The best things to do on Phu Quoc Island
Phu Quoc is an island located just off the coast of both Vietnam and Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand. The island is Vietnam’s answer to a tropical island getaway and here you will find white sand beaches, luxury resorts and a great mix of relaxation and adventure.
Getting to Phu Quoc in Vietnam
Getting to Phu Quoc is pretty easy. Jump on a plane from Ho Chi Minh City for a short 45 minutes flight or alternatively, a 90 minutes ferry departs from Ha Tien. The ferry is the more affordable option by far.
Transport around Phu Quoc Island
Getting around Phu Quoc isn’t difficult either. Scooters can be hired from many hotels or hire places around the island. If you don’t feel comfortable doubling your kid on a scooter in a foreign country, it’s easy to grab a taxi or private driver for the day. Reputable meter taxi companies include both Mai Linh and SASCO.
A fun way to get around Phu Quoc for things to do is by bicycle. Many hotels hire them for a low price however Vietnam traffic is known for its chaos so be careful.
Of course, getting around via good old-fashioned foot power is a great way to enjoy the markets (Duong Dong markets are great) and this way, you can take that barefoot stroll up the beach whenever you want.
Where to stay on Phu Quoc Island
We stayed at Long Beach Resort and loved the location fronting the beach. The sunset over this beach is pretty epic and watching this every evening was one of our favourite things to do on Phu Quoc Island.
If your budget allows, book into the ancient wing of this resort for the unique experience of traditional village styled rooms. Think wooden bathtubs and tranquil fish ponds in the courtyards.
The other rooms are nice as well if your budget doesn’t stretch this far though.
If you’ve come to Phu Quoc Island for a spat of luxury, the following resorts are also top choices:
For a more affordable stay on Phu Quoc, check out the following:
Great, now that you’ve got some ideas of how to get to Phu Quoc Island and where to stay, let’s take a look at some of the great things to do there.
Things to do on the island of Phu Quoc
Take the Phu Quoc cable car to Hon Thom
Get an amazing view of the island by taking the eight-kilometre Phu Quoc cable car over to Hon Thom Island. It’s the longest non-stop three-way cable car in the world recorded by the Guiness Book of Records.
The trip takes around 15 minutes and and boasts epic views of the islands, fishing villages and beaches.
Visit Dinh Cau Temple
Dinh Cau is a cute little temple built on an odd-shaped rock formation right next door to Duong Dong Harbour. Supposedly, local fishermen pray here before heading out on a fishing excursion from Phu Quoc Island.
Constructed in 1937, it has a Buddhist shrine and a brightly coloured lighthouse. It’s quite interesting and there are some nice views from the highest point. However, it only takes around 15 minutes to visit.
Explore the beaches
As the sun sets over Long Beach in the west of Phu Quoc, take an afternoon stroll on the beach. It’s so nice to be able to just walk along the beach and let the incoming waves wash over your feet. Sunsets from Long Beach are stunning!
Sao Beach in the east, is by far, the most picturesque beach on the island with crystal clear water and white sand. Rent an unbrella and lounge for the day to make the most of it.
Go shopping at Duong Dong Market
Duong Dong Market is Phu Quoc island’s largest outdoor market and also the busiest. Most people add this to their ‘things to do list’ when visiting the island. Fresh produce can be bought here and it’s a great way to experience the local way of life.
Close to Duong Dong Port is a wet zone where the fishing boats drop off the fresh seafood sold by the vendors. As to be expected, it smells like a fish market.
The dry section is where you get souvenirs to take home and there is also a wide range of fresh fruit and vegetables.
Visit Duong Dong Harbour
At Duong Dong Harbour you can stroll out on the jetty and watch the boats and fishermen. Some of the working boats here are fantastically outdated. However, this most definitely only adds to the charm. Like they say if it ain’t broke don’t fix it.
Escape to Suoi Tranh Waterfall
A ten-minute drive from Duong Dong, the Suoi Tranh Waterfall is located within the Ham Ninh Mountains. It’s a great natural attraction, perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city and markets.
Further along from this four-metre-high waterfall, you can hike to Hang Doi (Grotto of Bats). The best time to visit the waterfall is in the rainy season from May to September.
Get a dose of amusement park fun at Vinpearl Land
Vinpearl Land is basically a big amusement park with a bit of something for everyone. There are rides, 5D cinema, a games area, an aquarium and a waterpark with slides.
There is also a mermaid show, shark feeding show and musical water fountain. Get your tickets here.
Snorkel around the surrounding islands
Take a day tour out to three islands in the An Thoi archipelago for some great snorkelling, sunbathing and swimming. Swim and enjoy the sunshine at Mong Tay Island, snorkel the coral reefs at Gam Ghi Island and snorkel or scuba further at May Rut Island. Lunch is included in the tour. Book your tickets here.
Looking for more awesome family holiday destinations?
For more information on visiting Vietnam, make sure to visit our Vietnam page. Alternatively, head back to the home page for inspiration on more destinations worldwide.
Go FOMO? Join our monthly newsletter mailing list so you don’t miss out on the good stuff … like competitions, great deals and the latest inspiration on family travel destinations and activities.
Resources for booking a family holiday to Vietnam
Flights
Most international flights will land in either Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. Search Trip.com for a great deal on flights to Vietnam.
Accommodation
We have stayed at and loved the following hotels and resorts in Vietnam:
- HOI AN – The Hoi An Beach Resort
- NINH BINH – The Legend Hotel
- PHU QUOC Island – Long Beach Resort
- HO CHI MINH CITY – The Grand Hotel Saigon
Unfortunately, I can’t recommend the hotel we stayed at in Hanoi as it was less than ideal!
Activities and tours
Viator is a great choice when it comes to selecting activities and tours. Just click on the banner below!
