Vung Tau City Shore Excursion from Phu My Port

Exploring Vung Tau from Phu My Port: A Practical, Authentic Shore Excursion

If you’re arriving at Phu My Port and want to see some of southern Vietnam’s most iconic sights, this Vung Tau City Shore Excursion offers a well-rounded taste of the area. For $120 per group (up to three people), you’ll enjoy a private, customizable day trip that lasts around six to eight hours. Your own driver, who’s friendly and experienced, will pick you up and take you comfortably from the port to a series of exciting stops, tailored to your interests.

What we really like about this experience is its flexibility—you can adapt the itinerary with the driver, exploring more or less as you wish. Plus, the price per group makes it excellent value for larger parties or families who want to avoid the hassle of public transport or group tours. The highlights include Vung Tau’s famed beaches, the impressive Jesus Christ statue, and a lovely French-style White Palace.

However, do keep in mind that entrance fees and a guide are not included, so if you’re after more in-depth commentary or local insights, you’ll need to arrange that separately. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy independent exploration with the comfort of a private driver, especially if you value authentic experiences over cookie-cutter group excursions.

Key Points

• Flexibility and customization: You can modify the itinerary to suit your interests.
• Comfortable private transportation: A clean, courteous driver ensures a smooth day.
• Cost-effective for groups: One price for up to three people, ideal for families or friends.
• Highlights include: Beaches, Christ statue, White Palace, and temples.
• No guide or entrance fees included: Be prepared to pay for extras if desired.
• Duration: Approximately 6 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without rushing.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting Point: Bai Bin Vung Tau

Your day begins at Bai Bin, better known as Back Beach or Bãi Sau. While Front Beach is more famous, it’s often crowded and somewhat polluted, which might not appeal to everyone. Instead, Back Beach offers a quieter, cleaner beach experience with excellent conditions for surfing and kiteboarding.

You’ll probably appreciate the chance to enjoy some fresh seafood from local stalls or restaurants along the coast—these spots serve some of the tastiest dishes in southern Vietnam. Expect about an hour here to relax on the sand and soak in the sea views. From reviews, many visitors enjoy the chance to escape the crowds and enjoy a more authentic beach vibe.

The Iconic Jesus Christ Statue

Next, you’ll visit the Christ the King statue, towering from Little Mountain. It’s an impressive 32 meters high with an 18-meter arm span, making it a striking presence visible from anywhere in Vung Tau. Climbing to the observatory at the top rewards you with a panoramic view of the city and ocean—an Instagram-worthy moment.

This stop is a highlight for many; as one reviewer says, “You can see the statue from all directions, but climbing up gives you that extra sense of accomplishment.” It’s a meaningful site that embodies the city’s religious and cultural identity, and its substantial size makes it an unforgettable landmark.

The White Palace (Bach Dinh)

Perched about 50 meters above sea level, the White Palace offers a glimpse into the French colonial past. Built in 1898 as a summer retreat for French officials, it’s called La Villa Blanche and is now a charming relic with its white facade and lovely views. Visitors love the architectural details and its setting on the hillside, offering breathtaking vistas of the sea.

Many reviewers note that the palace’s historical charm and beautiful surroundings make it worth the short visit. It was used by officials from Indochina-French governors in the early 20th century, and today, it’s a peaceful spot to enjoy the sea breeze and imagine a bygone era.

Thich Ca Phat Dai

This Buddhist temple is a peaceful oasis atop a hill, built between 1961 and 1963. It’s a large complex with a Zen monastery at the base and the Platform of Shakyamuni Buddha at the top. The temple’s serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture are a welcome break from the busier sights.

Visitors appreciate the calmness of the area and the opportunity to reflect. The temple also offers a chance to see local spiritual practices, making it a meaningful stop for those interested in Vietnam’s religious traditions.

The Whale Temple and Whale Skeleton

A unique sight in Vung Tau, the Whale Temple houses a huge whale skeleton, collected by local fishermen over a century ago. The story behind the bones adds a local flavor—legend has it that a giant whale head washed ashore in the 19th century.

Many visitors find the visual impact of the skeleton impressive and the story intriguing. The temple is a cultural symbol reflecting the traditional fishing community’s connection to the sea, making it a fascinating, offbeat spot to include in your day.

Chon Khong Monastery

Closing the tour, you may visit the Chon Khong Monastery, one of the most beautiful in Vung Tau. It features the largest golden Buddha in the area and offers spectacular views of the city from its hilltop location. The recent renovations have made it even more visually stunning, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to end your sightseeing.

Reviewers often mention the beautiful architecture and gorgeous vistas, which leave a lasting impression, especially if you enjoy scenic spots with spiritual significance.

What Does This Tour Mean for You?

This private tour from Phu My Port offers a balanced mix of nature, history, and spirituality. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy customizable itineraries and want the flexibility to linger or skip certain sites. Because it’s private, you won’t be stuck with a large group or rigid schedule—your driver, often praised for being friendly and accommodating, is there to serve your interests.

The cost is quite reasonable for the exclusivity and comfort of private transportation, especially when sharing among three people. However, keep in mind that entrance fees and a guide are not included, so if you want more in-depth commentary, you might need to organize a guide separately or do some research yourself.

Some travelers appreciate the local flavor of the seafood stalls at Bai Bin or the impressive views from the White Palace, making this a truly authentic experience. If you’re looking for a cultural taste of southern Vietnam with some relaxing beach time and iconic landmarks, this tour hits the right notes.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This excursion is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want a private, flexible day exploring Vung Tau’s highlights. It’s also ideal if you prefer avoiding large tour buses and want to set your own pace. Those interested in history, religion, and scenic views will find plenty to enjoy—especially since the driver is friendly and willing to share insights.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private car service from Phu My to Vung Tau, with petrol, tolls, and parking fees covered.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour operator mentions they can tailor destinations according to your needs, making your day more personal.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included. You should budget for these if you wish to go inside sites like the White Palace or temples.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop comfortably.

Is a guide provided?
No, a guide is not included. Your driver is friendly and knowledgeable, but for detailed historical or cultural commentary, you may wish to bring or hire a guide.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially those comfortable with private transport and a flexible schedule. The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible.

Wrapping It Up

This Vung Tau City Shore Excursion from Phu My Port offers a practical yet authentic way to see some of southern Vietnam’s most iconic sights. With its private, customizable approach, you gain the flexibility to craft a day that suits your interests and pace. The itinerary balances scenic beauty, cultural landmarks, and spiritual sites, making it suitable for those who want a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed.

The driver’s friendliness and knowledge are often praised, adding a personal touch that makes the day more enjoyable. The price is fair considering the private transportation, especially if you’re traveling in a small group or family. Keep in mind that entrance fees and guide services are additional, so plan accordingly if you want a more in-depth exploration.

In the end, this tour appeals most to independent-minded travelers who appreciate local flavor, scenic stops, and a relaxed pace. It’s a good choice for those craving authentic experiences with the comfort of knowing your transportation is taken care of, allowing you to focus on making memories rather than logistics.

Whether you’re after spectacular views, cultural insights, or just a taste of Vietnam’s coastal beauty, this private Vung Tau tour offers a thoughtful balance of all three.