“Vung Tau is such a dull town!” That’s the first thing I often hear from first-timers visiting Vung Tau. But let me tell you, after two years of living here and never getting bored, you’re probably just not exploring the right spots or doing the right things. Vung Tau is so much more than just chilling in the sea and eating seafood. So, let’s dive into 6 must-visit spots in this chill beach city that’ll totally spice up your experience here.
1. Statue of Christ the King
Bigger than Rio’s iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, Vung Tau’s Christ the King statue is a religious and architectural masterpiece that is definitely worth checking out when you’re in town. Not only is it massive, but it also offers a stunning 360-degree view of the city.
Now, the entrance is free, but if you want to actually stand on the giant’s shoulders (and trust me, you do), be ready for a workout! You’ll need to climb over 800 cobblestone steps to reach the base, and then there’s a spiral staircase with 133 more steps inside the statue. It’s totally doable, though—I mean, my 8-year-old nephew did it with one stop and no training, so no worries!
Just a heads-up: the cobblestones can be a bit tricky, so comfy shoes are a must, and remember to bring some water for hydration. Once you’re up there, due to limited space, you’re expected to move on and give room for the next after 5-10 minutes. So, make the most out of these few minutes to enjoy the fresh breeze, take in the incredible views from over 200 meters above sea level, and of course, snap some amazing shots for your socials.
After conquering those stairs, stop by Holy Beans Café on the way down for a quick rest and some surprisingly delicious coffee with a stunning view of the scenic Nghinh Phong Cape.
Opening hours: 7 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Free entrance.
2. Bach Dinh (White Palace)
Bach Dinh, or the White Palace, is one of those places where history and beauty come together perfectly. Built by the French in the late 19th century, this palace was used as a vacation home for French officials and even for the last king of Vietnam, Bao Dai. One thing that all the colonial palaces in Vietnam have in common is that they are located on a high hill, leaning against the solid mountain range while facing a vast body of water. In Eastern belief, this is considered a place where healthy energy reigns, bringing prosperity to its owner. The White Palace is no exception. It’s got a prime location with breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it an awesome spot to wander around.
You’ll get to stroll under old trees with plenty of shade, making it a perfect spot for couples looking for a peaceful walk or picnic. Kids will love checking out the historical artifacts and running around in the spacious gardens. And don’t forget to take a few photos by the windows with views of the sparkling sea and lush mountains in the distance.
Opening Hours: 7.30–11.30 a.m. and 1.30–5 p.m.
Entrance fee: 15,000 VND (~ $0.6).
3. Vung Tau Lighthouse
You might be thinking, “A lighthouse? Big deal.” But hear me out, Vung Tau’s lighthouse is one of the oldest in Vietnam, over 150 years old! Of the more than 90 functional lighthouses in Vietnam, this is one of the rare locations that can be easily accessed. It’s situated on top of Nui Nho (Small Mountain), offering one of the most scenic spots in the area.
The road to the lighthouse is considered the most beautiful route in Vung Tau—though be warned, it can get pretty crowded on weekends. So, if you’re driving by motorbike or taxi, prepare for some traffic. But if you’re not a fan of traffic jams, here’s a cool tip: get yourself to the base of the mountain (near the start of Hai Dang Road), and then just hike up the scenic path at your own pace. It’s only about 3 km, with plenty of cafés and snack shops along the way if you need to take a break and enjoy the ocean breeze. Once you’re there, don’t miss the abandoned bunker a little off to the right of the lighthouse; it emanates an eerie yet fascinating vibe.
Opening hours: 24 hours.
Free entrance (Parking fee: 10,000 VND/motorbike).
4. Mieu Hon Ba (Ba Islet Temple)
If you’ve ever cruised through Vung Tau, you’ve probably spotted that little island off in the distance by Bai Sau, or the Back Beach. But here’s the cool thing—Hon Ba (Ba Islet) isn’t just a pretty view from afar! When the tide goes low a few times each month, a path through the sea magically appears, leading you to the islet with its temple atop. Imagine strolling through the water with waves gently lapping on either side, the sound of pebbles crunching underfoot, and the salty sea breeze whipping through your hair. It’s one of those bucket-list experiences you won’t forget.
Mieu Hon Ba is a sacred spot that locals totally worship. Once you step onto the island, you’ll not only get a taste of local religious rituals, but also catch a totally different angle of Vung Tau. It’s like you’ve escaped the hustle and bustle of the city, and suddenly, everything feels peaceful and serene. The only sounds you’ll hear are the temple bells, the wind, and the waves—pure zen.
If you’re wondering when the tides are right, check out local travel groups like Yêu Vũng Tàu on Facebook or just Google “Hon Ba tide times.” Allow at least 1–2 hours for the whole trip, that’s your travel time and some chill moments soaking in the vibe on the island.
Free entrance.
5. The Old Artillery Field Sao Mai – Nui Lon
If you’re craving a more peaceful and historical experience away from the crowds, this hidden gem is calling your name. Nestled in alley 444 on Tran Phu Street, this site was a military base during the French and Japanese periods. It’s actually made up of two separate sites just 200 meters apart, but together they form a fascinating historical complex.
When you visit, you can get up close to massive old cannons and explore the underground bunkers. Plus, if you’re into hiking, there’s a beautiful and slightly adventurous trail that leads up to more mountain views. It’s perfect for anyone looking to mix history with a bit of outdoor exploration.
If you’re visiting in the afternoon, don’t miss Bui Roman Coffee nearby, where you can chill out and watch a stunning sunset while enjoying live acoustic music on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday nights.
Opening hours: 24 hours.
Free entrance.
6. Robert Taylor Museum of Worldwide Arms
I wasn’t really sold on the idea of visiting this museum at first, but after checking it out, I’m glad I did. This private collection is a labor of love for the owner, who’s basically turned his passion for military history into a full-blown obsession.
Inside, you’ll find all sorts of military uniforms and weapons displayed in a way that’s oddly fascinating, especially since the mannequins look so expressionless, it’s kind of funny. The museum is air-conditioned (or at least fanned), making it a great spot to hide from the midday heat while checking out some seriously cool relics. If you’re lucky, you might even meet Robert, the museum’s organizer, and chat with him about his epic collection.
Opening hours: 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Entrance fees:
- Children under 6: Free
- Children from 6–11: 35,000 VND ($1.4)
- Children over 11 & adults: 70,000 VND ($2.8)
We hope this list gives you a better idea of what Vung Tau has to offer in terms of nature, architecture, history, and culture. We truly believe this friendly beach city deserves to be on the radar for international travelers who love exploring new spots and making unforgettable memories. So next time, don’t just stop at the beach, go out there and discover the gems of Vung Tau!
