Things To Do
in Vũng Tàu

Vũng Tàu is a coastal city in southern Vietnam, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Located about 125 km from Ho Chi Minh City, it serves as a popular weekend getaway for both locals and tourists. The city boasts a mix of modern attractions and historical sites, making it a diverse destination for visitors.

With its pleasant climate and stunning coastal scenery, Vũng Tàu offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Beaches
morning
:

Start your day at Back Beach (Bãi Sau) for a refreshing swim and sunbathing. Enjoy a local breakfast of bánh mì or phở at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Visit the iconic Christ the King statue on Mount Nho for panoramic views of the city. Have lunch at a seafood restaurant along the coast.

evening
:

Stroll along the beachfront promenade and enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Experience the vibrant nightlife at one of Vũng Tàu's bars or clubs.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Vũng Tàu Lighthouse for a glimpse into the region's maritime history. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at a local eatery.

afternoon
:

Explore the White Palace (Bạch Dinh), a historical site with beautiful architecture and gardens. Have lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset at Front Beach (Bãi Trước) followed by dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Vietnamese cuisine. End the day with a visit to a night market for local snacks and souvenirs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Pho$2
🍤Seafood Platter$10
Coffee$1
🍺Local Beer$2
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and scenery
  • Vibrant nightlife and entertainment
  • Rich cultural experiences
  • Can be crowded during peak seasons
  • Limited public transport options
  • Humidity during the rainy season
  • "Xin chào" - Hello
  • "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
  • "Tôi muốn ăn" - I want to eat
  • "Giá bao nhiêu?" - How much is this?
  • "Giúp tôi với" - Help me please

Places to Visit in Vũng Tàu

Visit one of these nice places.

Christ the King Statue

A towering statue offering breathtaking views of the coastline.

Vũng Tàu Lighthouse

A scenic spot with a panoramic view of the city and ocean.

Front Beach

A picturesque beach with a vibrant promenade perfect for sunset shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Vũng Tàu

Vũng Tàu offers a delectable array of local dishes, fresh seafood, and vibrant street food that reflects its coastal heritage.

Vũng Tàu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hải sản tươi sống

Fresh seafood, grilled or prepared in various Vietnamese styles.

Must-Try!

Bánh khọt

Mini pancakes topped with shrimp and served with fresh herbs.

Gỏi cá mai

A salad made with raw fish, herbs, and a tangy dressing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chợ đêm Vũng Tàu

A night market offering a variety of street foods, souvenirs, and local snacks.

Chợ hải sản

A seafood market where you can buy fresh catches and enjoy cooked dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Vũng Tàu has a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season from November to April features warm temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F), making it ideal for beach activities. The rainy season from May to October brings humidity and temperatures between 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), with occasional downpours, especially in June and September.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples or cultural sites, dress modestly.

Politeness

Use polite language and greetings; a smile goes a long way.

Safety Guide

Safety

Vũng Tàu is generally safe for tourists; however, it's advisable to stay vigilant against petty theft, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious when swimming and avoid swimming alone in unfamiliar waters. Use reputable transportation services and avoid unlicensed taxis.

Tipping in Vũng Tàu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, many places now accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to April)

This is the best time to visit, with pleasant weather and plenty of sunshine.

Rainy Season (May to October)

Expect occasional rain and humidity; however, the landscape is lush and vibrant.

Summer (June to August)

Hot and humid, this period attracts many tourists to the beaches.

Winter (December to February)

Cooler temperatures make it a comfortable time for outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Vũng Tàu at Night

Vũng Tàu's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, featuring beach bars, nightclubs, and local pubs. The beachfront area is lively, with many places offering live music, dancing, and a relaxed atmosphere. The night market is also a great spot to enjoy local snacks and drinks while mingling with locals and tourists.

Hiking in Vũng Tàu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Nho

A popular hiking spot providing trails with varying difficulty and stunning views of Vũng Tàu.

Ho May Park

A scenic area with hiking trails that lead to panoramic views of the coastline and city.

Airports

How to reach Vũng Tàu by plane.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport

Located approximately 125 km from Vũng Tàu, this is the closest major airport, offering domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Vũng Tàu is a walkable city, particularly around the beachfront and tourist areas. Sidewalks are available, and many attractions are within a reasonable walking distance. However, be cautious of traffic and always use crosswalks where available.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents are ethnic Vietnamese, with a mix of other ethnic communities.

Tourists

A significant portion of the population consists of domestic tourists from Ho Chi Minh City and international visitors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport among locals, with many amateur matches held on the beaches.

Beach Volleyball

Beach volleyball is commonly played along the shores, particularly in tourist areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Vũng Tàu can be busy, especially on weekends when tourists flock to the beaches. Motorbikes are the most common mode of transport, and while there are some public buses, taxis and ride-hailing services are more convenient for visitors.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Vũng Tàu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, though it’s advisable to specify your dietary needs.

Spicy Food

Vietnamese cuisine can be spicy; ask for less spice if sensitive.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Vũng Tàu has several healthcare facilities, including private clinics and hospitals. Most healthcare providers offer basic services, but for serious medical issues, traveling to Ho Chi Minh City may be necessary. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Vietnam

Read more in our Vietnam 2025 Travel Guide.

Vietnam Travel Guide