Vung Tau

Location

Once a French colonial hub and a favored vacation spot, Cape Saint Jacques in Vung Tau has long been celebrated as one of the most famous beaches in Southern Vietnam. However, compared to other coastal destinations, Vung Tau's oceanic beauty remains relatively underrated. The city's popularity is largely due to its proximity to Ho Chi Minh City, attracting visitors looking for a quick getaway. Discover Vung Tau's hidden charms with this guide, ensuring you don't miss out on the fun and vibrant experiences this coastal city has to offer.

Vung Tau Beach

Things to Know Before You Go

Vung Tau boasts four main beaches, each named according to its geographical relation to the city center. These beaches provide distinct experiences, enhancing your visit. A common advantage is that all beaches are well-maintained and safe for leisure activities.

Nghi Phong Cape in Vung Tau City

Despite rapid urbanization and its impact on local biodiversity, residents of Vung Tau actively prioritize environmental conservation, managing to preserve the area's natural beauty. This dedication to nature, combined with the locals' warm hospitality, leaves a lasting impression on visitors from around the globe, and you are sure to feel the positive energy during your stay.

How to Get There

By Plane

Travelers arriving from international locations or distant regions can land at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and then take a car to Vung Tau. The newly constructed expressway linking the two cities significantly shortens travel time, allowing journeys to Vung Tau to take approximately one hour. Numerous taxi services now operate along this route. Alternatively, you can book seats through travel agencies for a more economical option.

By Train

For those traveling by train, take a train to Saigon Station, then transfer to a car or bus to reach Vung Tau.

By Car/Bus

Direct services, including cars and buses to Vung Tau, are available from various tourist agencies and travel companies within Ho Chi Minh City.

Best Time to Visit

Vung Tau experiences its sunny season from May to October, followed by a wetter rainy season extending until April of the following year. Regardless of the season, average temperatures typically hover around 27°C (81°F), making it suitable for outdoor activities at all times of the day. However, during the summer months, be prepared for strong UV rays and potential sunburn. Rain can disrupt outdoor plans, making careful timing essential when planning your visit.

Generally, Vung Tau’s beaches experience fewer issues with sea creatures like jellyfish compared to other regions, providing fewer reasons to avoid a trip, aside from concerns about rainfall. Fresh seafood is available year-round, and the city's well-developed tourist services ensure a warm welcome for all visitors.

Due to its close proximity to Ho Chi Minh City, Vung Tau becomes a popular weekend and short holiday destination. Prices tend to rise during these peak periods, and public attractions, restaurants, and shopping centers can become quite crowded. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting Vung Tau during the weekdays. If you are interested in traditional festivals, the best times to visit are typically in August and September according to the lunar calendar.

Kite Festival in Vung Tau

Useful Information