Just off the coast of Cambodia, Phu Quoc is a Vietnamese island with lots of hidden charm. Unspoiled by the huge tourism of mainland resorts (as of now), Phu Quoc is often said to have the most beautiful beaches in the world.
The untouched coastline, rugged interior, and fascinating local culture make this a great trip for those who like to veer off the beaten path.
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!
However, word is getting out. Development and tourism are slowly starting on the island. So if you were looking for our sign to go to Phu Quoc, 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, I’ve done most of that research for you! After doing the hard job of exploring this beautiful island (it was tough but someone’s got to do it), I’ve compiled the four best places to stay. Whether you want calm, culture or coasts – I’ve got you covered.
So, let’s dive right in!
Phu Quoc isn’t small. 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 our top three places in Phu Quoc!
Phu Nam House | Eccentric Resort in Phu Quoc
Walking to your private hut at Phu Name House feels like stepping into a fairytale! These colourful small houses are super affordable but have stylish interiors and cute, cottage-like architecture. Khem Beach, among the most exclusive parts of the island, is only a short walk away. The native forest surrounding the houses adds charm, resulting in the perfect backdrop for a laid-back breakfast.
Phu House | Lively Hostel in Phu Quoc
There aren’t a lot of hostels on Phu Quoc – but thankfully, Phu House is here to help you save some cash. Alongside their dorm rooms, we think their privates are great value for those that need their own space. By far our favourite feature is the rooftop café, with stunning views of the sunrise and the sunset. It’s also right next to the main nightlife district.
Hanumia | Modern Bungalow in Phu Quoc
This super contemporary bungalow in peaceful Ong Lang Beach gives you the best of both worlds when it comes to rustic charm and modern comforts. The owner has channelled his Swiss hotelier experience and added a touch of Vietnamese charm for a truly unique experience. It sleeps up to seven people, but smaller parties might also be interested in their one bedroom bungalows.
Duong Dong
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.
Bai Truong
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.
Bai Khem
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.
Want to explore the country further? Find out where to stay in Vietnam in our insider guide!
Phu Quoc Top 4 Neighborhoods to Stay in
Phu Quoc is quite a small island. 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 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. It’s also a hugely photogenic destination, so fantastic for creatives.
Just south of Duong Dong 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.
Right in the far south is Bai Khem. This never used to be a major tourist area, but now that more people are learning about Phu Quoc, 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 getaway.
Finally, we have Ong Lang Beach, a few minutes north of Duong Dong. 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. You’ll also find a great mix of high-end restaurants and cheap hawker centre cuisine.
Still undecided? We know it’s a tough choice, so we’ve broken down every neighborhood even further below. We’ve also included our top accommodation picks and things to do in each.
#1 Duong Dong – Best Place to Stay in Phu Quoc for your First Time
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. It also has some great tourist attractions in its own right, including the photogenic harbour area.
Duong Dong 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, which is also home to the largest nightlife strip on the island.
Fine9 Hostel | Central Backpackers in Duong Dong
As the highest-rated hostel in Duong Dong, Fine9 is immensely popular with the backpacker crowd. Although not one for the party crowd, the calming interiors are perfect for those that just want to relax when they get back to their dorm. Beds are arranged in a pod-style, with privacy curtains and charging sockets. Guests also have free use of lockers.
Lantern House | Contemporary Home in Duong Dong
This calming apartment is beautifully decorated in a way that respects tradition while also taking tips from modern interior design. It is located right next to the Night Market – perfect for those that want to embed themselves in local culture. The small patio is decorated with locally crafted lanterns, making it a welcoming place to enjoy dinner in the evening.
Horizons Phu Quoc | Dreamy Bungalow Resort in Duong Dong
Many of the holiday homes in Phu Quoc 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 that 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
- 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.
- Seaworld Phu Quoc – no relation to the American parks – is a small pontoon offering water slides directly into the river.
- Amanda Ice Cream and Café is a quaint little casual eatery with gorgeous views towards Phu Quoc Harbour.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Bai Truong – Where to Stay in Phu Quoc on a Budget
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. Bai Truong is much quieter than the largest town, while still benefiting from extensive tourism infrastructure.
Everywhere in Vietnam, including Phu Quoc, is great for budget backpackers! Bai Truong, however, is home to the most hostels on the island. 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 | Affordable Hotel in Bai Truong
This three-star hotel gives you comfort and convenience without breaking the bank! They have family rooms and triple rooms, making it a great choice for families trying to stick to a budget. It’s located right on the waterfront, so you’ll have immediate access to the beach and the most popular attractions in Bai Truong. We also appreciate the free shuttle service for guests.
Phu House | Vibrant Hostel in Bai Truong
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 | Unique Tiny House in Bai Truong
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.
Things to See and Do in Bai Truong:
- Experience life through the eyes of a local with this excellent day long experience departing from South Bai Truong.
- Phu Quoc Beach stretches right through this neighborhood – it is often regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world, and there’s plenty of room for everyone.
- 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.
- Head to Sunset Sanato Beach Club – a laid-back restaurant by day, they have super affordable drinks in the evenings.
#3 Ong Lang Beach – Best Area in Phu Quoc for Families
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.
It’s not an unusual occurrence 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.
Phu Quoc Eco Beach Resort | Beautiful Beach Resort in Ong Lang Beach
Environmentally conscious travellers will feel right at home in this verdant hotel. Bordered by native forests on one side, the hotel has its own private beach – perfect for families looking to avoid the tourist crowds. Their on-site restaurant offers a variety of cuisines; however, these all use locally sourced ingredients. The spa offers a wide range of holistic therapies and treatments.
Paradiso Phu Quoc | Budget Resort in Ong Lang Beach
While there aren’t any hostels near Ong Lang Beach, Paradiso Phu Quoc is a budget friendly resort right on the beach! They also have great communal areas, giving you the best bits of the hostel experience without compromising on privacy. Surrounded by coconut and bamboo trees, it’s a great option for a calm getaway. They have family suites too, so you’re free to bring the kids along!
Hanumia | Stylish Family Home 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 only a short walk from the beach itself, but the surrounding neighborhood has a more secluded feel, filled only with the noise of native wildlife. Each suite comes with a private kitchen and balcony; they also offer smaller options for solo travellers and couples.
Things to See and Do in Ong Lang Beach
- 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).
- Ong Lang Beach is a great spot to relax, but on the rare occasion, you find it getting busy, head up to the even more secluded Cua Can.
- Bamboo Restaurant, right on the beach, has a rustic charm and a great selection of typical Vietnamese cuisine.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Bai Khem – Exclusive Neighborhood in Phu Quoc for Couples
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.
Couples, in particular, will find this destination rewarding. While backpackers and families stick to the west of the island, the beaches here are empty and well kept. It’s also the best spot for catching the sunrise in the morning.
Phu Nam House | Fairytale Resort near Bai Khem
Nestled among the forests surrounding Bai Khem, this idyllic holiday resort is great for couples on a budget. 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.
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay | Luxurious 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. Guests even have their own private section of the beach with sun-loungers and umbrellas. The extensive spa and wellness centre offers a wide range of treatments – including couples’ massages and facials.
Sao Beach | Budget Bungalow near Bai Khem
Though marketed as a family bungalow, this bright and airy holiday home is so affordable that even the most frugal couples won’t bat an eyelid booking this place. In neighboring Sao Beach, it’s one of the few opportunities to stay in the most exclusive part of the island. You’ll get to enjoy a more authentic way of life, as the locals here are less preoccupied with tourism.
Things to See and Do in Bai Khem
- Take a walk to nearby Bai Tam Sao – a popular day trip destination with unique local attractions.
- Bai Khem is our favourite beach on the whole island, with unspoiled sands, gorgeous blue water, and excellent photo spots.
- Cudowna i Pusta Plaza is a gorgeous restaurant right on the beach if you feel like getting out of the resort for an evening.
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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
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Phu Quoc
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Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Phu Quoc?
Phu Quoc is a fascinating destination with many hidden charms. The beaches here haven’t fallen victim to mass tourism, giving you a truly relaxing destination in Southeast Asia away from the usual backpacker crowds. 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 quite a small island, so we recommend checking out all the areas mentioned in this guide. For this reason, our favourite place to stay is Duong Dong. This is where you will find the best connections to other parts of Phu Quoc.
That being said, wherever is good for you largely depends on what you want to get out of your stay. We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options. We’re sure you will have an unforgettable stay!
Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!
- 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.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
