Popular beach resort city southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, known for seafood and beaches.

About Vung Tau

Vung Tau sits on a peninsula jutting into the South China Sea, serving as the closest beach escape for Saigon residents. The city is famous for its two main beaches—Back Beach (Bai Sau), a long stretch of sand popular with swimmers, and Front Beach (Bai Truoc), a calmer promenade area. The massive Christ of Vung Tau statue stands atop Small Mountain, offering panoramic ocean views.

Once a resort town for French colonists and later a rest-and-recreation destination for Australian and American soldiers during the Vietnam War, Vung Tau retains historical charm alongside modern seafood restaurants and beachfront cafes. The city's lighthouse, colonial-era villas, and vibrant fishing harbor add character beyond the beaches. Weekend traffic from Saigon can be intense, so weekday visits are more relaxing.

Nearby Landmarks

Christ of Vung Tau statue Back Beach White Palace Vung Tau Lighthouse Ho May Park

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost $60-80 USD
Time 2.5-3 hours

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost $50-70 USD
Time 2.5-3 hours

Arrivals exit

Step-by-Step Directions

Take Bus 152 to District 1, walk to Bach Dang Wharf, board Greenlines DP hydrofoil

Greenlines DP Hydrofoil

Cost $12 USD
Time 90 minutes
Frequency Hourly 6 AM - 4 PM

Bach Dang Wharf, District 1

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi $60-80 USD 2.5-3 hours Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare $50-70 USD 2.5-3 hours Budget-conscious, app users
Bus/Shuttle $12 USD 90 minutes Cheapest option

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

There are no late-night public transport options to Vung Tau. Private car or pre-booked transfer is necessary for late arrivals. Some hotels arrange airport pickup. Hydrofoil ferries from central Saigon to Vung Tau do not run at night.

Luggage Tips

The road journey is long, so ensure luggage is secured in the vehicle trunk. If taking a shared minibus, luggage space is limited. For the hydrofoil option from Saigon (separate from airport), each passenger is allowed one suitcase.

Accessibility

Private transfers can accommodate wheelchair users with advance notice. Public buses and minibuses to Vung Tau are generally not wheelchair accessible. The hydrofoil ferry has step-free boarding from the pier.