Vung Tau

Vung Tau is a popular seaside city located just a few hours from Ho Chi Minh City. Known for its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and scenic coastal roads, it's a favorite weekend getaway for locals and tourists alike. The city also offers cultural landmarks like Christ the King statue and colonial-era architecture.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Vũng Tàu is from November to April, during the dry season when the weather is sunny, pleasant, and ideal for beach activities. Temperatures range between 25°C to 30°C, making it perfect for swimming, sightseeing, and enjoying outdoor dining. Avoid the rainy season (May to October) if you prefer clear skies and less humidity.

Must-See Attractions

  • Statue of Jesus Christ – One of the tallest Christ statues in Asia, offering panoramic views from the top.

  • Bai Truoc & Bai Sau (Front & Back Beach) – Popular beaches great for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

  • White Palace (Bạch Dinh) – A colonial-era mansion with history exhibits and sea views.

  • Vung Tau Lighthouse – Climb up for a scenic view of the city and coastline.

  • Long Son Island – Explore traditional village life and visit the historic Long Son Big House.

Vung Tau Lighthouse

 

Long Son Island

Culinary Delights

  • Banh Khot – Mini savory pancakes made from rice flour and shrimp, served with fresh herbs and fish sauce.

  • Hai san tuoi song (Fresh Seafood) – Vung Tau is famous for seafood like grilled scallops, steamed squid, and crab hotpot.

  • Banh Hoi Chao Long – Delicate woven rice vermicelli served with pork offal and porridge, a local specialty.

  • Lau Ca Đuoi (Stingray Hotpot) – A tangy, spicy hotpot featuring stingray and local herbs.

  • Oc (Snails & Shellfish Dishes) – Numerous street stalls serve up snails stir-fried in coconut milk, garlic butter, or tamarind sauce.

Banh Khot

 

Hai san tuoi song (Fresh Seafood)

Where to stay

Here are some great places to stay in Vung Tau, catering to different budgets and travel styles:

Luxury Stays

  • The Imperial Hotel Vung Tau – A beachfront 5-star hotel with European-style architecture, pools, spa, and private beach access.

  • Pullman Vung Tau – Sleek, modern, and ideal for both business and leisure travelers.

Mid-Range Comfort

  • Malibu Hotel – Stylish rooms, rooftop pool, and close to Back Beach.

  • Premier Pearl Hotel – Great sea views, modern amenities, and walking distance to the beach.

Budget & Boutique

  • Cao Hotel – Affordable with great location and sea view rooms.

  • Lief Mila Vung Tau – A cozy, aesthetic boutique hotel with Insta-worthy design and friendly service.

The Imperial Hotel Vung Tau

Getting There

Getting to Vung Tau is quite convenient, especially from Ho Chi Minh City. Here are the most common options:

By Car or Bus

  • Travel time: Around 2–2.5 hours

  • You can take a private car, taxi, or catch a bus from Mien Dong Bus Station. Companies like Kumho Samco and Hoa Mai offer frequent departures with comfortable seats.

By Speedboat

  • Travel time: Around 1.5 hours

  • A scenic and unique option is the Greenlines DP speedboat from Bach Đang Wharf (District 1, Ho Chi Minh City) to Vung Tau.

  • Boats depart several times daily and offer a relaxing ride with views of the Saigon River and coastline.

By Motorbike

  • For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike and riding to Vung Tau gives you more freedom to explore along the way.

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