Ho Chi Minh: Vung Tau 1-Day Tour with Christ Statue & Lunch

Exploring Vung Tau in a Day — A Practical and Authentic Experience

For those of us eager to escape Ho Chi Minh City’s hustle for a taste of Vietnam’s coastal charm, the Vung Tau 1-Day Tour with Christ Statue & Lunch offers a well-rounded glimpse of this seaside town. Priced at $35 per person, this full-day trip packs in visits to some of Vung Tau’s most iconic sights, including the towering Christ the King Statue, the historic Whale Temple, and the picturesque Nghinh Phong Cape.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love how accessible and well-structured it is — a perfect way to see key highlights without feeling rushed. Second, the inclusion of a delicious Vietnamese seafood lunch by the beach adds genuine flavor to the day, making it more than just sightseeing.

A noteworthy consideration is that the Christ Statue is currently under maintenance, so visitors won’t be able to go inside. Also, this trip involves walking and climbing stairs, so comfortable shoes are essential. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural insight, and relaxation, especially those with a sense of curiosity and appreciation for authentic local experiences.

Key Points

• Iconic Sights: Visit Asia’s tallest Christ the King Statue and the unique Whale Temple.
• Beach Relaxation: Enjoy the golden sands and blue waters of Back Beach.
• Cultural Richness: Explore the colonial White Palace and learn about local fishing traditions.
• Scenic Views: Capture stunning photos at Nghinh Phong Cape.
• Value for Money: The $35 price includes transportation, guide, entrance fees, and a seafood lunch.
• Flexible Options: Choose between shared or private tours for added comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Vung Tau Day Trip

Convenience and Comfort from Ho Chi Minh City

We start early, with hotel pickup in Districts 1 and 4, and then settle into a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. The drive out of the city takes you along the Long Thanh Dau Giay Expressway, offering a scenic transition from urban chaos to coastal tranquility. Expect the trip to take around 2 hours, but be prepared for potential delays — traffic congestion on weekends and holidays can slow things down.

The Christ the King Statue — A Towering Marvel

The highlight for many visitors is the Christ the King Statue, one of Asia’s tallest. Approaching the 800 steps to the top, you realize this isn’t just a quick photo op — it’s a bit of a physical challenge, but the reward is breathtaking panoramic views over Vung Tau and the ocean. The statue itself is impressive, and the climb offers a tangible sense of achievement.

However, current maintenance means visitors cannot go inside, which some might find disappointing. Still, the view from outside is striking enough to satisfy most. Travelers like Kristelle appreciated the opportunity to see it despite the temporary restriction, noting the experience was still memorable.

Discovering Local Culture at the Whale Temple

Next, we visit the Whale Temple (Lang Ca Ong), a spot where local fishermen worship the whale god. It’s a fascinating window into Vung Tau’s fishing traditions, showcasing colorful sculptures and offerings. It’s a quiet place, perfect for absorbing local beliefs and customs. Travelers have appreciated this stop, with one reviewer mentioning they learned about “fascinating beliefs rooted in the fishing culture.”

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Relaxing at Back Beach & Enjoying the Sea

The Back Beach (Bai Sau) is a highlight for those who love the coast. We’re given time to walk along the stretch of golden sand lined with coconut trees, dip our toes in the water, or simply soak up the sea breeze. While swimming isn’t officially part of the itinerary, relaxing on the beach and capturing photos is encouraged. Several reviews praise the beach’s beauty, with one traveler noting it was “nice to see the sea and eat fresh seafood.”

Delicious Seafood Lunch by the Beach

A key part of the experience is the Vietnamese seafood lunch. The included meal is hearty, flavorful, and served at a local restaurant with views of the water. Vegetarian options are available upon request, accommodating different dietary needs. This meal not only provides energy but also an authentic taste of coastal Vietnam. Reviewers consistently mention the hearty, delicious meals exceeding expectations.

Colonial Charm at the White Palace

Post-lunch, the tour visits the White Palace (Bach Dinh), a French colonial villa that served as a summer retreat for Vietnamese royalty. Its European architecture and history offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s colonial past. The White Palace’s well-preserved structure and scenic surroundings make it a worthwhile stop. We loved how guides share stories about its past, adding depth to the visit.

Nghinh Phong Cape — A Scenic Photo Spot

Our final stop is at Nghinh Phong Cape, one of Vung Tau’s most scenic viewpoints. Walking through the iconic gate, you’re greeted with breathtaking ocean views perfect for photos. As one reviewer put it, it’s an “Instagram-worthy” spot to end the day — especially during sunset.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

By late afternoon, we hop back into the vehicle for the scenic drive back to Ho Chi Minh City. Expect some traffic delays, but the day’s highlights make it worth the journey. Most travelers are back around 6:30 to 7 pm, tired but happy with the day’s experiences.

How to Maximize Your Experience

• Wear comfortable shoes for the climb and walking.
• Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen — the sun can be intense.
• Pack a swimsuit if you want to relax or dip your toes in the sea.
• Have your camera ready for picture-perfect moments at Nghinh Phong Cape and the beach.
• Be aware: swimming isn’t included, and the Christ Statue’s interior is temporarily closed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced day of sightseeing and relaxation. It suits those who want to see the main highlights of Vung Tau without spending multiple days, especially if they’re interested in iconic monuments, scenic coastal views, and local culture. Families, first-time visitors, and anyone who appreciates authentic seafood meals will find it particularly rewarding.

It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer more adventurous activities like swimming or extensive walking without assistance. The tour’s focus is on sightseeing and cultural insight, making it a practical choice for a quick, enriching escape.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau?
The journey typically takes around two hours, depending on traffic, especially on weekends or public holidays.

What is included in the price?
The $35 fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees to attractions, a Vietnamese-style lunch, bottled water, and wet tissues.

Can I go inside the Christ Statue?
Currently, the Christ Statue is under maintenance, so visitors are not permitted inside, but the outside views are still impressive.

Is swimming allowed at the beach?
While you can relax and take photos at Back Beach, swimming isn’t part of the scheduled activities. Be prepared for that if swimming is your goal.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested in advance, ensuring everyone can enjoy the seafood lunch.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and swimwear if you wish to dip your toes in the water.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, but keep in mind the climb at the Christ Statue involves stairs, so it’s better suited for those comfortable with walking and stairs. Binh, the guide, was praised for his patience, especially with elderly travelers.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Holiday surcharges apply on certain dates, payable on-site. Personal expenses like shopping or beach chairs are not included.

Final Thoughts

This Vung Tau day trip offers a practical, well-rounded look at a charming coastal town. For a modest price, you get a taste of Vietnam’s religious icons, colonial heritage, sandy beaches, and fresh seafood, all with the guidance of knowledgeable local guides. It’s particularly well-suited for those wanting a tasteful balance of sightseeing and relaxation without the fuss of planning every detail themselves.

While the tour’s main attractions are accessible and enjoyable, travelers should be prepared for some walking and potential traffic delays. The inclusion of a seafood lunch and scenic viewpoints makes this an attractive option for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a quick, authentic escape from Ho Chi Minh City.

If you’re after a cost-effective day trip with a mix of culture, beach time, and natural beauty, this tour delivers. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and enjoy the sights and tastes of Vung Tau.

Experience provider: SST Travel
Price: $35 per person
Rating: 4.6 out of 5 (13 reviews)
Duration: Approx. 11 hours, including travel time

This detailed review covers what you need to know to decide if this Vung Tau tour fits your travel plans, focusing on authentic experiences, practical tips, and honest insights.

You can check availability for your dates here: