5 Fun Things To Do in Phu Quoc, Vietnam

To the joy of budget travelers, the cost of visiting the island of Phu Quoc is not completely inflated. At least it doesn’t have to be! During our 1-week visit, we discovered many cheap, fun and free things to do in Phu Quoc, Vietnam.

 

5 Affordable Things To Do on Phu Quoc

We felt like we had raced through Vietnam – spending time in Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An and Dalat. Stoked to have an entire week to relax beachside, we were not too concerned with what to do in Phu Quoc.

However, we quickly learned that some of the best Phu Quoc Island things are very affordable. This post contains everything you need to know to plan a budget trip to Phu Quoc – from what to do to where to stay to how to get there.

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#1 Catch Some Rays at a Phu Quoc Beach

One of the top Phu Quoc activities is going to the beach – and there are plenty sandy shoreline spots to choose from! In fact, there are about 20 beaches on Phu Quoc where visitors can relax and soak in the sea. We would take long walks along the shoreline before finding a beachfront restaurant where we could eat with our feet in the sand.

When we got too hot, we waded into the water where we could idly bob in the salty sea. After a swim, we would sway in a hammock and listen to the breeze. At night when there were clear skies, we would stretch out on beach chairs to gaze at the stars.

 

Best Beach on Phu Quoc: Long Beach

When we were searching for the best beach on the island, our research kept leading us to Long Beach (or Bai Truong in Vietnamese). The white-sand beach extends over 12 miles along the west coast – from Duong Dong Town to An Thoi. Numerous types of accommodations – from resorts to guesthouses – are found on Long Beach.

We loved Long Beach because it is perfect for walking, sunbathing and bobbing in the calm sea – all of which are free things to do!  In addition to these essential beach activities, Long Beach is also ideal for watching the local residents go about their daily routine.

One of our favorite things to see were the local fishermen. We enjoyed watching them paddle their small, circular boats; expertly negotiating the waves as they came ashore. Their arrival would rouse the residents and local chefs, who would saunter down the beach to purchase the fresh catch.

However, fishermen aren’t the only salespeople. Women selling fresh fruit amble up and down the beach in search of customers. Bananas are usually an inexpensive choice – and we bought a small bunch from a friendly vendor every day.

 

#2 Get a Massage on Phu Quoc

Oh, how I love a good massage. Even better: a good massage…on the beach…that costs less than lunch! A simple one-hour massage on a Phu Quoc beach can cost as little as $5.

Naturally, the least expensive massages aren’t in spas. Instead, women set up massage pads on beach loungers in the shade of an umbrella. Most offer a range of services – including a full body massage to pedicures to hair removal. We indulged in a one-hour massage with aloe wrap on a lounger near the surf…and paid about $10.

Visitors can have a more private experience in one of the Phu Quoc beach huts, where there is soft music playing and sweet aromas in the air. However, that ambiance comes at a price. Still, it’s hardly expensive compared to what massages cost in other parts of the world.

There are upscale spas at resorts on Phu Quoc, as well. Clients should expect to pay significantly more for treatments in these establishments. We saw hot stone massages advertised at a luxury spa for about $50.

 

#3 Feast on Fresh Seafood at the Phu Quoc Night Market

For a taste of the best food in Phu Quoc, there is no better place than the Dinh Cau Night Market in Duong Dong. During our time in Vietnam, we visited plenty of markets and ate a ridiculous amount of street food. However, nothing compared to the meal we consumed at the Night Market in Phu Quoc.

Vendors begin assembling the pop-up market at about 5pm, and by 7pm the place is hopping. Each vendor (there are about 50) displays heaping piles of seafood – fish, squid, scallops, snails, crab, lobster, shrimp – you name it. Some sellers are aggressive, but we recommend walking through the entire market before making any purchases – as prices and freshness may vary from stall-to-stall.

When we located a vendor that we liked, we grabbed a basket, filled it up with a variety of sea creatures and handed it to the chef hovering over the charcoal grill.

After seasoning our selection, he grilled it to perfection. It was the tastiest seafood I’ve ever eaten…and the entire smorgasbord-for-two cost about $15. Which was probably even inflated a bit for foreigners!

 

Shopping at the Phu Quoc Market

Going to the Night Market is one of the essential things to do on Phu Quoc Island.  Other food specialties are the numerous sweet treats – like ice cream rolls and coconut candy. Cheap souvenirs are also sold at the market, including fake pearls (yes, they are likely fake…so don’t overpay!).

 

Seaside Restaurants on Phu Quoc

For a different dining experience, we suggest splurging for a meal at The Spice House. We believe it is the best restaurant in Phu Quoc, even if it is a little spendy for Vietnam! Read reviews. Less expensive spots can be found along the beachfront, often on-site at the many water-facing hotels. 

 

#4 Enjoy a Beer at the Best Bars on Phu Quoc

As budget conscious travelers, one of the things we love about Vietnam is the cheap beer! There is nothing more refreshing in the late afternoon than an ice-cold beer to combat the stifling heat. We expected beer to cost more here, but we were pleasantly surprised. Most bars and restaurants sold a bottle of beer for about $1 – which is cheaper than the coffee!

Beer is so affordable that we didn’t really need to worry about how it would affect our budget. We could saunter up to any beachside restaurant and enjoy a few beers without hesitation. An even cheaper option is to grab beers from a convenience store and sip it ion the sand or in the ocean.

 

Nightlife in Phu Quoc

We stuck to the shore for our evening beverages, but there are some nightclubs where the entertainment extends into the wee hours. Those looking for clubs can find top-recommended party spots on TripAdvisor. 

 

#5 Savor Breathtaking Phu Quoc Sunsets

Of all the island attractions and places to visit in Phu Quoc, there is no sight more stunning than the setting sun. The long, west-facing coastline provides the perfect opportunity to watch sunsets that we can only describe as luxurious. Yet, it is of course absolutely free! Big spenders and budget travelers alike need to make sure that watching sunsets is on their Phu Quoc To-Do List.

Every night of our stay, we made sure to be on the beach (or in the water) for the spectacular show. Even with storm clouds, the sky would put on a dazzling display. We highly recommend finding a shoreline spot where you can settle in for the sight. For us, it was one of the most romantic and absolutely best things to do in Phu Quoc!

Want to further enhance your sunset experience? Set sail on an excursion that includes a BBQ Dinner and Squid Fishing. Learn more!

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Tour Phu Quoc Sights

We didn’t think the following attractions were Phu Quoc must-sees – so we skipped them (mostly because we were being lazy on the beach). However, for travelers who want to expand their Phu Quoc sightseeing beyond the beaches, we have outlined a few more options.

 

Phu Quoc National Park

Covering nearly the entire northern half of the island is Phu Quoc National Park. We read mixed reviews about visiting, but nature-lovers might want to seek it out. In addition to viewing the exotic flora and fauna, the park is a great place to stretch your legs and get a little exercise.

 

Phu Quoc Hiking

There are numerous trails on the main island, as well as on Hon Thom to the south. Find more details about the Ganh Dau Trail and popular Ham Ninh Mountain Trek.

 

Suoi Tranh Waterfall

It’s only a short hike to this waterfall – which flows in the rainy season and creates a pool where trekkers can cool off with a swim. The surrounding area includes manicured hedges and (reportedly) odd animal statues. 

 

Coconut Tree Prison Museum

Wondering what to see in Phu Quoc as far as historic sights? The Phu Quoc prison might be what you are looking for! Originally built by French colonists, it was used during the Vietnam War to hold communist prisoners. Declared a historical monument in 1993, the displays recreate the life of prisoners and the torture they endured. 

 

Boat Trips from Phu Quoc

There are numerous Phu Quoc boat trips that transport tourists off the main island to explore nearby beaches and coves.

 

3 Island Tour

On this tour, visitors stop off at three spots, including the famous Fingernail Island. Lunch is included on this full day of fun in the sun and the total price is right around $30. Get the details!

 

Snorkeling and Fishing Tour

Perhaps not the best snorkeling in Phu Quoc, this tour still comes at an affordable price of $30 per person. Check it out!

 

Cau and Cao Dai Temples

These two colorful temples are located just steps from the Night Market. The Dinh Cau Rock Temple and Lighthouse sit on a rocky outcrop and are dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea. The striking Cao Dai Temple is a place of worship more than a tourist attraction, but many go just to see the brightly colored exterior.

 

Sao Beach 

On the east coast of the island is the beautiful Sao Beach. Raved by many as the prettiest beach on Phu Quoc Island, there’s miles of white sand, beach loungers and swing chairs for those perfect vacation photos!

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How To Get to Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam

There are two main ways of getting to Phu Quoc: Ferry Boat or Flights. We opted to fly, which was not the cheapest option, but by far the faster option.

We hopped a plane from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc. The 1-hour flight from HCMC to Phu Quoc cost about $40. Unless you are on a bare-bones budget, we recommend buying tickets for Phu Quoc flights. Start your search for the best fares on SkyScanner!

 

Phu Quoc Airport

The Phu Quoc International Airport opened in 2012 and is just 5 miles south of Duong Dong (the main city) and just inland from Long Beach. There are direct flights to Phu Quoc from HCMC, Hanoi, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. There are also seasonal flights from other cities such as Seoul, Hong Kong and Taipei.

Transportation from the airport can be arranged through your lodging or booked in advance. There is also an inexpensive airport shuttle or metered taxis waiting at the airport.

 

Ferry Boats to Phu Quoc Island

Fast passenger ferry boats, operated by Superdong, depart from Rach Gia and Ha Tien to Bai Vong Pier on the east side of Phu Quoc. During out visit, tickets were less than $5 each way. Check the current schedule and latest prices on the official site.

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Phu Quoc Hotels

We believe the best place to stay in Phu Quoc is on Long Beach. The island has seen a boom in tourism and lodgings are popping up along the entire stretch of Long Beach. Beachfront Phu Quoc accommodation options range from posh resorts to cheap hostels. It is not difficult to find a hotel in Phu Quoc, but read out tips on how to get the best value for money.

 

Phu Quoc Resorts

‘Resort’ is a multifaceted word in Vietnam. It can mean anything from aging guesthouses to brand-new luxury properties. There are several Phu Quoc 5-Star Resorts that are in excess of $250 per night. However, some of the prime places to stay in Phu Quoc carry a 3-Star rating, include incredible amenities and are extremely affordable. 

 

Our Accommodation in Phu Quoc

After thorough research, we chose the family-run Phuong Binh Guesthouse. We believe it is the best value for budget travelers, and it is right on the beach. We fell asleep and woke each day to the sound of the waves lapping on the shore.

The property (which has been completely updated since our stay) has a pool and beachfront restaurant that serves delicious local food. Nightly rates start around $30 per night.

Search for the Best Hotels in Phu Quoc within your budget on Booking.com!

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Phu Quoc Travel Tips

By now, you probably agree that Phu Quoc is worth visiting…even on a budget. We have a few packing hacks for your backpack or suitcase to make your Vietnam trip an affordable and enjoyable one.

• Bring plenty of sunscreen! Buying it on the island can be ridiculously expensive.
• Pack your own snorkel gear if you want to explore below the water. 
• Sometimes travel goes wrong. Canceled flights, lost luggage or illness can be a real expensive disruption to your vacation. Check the affordable plans on World Nomads.

Start planning your trip to Vietnam! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing!  Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

 

 

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