Phu Quoc – Vietnam’s largest island, often referred to as the “Pearl Island” or a “tropical paradise” in the Gulf of Thailand, is a dream destination for those who love crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and breathtaking sunsets. If you’re planning a perfect trip in 2025, this Phu Quoc solo travel guide will provide you with detailed tips for an independent adventure, ensuring you make the most of your journey!
The Best Time to Visit Phu Quoc
When is the best time to travel to Phu Quoc? The ideal period is from late October to April, when the island enters its dry season. During this time, Phu Quoc enjoys pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 27–28°C and occasionally reaching up to 35°C.
The climate is mild, with little rainfall, soft golden sunlight, calm seas, and fresh air—perfect for sightseeing, outdoor activities, relaxation, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or exploring the island’s tropical forests.
Additionally, the transitional periods in late October and early April are also great options. During these times, rainfall decreases, the weather remains cool and comfortable, and tourist crowds are not yet overwhelming, allowing for a more relaxed travel experience.
However, the dry season is also the peak tourist season in Phu Quoc. The island sees a surge in visitors, especially during the winter holidays for Western travelers. As a result, hotels, resorts, and services operate at full capacity, and prices tend to rise. To avoid fully booked accommodations and high costs, it’s best to plan ahead by booking flights, hotels, and other services in advance.
How to Get to Phu Quoc
To reach Phu Quoc, travelers can choose between two main transportation options: flights and high-speed ferries. Below is a detailed Phu Quoc solo travel guide to help you plan an efficient trip to Pearl Island.
Flights to Phu Quoc
To reach Phu Quoc, travelers have multiple transportation options, including direct international flights, domestic flights, and high-speed ferries.
Direct International Flights to Phu Quoc
Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) has expanded its connectivity, welcoming direct flights from various international destinations:
- From Seoul, South Korea: Airlines such as Eastar Jet, Jeju Air, Jin Air, Korean Air, and VietJet Air operate direct flights to Phu Quoc.
- From Hong Kong: HK Express and VietJet Air offer direct services to Phu Quoc.
- From Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia: AirAsia provides direct flights to Phu Quoc.
- From Bangkok, Thailand: Thai Vietjet Air operates direct flights from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, while Thai AirAsia offers services from Don Mueang International Airport.
- From Singapore: Scoot and Vietnam Airlines offer non-stop flights from Singapore to Phu Quoc.
These flights provide a visa-free entry for up to 30 days for international visitors flying directly to Phu Quoc without transiting through other Vietnamese airports.
High-Speed Ferries to Phu Quoc
From Rạch Giá to Phu Quoc
Rạch Giá is approximately 120 km from Phu Quoc. High-speed ferry services, including Superdong and Phu Quoc Express, operate on this route, with a travel time of around 2 hours and 10 minutes. Ticket prices range from 330,000 VND to 340,000 VND for standard seats and 500,000 VND to 540,000 VND for VIP seats.
From Hà Tiên to Phu Quoc
Hà Tiên, located 45 km from Phu Quoc, is a faster alternative to Rạch Giá. Superdong and Phu Quoc Express operate ferries on this route, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Standard tickets cost between 230,000 VND and 250,000 VND, while VIP tickets range from 330,000 VND to 350,000 VND.
Recommended Accommodations in Phu Quoc for solo travelers
Wondering which area to stay in when visiting Phu Quoc? This is a common question for many travelers planning their trip. Choosing the right location for accommodation will enhance your experience, making it easier to explore the island while ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
Below are some of the most popular areas to stay on the island based on Phu Quoc Map, along with their advantages and disadvantages, as well as top resort recommendations for each.
Southern Phu Quoc
Southern Phu Quoc is home to some of the island’s most stunning beaches, including Khem Beach and Sao Beach, known for their powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This area is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat, away from the hustle and bustle, to fully relax in nature. However, since it is located about 25 km from the island’s center, traveling to other attractions might take more time.
One of the best accommodation options in this area is Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, a 5-star beachfront resort located on Bãi Khem, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches.
Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay offers 752 contemporary apartments, each designed for maximum comfort and featuring panoramic ocean views. The accommodations cater to couples, families, and groups of friends, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
For those looking to stay active, the resort provides a fully equipped gym, while guests in need of relaxation can indulge in the Emerald Spa. Families traveling with children will appreciate the Kids Club, which offers fun activities to keep little ones entertained. One of the highlights of the resort is its large infinity pool, offering breathtaking sea views, perfect for unwinding in a serene setting.
Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay also provides complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport and Sunset Town, ensuring easy and stress-free transportation for guests. For those planning to explore the island’s attractions, the resort offers Stay & Play Combos, which include accommodation and tickets to popular activities such as Hon Thom Cable Car and Sunset Town, helping visitors save on costs.
Room rates start from 2,500,000 VND per night, with frequent promotions available for early bookings. For independent travelers seeking a luxurious yet convenient retreat without the hassle of transportation, Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay is an excellent choice.
Northern Phu Quoc
Northern Phu Quoc is known for its untouched nature, lush primary forests, and stunning beaches such as Bãi Dài. Staying in this area gives visitors the opportunity to explore Phu Quoc National Park and visit traditional fishing villages. However, it is about 30 km from Duong Dong town, so dining and entertainment options may be more limited compared to other areas.
Recommended Resorts in Northern Phu Quoc
- Gold Sand Beach Bungalow – Ap 4, Cua Can, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang – Prices start at approximately $58 per night.
- Venus Phu Quoc Hotel – To 1, Ap Ganh Dau, Ganh Dau, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang – Rooms are available from around $16 per night.
- Gold Beach Hotel Phu Quoc – To 1, Ap Cua Lap, Duong To, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang – Nightly rates begin at about $16.
Near Duong Dong Town – The Heart of Convenience & Local Cuisine
Duong Dong town is the administrative and economic center of Phu Quoc, offering a wide range of restaurants, eateries, night markets, and entertainment services. Staying here makes it easy to access various conveniences and experience local life. However, the beaches in this area may not be as pristine as those in the North or South, and the atmosphere can be bustling and noisy due to the high population density.
Recommended Resorts Near Duong Dong Town
- Sen Hotel Phu Quoc – 69 Tran Hung Dao Street, Khu Pho 7, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang – Rooms start at approximately $35 per night.
- Victoria Phu Quoc Hotel – Hem 63, Tran Hung Dao Street, Khu Pho 7, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang – Prices begin at around $40 per night.
- Blue Sky Phu Quoc Hotel – 65 Tran Hung Dao Street, Khu Pho 7, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang – Rates start at approximately $40 per night.
Exploring Phu Quoc’s Cuisine at Affordable Prices
Phu Quoc is not only famous for its breathtaking scenery but also for its incredible culinary scene, offering a variety of delicious specialties at reasonable prices. This Phu Quoc solo travel guide will offer you some insightful culinary experiences:
Ham Ninh Crab
A trip to Phu Quoc wouldn’t be complete without tasting Hàm Ninh crab, known for its fresh, firm, and flavorful meat. The simplest and most delicious way to enjoy it is steamed and served with salt and lime pepper sauce. You can find Hàm Ninh crab at Hàm Ninh fishing village or local markets like Duong Dong Market and An Thới Market.
- Price: from 180,000 VND/kg
Crab Noodle Soup
Bánh canh ghẹ is a signature noodle soup in Phu Quoc, featuring fresh crab, shrimp, fish cakes, and squid in a clear, naturally sweet broth.
- Where to try: Lê Giang Crab Noodle Soup – 289 Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong
- Price: 60,000 VND for a regular bowl, 120,000 VND for a special bowl
Mackerel Noodle Soup
This dish is made with freshly caught mackerel, which is either cooked fresh or turned into fish cakes, served with soft rice noodles in a flavorful broth.
- Where to try: Phụng Restaurant – Bạch Đằng Street, near Dinh Cau
- Price: 30,000 – 50,000 VND per bowl
Ken Noodle Phu Quoc
Ken Noodle is a unique dish made from pureed fish (usually nhàu or ngân fish), fried until crispy, then mixed with coconut milk, fish broth, green papaya, herbs, and chili. The thick, rich broth is what makes this dish stand out.
- Where to try: Út Lượm Bún Kèn – 87 – 30/4 Street, Duong Dong
- Price: 25,000 – 30,000 VND per bowl
Quay Noodle Phu Quoc
Quay Noodle is a popular street food dish with a rich, aromatic broth made from pork bones, dried shrimp, and fresh seafood. It is typically served with fresh noodles, herbs, squid, fish cakes, and quail eggs.
- Where to try: Kiến Xây Bún Quậy – 28 Bạch Đằng, Duong Dong
- Price: 30,000 – 50,000 VND per bowl
Getting Around Phu Quoc: Transportation Tips
When traveling independently in Phu Quoc, choosing the right mode of transportation will help you explore the island conveniently and cost-effectively. Below are some of the most popular options for getting around Phu Quoc.
Renting a Motorbike
Renting a motorbike is one of the most flexible and economical ways to get around the island. Rental prices range from 120,000 VND to 200,000 VND per day, depending on the type of bike and rental period.
You can rent a motorbike directly from hotels or from trusted rental services in Duong Dong town. To rent a bike, you will need to provide a valid ID and may be required to leave a small deposit. Before taking the bike, make sure to check its condition and ensure you receive a helmet.
Recommended Motorbike Rental Services in Phu Quoc
Anh Phú: Specializes in motorbike rentals at Phu Quoc Airport with free delivery.
- Contact: 0909 296 989 – 0977 893 979
- Location: Phu Quoc International Airport, Dương Tơ
- Rental prices: Manual bikes 100,000 VND/day, automatic bikes 150,000 VND/day.
Thiên Phú: Offers a large fleet, from standard to high-end automatic bikes and provides free delivery anywhere on the island..
- Contact: 0949 486 979
- Location: 79 Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong
- Rental prices: Manual bikes 120,000 VND/day, automatic bikes 150,000 VND/day.
Anh Tính: A long-established, reputable rental service near Phu Quoc Airport.
- Contact: 0909 895 969 – 0987 441 799
- Location: Phu Quoc International Airport, Dương Tơ
- Rental prices: Manual bikes 120,000 VND/day, automatic bikes 150,000 VND/day.
Taking a Taxi or Renting a Car
Phu Quoc has several reliable taxi companies, with fares averaging 17,000 VND/km. Alternatively, you can rent a private car with a driver, with rental prices as follows:
Below are the hotlines of some reputable taxi companies you can refer to:
- Xanh SM – 1900 2088 – ~14,000 VND/km.
- Mai Linh Phu Quoc – 0297 3979 797 – ~13,000 VND/km.
- Vinasun Phu Quoc – 0297 3827 827 – ~11,000 VND/km.
Renting a Bicycle
For travelers who enjoy Phu Quoc outdoor activities and a slower pace, renting a bicycle is a great way to explore areas near your accommodation while soaking in the island’s fresh air. Many hotels and resorts offer bicycle rentals at prices ranging from 100,000 VND – 150,000 VND per day or 20,000 VND per hour.
However, Phu Quoc’s hilly terrain and long distances between attractions make bicycles better suited for short rides, such as exploring Duong Dong town or biking along the coastline.
Recommended Bicycle Rental Shops in Phu Quoc
- John’s Tours Phu Quoc – 143 Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong.
- Anh Phát Bike Rental – 68 Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong.
- VietPhu Quoc Travel – 82 Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong.
- Phu Quoc Bicycle Rental – Mr. Lee – 99 Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong.
Suggested Itinerary for a Solo Trip to Phu Quoc
Wondering what to do in Phu Quoc? If you’re planning to explore the Pearl Island to the fullest, here’s a 3-day, 2-night itinerary that covers all the must-visit attractions and unique experiences on the island.
Day 1: Dinh Cau – Duong Dong Town – Phu Quoc Night Market
Start your morning with a visit to Dinh Cau, a sacred temple perched on a rocky outcrop by the sea. This site is not only an important place of worship for local fishermen but also offers breathtaking coastal views. From here, you can soak in the fresh sea breeze and watch boats setting sail.
After visiting Dinh Cau, take some time to explore Duong Dong town, the economic and administrative center of Phu Quoc. One of the highlights in this area is Duong Dong Market, where you can find a variety of fresh seafood and local specialties such as Phu Quoc fish sauce, black pepper, and Sim wine.
As night falls, head to Phu Quoc Night Market, a street food paradise filled with delicious local dishes such as bún kèn, crab noodle soup, and grilled seafood. Apart from food, the market also has numerous stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, and natural cosmetic products, making it a great place to shop for gifts.
Day 2: Khem Beach – Hon Thom Cable Car – Sunset Town – Kiss of the Sea Show
In the morning, relax at Khem beach, one of Phu Quoc’s most beautiful beaches. With powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, Khem beach is the perfect spot for swimming or capturing stunning vacation photos. Don’t forget to try Gỏi Cá Trích (herring salad), a famous specialty in this area.
In the afternoon, take an exciting ride on the Hon Thom Cable Car, the world’s longest oversea cable car (nearly 8 km). As you soar above the ocean, you’ll be able to admire panoramic views of Phu Quoc’s turquoise waters and lush green islands.
As the sun sets, visit Sunset Town, a picturesque area with Mediterranean-style architecture. This is also where the Kiss of the Sea Show takes place—a world-class performance combining water, light, fire, and music. Ticket prices range from 1,000,000 – 3,000,000 VND per person, but it’s a truly unforgettable experience worth trying while in Phu Quoc.
Day 3: Phu Quoc National Park – Rạch Vẹm Fishing Village – Check-out
On your final day, explore the untouched beauty of Phu Quoc National Park. This nature reserve is home to a diverse ecosystem, making it ideal for light trekking, wildlife spotting, or simply enjoying the fresh air of the tropical rainforest.
Next, visit Rạch Vẹm fishing village, famous for its floating seafood restaurants and stunning starfish-filled waters during the dry season (November to April). Here, you can enjoy a fresh seafood lunch while taking in the peaceful atmosphere of a traditional fishing village.
In the afternoon, return to your hotel to pack up and check out before heading to the airport or ferry terminal, concluding your Phu Quoc adventure.
Estimated Budget for a 3-Day, 2-Night Phu Quoc Trip
The cost of an independent trip to Phu Quoc varies based on travel style, but on average, you can expect to spend between 5,000,000 – 8,000,000 VND per person.
Breakdown of Expenses:
- Transportation:
- Round-trip airfare: 1,500,000 – 3,000,000 VND
- Motorbike rental: ~150,000 VND/day (or taxi/car rental as per need)
- Accommodation:
- Hotel prices: 500,000 – 1,500,000 VND per night, depending on the room type.
- Food & Drinks:
- Estimated 200,000 – 300,000 VND per day per person, depending on dining preferences.
- Attractions & Activities:
- Hon Thom Cable Car: 500,000 – 650,000 VND per person
- Kiss of the Sea Show: 1,000,000 – 3,000,000 VND per person
What Souvenirs Should You Buy When Traveling to Phu Quoc
When traveling to Phu Quoc, bringing back local specialties as gifts for family and friends is a must. Here are some of the best souvenirs from Phu Quoc, along with recommended places to buy them.
Phu Quoc Fish Sauce
Phu Quoc is famous for its high-quality, rich, and aromatic fish sauce, making it a meaningful and practical gift. You can visit traditional fish sauce factories to buy authentic products:
- Khải Hoàn Fish Sauce Factory – 11 Hùng Vương Street, Duong Dong Town.
- Thịnh Phát Fish Sauce Factory – 3 Nguyễn An Ninh Street, Duong Dong Town.
- Phụng Hưng Fish Sauce Factory – Suối Đá Hamlet, Dương Tơ Commune.
Price range: 110,000 – 540,000 VND per bottle, depending on the protein concentration and bottle size.
Phu Quoc Pepper
Phu Quoc pepper is known for its bold flavor, strong aroma, and firm grains. For the best quality pepper, visit:
- Khu Tượng Pepper Farm – Cửa Dương Commune, 15 km north of Duong Dong Town.
- Ngọc Hà Pepper Farm – Suối Đá Hamlet, Dương Tơ Commune.
Price range: 200,000 – 220,000 VND per kg.
- Phu Quoc Sim Wine
Made from wild sim berries, Phu Quoc sim wine has a sweet and fruity taste, great for digestion. Some well-known local producers include:
- Bảy Gáo Sim Wine – Cửa Lấp Hamlet, Dương Tơ Commune.
- Vườn Táo Restaurant – Cửa Lấp Hamlet, Dương Tơ Commune.
Price range: 140,000 – 250,000 VND per bottle, depending on size.
- Phu Quoc Pearls
Phu Quoc pearls are highly regarded for their beauty and quality. If you’re looking for an elegant gift, visit these reputable pearl farms:
- Ngọc Hiền Pearl Farm – Đường Bào Hamlet, Dương Tơ Commune.
- Quốc An Pearl Farm – 3 Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong Town.
Price range: 50 USD – 1,000 USD per pearl, depending on size and quality.
Conclusion
With these solo travel tips for Phu Quoc, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip, experiencing the island’s stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and exciting activities.
For the best accommodation experience, consider staying at Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay – a 5-star beachfront resort offering modern amenities, excellent services, and exclusive perks.
Book your stay now to enjoy the best deals and get ready for an incredible Phu Quoc adventure!
