When planning your trip to Phong Nha, finding the perfect place to stay is crucial for making the most of your experience. Whether you’re looking for the best hotels in Phong Nha or wondering where to stay in Phong Nha, there are a variety of options that cater to different preferences and budgets. The most popular area to stay is Son Trach town, but there are also beautiful countryside lodges and retreats just outside the park for those seeking a more scenic and peaceful stay. Here’s a guide to the best accommodation options in the Phong Nha area.
Where to stay in Phong Nha?
Son Trach – Most convenient to stay
Son Trach is the main town and the hub for travelers visiting Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. While it’s a small town, it offers all the essentials, including a few restaurants, an ATM, and a gas station. Some of the accommodations along the river offer beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Most of the accommodations here are budget to mid-range, with a mix of homestays and small hotels, making it a practical and affordable choice for most travelers.
Countryside – Most scenic area
Just outside of Son Trach, you’ll find accommodations set in Vietnam’s rural countryside, surrounded by lush landscapes and farmland. These places are typically more luxurious than the homestays and hotels in town and offer a more serene setting. If you don’t mind being a bit further from the main action, staying in the countryside offers peace and stunning views, and many tour operators offer pick-up services from these locations.
Dong Hoi – Not recommended to stay
Dong Hoi is the closest city to Phong Nha National Park and does have a few attractions, including beaches and a small night market. However, it lacks the charm and atmosphere of the other areas. Staying in Dong Hoi is only recommended if you have an early flight or train to catch, as it’s a 45-minute drive from Phong Nha. Otherwise, the scenery and overall experience in Son Trach or the countryside are far superior.
Best budget homestays (Below 500,000 VND / $20 USD)
For budget-conscious travelers, Phong Nha offers a range of affordable homestays that provide a warm, local experience without breaking the bank. These budget accommodations, priced below 500,000 VND (around $20 USD), are perfect for those looking to experience the area’s charm and hospitality while saving on costs.
1. Phong Nha Coco Riverside
Phong Nha Coco Riverside is a family-run homestay located by the river, offering a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and water. The property features a communal area that overlooks the river, making it an ideal spot to relax, enjoy the scenery, or even take a dip in the river. Guests can also enjoy free use of kayaks or paddleboards to explore the water. The hosts are well-known for their warm hospitality, always available to help with any inquiries or arrangements, including tours and bus bookings.
Highlights from reviews:
- Gorgeous riverside view with a communal area for relaxation.
- Free access to kayaks and paddleboards.
- Friendly and accommodating hosts who provide great service.
- Great for arranging tours and transportation.
2. Applebee’s Homestay
Applebee’s Homestay offers a quiet, comfortable stay in a peaceful neighborhood of Phong Nha. The rooms are the perfect size for budget travelers and come equipped with air conditioning. Guests can choose from a variety of breakfast options, typically including fresh bread, eggs, and coffee or tea. While the rooms don’t come with a kettle or fridge, there are plenty of nearby restaurants, and the homestay sells drinks at affordable prices. The host, Thang, is always on hand to help with bus tickets, tours, and scooter rentals, making this a convenient and friendly place to stay.
Highlights from reviews:
- Quiet location with clean, comfortable rooms.
- Scooters available for rent.
- Friendly host who helps with bookings and local tips.
- Great breakfast options, including banana pancakes.
3. Tam’s Homestay
At Tam’s Homestay, you’ll experience the warm, family-oriented hospitality that Phong Nha is known for. Tam, the host, is known for his delicious breakfasts, particularly his banana pancakes, and for helping guests book tours, transport, and more. The spacious family rooms offer comfort and practicality, making this homestay ideal for families or groups. Tam’s Homestay also provides free bicycles, making it easy to explore the surrounding area. With a helpful and welcoming atmosphere, Tam and his family ensure that guests feel right at home.
Highlights from reviews:
- Spacious family rooms with comfortable beds.
- Great breakfast, with popular banana pancakes.
- Free bicycles available for guests.
- Family-friendly atmosphere with helpful and attentive hosts.
4. Tien’s Cozy Homestay
Tien’s Cozy Homestay provides a charming stay in Phong Nha, with spacious rooms and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and rice paddies. One of the standout features is the rooftop swimming pool, perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring the nearby caves. The host, Cuba, is extremely friendly and goes out of his way to help guests with anything they need, from booking tours to providing transportation. Located just a short walk from the main town, Tien’s Cozy Homestay offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to local attractions.
Highlights from reviews:
- Spacious rooms with air conditioning and mountain views.
- Rooftop swimming pool with a view.
- Helpful and welcoming host who arranges tours and transportation.
- Peaceful location, a short walk from the town center.
Best mid-range accommodations (500,000 – 1,500,000 VND / $20 – $65 USD)
5. Karst Villas Phong Nha
Karst Villas Phong Nha is a charming retreat located just outside the town, offering a peaceful stay with stunning views of the surrounding rice fields and hills. The property features spacious, comfortable rooms, a small pool, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring. The staff here is friendly and helpful, ensuring that guests have a stress-free experience. Bicycles are available for guests to borrow, and it’s just a 15-minute ride into town.
Highlights from reviews:
- Peaceful out-of-town location with beautiful views of the countryside.
- Free bicycles for exploring the area.
- Friendly staff and great service, with no pressure to book tours.
- A small pool for relaxing, plus good food options on-site.
6. Funny Monkeys Homestay
Funny Monkeys Homestay is located right on the river, offering spectacular views of the water and mountains. Guests can enjoy a casual, friendly atmosphere, free bicycles for exploring, and kayaks for use on the river. The homestay also features a lovely patio area, perfect for relaxing and watching the boats pass by. The staff here are incredibly welcoming, and the restaurant serves up delicious meals, including an excellent breakfast.
Highlights from reviews:
- Riverside location with beautiful mountain views.
- Free bicycles and kayaks for exploring.
- Friendly and attentive staff who can arrange tours and transportation.
- Great food, especially the breakfast and coconut coffee.
7. Nguyen Shack Retreat Resort
Nguyen Shack Retreat Resort offers a unique experience, set on a lake with rustic bungalows that provide a real sense of being close to nature. Guests can wake up to the sight of buffalo and cows wandering by the lake, and the staff go out of their way to ensure a memorable stay. The property is environmentally conscious, with a focus on sustainable practices. Renting a scooter is easy here, and you’re just a short drive from popular caves like Paradise Cave and local waterfalls.
Highlights from reviews:
- Rustic lakeside setting with peaceful surroundings.
- Friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Great food and the option to book tours and rent scooters.
- A truly unique experience, with animals and nature all around.
8. Greenfield Ecostay
Greenfield Ecostay is a charming countryside retreat surrounded by rice fields, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The property is run by a lovely couple who go above and beyond to ensure guests feel welcome and comfortable. There’s a beautiful pool that overlooks the rice paddies, making it a perfect spot for relaxation. Guests can rent scooters to explore the nearby town or enjoy delicious home-cooked meals at the ecostay. This is a great option for families and those looking for a quiet escape.
Highlights from reviews:
- Peaceful countryside location with a pool overlooking rice fields.
- Friendly and accommodating hosts who offer great service.
- Free bicycles for exploring the area and easy access to the town.
- Delicious home-cooked meals available for guests.
Best resorts & retreats (Above 1,500,000+ VND / $65)
For travelers looking for comfort without splurging, Phong Nha offers a range of mid-range accommodations that balance affordability with quality amenities. These places provide a relaxed atmosphere, good service, and beautiful surroundings, making them a great choice for those wanting a bit more than a budget homestay without going overboard.
9. Victory Road Villas
Victory Road Villas is located along the riverside, offering a boutique experience with six one-bedroom private villas and a three-bedroom penthouse apartment. The villas are built around an 18-meter lap pool, and guests can enjoy outdoor lounge areas with a barbecue, all set against a backdrop of farmland and mountains. Each villa has a blend of Asian and Western design influences, with en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, and king-size beds. For those staying in the River View Penthouse, you’ll also have access to a private hot tub and panoramic views of the Son River.
The villas offer a peaceful retreat, combining contemporary design with traditional Vietnamese architecture. While they are not located in the main town, the stunning location and personalized service make this a standout choice for travelers seeking a more luxurious and unique stay.
Highlights from reviews:
- Beautifully designed villas with excellent amenities.
- Peaceful location on the river, away from the main town.
- Friendly and helpful staff who can arrange tours and activities.
- Great for families, with spacious rooms and a relaxing pool area.
10. Phong Nha Lake House Resort
Phong Nha Lake House Resort is located just outside Phong Nha Village and offers lakeside bungalows, villas, and dorms. Set along a quiet lake, this resort is known for its tranquil setting and scenic views. The main building houses a restaurant and bar, and the property offers activities like kayaking and biking free of charge for guests. While it’s a bit outside of town, the peaceful environment and family-friendly atmosphere make it a great choice for travelers who want to relax away from the crowds.
This resort is run by an Australian-Vietnamese couple, and they offer personalized service with helpful staff who can organize transfers and tours. The bungalows are spacious and come with outdoor showers, giving guests a nice blend of comfort and nature.
Highlights from reviews:
- Lakeside views with free kayaking for guests.
- Spacious bungalows with outdoor showers.
- Friendly staff who help organize tours and transport.
- Slightly outside of town, but very peaceful and quiet.
