Vung Tau

Discover Vung Tau: Vietnam’s Idyllic Coastal Escape – Your Perfect Beach Getaway

Escape the bustling city life and immerse yourself in the relaxed charm of Vung Tau, a popular coastal city just a short drive from Ho Chi Minh City. With its stunning beaches, historical landmarks, delectable seafood, and a laid-back atmosphere, Vung Tau offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for every traveler.

Destination Highlights: What to See & Do

Vung Tau boasts a diverse range of attractions, from iconic religious statues to panoramic lighthouses and serene beaches.

• Christ the King Statue (Tượng Chúa Kitô Vua): Dominating the skyline from Small Mountain (Nho Mountain), this impressive 32-meter tall statue of Jesus offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline from its arms. Be prepared to climb 811 steps for the reward!
• Vung Tau Lighthouse (Hải Đăng Vũng Tàu): Perched atop Small Mountain, this historic lighthouse, built in 1862, provides another fantastic vantage point for stunning sunsets and sweeping ocean vistas. The winding road leading up to it is also very picturesque.
• Front Beach (Bãi Trước) & Back Beach (Bãi Sau): Vung Tau’s two main beaches offer different vibes. Front Beach is more urban and lively, with a pleasant boardwalk, perfect for evening strolls and people-watching. Back Beach is larger, with soft sands, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports.
• Hon Ba Islet (Hòn Bà): A unique spiritual spot, this small island with a temple can be reached on foot via a rocky path during low tide (check the lunar calendar for exact times). It offers a tranquil escape and a glimpse into local beliefs.
• White Palace (Bạch Dinh): This elegant French colonial villa, once a retreat for French governors and Vietnamese emperors, offers a glimpse into Vung Tau’s past with its beautiful architecture and well-maintained gardens.
• Ho May Park (Khu Du Lịch Hồ Mây): Accessible by cable car, this mountaintop amusement park offers panoramic views, various rides, a Buddhist pagoda, and a serene lake. It’s a fun option for families and those seeking a bird’s-eye view.
• Nghinh Phong Cape (Mũi Nghinh Phong): Meaning “Cape of Welcoming Wind,” this picturesque headland offers dramatic cliffs, strong ocean breezes, and a stunning natural “gate” that leads to a secluded beach. It’s a popular spot for photography.
• Thich Ca Phat Dai Temple (Thích Ca Phật Đài): A serene Buddhist temple complex with a large reclining Buddha statue and beautiful gardens, offering a peaceful retreat and a sense of local spirituality.

Culinary Delights: Dining in Vung Tau

Vung Tau is a seafood lover’s paradise, but also offers a wide array of local specialties and international cuisine.

• Banh Khot: This is Vung Tau’s signature dish – mini savory pancakes, crispy on the outside and soft inside, topped with fresh shrimp or squid, green onions, and served with fresh herbs and a sweet and sour fish sauce dip.
  • Recommended spots: Banh Khot Co Ba Vung Tau (1 Hoang Hoa Tham Street), Banh Khot Goc Vu Sua (14 Nguyen Truong To).
• Lau Ca Duoi (Stingray Hotpot): A tangy and flavorful hotpot featuring tender stingray fish, fresh vegetables, and vermicelli noodles. A must-try for an authentic local experience.
  • Recommended spots: 7 Luom Quan (37 Nguyen Truong To Street).
• Seafood Galore: From grilled oysters with cheese to fresh grilled shrimp with chili salt, Vung Tau’s seafood scene is unbeatable. Head to beachfront restaurants for the freshest catch.
  • Recommended spots: Ganh Hao Seafood Restaurant (3 Tran Phu Street), Thanh Phat Seafood (334 Tran Phu Street), Oc Tu Nhien (32 Le Quy Don Street) for various snail dishes.
• Bun Rieu Tom: A flavorful Vietnamese shrimp and tomato noodle soup.
  • Recommended spots: Bun Rieu Tom Thuan Phuc (94 Hoang Hoa Tham Street).
• Street Food & Local Snacks: Explore the night markets and smaller eateries for local treats like salted egg sponge cakes, various sweet soups (che), and refreshing fruit smoothies.

Accommodation: Where to Stay

Vung Tau offers a wide range of accommodation, from luxurious resorts with ocean views to comfortable and affordable guesthouses.

• Luxury & Resorts:
  • The Imperial Vung Tau Hotel: A grand hotel with a classic, Victorian-inspired design, direct beach access, and excellent facilities.
  • Pullman Vung Tau: A modern 5-star hotel offering city and sea views, a large outdoor pool, and diverse dining options.
  • Fusion Suites Vung Tau: Known for its chic design, multiple outdoor pools, and a focus on wellness.
  • Marina Bay Resort & Spa: A beautiful 5-star option for those seeking a luxurious and serene beachfront experience.
• Mid-Range Hotels:
  • Numerous well-regarded hotels like Premier Pearl Vung Tau Hotel, The Sóng Apartment, and Green House offer comfortable stays with good amenities, often with ocean views or convenient access to the beaches.
• Budget-Friendly Options:
  • You’ll find plenty of guesthouses and smaller hotels in the city center and near the beaches that provide clean and basic accommodations at very reasonable prices.

Shopping: Take a Piece of Vung Tau Home

Vung Tau offers a mix of modern shopping centers for international and local brands, as well as traditional markets for authentic local goods and souvenirs.

• Shopping Malls:
  • Lotte Mart Vung Tau: A large supermarket and shopping center where you can find groceries, clothing, electronics, and a food court with various dining options.
  • The Imperial Plaza: A more upscale shopping experience with luxury boutiques, specialty stores, and a food court.
  • Lam Son Square & Lapen Center: Offer a mix of fashion, home goods, entertainment, and dining.
• Local Markets:
  • Vung Tau Market (Chợ Vũng Tàu): The main local market, bustling with activity, where you can buy fresh produce, seafood, local snacks, and everyday items. A great place for an authentic local experience.
  • Vung Tau Night Market (Chợ Đêm Vũng Tàu): A lively spot in the evenings, perfect for street food, souvenirs, and a lively atmosphere.
• Souvenirs: Look for local specialties like dried seafood, fish sauce, handicrafts, and unique Vung Tau-themed gifts.

Transportation: Getting to & Around Vung Tau

Vung Tau is easily accessible from Ho Chi Minh City, making it a popular weekend getaway.

• Arrival in Vung Tau:
  • From Ho Chi Minh City:
    • Bus: The most popular and economical option, with comfortable limousine buses and regular coaches taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
    • Private Car/Taxi: Offers convenience and flexibility, especially for groups. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours via the expressways.
    • Ferry/Hydrofoil: A scenic way to travel, taking approximately 1.5 hours across the Saigon River and out to the coast. (Check current availability as services can vary).
• Getting Around the City:
  • Motorbike Rental: A popular choice for exploring independently, especially if you plan to venture beyond the city center. Always wear a helmet and agree on a price if taking a “xe ôm” (motorbike taxi).
  • Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps: Readily available and convenient for getting around.
  • Cyclos (Xích Lô): For a leisurely and traditional way to see the main sights around Front Beach.
  • Walking: Vung Tau’s city center and beachfront areas are quite walkable, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere.
  • Tandem Bicycles (Xe Đạp Đôi): A fun option, especially for couples or families, to cycle along the beachfront.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach holiday, a cultural exploration, or a culinary adventure, Vung Tau offers an inviting escape. Plan your trip today and discover the charm of this beautiful Vietnamese coastal city!