VŨNG TÀU
Vũng Tàu ([Vung Tao]) is the quintessential coastal escape for Southern Vietnamese, offering a blend of city energy, sandy beaches, and significant cultural landmarks just a short trip from Ho Chi Minh City.
Built on a scenic peninsula, it was a popular French colonial resort. Today, it provides a mix of spiritual retreats, delicious fresh seafood, and fantastic vantage points overlooking the vast South China Sea.
Most Popular Attractions
Religious Landmarks & Viewpoints:
Christ of Vũng Tàu (Tượng Chúa Kitô Vua): A massive 32m-tall statue of Jesus on Núi Nhỏ (Small Mountain). Visitors can climb the 133 steps inside to reach the shoulders for a panoramic view of the city.
Vũng Tàu Lighthouse (Hải Đăng Vũng Tàu): The oldest lighthouse in Vietnam, built by the French in 1862. Located atop Núi Nhỏ, offering 360-degree vistas.
Thích Ca Phật Đài Pagoda: A large and prominent Buddhist complex on Núi Lớn (Big Mountain) featuring a colossal white Buddha statue and serene grounds.
Miếu Hòn Bà (Ba Islet Temple): A small, sacred temple on a rocky islet only accessible on foot at low tide via a stone path leading across the water.
Chùa Quan Thế Âm (Avalokitesvara Pagoda): A beautiful pagoda known for its towering white Guan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) statue.
Beaches & Natural Scenery:
Bãi Sau (Back Beach / Thùy Vân Beach): The main stretch of sand, famous for its golden sand, waves suitable for swimming, and a popular spot for sunrise and water sports.
Bãi Trước (Front Beach): Known for its lively atmosphere, bustling parkland, and being the best place to catch a sunset stroll and people-watch.
Mũi Nghinh Phong (Nghinh Phong Cape): A scenic cape at the end of Núi Nhỏ offering dramatic cliffside views and a photo spot known as the “Heaven’s Gate.”
Hồ Cốc Beach (Hồ Cốc): A more pristine, quieter beach stretch outside the main city, known for its clear water and tranquil ambiance.
Hồ Tràm Beach (Hồ Tràm): A rapidly developing coastal area near Vũng Tàu, known for its long, pristine beach and luxury resorts.
Hồ Mây Park (Ho May Tourist Area): An amusement and nature park on Núi Lớn (Big Mountain), accessible by cable car, featuring a water park, pagoda, and zoo.
History & Culture:
Bạch Dinh (White Palace): A beautiful late 19th-century French colonial mansion that served as a retreat for the Governor-General of Indochina. Now a museum with historical artifacts.
Worldwide Arms Museum (Bảo tàng Vũ khí Cổ): Also known as the Robert Taylor Museum, housing an impressive private collection of military weapons and uniforms from around the world.
Lăng Cá Ông (Thắng Tam Temple / Whale Temple): A unique temple where locals worship the Whale God, a deity believed to protect fishermen, containing a whale skeleton.
Địa đạo Long Phước (Long Phước Tunnels): A network of Viet Cong tunnels used during the war, offering a glimpse into local history and guerrilla warfare tactics.
Nghĩa Trang Liệt Sĩ (Long Hải Cemetery): A significant war memorial and cemetery dedicated to fallen soldiers in the Long Hải area.
Con Đảo Islands (Côn Đảo): A remote archipelago and National Park (accessible by ferry or flight) known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and historical former prison site.
Local Life & Modern Attractions:
Chợ Hải Sản Xóm Lưới (Seafood Market): A lively local market where you can buy fresh seafood and often have it cooked on the spot.
Bánh Khọt Gốc Vú Sữa: A famous local eatery known for its signature dish, Bánh Khọt, a savory, crispy Vietnamese mini-pancake.
Ngõ 444 Trần Phú (Alley 444, Tran Phu Street): A popular spot for photography enthusiasts for its scenic coastal road views.
Nhà Úp Ngược (Upside Down House): A quirky modern attraction where all the furniture and rooms are installed upside-down, creating fun photo opportunities.
Activities & Experiences
Climb the Christ the King Statue (Tượng Chúa Kitô Vua): Hike up the 800+ steps of Little Mountain to the base of the massive 105-foot (32m) statue. You can climb an internal staircase to the arms for a panoramic view of the coast and city.
- Pronunciation: (Tuong Choo-a Kee-toh Voo-a)
Relax on Bai Sau (Back Beach): Spend a day lounging on the long stretch of golden sand at Vung Tau’s most popular beach. It’s ideal for swimming and is the best spot for an early morning walk to catch the sunrise.
- Pronunciation: (Bie Sow)
Wade to Hon Ba Island: Check the tide times and walk across the rocky, exposed seabed path to this small island at low tide to visit the Miếu Bà temple, dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea.
- Pronunciation: (Hawn Ba; Miew Ba)
Explore the White Palace (Bạch Dinh): Tour this elegant French colonial-era mansion, built as a summer retreat for the Governor-General of Indochina. It sits on Big Mountain and offers stunning views of Front Beach.
- Pronunciation: (Bach Din)
Indulge in a Seafood Feast at Xóm Lưới Market: Head to this bustling local market near Front Beach in the late afternoon or evening to buy incredibly fresh seafood directly from fishermen, then have a nearby stall cook it for you on the spot.
- Pronunciation: (Sohm Loo-ee)
Enjoy a Sunset View from Vung Tau Lighthouse: Take a scenic motorbike ride or hike up the winding road to this French-built lighthouse atop Little Mountain for the best 360-degree sunset views over the city and the ocean.
Try Night Squid Fishing: Join a local boat tour in the evening for the fun and traditional experience of fishing for squid, often including a meal of your fresh catch.
Sample Bánh Khọt: Take a cooking class or visit a famous local eatery to try the city’s signature dish: crispy, savory mini-pancakes topped with fresh shrimp and served with fresh herbs and a sweet-sour fish sauce.
- Pronunciation: (Banh Khawt)
Visit the Upside Down House: Stop by this unique, fun attraction where gravity seems to be defied, providing quirky photo opportunities for all ages.
Escape to Hồ Cốc Beach: Travel to this quieter, more pristine coastal area outside the city for a peaceful beach day, famous for its white sand and nearby casuarina forests.
- Pronunciation: (Haw Cawp)
Take a Cable Car Ride to Hồ Mây Park: Enjoy a scenic cable car trip up Big Mountain to an amusement park and resort area that offers attractions, a small zoo, and excellent views.
- Pronunciation: (Haw Meye)
Local Tips & Transport
Motorbike/Scooter is King: The most common and flexible way to get around the city and the wider coastal area is by motorbike. Rentals are readily available from hotels and cost around $5-10 USD per day. The city’s traffic is generally calmer than in Ho Chi Minh City.
Ride-Hailing Apps: For reliable and fixed-price transport, use a ride-hailing app like Grab (for both car and motor-taxi, known as xe ôm). You can also find the local electric taxi service, Xanh SM, for a slightly higher but fixed rate.
- Pronunciation: (Seh Ohm)
Getting There from HCMC:
- Bus/Coach: Numerous high-quality, air-conditioned “limousine” minivans and buses run from Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC/Saigon) and take about 2-2.5 hours. They are affordable and efficient.
- Ferry: For a more scenic, stress-free route, take the high-speed ferry from Bach Dang Wharf in HCMC to Vung Tau’s Front Beach, which takes about 2 hours.
Walking & Cycling: The flat city center is easily walkable, especially the scenic promenade along Front Beach (Bai Trước). Cycling is a great way to explore the coastal roads, and bicycle rentals are available at many hotels.
The Weekend Rush: Vung Tau is a very popular weekend escape for residents of Ho Chi Minh City. Expect the beaches, restaurants, and hotels to be significantly more crowded and expensive on Saturdays and Sundays. Plan your visit for a weekday for a quieter experience.
Seafood Culture: Vung Tau’s culinary scene revolves around fresh seafood. When dining, especially at local markets like Xóm Lưới, it’s customary to select your fresh fish, squid, or shellfish, and then negotiate the price and the style of cooking.
Noodle Soup for Breakfast: Vietnamese cuisine often features rich, savory noodle soups for breakfast. Be sure to try local specialties like Bún Riêu Tôm (shrimp noodle soup) or Hủ Tiếu Mực (squid noodle soup) from a street vendor.
Dress Code for Religious Sites: When visiting temples (Chùa), pagodas, or the Christ the King Statue, remember to dress respectfully. This typically means covering your shoulders and knees.
Hidden Gems:
- Tọa Lạc View Cafe (Đồi Con Heo): Take a motorbike up to Piggie Hill (Đồi Con Heo) for a stunning, windy viewpoint overlooking Back Beach, and grab a coffee at one of the cafes in the area.
- Thích Ca Phật Đài Temple (Tick Ka Fat Die): A beautiful, peaceful Buddhist temple complex on Big Mountain featuring a large seated Buddha statue and a massive reclining Buddha.
- Long Hải Beach: A quieter, more local beach town about 30-40 minutes from Vung Tau city, offering a more tranquil coastal experience.
Bargaining: When buying souvenirs or using un-metered transport like a motorbike-taxi on the street, it is common to bargain politely for a fair price.
Top Restaurants
Bánh Khọt Gốc Cây Vú Sữa [$3-$7] – A legendary and extremely popular spot, often crowded, famous for what many consider the best, freshest Bánh Khọt in Vung Tau.
Bánh Khọt Cô Ba Vũng Tàu [$4-$8] – A highly-regarded, clean, and spacious restaurant specializing in Bánh Khọt and a wide variety of Southern Vietnamese dishes.
Bánh Khọt Miền Đông [$3-$6] – A well-known and local favorite for quality Bánh Khọt with a crispy texture and fresh shrimp topping.
Bánh Khọt Cây Tre (Bamboo) [$3-$7] – A simple, authentic local eatery specializing in Bánh Khọt that is popular with residents for its taste.
Lẩu Cá Đuối Hoàng Minh [$8-$15] – Arguably the most famous spot for Lẩu Cá Đuối (Stingray Hotpot) in the city, known for its tangy, flavorful broth and fresh stingray.
Quán Lẩu Cá Đuối Ngon Vũng Tàu – Khe [$8-$15] – A local favorite known for its authentic Stingray Hotpot, served with fresh herbs and vermicelli noodles.
Bánh Canh Ghẹ – 125 Võ Thị Sáu [$5-$10] – One of the best places for Bánh Canh Ghẹ (Crab Tapioca Noodle Soup), a hearty bowl with thick noodles and a rich, fresh crab broth.
Hủ Tiếu Mực Ông Già [$4-$8] – A small, famous street stall/eatery known for its delicious Hủ Tiếu Mực (Squid Noodle Soup), a popular breakfast choice.
Cháo Hàu Di Tu [$4-$8] – A simple, local spot specializing in Cháo Hàu (Oyster Congee), a soothing, savory rice porridge with fresh local oysters.
Xóm Lưới Market (Night Market) [$10-$30] – Not a restaurant, but a bustling local night market where you can select extremely fresh, live seafood and shellfish and have it cooked on the spot.
Ốc Tự Nhiên (Oc Tu Nhien) [$8-$20] – One of Vung Tau’s most popular local spots for Ốc (snails/shellfish), offering a massive variety cooked in various styles (grilled with butter and garlic, steamed with lemongrass, etc.).
Ốc Thiên Nhiên [$8-$20] – Another highly-regarded local Ốc (snails/shellfish) restaurant known for its freshness and vibrant street-side atmosphere.
Hải Sản Cây Sung [$10-$25] – A well-known, no-frills seafood spot popular with locals for its fresh, simple, and well-executed grilled and steamed dishes.
Nhà Hàng 94 – Hải Sản Bè Nổi [$15-$35] – A floating raft restaurant offering an authentic “catch-of-the-day” experience where you choose live seafood from a tank and enjoy the sea view.
Gỏi Cá Mai Vườn Dừa [$6-$12] – A traditional spot famous for its Gỏi Cá Mai (raw white anchovy salad), a signature Vung Tau dish served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
Bánh Bông Lan Trứng Muối Gốc Cột Điện [$1-$3/cake] – The original, most famous bakery for the iconic Vung Tau snack: a fluffy sponge cake topped with salted egg yolk and shredded pork floss.
Gánh Hàng Rông (Street Food Vendors) [$1-$3] – Look for the small, non-descript vendors for excellent Bánh Tiêu (Vietnamese hollow doughnut) and fried banana fritters.
Gành Hào 1 [$15-$40] – Located right by the sea on Trân Phú Street, this institution is a large, classic Vung Tau choice for incredibly fresh seafood with panoramic ocean views.
Vạn Chài (Van Chai) Restaurant [$15-$35] – Impresses with its unique, large space adorned with bamboo, offering fresh seafood chosen from live tanks in a serene garden ambiance.
Cây Bàng Restaurant [$15-$35] – With over 40 years of history, this popular beachfront spot on Trần Phú Street offers sweeping views and consistently fresh seafood.
Lam Đường (Lam Duong) Restaurant [$15-$40] – Known for its spacious sea-view balconies, offering a relaxed spot to enjoy grilled, fried, and hotpot seafood dishes.
Hải Vương Seafood [$12-$30] – Offers the classic Vung Tau experience: selecting your live catch from a tank and having it cooked to order, ensuring maximum freshness.
BOHO Restaurant Vung Tau [$10-$25] – A stylish spot near the water offering sea views and a menu of seafood and family-friendly dishes, including vegetarian options, in a relaxed setting.
The Quán [$12-$28] – A contemporary Vietnamese spot known for putting a modern, artistic spin on traditional dishes in a chic and comfortable setting.
Quán Ăn Ngon (Delicious Eatery) [$10-$20] – While its name is common, this Vung Tau branch is highly-regarded for bringing together popular, authentic Vietnamese dishes from all regions with a focus on fresh ingredients.
Muối Restaurant (at Melia Ho Tram) [$25-$50] – Though outside of Vung Tau city, this restaurant specializes in modern Vietnamese cuisine with a creative twist, known for its live seafood selection.
Riviera Restaurant (at Pullman Vung Tau) [$20-$40] – Offers a harmonious blend of traditional Vietnamese and international cuisine in a sleek, contemporary hotel setting.
Luca Pizza & Italian Restaurant [$12-$25] – A popular choice for authentic wood-fired pizza, fresh pasta, and classic Italian dishes in Vung Tau.
Bistro Nine [$15-$30] – A highly-rated French restaurant offering a refined menu and an elegant dining experience.
Taj Grill Indian Restaurant [$10-$20] – Known for its warm atmosphere and delicious selection of traditional Indian curries and tandoori dishes.
C Tao Chinese Restaurant [$15-$30] – Offers high-quality, authentic Chinese cuisine, particularly dim sum and Cantonese-style dishes, in a sophisticated setting.
Emily’s Kitchen Sports & Family Restaurant [$10-$20] – A family-friendly spot offering a mix of Western comfort food and Vietnamese dishes, known for its accommodating service and atmosphere.
Don Quijote Restaurant [$15-$30] – A well-regarded choice for those seeking authentic Spanish cuisine, including tapas and paella.
The Deck House Vung Tau [$10-$25] – Offers a varied menu of Western and Asian fusion dishes in a beautiful, open-air setting right by the beach.
The Rabbit Hole Irish Sports Bar & Restaurant [$8-$20] – A solid spot for pub food classics, a wide selection of beers, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Bánh Canh Ghẹ – 36K – 1107 Đường 30 Tháng 4 [$5-$10] – Another local haunt famous for its rich and savory Bánh Canh Ghẹ (Crab Tapioca Noodle Soup).
Bánh Xèo Vũng Tàu – 418 Trương Công Định [$4-$8] – A simple, local eatery specializing in Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese savory pancakes), serving a large, crispy version.
Phở Bình An [$5-$10] – Known by locals as a go-to for a clean, comforting bowl of classic Northern Vietnamese Phở (beef noodle soup).
Cơm Niêu Rau Tập Tàng (Various Locations) [$7-$15] – A simple, no-frills chain specializing in Cơm Niêu (rice served in a clay pot) and traditional Vietnamese home-style dishes.
Bún Bò Huế 347 Thống Nhất Mới [$5-$10] – A very popular local restaurant specializing in Bún Bò Huế (spicy beef and pork noodle soup), a central Vietnamese classic.
Bò Né 3 Ngon [$5-$10] – A breakfast and lunch favorite for Bò Né (sizzling beefsteak and eggs served on a hot plate with a baguette).
Quán Ốc 84 – Hoàng Hoa Thám [$8-$18] – A lively, street-side Ốc (shellfish) vendor popular with the younger local crowd for late-night snacks and beers.
Quán Ăn Chiều [$7-$15] – Famous for its simple, traditional Vietnamese lunch/dinner dishes, offering a real taste of local home cooking.
Bánh Hỏi An Bằng [$5-$10] – Specializes in Bánh Hỏi (fine vermicelli woven into intricate bundles) served with grilled pork or shrimp and fresh herbs.
Phá Lấu Dì 2 [$3-$6] – A humble street food vendor known for excellent Phá Lấu (pork or beef offal stewed in coconut milk), served with a baguette.
Bánh Mì Không Tên (Unnamed Banh Mi Stall) [$1-$3] – A classic, non-touristy street stall serving a perfectly crusty, fresh Bánh Mì (Vietnamese sandwich).
Quán Cơm Chay Tịnh Tâm [$3-$6] – A well-regarded vegetarian spot serving traditional Vietnamese Buddhist-style vegetarian food (cơm chay).
Quán Lẩu Dê – 49 Trương Công Định [$10-$20] – Known for its delicious Lẩu Dê (Goat Hotpot), a popular alternative to seafood hotpot for locals.
Lẩu Bò Khu 5 Tầng [$10-$20] – A local favorite hotpot spot specializing in rich, flavorful beef hotpot.
Bánh Flan Dì Dinh [$2-$5] – A tiny, classic spot famous for its Bánh Flan (Vietnamese crème caramel), a sweet local favorite.
Cà Phê Sữa Đá Sài Gòn (Various Stalls) [$1-$3] – Look for any small, busy sidewalk coffee stall for the classic, strong, and sweet Vietnamese iced coffee.
Quán Bún Riêu Tôm (Various Stalls) [$4-$8] – Seek out local stalls for Vung Tau’s unique version of Bún Riêu (crab noodle soup) using sea shrimp for a richer coastal flavor.
Bánh Khọt Gốc Cây Sứ [$3-$7] – Another popular Bánh Khọt spot often recommended by locals as a great alternative to the most famous places.
Hải Sản Bé Hạnh [$10-$25] – A simple, authentic seafood eatery, a great choice for a casual, fresh seafood meal away from the main tourist strip.
Quán Chả Giò 48 Trương Công Định [$5-$10] – Specializes in Chả Giò (Vietnamese fried spring rolls) and other traditional fried appetizers.
Bánh Canh Cua – 73 Lê Lai [$5-$10] – Another excellent, no-frills local spot for delicious and fresh Bánh Canh Cua (crab tapioca noodle soup).
Cơm Tấm Phước Hải [$4-$8] – A highly-rated local restaurant specializing in Cơm Tấm (broken rice) with all the classic toppings.
Mì Khô 120 (Dry Noodles) [$4-$8] – A long-standing local favorite for Mì Khô (Vietnamese dry noodles), often served with a savory sauce and slices of char siu pork.
Chè Hương Quê [$3-$6] – A humble shop known for its wide variety of traditional Chè (Vietnamese sweet dessert soups).
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Lighthouse Bar (Rooftop): Offering one of the most magnificent panoramic views of the city and the sea, this sophisticated bar is located on a rooftop in Vung Tau, perfect for a sunset cocktail.
Fusion Bar & Lounge: Found within a key international hotel near Bai Sau (Back Beach), this elegant lounge offers premium spirits and expertly crafted classic and modern cocktails in a relaxed setting.
Vung Tau Beach Club (Bãi Sau): More of a relaxed, breezy venue right on the popular Back Beach, it’s known for its chilled atmosphere, beachside seating, and refreshing tropical cocktails.
Thanh Binh Cocktail Bar (Thành Bình Cocktail Bar): A well-regarded local spot in Vung Tau’s city center known for its friendly service and affordable, well-made drinks.
Republic Bar: A popular watering hole located centrally in Vung Tau, offering a vibrant atmosphere, a good selection of Western-style cocktails, and often features live music.
Gành Hào Cocktail Terrace (Gành Hào): While primarily a famous seafood restaurant, its spacious terrace overlooking the ocean offers a stunning backdrop for pre or post-dinner drinks. Located on the rocky coastline near the city.
Lan Rung Resort Bar: Set within the luxurious Lan Rung resort near the Christ the King statue, this bar provides a tranquil, upscale setting for a quiet evening drink overlooking the water.
The Sóng Rooftop Bar (The Sóng): Located high up on the modern The Sóng building, this newer spot provides high-end mixology and impressive sweeping views of Vung Tau’s coastline.
Seaside Resort Pool Bar: A relaxed, informal bar by the pool of the Seaside Resort, ideal for cooling off with a crisp cocktail after a day in the Vung Tau sun.
Skyline Rooftop Lounge (The Imperial Hotel): Offering a high-class experience from the rooftop of The Imperial Hotel, this lounge is known for its extensive drinks menu and sophisticated ambiance with great views.
Black Pearl Bar: A thematic, pirate-ship-inspired bar located near the Front Beach (Bãi Trước), providing a unique, quirky atmosphere and a wide variety of drinks, including cocktails.
Ocean House Vung Tau: Located near the beach, this venue offers a contemporary space and a breezy open-air feel, perfect for casual cocktails and appetizers.
The Coast Rooftop Bar: Situated on the top floor of a hotel near the Front Beach area, offering nice coastal views and a calm, chill-out vibe for evening drinks.
Marina Club: Found slightly outside the main city area toward the Marina, it offers beautiful views of the yachts and water, making it a scenic spot for a refreshing beverage.
Bà Rịa Night Market Bars (Bà Rịa): Although not a single bar, several small, informal stalls and mini-bars near the night market in the nearby town of Bà Rịa offer budget-friendly local cocktails and beers in a lively street-food environment.
Cask & Copper Bar (The Imperial Hotel): While technically a bar, this upscale venue within The Imperial Hotel often transforms into a lively late-night spot with live DJ sets, attracting a fashionable crowd in Vung Tau.
New Square Club: A well-known and bustling nightclub located in the heart of Vung Tau, famous for its energetic atmosphere, LED lighting, and loud commercial dance/pop music.
V Club (Victory Club): One of Vung Tau’s long-standing entertainment venues, this club often features Vietnamese and international DJs and is a central hub for late-night partying in the city.
DC Club (Dragon Club): Known for its large dance floor and high-energy music, this venue attracts a younger crowd and is a staple in the Vung Tau club scene, located centrally.
Gold Club Vung Tau: Another popular, often crowded, club in Vung Tau’s nightlife circuit, offering modern sound systems and a mix of EDM and V-Pop music.
Bar O2 (Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu): Located slightly inland, but known for drawing a large local crowd, this high-energy club provides a vibrant atmosphere with a focus on electronic and hip-hop music.
Paradise Beach Club (Bãi Sau): Located right on the Back Beach, this venue often hosts themed parties and events, combining a beachfront atmosphere with a club environment.
King’s Club Vung Tau: A popular entertainment complex near the city center that includes a lively disco/club section known for late-night revelry and a mix of music genres.
Sky Garden Club: An open-air venue, often found near a major hotel or resort in the central Vung Tau area, offering a slightly more relaxed clubbing experience under the stars.
The One Club (Phú Mỹ): Located in the nearby developing area of Phú Mỹ, this newer venue targets a high-end clientele with modern design, VIP service, and big-name local DJs.