Vung Tau is a dynamic coastal city located in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Vietnam. The city has beautiful beaches, scenic mountains, and rich cultural heritages that attract millions of tourists every year. This article provides a detailed guide to Vung Tau, including its geography, top tourist attractions, religious sites, outdoor activities, accommodation options, and transportation.
Geography and Location of Vung Tau
Vung Tau is situated on a peninsula stretching out into the South China Sea and separated from the mainland by two rivers, Co May River and Ray River. The city is approximately 120 kilometers southeast of Ho Chi Minh City and can be reached by car, bus, or hydrofoil. Vung Tau’s total land area covers around 140 square kilometers, with a population of over 300,000 people.
Climate in Vung Tau
Vung Tau experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons – dry season and rainy season. The dry season lasts from December to April, while the rainy season starts from May to November. The average temperature in Vung Tau is around 27°C, making it an ideal destination for tourists looking to escape the scorching heat of other parts of Vietnam.
Beaches in Vung Tau
Vung Tau is known for its beautiful beaches, which are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The most famous beaches in Vung Tau include Bai Sau, Bai Dau, Bai Truoc, and Bai Vong. Bai Sau is the most popular beach because of its white sand and crystal clear waters. There are several beachside restaurants and bars where you can enjoy fresh seafood and cold drinks while watching the sunset.
Mountains in Vung Tau
Apart from beaches, Vung Tau also boasts of scenic mountains and hills that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding areas. The most famous mountain in Vung Tau is Nui Lon, which is around 170 meters high. At the top of the mountain, there is a large statue of Jesus Christ, which can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. Visitors can climb up to the statue and enjoy panoramic views of Vung Tau.
Religious Sites in Vung Tau
Vung Tau is also known for its religious sites, which reflect the city’s unique blend of Vietnamese and Western cultures. The most famous religious sites in Vung Tau include:
Niet Ban Tinh Xa Pagoda
Niet Ban Tinh Xa is a Buddhist temple located on a hill overlooking the sea. It was built in the 1960s by a group of monks who had fled from North Vietnam during the war. The temple has beautiful gardens, statues, and shrines, and is a peaceful place to meditate and enjoy the stunning views of Vung Tau.
White Palace
The White Palace is a beautiful villa located on a hill in Vung Tau. It was built in the early 20th century as a summer residence for French Governor-General Paul Doumer. The villa has an elegant design, with white walls and green shutters, and is surrounded by lush gardens. Visitors can explore the villa’s spacious rooms, which have been preserved to showcase the lifestyle of French colonial rulers.
Christ the King Statue
The Christ the King Statue is the largest statue of Jesus Christ in Asia, standing at 32 meters high. It was built in the 1970s and sits atop Nui Nho mountain, overlooking Vung Tau city. Visitors can climb up to the base of the statue, which offers stunning views of the surrounding areas.
Top Tourist Attractions in Vung Tau
Apart from beaches and religious sites, Vung Tau has several other tourist attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the top tourist attractions in Vung Tau include:
Vung Tau Lighthouse
Vung Tau Lighthouse islocated on a hill near Bai Sau beach. It was built by French colonists in 1910 and is still in operation today. Visitors can climb up to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of Vung Tau and the surrounding areas.
Ho May Cultural and Ecotourism Park
Ho May Cultural and Ecotourism Park is a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The park covers an area of over 50 hectares and has various attractions, including a zoo, water park, amusement park, and cable car. Visitors can also explore the park’s natural beauty, which includes lush forests, streams, and waterfalls.
Worldwide Arms Museum
The Worldwide Arms Museum is a fascinating collection of artifacts from different parts of the world. The museum houses over 2,500 rare weapons and military items, including swords, guns, and armor. Visitors can learn about the history of warfare and see how weapons have evolved over time.
Outdoor Activities in Vung Tau
For those seeking adventure, Vung Tau has several outdoor activities that offer thrilling experiences. Some popular outdoor activities in Vung Tau include:
Water Sports
Vung Tau’s beaches offer a wide range of water sports, including windsurfing, parasailing, kayaking, and jet skiing. Visitors can rent equipment from local vendors or join guided tours to explore the waters around Vung Tau.
Hiking and Trekking
Vung Tau’s mountains and hills offer excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking. Visitors can explore the trails around Nui Lon, Nui Nho, and Ho May Cultural and Ecotourism Park to enjoy stunning views of Vung Tau and the surrounding areas.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity in Vung Tau, with several fishing villages located around the city. Visitors can rent boats and equipment from local fishermen or join guided tours to catch fish and learn about traditional fishing methods.
Accommodation Options in Vung Tau
Vung Tau has several accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the most popular accommodation options in Vung Tau include:
Luxury Hotels
Vung Tau has several luxury hotels that offer world-class amenities and services. The most famous luxury hotels in Vung Tau include Pullman Vung Tau, The Imperial Hotel, and The Grand Ho Tram Resort Casino.
Mid-range Hotels
Vung Tau also has several mid-range hotels that offer comfortable rooms and reasonable rates. Some of the most popular mid-range hotels in Vung Tau include Seaside Resort Vung Tau, Sammy Hotel, and DIC Star Hotel.
Budget Hotels and Hostels
For budget-conscious travelers, Vung Tau has several affordable hotels and hostels. Some of the most popular budget hotels and hostels in Vung Tau include Minh Dang Hotel, Tan Manh Guesthouse, and Vung Tau Backpackers Hostel.
Getting to and Around Vung Tau
Vung Tau is easily accessible by car, bus, or hydrofoil.
By Car
Visitors can hire a taxi or rent a car from Ho Chi Minh City to get to Vung Tau. The journey takes around 2 hours and follows a scenic coastal road.
By Bus
There are several bus companies that operate between Ho Chi Minh City and Vung Tau. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
By Hydrofoil
Visitors can also travel to Vung Tau by hydrofoil, which departs from Ho Chi Minh City’s Bach Dang Wharf. The journey takes around 1 hour and offers stunning views of the coastline.
Getting Around Vung Tau
Vung Tau is a small city,so it’s easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Visitors can also hire a taxi or motorbike to get around the city. Motorbikes are available for rent at several shops in Vung Tau.
Conclusion
Vung Tau is a beautiful coastal city with stunning beaches, scenic mountains, rich cultural heritages, and exciting outdoor activities. This article has provided a detailed guide to Vung Tau, including its geography, top tourist attractions, religious sites, outdoor activities, accommodation options, and transportation. We hope this guide will help visitors plan their trip to Vung Tau and make the most of their time in this amazing city.
