Astrid Freja

2025-07-29

Having called Vietnam home for eight enriching years, I've gathered countless authentic stories that I'm now eager to share with you. As a VietAdvisor contributor, my passion lies in the freedom of discovery, allowing me to deeply immerse myself in Vietnam's rich, diverse cultures from north to south. Let my experiences help you forge a deeper connection with this extraordinary country.

You spend enough time in Ho Chi Minh City, and eventually, you just want to get out. That’s usually my feeling. I’ve done the Mekong Delta boat trips, seen the Cu Chi Tunnels more times than I can count. So, a Vung Tau day trip came up.

Figured, why not? It’s not some epic adventure, but it’s a change. If you’re an international traveler who’s been around Vietnam a bit and just needs a coastal break without too much fuss, this might be for you. It’s a solid 10-12 hour day that gets you some sea air and a different perspective from the city chaos.

Thinking about a Vung Tau day trip? This comprehensive guide for international travelers breaks down everything: transport options from HCMC, morning historical stops, essential seafood lunch, and afternoon adventures to the Christ Statue and beaches. Plan your perfect day out.
Why Vung Tau? A quick look at why this coastal city, located 90-100km southeast of HCMC, offers a practical break with beaches, history, and sea air for a refreshing change of pace from the city.
Getting There: Options include convenient tour buses (like the “Ho Chi Minh City: Vung Tau Beach Full-Day Trip with Lunch” tour, picking up 7:30 AM, 2.5-3 hr ride), faster hydrofoils from Bach Dang Pier (1.5 hrs, 250k-350k VND), budget-friendly local buses from Mien Dong Bus Station (2.5-3 hrs, 90k-120k VND), or private cars; tour bus is generally the easiest for a day trip.
Morning Stops (9:30 AM – 12:00 PM): Explore the White Palace (Bach Dinh) (10 Tran Phu, 7:30 AM-5 PM, 15k VND entry), a French colonial villa offering panoramic bay views (approx. 45 min stop); often includes the Whale Temple (Thang Tam Temple) (77A Hoang Hoa Tham, 7 AM-5 PM, free), dedicated to a whale deity with unique cultural significance (approx. 20-30 min stop); and sometimes Nghinh Phong Cape for ocean views.
Lunch (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM): Typically included in tours at a local seafood restaurant, serving fresh, simple Vietnamese seafood family-style (e.g., grilled fish, stir-fried squid). If self-guided, consider Ganh Hao Seafood Restaurant (03 Tran Phu, mid-high price) or try local specialty Banh Khot (savory pancakes).
Afternoon Itinerary (1:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Climb ~1,000 steps to the iconic Christ the King Statue on Nho Mountain (7 AM-5 PM, free, statue interior 8-11 AM & 1:30-4 PM) for breathtaking 360-degree city and sea views (approx. 1.5 hrs including climb); then visit the Vung Tau Lighthouse on Nui Nho (7 AM-5 PM, free) for different coastal vistas and nearby old cannons (approx. 30-45 min).
Beach Time (4:00 PM – 4:45 PM): Relax at Bai Sau (Back Beach) (Thuy Van Street), Vung Tau’s most popular beach, offering soft sand and calm waters; chair/umbrella rentals available (~50k VND), good for a quick dip or just unwinding (approx. 45 min).
Heading Back (4:45 PM onwards): Tour buses depart around 4:30 PM-5:00 PM, arriving back in HCMC by 7:00 PM-7:30 PM, completing a full day that feels like a refreshing escape.
Practical Advice & What to Pack: Essential tips for a smooth trip including booking in advance, early starts, carrying cash, strong sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), comfortable walking shoes, modest dress for religious sites, staying hydrated, and bringing a small backpack with a portable charger.
Accommodation in Vung Tau (If You Stay Longer): Recommendations for extending your trip, covering luxury (e.g., The Imperial Vung Tau Hotel, Pullman Vung Tau ~$80-200+), mid-range (e.g., Lan Rung Resort & Spa, Palace Hotel Vung Tau ~$40-100), and budget options (~$15-40), with addresses and price ranges.
Other Vung Tau Activities: Beyond the main spots, explore Ho May Park (cable car amusement park, ~400k VND), the Robert Taylor Museum of Worldwide Arms (98 Tran Hung Dao, ~50k VND), other local temples, and specific local dishes like Banh Khot or Banh Bong Lan Trung Muoi.

Short Videos

Why Vung Tau for a Day?

I’ve been to Vietnam enough times now that the major cities, while great, can wear you down. Ho Chi Minh City especially. Vung Tau is about 90-100 kilometers southeast. It’s a coastal city. Beaches, some history, a big statue. It’s not some secret spot; plenty of locals go there on weekends.

For an international traveler looking for a quick Vung Tau day trip, it gives you a different vibe without too much effort. It’s pretty straightforward, gets you some sea air, and you’re back in HCMC by evening. That’s the main appeal. It’s a decent way to see a coastal city and break up a longer stay in HCMC without committing to an overnight trip.

Getting There: How I Usually Do It

For a Vung Tau day trip, I usually just hop on a tour bus. It’s the least complicated way. Most of these tours, like the “Vung Tau Beach Full-Day Trip with Lunch“ I’ve taken a couple of times on GetYourGuide, pick you up from District 1 hotels around 7:30 AM. They’re pretty punctual.

The bus ride is about 2.5 hours, sometimes closer to 3 hours depending on HCMC traffic trying to get out of the city. It’s usually a 16-seater van or a larger bus, air-conditioned, so you just sit back. No hassle with tickets or navigating. You pay for it online, show up, and go.

I’ve also done the hydrofoil once. It’s faster, about 1.5 hours. Departs from Bach Dang Pier in District 1. Greenlines DP and Express Boat are the main operators. You’ll find their kiosks right at the pier. Costs around 250,000 – 350,000 VND ($10-$14 USD) one way.

It’s a bit more scenic, cutting across the Saigon River delta and out to sea. But if the water’s rough, it can be a bouncy ride – I remember seeing a few people looking a bit green last time.

Also, you have to get yourself to the pier, and if you have much luggage (though unlikely for a Vung Tau day trip), it’s less convenient. They have multiple departures, starting early morning, so check their specific schedules online or at the pier.

Local buses are an option if you’re really on a budget. Phuong Trang (Futa Bus) and Hoa Mai run from Mien Dong Bus Station in Ho Chi Minh City. Around 90,000 – 120,000 VND ($3.50-$5 USD) one way. Takes longer, 2.5-3 hours, and dealing with the local bus station can be a bit of a circus.

It’s about a 20-30 minute Grab ride from District 1 to Mien Dong, so factor that in. For a proper Vung Tau day trip where you want to maximize sightseeing, I still prefer the tour bus for pure convenience and less wasted time.

Private car is always there too, if you don’t care about cost – around 1,500,000 – 2,500,000 VND ($60-$100 USD) for the round trip. Good if you’re a group and want full flexibility on your schedule.

Morning in Vung Tau: Palaces, Whales, and Views

We typically arrive in Vung Tau around 9:30 AM or 10:00 AM. The air definitely feels lighter, less polluted, and you get that salty sea smell, which is always a welcome change from HCMC.

The “Vung Tau Beach Full-Day Trip with Lunch” I usually take hits the White Palace (Bach Dinh) first. This is an old French colonial building up on a hill. It was a summer house for French governors in the late 19th century.

The architecture is distinctly European, kind of grand for a seaside retreat. Inside, there isn’t much original furniture – it’s mostly empty rooms with some old photos and artifacts that give you a sense of the era. The main draw is the view.

From the balconies, you look out over Bai Truoc (Front Beach) and the bay, with fishing boats dotting the water. It’s a good spot for a quick photo and to just enjoy the breeze. I usually spend about 45 minutes walking around there, soaking in the quiet. It’s pleasant enough.

Location: 6 Tran Phu, Ward 1, Vung Tau City.
Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
Cost: 15,000 VND (around $0.60 USD).

Another common stop, depending on the tour, is the Whale Temple (Thang Tam Temple). This is actually pretty interesting, in a local way. It’s dedicated to a whale deity, Ông Nam Hải (Lord of the South Sea).

Fishermen here truly revere whales, believing they protect them at sea. You’ll often see large whale bones displayed inside, some quite old. It’s a small temple, but it gives you a peek into local religious beliefs and the deep connection the community has with the ocean, which is always good on a Vung Tau day trip if you want to see something beyond just scenery. It’s usually a quick 20-30 minute stop.

Location: Hoang Hoa Tham, Thang Tam Ward, Vung Tau City.
Hours: Generally 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
Cost: Free, but donations are welcome.

Some tours might also include a quick stop at Nghinh Phong Cape.

It’s essentially a viewpoint below the Christ the King statue, offering dramatic cliffs and open ocean views. There’s usually a cool breeze. Nothing to write home about in terms of facilities, but if it’s on the itinerary, it’s a nice spot for a quick photo, especially if the weather is clear. It takes about 15-20 minutes to appreciate.

Lunch in Vung Tau: Keep it Simple and Fresh

Lunch is usually included in these organized tours. The “Vung Tau Beach Full-Day Trip with Lunch“ takes you to a local restaurant, often near Bai Sau. I’ve been to a few now, and they’re all pretty similar: fresh seafood.

Nothing gourmet, just good, solid Vietnamese seafood. You’re typically served a set menu family-style: grilled fish (often a whole fish like snapper or basa), some kind of stir-fried squid or shrimp with vegetables, maybe a hotpot (lẩu) or a simple soup, and plenty of rice.

It’s basic, but the seafood is generally very fresh, caught locally. The ambiance is usually casual, open-air, with plastic tables and chairs, very much a local eatery vibe. It’s a good, satisfying meal.

If you’re on your own, Ganh Hao Seafood Restaurant (03 Tran Phu) is a big name. It’s got good views of the sea and a huge menu, but it can be pricier. Expect to pay maybe 500,000 VND or more for two people for a good seafood meal there. Or you can just walk along the main roads, like Ha Long or Thuy Van, and you’ll find plenty of other seafood places, some smaller, more local joints.

Don’t miss trying Banh Khot if you’re doing your own thing. It’s Vung Tau’s specialty: small savory pancakes made with rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, often topped with shrimp and served with fresh herbs, lettuce, and a sweet and sour fish sauce dip.

You’ll find many small eateries specializing in it. It’s a fantastic local snack or light meal. For a Vung Tau day trip, you want something quick and fresh, and they deliver on that.

Afternoon Activities: Iconic Landmarks and Panoramic Views

The afternoon usually focuses on the two biggest landmarks in Vung Tau, which offer the best views of the city.

Christ the King Statue

This one you can’t miss. The Christ the King Statue, also known as the Jesus Christ Statue, sits majestically on Nho Mountain (Mount Tao Phung). It’s the big one overlooking the city and the sea.

You have to climb a lot of steps to get there, around 1,000 steps to reach the base of the statue. It’s not a difficult climb – the steps are wide and well-maintained, and it’s a gradual ascent, not too steep.

There are plenty of resting spots along the way, benches, and small stalls selling water or snacks. The higher you go, the better the view of the city and the bay below.

When you get to the base, you can usually go inside the statue itself and climb up to the arms (typically open from 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM, closed for a lunch break).

From there, the panoramic view is excellent – you can literally see all of Vung Tau, both Bai Sau (Back Beach) stretching for kilometers and the quieter Bai Truoc (Front Beach), plus the entire city spread out below. It gets incredibly windy up there, which is a welcome relief after the climb.

I usually spend about an hour and a half here, including the climb and enjoying the views from the top. This is the absolute main attraction for a Vung Tau day trip, in my opinion.

Location: Nho Mountain (Mount Tao Phung), Vung Tau City.
Hours: Stairway generally 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily. Statue interior (to arms) usually 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM. Check locally for exact times.
Cost: Free.
Note: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring water. And as it’s a religious site, dress modestly – shoulders and knees should be covered. They can be strict about this at the base of the statue.

Vung Tau Lighthouse

After the statue, most tours head to the Vung Tau Lighthouse. It’s on another hill, Nui Nho (Small Mountain), on the opposite side of the city. The drive up is winding and can be a bit steep in parts, but it’s accessible by car or scooter.

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The lighthouse itself is a beautiful, classic white cylindrical structure, originally built by the French in 1862 and rebuilt in 1913.

From the lighthouse, you get another set of great views, distinct from the Christ statue. You can see the coastline stretching out in a different direction, the mountains behind the city, and the sprawling urban area.

There are also some old French cannon batteries nearby, offering a bit of historical intrigue. The path leading up to the lighthouse is quite charming, lined with some old, shady trees. It’s a nice, quiet spot, usually less crowded than the Christ statue.

I usually spend about 30-45 minutes here, just taking in the views and the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a good way to get some more fresh air and views on a Vung Tau day trip.

Location: Nui Nho (Small Mountain), Ward 2, Vung Tau City.
Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
Cost: Free.
Note: There’s usually a small café near the top selling drinks if you need a refreshment.

Some other tours (like the “Vung Tau Full Day Tour with Thich Ca Phat Dai“ on GetYourGuide, which I considered once for variety) also go to Thich Ca Phat Dai (Nirvana Buddha Pagoda).

This is a large Buddhist complex on the slopes of Nui Lon, featuring a massive reclining Buddha statue. It’s quite impressive in scale and very serene.

If your tour includes it, or if you’re on your own and have time, it’s worth seeing for its spiritual atmosphere and detailed Buddhist art.

Beach Time: Bai Sau – A Relaxing Break

Most Vung Tau day trip tours give you some time at the beach towards the end of the day. Bai Sau (Back Beach) is the most common one they take you to. It’s Vung Tau’s longest beach, stretching for several kilometers. The sand is generally soft, and the water is usually calm and warm enough for a swim.

It can get crowded, especially on Vietnamese public holidays or busy weekends, with lots of local families enjoying the sea. But during a normal weekday, it’s generally fine – busy but not overwhelming.

I usually just find a spot, put my stuff down, and maybe dip my feet in the water, or take a quick swim. You can rent plastic beach chairs and umbrellas from vendors along the beach, usually for about 50,000 VND ($2 USD) for a few hours.

There are also public showers available if you want to rinse off before heading back. It’s not a deserted, pristine paradise like some of Vietnam’s islands, but it’s a functional city beach, good for chilling for an hour or so after all the sightseeing.

Location: Thuy Van Street, Vung Tau City.
Facilities: Chair and umbrella rentals, public showers, various snack and drink vendors.
Note: Keep an eye on your belongings, as with any crowded beach.

Heading Back to HCMC: Winding Down

By around 4:30 PM or 5:00 PM, the tour bus rounds everyone up for the trip back to Ho Chi Minh City. The drive is again about 2.5-3 hours, depending on traffic, especially if you hit rush hour coming back into HCMC.

I usually just zone out, maybe read, or just watch the scenery change from coastal to agricultural and then back to urban sprawl.

You get back to HCMC around 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM. Just in time for dinner, usually feeling a bit tired but also refreshed from the sea air and having seen something different.

So, for a Vung Tau day trip, it’s efficient. You get a solid day out, see the main spots, and you’re back in time to still hit a restaurant in HCMC. It definitely breaks up the city routine and feels like you’ve actually been somewhere.

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[gemini_formatted_popup prompt=”How does a **Vung Tau day trip compare** to other popular day trips from Ho Chi Minh City, such as the Mekong Delta or Cu Chi Tunnels, in terms of experience, time commitment, and what kind of traveler it appeals to most? short 150 words organized answer with bullet points and bold highlights” button_text=”Vung Tau day trip vs. Mekong/Cu Chi?” seemorelink=”#”]

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Practical Advice for Your Vung Tau Day Trip

After doing a bunch of these kinds of day trips in Vietnam, here’s what I always keep in mind for a Vung Tau day trip:

Book It in Advance: If you’re doing a tour (like the “Ho Chi Minh City: Vung Tau Beach Full-Day Trip“) or the hydrofoil, book a few days ahead, especially if you’re traveling on a weekend or during a public holiday. Spots fill up, and prices can increase last minute. GetYourGuide, Klook, or directly from the operators are good options.
Early Start is Key: Most tours leave early (7:00-7:30 AM). It’s best to be on time, or even 10-15 minutes early, to avoid holding up the group and to maximize your time in Vung Tau.
Hydration is Crucial: It’s hot and humid in Vietnam year-round. Bring plenty of water – a large reusable bottle is a good idea. You’ll sweat, especially climbing the Christ statue. Local vendors sell water everywhere, but having your own saves time and money.
Cash is King: While some larger restaurants or hotels might take cards, many smaller places, street vendors, and public transport (like local buses if you go that route) will only take Vietnamese Dong (VND). Have small denominations.
Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable: The sun is incredibly strong. Sunscreen (high SPF), a wide-brimmed hat, and good sunglasses are mandatory. I’ve seen too many tourists get burned badly on day trips.
Dress Smartly and Respectfully: For the Christ statue or any temples, respectful clothing (shoulders and knees covered) is expected. For the beach, bring your swimsuit. Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are best for the humidity.
Comfortable Shoes are a Must: You’ll be walking a fair bit and climbing steps (especially for the Christ statue). Don’t wear flip-flops unless you’re just staying on the beach. Good sneakers or sturdy sandals are ideal.
Small Backpack for Essentials: Carry a light backpack with your water, sunscreen, camera, cash, and anything you need for the day. Leave large luggage at your HCMC hotel.
Portable Charger: Your phone will die from all the photos and potentially using maps/internet. Trust me on this.
Consider a Local SIM Card: If you don’t have international roaming, a local SIM card or e-SIM (available cheaply at the airport or in HCMC) provides reliable data for maps, ride-hailing apps (Grab is essential), and staying connected.

These simple things make any Vung Tau day trip much smoother and more enjoyable.

Considering Staying Longer in Vung Tau?

I’ve only done Vung Tau day trip excursions, but if you like the vibe and want to extend, there are plenty of hotels. If I were to stay, I’d look at places like these, based on general reputation and reviews I’ve seen:

For something nicer:

The Imperial Vung Tau Hotel: This one always pops up. It’s a grand, colonial-style hotel, quite luxurious, with a big pool and good service. Good location near Bai Sau. Expect to pay around $100-$200+ USD a night. People generally rate it high for its elegance and comfort. (159 Thuy Van, Thang Tam Ward). Check availability here.
Pullman Vung Tau: More modern, international chain. Offers contemporary rooms, a large outdoor pool, fitness center, and good dining. Usually around $80-$150+ USD a night. Good reviews for being clean, modern, and having a good breakfast spread. (15 Thi Sach, Thang Tam Ward). Check availability here.

Mid-range to solid:

Palace Hotel Vung Tau: A long-standing hotel in Vung Tau, known for being a reliable, solid choice. It’s centrally located and offers comfortable, if not overly modern, rooms and good service. Around $40-$80 USD a night. Good value for a pleasant stay. (01 Nguyen Trai, Ward 1). Check availability here.

Budget options:

Sao Mai Hotel & Apartment: A straightforward option for budget travelers. It’s typically clean, offers basic comforts, and is often praised for its friendly staff and convenient location. Around $15-$30 USD a night. (346 Tran Phu). Check availability here.
Various Guesthouses/Homestays: You’ll find plenty of smaller, family-run guesthouses and homestays throughout Vung Tau, especially near the beaches. These can be very affordable, typically $10-$30 USD a night, and often offer a more local experience. Just check recent reviews on booking platforms like Booking.com or Agoda. Check availability here.

If you decide to stay, book ahead, especially if it’s a weekend or a local holiday. A longer stay could turn your Vung Tau day trip into a more relaxed beach break. Read my full guide for the best Vung Tau hotels here.

Other Things You Could Do in Vung Tau

If you decide to spend more time than a Vung Tau day trip allows, there’s a bit more to see and do:

Ho May Park: This is an amusement park. It’s on top of Nui Lon (Big Mountain) and you get there by cable car. It offers a mix of rides (Ferris wheel, roller coaster), a large Buddha statue, a pagoda, and beautiful panoramic views. It’s definitely more of a local family attraction, but if you like theme parks with a view, it’s a thing. A round-trip cable car ticket with park access is around 400,000 VND (approx. $16 USD).
Robert Taylor Museum of Worldwide Arms: A private collection of weapons and military artifacts from various historical periods and countries. It’s quite extensive. If you’re into military history, it’s worth a visit. (98 Tran Hung Dao, Ward 1, around 50,000 VND entrance).
More Temples and Pagodas: Beyond the Whale Temple and Thich Ca Phat Dai, Vung Tau has several other smaller, serene pagodas like Linh Son Co Tu Pagoda, one of the oldest. They offer peaceful retreats and insights into local Buddhism.
Explore Local Cuisine: As mentioned, definitely try Banh Khot – it’s everywhere and a must-eat. Also look for Banh Bong Lan Trung Muoi (salted egg sponge cake) – a popular local snack. There are also plenty of fresh seafood markets if you want to buy your own and have a local restaurant cook it for you (ask your hotel or a local for recommendations).
Vung Tau Lighthouse Coffee: There’s a charming café right near the Vung Tau Lighthouse. It’s a great spot to grab a Vietnamese coffee and just enjoy the sweeping views over the ocean and the city.
Water Sports: While not as developed as some other beach destinations, you might find options for jet-skiing, parasailing, or even banana boat rides along Bai Sau, especially during peak season. Just look for vendors on the beach.

So, Vung Tau isn’t just about the major tour stops. There’s a bit more to explore if you want to, making it a decent multi-day stop if your itinerary allows.

Conclusion

My Vung Tau day trip was just what I needed – a solid, uncomplicated break from Ho Chi Minh City. It wasn’t a mind-blowing, “vacation of a lifetime,” but it was a very effective day of seeing some sights, breathing sea air, and relaxing a bit.

For international travelers like me, especially if you’ve done the usual HCMC circuit, it’s a good way to see a different side of Vietnam’s coast without much planning.

It’s easy enough to do, either on an organized tour which covers the main points efficiently) or on your own if you prefer more freedom and want to delve into more local spots.

If you’re in HCMC and thinking of a quick escape, a Vung Tau day trip is a perfectly reasonable choice to add some coastal contrast to your Vietnam travels.

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Why Vung Tau for a Day?

Getting There: How I Usually Do It

Morning in Vung Tau: Palaces, Whales, and Views

Lunch in Vung Tau: Keep it Simple and Fresh