Discover the Best of Vung Tau on a Shore Excursion from Phu My Port
Planning a day trip to Vung Tau from your cruise port in Phu My? You’ve picked a top-rated way to see this seaside town. For $109 per person, this private tour lasts about 6 to 8 hours, offering a comfortable, flexible way to explore highlights like the Christ the King Statue, White Palace, and Vung Tau Lighthouse. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll travel in air-conditioned comfort and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch.
What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines a well-rounded itinerary with a personal touch. The small group or private format ensures you won’t be lost among crowds, and the local guide’s insights make the sights come alive. Plus, the views from the lighthouse and the chance to see the iconic Lying Buddha are genuinely memorable.
A possible consideration? The itinerary involves quite a bit of walking, especially up the 800 steps to the Christ statue. If mobility is a concern, this is worth noting before booking. Still, for most travelers looking for an authentic and comprehensive look at Vung Tau, this tour hits the right notes.
This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a thorough overview of the city’s highlights, especially those interested in Vietnamese culture, architecture, and coastal scenery. It’s also perfect for cruise passengers who want to maximize their limited time without feeling rushed.
Key Points
- Comprehensive visit covering major sights like the Christ Statue, White Palace, and Lighthouse
- Private, flexible experience with a knowledgeable guide ensuring personalized attention
- Stunning coastal views from the Lighthouse and Christ statue overlooking the sea
- Authentic Vietnamese lunch offering local flavors in a relaxed setting
- Accessible transportation in an air-conditioned minivan with port pickup and drop-off
- Good value for a full-day, private tour in a popular seaside destination
Why You Should Consider This Vung Tau Shore Excursion
When your cruise docks in Phu My, time is limited but the desire to see Vung Tau’s highlights is strong. This tour provides a well-paced, informative, and comfortable way to experience the city’s key attractions. It’s especially appealing because it offers personalized guiding—based on multiple reviews mentioning guides like Sang, Jayden, and others, your day will be both enjoyable and educational.
Most travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who bring the sights to life. Rhonda describes her experience as “a great experience,” and Sheila highlights the “well-organized luxury” with comfortable transport and a “very informative” guide. The reviews reveal that guides often go above and beyond, taking photos, offering local insights, and customizing the experience to your interests.
The itinerary is thoughtfully curated to include diverse highlights: from the iconic Christ statue with its 800 steps and panoramic views, to the French-colonial White Palace, and spiritual sites like the Thich Ca Phat Dai temple. The visit to the Whale Temple adds a bit of local legend, while the Chon Khong Monastery features Vietnam’s largest golden Buddha.
And let’s not forget the lunch — many reviews mention the delicious local Vietnamese food at a restaurant frequented by locals, giving you a taste of genuine regional cuisine rather than touristy fare. The fact that the tour includes all fees, taxes, and a professional guide makes it a convenient, stress-free option.
A Deep Dive into the Itinerary
Stop 1: Bai Bin Vung Tau (Front Beach & Alternatives)
The tour begins near the most famous beach, Front Beach. While it’s popular among travelers, it’s also known for its crowds and some pollution, which can detract from the experience if you’re expecting a pristine beach day. For those looking for better water quality and fewer crowds, the nearby Back Beach (Bai Sau) is a more tranquil spot, perfect for surfing and kiteboarding—something many reviews highlight as a fun feature of Vung Tau’s beaches.
You’ll have about an hour here to soak in the atmosphere, enjoy some fresh seafood, and take photos of the lively waterfront. Many visitors appreciate the chance to sample delicious seafood stalls—a hallmark of the region.
Stop 2: Jesus Christ Statue on Little Mountain
This is arguably the most iconic sight in Vung Tau. The massive Statue of Christ the King is famously impressive, with arms spanning 18 meters and a height of 32 meters. Climbing the stairs to the observatory inside the statue rewards you with spectacular views of the city and coast.
Reviewers often mention the 800 steps to the statue, which can be a challenge in the heat, but most say it’s worth it for the panoramic vistas. One traveler notes, “Climbed up to the shoulder of the Statue of Christ, exciting experience.” The statue’s commanding presence and the opportunity for photos make it a highlight.
Stop 3: White Palace (Bach Dinh)
Perched on Big Mountain, the White Palace offers a glimpse into French colonial architecture and the elegance of bygone days. Built in 1898 as a summer home for French officials, it later served as a residence for Vietnamese leaders. The views from the palace’s hillside location are stunning, and the architecture’s blend of Western and Vietnamese styles makes it a photogenic stop.
Visitors appreciate its historical charm and the chance to walk through the well-preserved rooms, which are often furnished with Asian antiques and Western furniture. It’s a quiet contrast to the lively beaches and a chance to appreciate Vung Tau’s colonial past.
Stop 4: Thich Ca Phat Dai (Platform of Shakyamuni Buddha)
This spiritual site features a large Zen Buddhist monastery and a golden Buddha statue. Built between 1961 and 1963, it sits on a plot of about five hectares, offering peaceful surroundings and a sense of tranquility. The climb up the hill to the temple involves some walking but rewards visitors with a sense of serenity and beautiful views.
Many travelers find this stop meaningful, especially those interested in China’s Buddhist influence. The large Buddha statue is a photo-worthy piece and provides insight into local religious practices.
Stop 5: The Whale Temple (Long Ong Nam Hai)
This lesser-known site presents whale bones collected over a century by local fishermen. It offers a glimpse into fisherman legends and their reverence for whales, believed to have saved them from storms or sacrificed themselves for the community.
The skeleton of a whale makes an unusual and interesting photo stop, and many reviews mention the fascinating story behind it. It’s a brief visit but adds a layer of local belief and tradition to your trip.
Stop 6: Chon Khong Monastery
Known as one of the most beautiful monasteries in Vung Tau, it houses the largest golden Buddha in the area. The monastery has recently been expanded, with new facilities and decorative features. The hilltop location provides excellent city views and a peaceful atmosphere.
If you enjoy spiritual sites or just want a serene spot for reflection, this monastery will appeal. Visitors often remark on the beautiful architecture and the breathtaking views.
Transportation & Ease of Travel
Traveling in a private, air-conditioned minivan makes all the difference. It keeps you comfortable, especially in Vietnam’s humid climate, and allows for flexibility—many guides adapt the schedule based on your interests or energy levels. From the reviews, it’s clear that the port pickup and drop-off are smooth, removing the hassle of navigating unfamiliar transportation.
The tour’s duration of 6 to 8 hours feels just right—ample time to see everything without feeling rushed. The group discounts and private format mean you get a tailored experience, with the guide often sharing local stories and answering questions.
Walking & Climbing Considerations
Most stops involve some walking, with the Christ statue requiring climbing a significant number of steps. If you have mobility issues, it’s worth considering whether you’re comfortable with that level of activity. Otherwise, the views and the sense of achievement are well worth the effort.
Value & Cost Analysis
At $109 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing. The inclusion of lunch, all fees and taxes, and port transfer makes it a hassle-free experience. Many reviews highlight how this private tour is cheaper and more personalized than cruise line offerings, with some travelers noting their guides went above and beyond.
The flexibility to customize your stops, combined with the knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport, means you get a meaningful, personalized experience—not just a cookie-cutter coach tour.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This tour suits first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Vung Tau’s highlights in one day. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer private or small-group experiences over large, crowded buses. Those interested in Vietnamese architecture, religious sites, or coastal scenery will find plenty to love.
If your cruise schedule is tight but you want a rich, authentic taste of Vung Tau, this tour delivers. The delicious local lunch and beautiful views make it worthwhile, especially since many reviews mention guides who are friendly, informative, and eager to share their knowledge.
The Sum Up
For anyone seeking a well-rounded, personalized day trip to Vung Tau, this shore excursion from Phu My Port checks every box. It combines cultural highlights, scenic vistas, and local flavor in a comfortable, private setting. The knowledgeable guides and flexible itinerary ensure you won’t just see the sights but also understand their significance.
Whether you’re interested in historic architecture, spiritual sites, or coastal views, this tour offers a balanced experience that emphasizes authenticity and value. It’s perfect for first-timers, couples, or small groups looking for an easy, informative, and memorable day in Vietnam’s seaside city.
FAQ
How long is the tour from port to port?
The tour lasts about 6 to 8 hours, including travel time, with pickup and drop-off from Phu My cruise port.
What sights will I see on this tour?
You’ll visit Bai Bin Vung Tau (beach options), the Christ the King Statue, White Palace, Thich Ca Phat Dai temple, the Whale Temple, and Chon Khong Monastery, plus enjoy panoramic views from the Lighthouse.
Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Climbing the 800 steps to the Christ statue may be challenging if mobility is limited. The tour involves some walking at various sites, so consider your comfort level.
What is included in the price?
The fee covers port pickup and drop-off, private air-conditioned transportation, a professional guide, all fees and taxes, and a Vietnamese-style lunch.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, guides are often flexible and willing to adjust stops based on your interests or energy.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing, especially for walking and climbing stairs, sun protection, and water. Your guide can advise on specific site dress codes, especially for religious sites.
How is the lunch?
Most reviews mention a delicious, authentic Vietnamese meal at a local restaurant, adding a cultural flavor to the day.
Are children and families welcome?
Yes, but keep in mind the walking and climbing involved. It’s a good choice for families with older children who enjoy sightseeing and light hiking.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, making it flexible if your plans change.
Who do I contact for more information?
The tour is operated by Maximus Travel Vietnam. You can reach them at +84906212997 or via email at [email protected] for specific questions.
This private Vung Tau tour is a thoughtful way to enjoy a full day of scenic, cultural, and culinary discoveries. For travelers craving authentic experiences in Vietnam’s charming seaside town, it’s a sure bet.