Imagine a charming seaside town where you can relax by the sea, indulge in mouthwatering seafood feasts, and soak up the sea breeze. Welcome to Vung Tau, the Vietnamese equivalent of fish n’ chips and a few days by the sea. Located just two hours from Ho Chi Minh City, Vung Tau is the perfect destination for a quick getaway. In this ultimate travel guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Vung Tau, ensuring you have an unforgettable holiday.
Take an Early-Morning Walk on Back Beach
Start your day with a refreshing walk on Vung Tau’s stunning Back Beach. With its three-kilometer strip of sand, Back Beach invites you to relax under an umbrella, cocktail in hand. The beach is lined with high-end hotels, restaurants, and beach clubs, offering a perfect blend of comfort and relaxation. If you’re traveling with little ones, you’ll be pleased to know that the waves on Back Beach are fairly flat and safe.
Tour Villa Blanche
Embark on a 30-minute trek to the summit of Big Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of Vung Tau city and the coastline. Along the way, make a stop at Villa Blanche, a colonial mansion built in the late 1800s. Today, the mansion serves as a quiet museum, showcasing local and cultural artifacts.
Sample the Local Delicacies
One of the highlights of visiting Vung Tau is the wide range of mouthwatering dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Don’t miss the opportunity to try a fragrant hot pot of stingray and baby bamboo shoots, or indulge in crispy bánh khọt, a mini-pancake topped with fresh squid or shrimp. Each bite of these delicious delicacies wrapped in lettuce and fresh herbs will transport you to culinary heaven.
Snap a Selfie with Jesus
No trip to Vung Tau is complete without a visit to the iconic Jesus Christ statue. Standing at an impressive 32 meters tall, this statue offers breathtaking views of the city. Be prepared for a climb as you ascend the 800 steps to reach the feet of the statue, and another 100 steps to its shoulders. Trust me, the view from the top is worth every step.
Visit Ben Dinh Fishing Village
Escape the city and immerse yourself in the authentic fishing village of Ben Dinh. This vibrant village is home to fishermen and their families, and you’ll have the opportunity to witness their daily routine. Stroll among the colorful boats, observe the morning catch being brought in, and purchase fresh seafood to cook later. It’s an experience that will give you a glimpse of the local way of life.
Hop Across to Hon Ba
Take a mini-adventure to Hon Ba, a small island accessible only during low tide. Cross the rocks and pebbles to explore the secluded beach and discover the shrines at Mieu Ba temple. Legend has it that the temple is dedicated to the patroness of sailors and fishermen. Soak in the tranquility and enjoy the serenity of this hidden gem.
Check out the Monkey Temple
About 30 kilometers from Back Beach, you’ll find Chua Khi (Monkey Temple), a Buddhist pagoda complex inhabited by nearly 200 long-tailed macaques. Nestled among rolling hills and just a few hundred meters from the ocean, Chua Khi is a popular site for Vietnamese Buddhists. While you’re in the area, take a quick dip in the sea at Long Hai beach before heading back.
How to Get to Vung Tau
If you’re wondering how to get to Vung Tau, here are a couple of options:
Buses
Two comfortable bus companies, Phuong Trang Bus Company (FUTA Bus) and Hoa Mai, operate between Vung Tau and Ho Chi Minh City. You can purchase tickets at the FUTA Bus office on De Tham or opt for the luxury Hoa Mai bus, available at 83 Nguyen Thai Binh.
Hydrofoil
For a unique experience, take a hydrofoil from Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau’s Front Beach. The journey takes approximately two hours, and tickets range from VND120,000 to VND250,000. Just head to Ben Nha Rong Port in District 1 for ticket information and schedules.
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Start planning your Vung Tau holiday today and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, indulging in delicious seafood, or exploring cultural landmarks, Vung Tau has it all. Get ready for an unforgettable vacation in this charming seaside town.
