Local travelers have long since known about the hidden treasures in Vung Tau, and first-time travelers will be pleased with the variety of cozy beaches and historic landmarks. Whether making a quick getaway from Ho Chi Minh or spending a weekend with the family, travelers can find enough things to do in Vung Tau for a quality holiday.
Vung Tau Beaches
Since Vung Tau lies on Vietnam’s southern coast, it just makes sense that much of the city’s action occurs at the beach. Vung Tau features several miles of coastal shores, and each section has its own share, selection of restaurants and beachfront hotels.
Top beaches in Vung Tau
- Back Beach (Bai Sau) – by far the most popular beach in Vung Tau, Back Beach stretches more than 6 miles (almost 10 kilometers) along the southeast coast of the city. While the sands are generally crowded, the area is one of the most convenient locations to find restaurants, hotels and transportation to nearby attractions.
- Front Beach (Bai Truoc) – located on Vung Tau’s western coast, Front Beach is a good spot for strolling and picnicking. The small stretch of sand is lined with a boardwalk, and families can enjoy some outdoor fun at the playground in Front Beach Park.
- Vong Nguyet Beach (Bai Vọng Nguyet) – reachable via a trek through the mountains, Vong Nguyet Beach offers fewer crowds and epic views. The area is loved by adventurists because of its out-of-the-way and harder-to-reach locale in the southern tip of the city. Soaking up breathtaking views and cool ocean breezes is the reward for venturing to this sandy cove.
- Chi Linh Beach – this small stretch of sand can be found in Chi Linh Tourist Village, which also offers a fun place to stay in Vung Tau. The beach is surrounded by mountains and valleys, making it a great location for travelers looking for outdoor activities.
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Jesus Christ’s Statue
Not just a sight to behold but a challenge to be conquered, Jesus Christ’s Statue stands 118 feet (36 meters) tall and overlooks the sea. Visitors are invited to hike up the statue’s 847 steps to enjoy the view, which is particularly stunning at sunrise. The statue stands on Mount Nho (The Small Mountain) and is the largest statue of Jesus Christ in Asia.
Hours: 7:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily
Admission: free
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Vung Tau Lighthouse (Hai dang Vung Tau)
Considered the oldest lighthouse in Vietnam, Vung Tau Lighthouse stands 18 meters high, and because it is built on Tao Phung Mountain (The Big Mountain), the landmark attractions towers 170 meters above sea level. The tower was built in 1862 by France and is now considered one of Vung Tau’s most beloved tourist attractions and historic monuments. The area contains lush greenery and foliage year-round and serves as a scenic hiking spot for locals and tourists alike.
Hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily
Admission: free
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White Palace (Bach Dinh)
Once a summer villa for a French governor and his family, White Palace dates to 1898 and now serves as a culture museum for the nation. The former palace stands three stories tall and contains thousands of antiques and artifacts, including pieces recovered from a 17th-century shipwreck. A tour of the grounds not only offers a look into Vung Tau and Vietnamese history but also a lovely view of the city’s coastline.
Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Admission: 15,000 VND (.65 USD)
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Thich Ca Phat Dai Pagoda
A Buddhist temple built at the foot of The Big Mountain, Thich Ca Phat Dai Pagoda is a treasured refuge, religious site and tourist attraction in Vung Tau. The scenic grounds contain several Buddhist monuments, native greenery and walking trails and a Zen monastery. Visitors can learn more about Buddhism and the annual pilgrimages that take place at the pagoda.
Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 2 to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 5:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Sunday
Admission: free
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Discover top hotels & places to stay in Vung Tau
Saint Simeon Beach Residence
Corvin Hotel
Carmelina Beach Resort
