickly see why the island is becoming an increasingly popular spot in Vietnam. Whether you’re a solo traveller, couple, or family of four, there’s something for everyone waiting to be discovered in Phu Quoc.
It’s a relatively small island and super easy to get around on a motorbike so I recommend checking out all the areas mentioned in this guide. My favourite place to stay is Duong Dong Town for its accessibility to other parts of the island and it being home to the best restaurants and cafes on the island.
Another honourable mention is Khem Beach, largely for its untouched beaches and luxury accommodation options. If you want to live the high life on a fraction of the budget that it would cost you in Thailand or Bali, I recommend resorts like JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa.
That being said, wherever is good for you largely depends on what you want to get out of your stay. Either way, if you still want to experience the authentic Vietnamese beach vibe of this island before it’s completely transformed by tourism, I recommend you come here as soon as possible!
Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments!
Photo: @taya.travels
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Vietnam.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Vietnam.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Southeast Asia backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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