The Perfect 3-Day Phu Quoc Itinerary: Where to Stay and What to Do on Pearl Island
Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam’s largest, is known for its pristine beaches, scenic national parks, and a unique mix of touristy and natural attractions. Located in the Kien Giang Province, just south of the coast of Cambodia, this tropical island is a paradise with lush forests, white-sand beaches, and fascinating local fishing villages.
Whether you’re interested in history, diving, or simply enjoying the beach, Phu Quoc, also known as Pearl Island, is a well-rounded destination where you get a bit of everything.
This 3-5 Day Phu Quoc itinerary perfectly balances adventure, culture, and relaxation, covering popular landmarks and a few hidden gems. With three full days, you’ll soak in the island’s top sights, indulge in fresh seafood, and even fit in some shopping. With an extra two days, you'll check out some of the interesting industries on the island like pepper farms and fish sauce factories.
A Brief Overview of Your Phu Quoc Itinerary
Day 1: Enjoy the sandy shores of Bai Sao Beach, dive into history at the Phu Quoc Prison Museum, try local Sim wine at a Sim Wine Factory, visit the scenic Ho Quoc Pagoda, and wrap up with street food at the Phu Quoc Night Market.
Day 2: Explore northern Phu Quoc with a visit to Vinpearl Safari or a kayaking adventure on the Cua Can River in the morning. Enjoy Vinwonders Phu Quoc or relax at Ganh Dau Cape before ending your day at Rach Vem Fishing Village, famous for its starfish.
Day 3: Go on an island-hopping trip around the An Thoi Archipelago, enjoy panoramic views on the Hon Thom Cable Car, have fun at Sun World, and end with a sunset back at Long Beach.
How to Get to Phu Quoc
The Phu Quoc airport is well-connected with flights from major Vietnamese cities, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Jetstar Pacific offer regular flights to Phu Quoc, with fares typically ranging from US$30-$55.
Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) also serves a few international destinations, especially from Southeast Asia, such as Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur.
For those who prefer water travel, you can catch a ferry from Rach Gia or Ha Tien on the mainland. Ferries typically operate multiple times daily, though schedules may vary in the off-season. A one-way ticket is currently 315,000 VND ~ US$13.
Where to Stay in Phu Quoc
There are two popular areas for tourists on the island. Duong Dong Town is the main hub and is home to several lovely accommodation options.
The second option is the newer Sunset Town on the southern tip of the island. The town was built to mimic a seaside village on the Amalfi Coast, complete with cobblestone streets and clock towers. It's a convenient location for island hopping tours to Hon Thom Island and surrounding islets.
If you have five days to explore Phu Quoc, I would recommend staying a few days in each region!
Luxury Option: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa
The JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, designed by architect Bill Bensley, features a whimsical, university-themed design where each building represents a different academic department, such as a dean’s library-inspired lobby and a lab-style bar.
Situated in the south, the resort offers a private stretch of Khem Beach, multiple swimming pools, and a garden with seating. One of the pools is shaped like a giant seashell – total mermaid vibes!
Mid-Range: La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc – MGallery
Located in Long Beach, La Veranda combines comfort with classic colonial style. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a bit of luxury without breaking the bank. The resort’s design is inspired by a 1920s French mansion.
Budget: 9Station Hostel Phu Quoc
Close to the Phu Quoc Night Market, this hostel offers dormitory rooms and private options. It’s clean, affordable, and ideal for meeting other travelers. It features a large swimming pool, business center, motorbike rentals, and a multilingual, helpful staff.
What to Eat in Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc is famous for its seafood and Vietnamese street food. When eating on this beautiful island, be on the lookout for:
Nhum (Sea Urchin): Local delicacies, sea urchins are often served raw or grilled.
Fish Sauce (Nước Mắm): Phu Quoc is famous for its fish sauce, made from anchovies and salt, and is an essential ingredient in many Vietnamese dishes.
Gỏi Cá Trích (Mackerel Salad): Fresh mackerel tossed with herbs, vegetables, and a tangy dressing, often served in a rice paper wrapping.
Bún Quậy (Raw Fish Noodle Soup): A unique dish that consists of mashed raw fish and other seafood, rice noodles, and a light broth.
Sim Wine: Made from the local sim fruit (rose myrtle), this sweet wine is a popular beverage in Phu Quoc.
The Ultimate 3-Day Phu Quoc Itinerary
For this detailed Phu Quoc Itinerary, I've included a basic outline of the top attractions, organized by location. Day one and three are fairly straightforward, but for day two, you have some options!
Phu Quoc Itinerary Day 1: Beaches & Local Markets
Morning: Beach Time
Start your day at Bai Sao Beach on Phu Quoc’s southeastern coast. The white sand and gentle waves make it a prime spot for a refresher morning after traveling. Paddleboarding and kayaking rentals are available, and if you want to unwind, local beachside cafes offer breakfast options and fancy coconut drinks.
Midday: Phu Quoc Prison Museum and Sim Son Wine Factory
After a morning in the sand, learn about Vietnam’s wartime history at the Phu Quoc Prison Museum. The museum offers exhibits on the hardships endured by Vietnam War POWs in a famous French Colonial structure. It's an educational, but slightly difficult, tour.
Afternoon: Ho Quoc Pagoda and Ham Ninh Fishing Village
Located on a hill overlooking the ocean. Ho Quoc was established in 2012 and is the largest Buddhist complex on the island, featuring dragon stairs and several large Buddha statues.
Then, visit Ham Ninh Village, a quaint spot where you can observe traditional fishing practices, stroll along the waterfront, and enjoy the serene coastal scenery. Hanh Nhung Phu Quoc Restaurant, known for its tasty seafood and terrace with a view, is a great spot to try the local delicacies!
For an easy first day, this organized tour from Get Your Guide explores Phu Quoc Prison, Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm, and Bai Sao Beach, as well as Ham Ninh Fishing Village and other southern hot spots!
Evening: Phu Quoc Night Market
Wrap up the day at Phu Quoc Night Market in Duong Dong. You’ll find everything from octopus skewers to tropical fruit smoothies. Open every evening until 11.30 pm, it's a great spot to enjoy the local nightlife.
Phu Quoc Itinerary Day 2: Tour the North Island
Today, you'll explore the less traveled north of the island. Depending on your favored type of travel, you have a few options on day two.
Morning: Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc or Cua Can River Kayaking
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Spice House, known for its variety of local Vietnamese breakfast options and Western treats. The whole place smells of cinnamon and their fresh-baked pastries are to die for.
After breakfast, head to Vinpearl Safari, Vietnam's largest wildlife conservation park. Spend a couple of hours exploring the park to see giraffes, exotic birds, and multiple wildlife shows. Since the closing of Phu Quoc National Park, this is your best bet to see terrestrial wildlife in Phu Quoc.
If zoos aren't your thing, opt for a kayaking adventure instead! This tour from Get Your Guide is a full day of fun with multiple river kayaking adventures through the breathtaking natural scenery of the north, Rach Vem Fishing Village, and Ganh Dau Beach.
Afternoon: Vinwonders Phu Quoc or Ganh Dau Cape
After lunch, take some time to explore Vietnam's largest amusement park, Vinwonders Phu Quoc, which offers rides, a water park, and entertainment shows.
Vinwonders is in Phu Quoc United Center, which is a massive complex of any and everything tourist-related. It features a Venice-like canal in Grand World Phu Quoc, a miniature version of Shanghai, beautiful beaches, high-end resorts, and much more!
If you don't have kiddos and don't fancy tourist attractions, spend your afternoon wandering the rocky shores of Ganh Dau Cape or take a quick snorkeling expedition to Turtle Island!
Evening: Rach Vem Fishing Village and Starfish Beach
If you're not spending your evening at Phu Quoc United Center, go to Rach Vem Fishing Village, also called Starfish Beach, due to the abundance of red starfish in the shallow waters.
Stroll along the wooden fishing huts, and end your day with a seafood dinner. This is a quiet, laid-back spot perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds.
Phu Quoc Itinerary Day 3: Island Hopping, Cable Cars, and Sun World
Morning: Island Hopping to the An Thoi Archipelago and Rut Island
A trip to Phu Quoc is not complete without an unforgettable journey to its stunning coral reefs, home to moray eels, sea snakes, blue-spotted rays, and anemones. Start day three with an island-hopping tour to the An Thoi Archipelago.
These tours typically include snorkeling and sunbathing at top spots like Gam Ghi Island (Dam Ngang Island), and Fingernail Island, but Rut Island is a highlight, with crystal clear waters ideal for spotting underwater life.
Afternoon: Hon Thom Cable Car and Pineapple Island
Next, board the cable car to Pineapple Island (Hon Thom). Stretching over the ocean, it is one of the longest in the world and offers incredible views of the islands, ending at Sun World Phu Quoc (another amusement and water park).
On Pineapple Island, you’ll find breathtaking beaches, restaurants, and water activities, including jet-skiing and kayaking.
Evening: Sunset on the Beach
Close out your trip with a sunset at Long Beach. The beach stretches along Duong Dong, and many beachfront restaurants offer sunset views and fresh seafood dinners. I suggest Vuon Tao Restaurant, an adorable open-air eatery with awesome spring rolls.
Got More Time? Extend to a 4 or 5-Day Trip!
By adding a couple more days to your Phu Quoc trip, you’ll have time to explore more of the island’s natural beauty and local crafts.
Phu Quoc Itinerary Day 4: Pepper and Fish Sauce
On day four, explore two Pearl Island culinary delicacies. Start with a visit to one of Phu Quoc’s pepper farms to learn about black pepper cultivation. Then, head to Khai Hoan Fish Sauce Factory to see how the island’s famous fish sauce is produced.
Red Boat Fish Sauce Factory is a favorite worldwide. It's not open to the public, but you can sometimes arrange a private tour by email.
In the afternoon, go on a hike to Suoi Tranh Waterfall. It's a scenic walk with a refreshing dip in the waterfall pool at the end.
Phu Quoc Itinerary Day 5: Cooking Classes and Temples
Take a Vietnamese cooking class in Duong Dong and learn to make some local dishes. Many classes include a market visit where you’ll shop for ingredients with your instructor.
Afterward, venture to Dinh Cau Rock Temple. The temple is dedicated to Thien Hau, the goddess of the sea, who is believed to protect fishermen and sailors. It is particularly popular at sunset, as it offers stunning views of the horizon and the nearby Dinh Cau Lighthouse.
Book Your Trip To Vietnam
Book Your Flight
I recommend using Skyscanner as the easiest way to find and compare the best airfares to and within Vietnam.
Book Your Hotel
My top pick for finding the perfect accommodation is Booking.com, as they guarantee the best room rate available, plus you get free cancellation on most bookings.
Book Your Tours & Activities
I like finding and pre-booking tours with Get Your Guide and Viator. You will book with instant confirmation, great customer support, and free cancellation for many activities.
Access Money Overseas Without Hidden Fees
I highly recommend getting a Wise account to withdraw money in Vietnam, pay for meals on the Visa card, or shop in Vietnamese Dong. With Wise, you always pay the real exchange, so you never pay more than you need to.
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Phu Quoc Itinerary: Frequently Asked Questions
☀️ What is the best time to visit Phu Quoc, Vietnam?
The best time to visit Phu Quoc is from November to April when the weather is sunny and dry. The island experiences a rainy season from May to October, which can bring heavy rains and high humidity.
🏝️ What are the main attractions on Phu Quoc Island?
Scuba diving around Gam Ghi Island in the An Thoi Archipelago, Phu Quoc Prison, Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc, Ham Ninh Fishing Village, Dinh Cau Temple, Suoi Tranh Waterfall, and the Phu Quoc Cable Car and Night Market are the most visited attractions on Phu Quoc Island.
🏍️ What’s the best way to get around Phu Quoc, Vietnam?
The most convenient way to get around Phu Quoc is by renting a motorbike through your hotel or resort. Alternatively, a land or water taxi can be convenient but expensive. Affordable Guided tours take you to specific attractions if you prefer a set itinerary.
Phu Quoc Itinerary: Final Words
As you've probably realized by now, there are plenty of attractions from laid-back beaches to high-end tourist complexes to keep you entertained on Phu Quoc Island. From the almost absurd (but fun) lavishness of World Phu Quoc to hidden gems like Fingernail Island, a Phu Quoc itinerary is filled with adventure from start to finish!
If you're checking off Vietnam from your travel list soon, make sure to spend a few days on Pearl Island.
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