Phu Quoc is the kind of place that makes you slow down, breathe deeper, and smile more. With its clear blue water, golden beaches, swaying palm trees, and peaceful fishing villages, the island gives you that perfect dose of calm and adventure. You might feel like doing nothing at all, or you might want to see everything. This blog is for travelers who want a bit of both: couples looking for sunsets and quiet time, families wanting activities for the kids, solo travelers chasing nature and culture, and anyone curious about local life beyond the beaches. If you're asking what to do in Phu Quoc for 5 or 6 days, this guide will help you shape a trip that’s easy, exciting, and full of memorable experiences.

Overview of Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is a tropical island in the Gulf of Thailand, located off the southwest coast of Vietnam. It belongs to Kien Giang Province and is the largest island in the country. Many people are surprised to learn that Phu Quoc is actually closer to Cambodia than to mainland Vietnam, even though it is officially Vietnamese territory. With white sand beaches, warm weather all year round, and a slower pace of life compared to the cities, Phu Quoc has become a favorite destination for both local and international travelers.

Fun fact, more than half of the island is a national park. This means you can both explore the jungle and relax on the beach without having to travel far. People come to Phu Quoc for different reasons: some want to rest at beach resorts, others want to explore nature, and many want to try fresh seafood. The island also has a growing list of attractions like water parks, night markets, and cable cars.

How many days do you need in Phu Quoc?

You need at least three full days to enjoy the main highlights of Phu Quoc. This gives you enough time to relax at the beach, explore local life, and take a day trip to the smaller islands. However, five to six days is ideal if you want a more complete experience. With that amount of time, you can visit different parts of the island at a relaxed pace, including the south (with the cable car and beaches), the north (with nature spots and fishing villages), and even enjoy a full day for snorkeling or just resting.

What to do in Phu Quoc for 5 or 6 days

If you're planning to stay for five or six days, you’ll have enough time to enjoy a bit of everything without feeling rushed. We’ve curated a kid-friendly Phu Quoc 6 days itinerary to help you make the most of your visit (in case you’re traveling with your family). It goes something like this:

Day 1: Arrival, Long Beach, and Night Market

You’ll most likely land at Phu Quoc International Airport in the early afternoon. The airport is located quite close to Duong Dong town and Long Beach, so travel time to your hotel will be short, just about 10 to 15 minutes if you’re staying in the central-south area.

We suggest booking a hotel along Long Beach (Bai Truong). It’s convenient, has good restaurants nearby, and is one of the best places to catch the sunset. Many beachfront resorts also have direct access to the sea and shallow, calm water that’s safe for kids.

Once you’ve checked in and unpacked, take it easy. Spend some time on the beach, maybe order a drink from the hotel bar, and enjoy the slow pace of island life.

Before sunset, head down to the beach or to one of the beachfront lounges like Sunset Sanato or Ocsen Beach Bar. Sunset Sanato has unique art installations on the sand, like elephant statues and archways, which are great for photos. It can get a bit touristy, but the view is still worth it.

After the sun goes down, take a short ride (or walk, if you're nearby) to Duong Dong Night Market. It opens around 5:30 PM and gets livelier as the evening goes on. It’s not a huge market, but it’s good for your first introduction to local food. You’ll see grilled seafood, skewers, rolled ice cream, fruit smoothies, and souvenirs. Try the grilled scallops with green onion oil and peanuts, or a bowl of “bún quậy”, a Phu Quoc specialty where you mix your own dipping sauce and stir raw seafood into hot broth at your table.

Prices here are a bit higher than local restaurants, but you’re paying for the atmosphere too. The market is also a safe and fun place to walk around with kids, with colorful lights and plenty of snacks.

After dinner, return to your hotel and get a good night’s rest. The next few days will be more active, so it’s best to start your trip with a relaxed pace.

Day 2: South Phu Quoc

Start your morning with a light breakfast, then head out for a day exploring the southern half of Phu Quoc. It’s a good idea to leave by 8:00 AM so you have time to enjoy each stop without rushing.

Begin at the Pearl Farm, just a short drive from Long Beach. Phu Quoc is known for its pearl farming, and here you can see how oysters are cultivated and how pearls are harvested and graded. It’s part museum, part shop, and worth a visit if you’ve never seen pearl farming before.

From there, stop at a Sim Wine House. Sim wine is a local specialty made from wild rose myrtle fruit. It’s slightly sweet, slightly bitter, and has a low alcohol content. The visit is quick but interesting—you can see the small production area and sample a few flavors. The wine also makes a fun local gift.

Next, head to a pepper farm. Even if you visited one in the north, the southern farms often offer more open space and hands-on info. You’ll see rows of tall green vines and learn how the peppercorns are dried and sorted. You can buy fresh black pepper, red pepper, or pepper-infused salt to take home.

From here, continue across the island to the Ham Ninh Fishing Village. This is one of the oldest villages on the island. The pier is long and full of charm, with views over the Gulf of Thailand and small boats bobbing in the distance. Restaurants along the shore serve freshly caught seafood, so this is a good place for lunch. Try the crab, mantis shrimp, or steamed squid.

Next, visit Ho Quoc Pagoda, a peaceful temple on a hill facing the sea. It’s quiet, spiritual, and very photogenic. You’ll see a big statue of the Buddha, dragon-carved stairs, and sweeping views of the coastline.

For lunch, stop at Sao Beach, which many consider the prettiest beach on the island. The sand is soft and pale, and the water is usually calm and shallow. The northern end of the beach is quieter, while the southern end has more restaurants and chairs for rent.  It’s a great place to pause before continuing. You can swim, nap under a tree, or enjoy a coconut by the shore.

In the afternoon, make your way to Phu Quoc Prison (Coconut Tree Prison). This historic site shows what life was like for prisoners during the Vietnam War. There are life-size models and original prison cells, and while the displays are intense, it’s an important part of the island’s history.

Afterward, stop at a Fish Sauce Factory nearby. Phu Quoc’s fish sauce is made using traditional methods and aged in huge wooden barrels. The smell is strong, but the process is fascinating. Most factories let you peek into the barrel room and try different types.

End your day in Sunset Town (or Mediterranean Town). This area is newly developed but designed with colorful Italian-style buildings, sea-view cafés, and a walking street by the coast. It’s a bit staged, but still worth seeing, especially around sunset. If you stay long enough, you might catch the Kiss Bridge light show or enjoy a quiet dinner overlooking the sea.

Day 3: Northern Phu Quoc

Today you’ll head to the northern part of the island, which is greener, quieter, and less developed than the south. Eat a good breakfast and plan to leave around 8:00 AM.

Start with a visit to a Bee Farm near Duong Dong. It’s a small, local spot where you can learn about bee colonies, how honey is harvested, and even try some fresh honeycomb. It’s a quick visit—30 minutes is enough.

Then drive further north into Phu Quoc National Park. The park is huge, but most travelers only explore a small section. One of the easiest ways to experience it is to take a short walk near the forest edge, especially around the Ham Rong area. The path is quiet, shady, and gives you a feel for the island’s inland nature. Bring insect repellent and wear proper shoes. There’s no need for a long hike—just enjoy the green surroundings and birdsong.

After that, continue north to Rach Vem Floating Village, one of the most unique places on the island. This little fishing community sits on stilts over the water. The road there can be rough, especially after rain, but the destination is peaceful and charming. The water is shallow and full of small fish and, during the right season, hundreds of red starfish. Some simple seafood restaurants are built on wooden platforms right over the water. Lunch here is casual, with grilled fish, shrimp, and sea snails often on the menu.

Next, stop at Ganh Dau Cape, located at the far northwestern tip of Phu Quoc. The beach is small but pretty, and on a clear day, you can see the Cambodian coastline across the water. There’s also a small temple and a viewpoint where you can watch the sea and passing boats.

On your way back down the coast, spend the late afternoon at Grand World Phu Quoc, a large and colorful entertainment area near Vinpearl. It looks like a European-style canal town, with shops, cafés, street performances, and even a night market. While it’s clearly built for tourism, it’s well-designed and quite fun in the evening. There is a Teddy Bear Museum, a food street, and an on-water theater where you can see a unique performance called “Quintessence of Vietnam”. If you're traveling with kids or just want a lively place to stroll around after a quiet day, this is a great way to finish the day.

Day 4: Island Hopping and Snorkeling

This is one of the most exciting days of the trip. You'll explore some of the small islands off the southern coast of Phu Quoc, swim in clear blue water, and snorkel above coral reefs. Make sure to wear swimwear under your clothes, bring sunscreen, and pack a towel, dry clothes, and some snacks if you're prone to getting hungry between meals.

Most island hopping tours depart from An Thoi port around 8:30 or 9:00 AM, so you’ll need to leave your hotel early depending on where you stay. It's best to book your tour in advance, either through your hotel or a reputable agency in Duong Dong. You can choose between a wooden boat (cheaper, slower) or a speedboat (more expensive, but covers more ground and is less crowded). Some tours offer lunch and snorkeling gear, so double-check what's included before you go.

You'll visit three islands: Hon Gam Ghi, Hon May Rut, and Hon Mong Tay (Fingernail Island).

The first stop is usually Hon Gam Ghi, known for its coral gardens. The water here is shallow and full of colorful marine life. It’s a good spot for beginners. Snorkeling gear is basic, but it gets the job done. Just go in with realistic expectations, this isn’t the Maldives, but it’s still beautiful.

Next, you’ll head to Hon May Rut, a peaceful island with soft sand, calm waves, and a couple of simple beach bars. Some tours stop here for lunch, which usually includes grilled fish, rice, salad, and fruit. You can swim, nap in a hammock, or take photos along the wooden bridge that stretches into the sea.

The last island is usually Hon Mong Tay (Fingernail Island), a small but scenic spot with clear turquoise water. It’s perfect for swimming or floating in the shallows. The island is quiet, and the setting is ideal for relaxing before the return trip.

You’ll be back at the port by mid-to-late afternoon, around 3:30 or 4:00 PM. Head back to your hotel for a shower and rest.

In the evening, treat yourself to a good dinner. If you're staying near Duong Dong, try a seafood BBQ at Ra Khoi, or for something more relaxed, Bup Restaurant or Xin Chao. If you’re not too tired, take a walk along Long Beach and enjoy the breeze. Most beach bars offer beanbags, cocktails, and music by the sea. This is a good time to wind down and soak in the island vibe.

Day 5: Villages, Culture, and Chill

After an active day out at sea, today is slower and focuses on culture, local life, and relaxation. Start with a visit to Coi Nguon Museum in Duong Dong. It’s a small private museum that tells the story of Phu Quoc’s history, from early settlement to the Vietnam War. The collection isn’t big, but it’s a good introduction to the island’s past and cultural influences. There's also a small souvenir shop and café on site.

Next, head inland toward Cua Can Village, one of the oldest fishing villages on the island. You can walk along the quiet riverbanks, watch boats go by, and see how locals live outside of the tourist areas. There’s not much infrastructure here, but that’s the charm. You can also try kayaking on the Cua Can River if you want something active but low-key.

From there, drive to Phu Quoc Countryside - Pepper Farm. The place is very relaxed and family-friendly, with cooking classes available if you book in advance. It’s also a nice place to have lunch—meals are made with ingredients grown on-site.

In the afternoon, continue to a local café around Ong Lang Beach. The area is peaceful, with fewer tourists than the southern beaches. Ong Lang has a rocky coastline but also quiet sandy spots where you can swim, read a book, or nap under the trees. Spend some time here just enjoying the breeze and the calm.

Before sunset, head back toward Duong Dong and visit Dinh Cau Night Market if you haven't already. It opens around 5:30 PM and gets busier after 7. You’ll find grilled seafood, Vietnamese snacks, souvenirs, and lots of people-watching. It’s touristy, yes, but also fun. Try a mango smoothie, banh trang nuong (Vietnamese grilled rice paper), or a skewer of octopus if you're feeling adventurous.

Day 6 (Optional) – Free Day

If you have a sixth day in Phu Quoc, this is your chance to either take it slow or enjoy one last burst of activity.

For a relaxed day, sleep in and enjoy your hotel’s facilities. Many resorts on Phu Quoc have good pools, spas, or private beaches. You can have a late brunch, book a massage, and spend the afternoon by the sea with a drink and a good book. If you’re staying in Duong Dong or Ong Lang, rent a scooter and explore nearby beaches at your own pace.

If you're traveling with kids or want some adventure, consider a day at VinWonders or Vinpearl Safari, located in the north. VinWonders is a large amusement and water park with roller coasters, slides, and shows. The safari is home to giraffes, lions, rhinos, and more, and offers a drive-through section that's surprisingly well-managed. Both attractions are clean, well-organized, and suitable for families.

Use this day to do whatever you didn’t get around to or simply relax before your departure.

Which month is best to visit Phu Quoc?

The best time to visit Phu Quoc is from November to April. During these months, the weather is sunny and dry, the sea is calm, and the skies are usually clear. It’s perfect for beach days, boat trips, and swimming. December to February is the peak season, so expect more visitors and slightly higher prices. March and April are still dry, but with fewer tourists and warmer temperatures.

When not to visit Phu Quoc?

It’s better to avoid visiting between July and September. This is the peak of the rainy season. Heavy showers, cloudy skies, and rough seas are common, and many boat tours may get canceled. The island is quieter and cheaper during this time, but your plans can easily get interrupted by the weather. If you don’t mind staying indoors and taking it easy, it’s still possible to enjoy the trip. But if you're coming for outdoor activities and clear water, this period is not ideal.

How to get to and around Phu Quoc?

How to Get to Phu Quoc

By Plane:
The easiest way to reach Phu Quoc is by plane. Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) is about 10 kilometers from Duong Dong town and receives flights from major cities in Vietnam like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Can Tho. There are also occasional direct flights from international destinations such as Bangkok, Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore, especially during the high season from November to April.

By Boat + Bus or Car:
If you're coming from the mainland (especially from the Mekong Delta), you can also take a combination of bus and ferry. Popular ferry routes to Phu Quoc are from:

• Ha Tien (shorter ride, around 1.5 hours by ferry)
• Rach Gia (longer ride, around 2.5–3 hours)

Both towns are reachable by sleeper bus from Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho. This option is usually cheaper than flying but takes more time.

Visa-Free Entry

Phu Quoc has a special visa exemption policy. Citizens of most countries can stay on the island for up to 30 days without a visa, as long as:

• You arrive directly to Phu Quoc from another country (by international flight or cruise)
• You exit through Phu Quoc and will leave Vietnam after 30 days
• You have a valid passport and return or onward ticket

If you're planning to visit other parts of Vietnam before or after Phu Quoc, then you'll need to apply for a regular Vietnamese tourist visa or use the e-visa system (valid for up to 90 days).

Getting Around Phu Quoc

Motorbike Rental: The most flexible and affordable way to get around is by renting a motorbike. Prices range from 150,000–200,000 VND per day, and many hotels offer rentals. Traffic on the island is light compared to the mainland, but road quality varies. Make sure you have some riding experience and always wear a helmet.

Car with Driver or Taxi: If you’re not comfortable riding, you can rent a private car with a driver for the day, especially useful if you’re traveling as a family or group. Prices depend on distance and duration, but expect to pay around 700,000–1,200,000 VND per day. Taxis are available, but they’re not always easy to find outside of Duong Dong.

Bicycle: Some resorts and homestays offer bicycles for free or for rent. It’s a good option for short trips around the beach or town areas, but not ideal for exploring the whole island due to distance and hills.

What part of Phu Quoc is best to stay in?

Duong Dong Town: This is the main town on the island and a good base for first-time visitors. You’ll find local markets, restaurants, the night market, and easy access to tours and services. It’s practical, walkable, and close to Long Beach.

Long Beach (Bai Truong): Stretches south of Duong Dong and is lined with resorts, beach bars, and restaurants. It’s ideal if you want to be by the sea and still close to town. Sunsets here are beautiful. It suits couples, families, and those looking for both convenience and leisure.

Ong Lang Beach: North of Duong Dong, Ong Lang is quieter and more peaceful. Resorts here are mid-range to upscale. It’s great if you want a relaxing stay without too much noise. There’s not much nightlife, but it’s beautiful and calm.

Sunset Town / An Thoi: Located at the southern tip of the island, this area has new resorts, a European-style promenade, and boat access to island hopping tours. It’s still developing, but if you’re after unique architecture, sea views, and a more modern setting, this could be the place.

Ganh Dau and Vung Bau (Northwest): These are more remote areas with luxury resorts and nature. Great for honeymooners or anyone who wants to disconnect and enjoy the quiet. There are fewer restaurants and shops nearby, so it’s better for those who plan to stay within the resort most of the time.

Each area has its charm, but most travelers choose to stay near Long Beach or Duong Dong for convenience. If you have time, you can also split your stay, one half near the action, the other in a quieter part of the island.

Conclusion

Now that you have a full itinerary and a better idea of what to do in Phu Quoc for 5 or 6 days, all that’s left is to start planning your own trip. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to exploring local villages and enjoying the sunset over the ocean, Phu Quoc has something for everyone. If you want a stress-free experience, you can book a private tour with Vietnam Original Travel tailored to your interests and pace. Or, if you're still exploring your options, feel free to check out our other travel blogs for more ideas across Vietnam.

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