Things To Do
in Vũng Tàu
Vũng Tàu is a coastal city in southern Vietnam known for its long beaches, seafood, and scenic hills that overlook the sea. A popular weekend escape from Ho Chi Minh City, it blends laid-back beach life with colonial-era architecture and a working fishing port. The city centers around vibrant waterfront promenades, temple bells, and a lively seafood scene that comes alive at night.
With hills, lighthouse viewpoints, and easy access from Saigon, it offers a compact yet diverse quick-resort experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho or banh mi. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic center of Vũng Tàu, where you can admire the colonial architecture and visit the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue. The morning sun casts a warm glow on the city's landmarks, making it a perfect time for photography.
In the afternoon, explore the Vũng Tàu Market, where you can find fresh seafood and local produce. Don't miss the chance to sample some street food delicacies, such as grilled squid and coconut ice cream. Afterward, visit the White Palace, a stunning French colonial villa with beautiful gardens that overlook the sea.
As the sun sets, head to one of the beachfront restaurants to enjoy a delicious seafood dinner while listening to the waves. The vibrant nightlife of Vũng Tàu comes alive with local bars and live music venues, creating a festive atmosphere. Conclude your evening by taking a peaceful walk along the beach, watching the stars twinkle over the ocean.
Spend a relaxing morning at Bai Sau Beach, known for its soft sands and clear waters, perfect for sunbathing. Try your hand at some exciting water sports, such as jet skiing or parasailing, available from local vendors along the beach. Enjoy a refreshing coconut drink while you soak up the sun and enjoy the beach vibes.
After a morning of fun, grab lunch at a beachside shack offering fresh seafood and local specialties. Engage in more beach activities like beach volleyball or paddleboarding, or simply relax under a beach umbrella with a good book. The vibrant atmosphere of the beach will keep you entertained as you mingle with locals and fellow tourists.
As evening falls, join a sunset cruise to experience Vũng Tàu from the water, taking in the stunning views of the coastline. Once back on shore, dine at a restaurant that specializes in seafood, where you can choose from the day’s freshest catch. Cap off your night with a visit to a local bar that offers a relaxed ambiance, perfect for winding down.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Local lunch dish | $6-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride (3-5 km) | $2-5 |
| 🥘Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and easy access from Ho Chi Minh City
- Fresh seafood and a relaxed beach-town vibe
- Compact and walkable city center with scenic viewpoints
- Affordable dining and lodging options for many budgets
- Limited high-energy nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal weather can impact beach and outdoor plans
- Occasional beachfront litter and development pressures in some areas
- Public transport is limited beyond the city core
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Bạn có thể cho tôi xem menu được không?" - Could I see the menu, please?
- "Tôi muốn thanh toán bằng thẻ" - I want to pay by card
- "Nhà vệ sinh ở đâu?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Giúp tôi với" - Help me
Places to Visit in Vũng Tàu
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic white statue perched on a hillside with panoramic sea views; ideal for sunrise or late afternoon silhouette shots.
Historic lighthouse set on a hill with expansive sea vistas; dramatic lines for landscape photography and long exposure at dusk.
Colonial-era villa with elegant architecture and ocean backdrop; clean angles and reflective windows for architectural photography.
Wide sandy shoreline with morning light and fishermen; great for wide beach panoramas and candid street scenes.
Ocean-facing promenade and golden-hour lighting; perfect for vibrant sea colors and people-watching shots.
Food in Vũng Tàu
Vũng Tàu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy mini shrimp pancakes served with fresh herbs and a tangy fish sauce dip; a must-try snack found at street stalls and casual eateries near the beaches.
Must-Try!
Fresh raw fish salad using small local fish (ca mai) with herbs and lime; best enjoyed with crisp vegetables and a spicy dipping sauce at seafood spots.
Seafood hotpot featuring an assortment of shellfish and fish in a flavorful broth, ideal for sharing with friends or family.
Stir-fried noodles with a mix of shrimp, squid, and vegetables; a popular, satisfying option at many casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh catches sourced daily; buy seafood and have it cooked on-site at nearby stalls or bring it to a prepared kitchen for cooking.
Evening stalls offering snacks, grilled seafood, bánh khọt stands, and local beverages along the promenade and nearby lanes.
Casual hawker stalls with quick bites, lai flavors, and fresh herbs; great for a rapid, tasty bite while strolling the sea view.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove hats, and follow local customs; take off shoes when required and avoid loud behavior.
A respectful handshake is common; addressing people with a polite greeting like Xin chào is appreciated.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in religious or intimate settings; avoid touching heads or pointing feet at people.
Safety
Tipping in Vũng Tàu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. In nicer restaurants, 5-10% is common if a service charge isn’t already included. In casual eateries, rounding up is sufficient.
Cash (Vietnamese đồng) is widely accepted; many places also take cards at mid-range and up, especially in hotels and tourist zones. Mobile payments (e.g., MoMo, ZaloPay) are increasingly common for small purchases and tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with sea breezes—great beach days and outdoor activities; expect occasional short afternoon storms; bring sun protection and stay hydrated.
Monsoon rains and higher humidity; sea conditions can be rough; plan indoor activities or flexible beach time; carry a light rain jacket.
Pleasant, cooler evenings with comfortable daytime temperatures; ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities; crowds start to increase on weekends and holidays.
Vũng Tàu at Night
Hiking in Vũng Tàu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking route with viewpoints over the city and sea; includes temple stops and shaded sections.
Gentler ascent near the Christ statue area offering city views and sunset perspectives.
Airports
How to reach Vũng Tàu by plane.
Main international gateway serving southern Vietnam; about 95-130 km from Vũng Tàu and accessible by car, bus, or private transfer.
New regional airport planned to serve the region; projected to reduce travel time to the coast once operational (check current status for openings).
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Vietnamese families and retirees enjoying coastal life, with a working fishing community nearby.
A steady influx of tourists from across Vietnam, especially Saigon-based weekenders seeking a beach escape.
A smaller but notable community of long-term visitors and seasonal residents attracted by the relaxed pace and seafood.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in schools, communities, and local leagues; casual pickup matches are common along beaches and parks.
Popular near Front and Back Beach; equipment rentals and lessons are commonly available during peak season.
Traditional coastal activity with local fishing tours and small boat trips from the harbor.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vũng Tàu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find plant-based options at many restaurants; opt for steamed vegetables, tofu dishes, and rice/noodle bowls; emphasize asking for no fish sauce and using vegetable-based broths when available.