Ho Chi Minh City: Full-day Vung Tau Coastal Escape

Price: $142 per person
Duration: 8 hours (check availability for start times)
Location: Southern Vietnam, Vietnam
Supplier: Hoi An Express
Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Travelers looking to escape the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City for a day of sunshine, sea breezes, and cultural sights will find this full-day trip to Vung Tau quite appealing. For $142, you get a thoughtfully planned itinerary that covers scenic viewpoints, historic architecture, delicious seafood, and a peaceful Buddhist temple—all within about eight hours.

Two things stand out immediately: the stunning panoramic views from the Jesus Christ statue and the opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant. Both offer authentic experiences that go beyond typical tourist fare. A second plus is the relaxed pace—you’re not rushed, and there’s plenty of leisure time at the beach and the temple.

On the flip side, the roughly three-hour drive each way might be a consideration if you’re sensitive to long bus rides. Also, the group size is limited to 15, which is great for intimacy but may mean an early booking is wise. Still, if you’re eager for a blend of nature, history, and local flavor, this tour fits the bill perfectly—especially for those craving a taste of Vietnam’s coastal life without straying too far from Ho Chi Minh City.

Key Points

Stunning Panoramic Views: From the Christ the King statue, you’ll get sweeping vistas of the coastline, ideal for photos and appreciating Vung Tau’s landscape.
Authentic Seafood Lunch: Enjoy a fresh, well-prepared seafood meal at a charming local restaurant, highlighting Vietnam’s coastal culinary delights.
Historical and Cultural Sights: Visit the French colonial-style White Palace (“Bach Dinh”) and a serene Buddhist pagoda, offering insights into Vietnam’s layered history.
Leisure Time at the Beach: Relax, swim, or walk along Vung Tau’s famous sandy beaches, a perfect break from sightseeing.
Efficient Itinerary: The tour covers all the key highlights comfortably within a day, balancing sightseeing, relaxation, and culture.
Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 travelers, making for a more personalized and engaging day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Breakdown of the Full-day Experience

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The Journey Begins: Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau

Starting early, the tour provides hotel pickup in districts 1, 3, and 5, which covers most central locations. The air-conditioned bus makes the three-hour drive surprisingly comfortable, allowing us to relax and watch Vietnam roll by through the window. The journey itself is part of the experience, with some travelers noting the scenic countryside and coastal views that emerge as you approach Vung Tau.

First Major Stop: The Jesus Christ Statue

Our first highlight is the 32-meter-high Christ the King statue perched atop “Nui Nho” (Small Mountain). Here, guided by the friendly tour guide, we walk around the statue, learning about its significance and history. The views from this vantage point are genuinely impressive—the coastline stretches out in both directions, and you can see the city nestled along the shore.

Many reviews mention the “breathtaking panoramic views,” and we agree. It’s a perfect spot for photographs, especially if you’re sensitive to crowds, as early morning or late afternoon visits tend to be quieter. The guided tour ensures you appreciate the symbolism and artistry of the statue, which has a commanding presence overlooking the sea.

Exploring French Colonial Elegance: Bach Dinh

Next, we visit “Bach Dinh” (Villa Blanche), a relic from the French colonial period. Built as a resort for the Indochinese Governor-General, this villa exudes classic French architectural flair. Walking through its shaded gardens and grand rooms, you get a tangible sense of Vietnam’s colonial past. The structure is well-preserved, and the guided tour offers insight into its original purpose and its role in Vietnamese history.

A common theme in reviews is the admiration for the architecture and tranquility of this site. Some travelers mention the beautiful French design and the peaceful ambiance, making it a lovely contrast to the lively city and beach scenes.

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Lunch: Fresh Seafood at a Local Restaurant

After the historical and scenic sightseeing, it’s time to indulge in what many consider the highlight for food lovers—a seafood lunch at a charming local restaurant. The menu typically features Vietnamese favorites like grilled fish, shrimp, and calamari, served with rice or noodles. The quality is generally praised as fresh and flavorful, with some reviewers noting that the seafood is the real star of the meal.

The restaurant’s setting is often described as “cozy and authentic,” providing a genuine taste of local life. It’s a welcome pause after the morning’s sightseeing, and the relaxed atmosphere allows for conversation and appreciation of Vietnamese hospitality.

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Free Time at the Beach

Post-lunch, you’re free to enjoy some leisure time at Vung Tau’s beaches. Many travelers take the opportunity to swim, stroll along the sand, or simply relax while soaking up the sun. The beaches are described as “picturesque,” with golden sands and warm waters inviting a refreshing dip.

If you prefer, you can also just unwind on the beach and watch the local life unfold—fishermen, vendors, and families enjoying the sea. The tour ensures you have about 1.5 hours for this, enough to unwind but not so long as to lose track of time.

Serene Visit to Thich Ca Phat Dai Pagoda

The day winds down with a visit to Thich Ca Phat Dai, a tranquil Buddhist pagoda. During the guided tour, you’ll appreciate the serene atmosphere and harmonious architecture, which offers a peaceful end to the day’s adventures. Visitors often comment on the calming environment and the beautiful natural surroundings.

This stop is more than just sightseeing; it’s a chance to reflect and enjoy the spiritual side of Vietnamese culture. The guided experience helps you understand the significance of the pagoda, making it a meaningful conclusion to your day.

Return to Ho Chi Minh City

The drive back takes about 2.5 hours, giving you time to relax, review your photos, or just enjoy the scenery. The entire journey is designed to be smooth and comfortable, with bottled water provided throughout.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic views, cultural sights, and beach relaxation. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want to get a feel for Vietnam’s coastal charm. The small group size makes the day more intimate and engaging, while the inclusion of local guides ensures you learn a bit about each site.

If you’re a foodie, the seafood lunch alone makes this trip worth considering. And if panoramic views and historic architecture appeal to you, the stops at the Christ statue and Bach Dinh will not disappoint.

However, if you’re seeking a more private or customized experience, the group size could be a limitation. Also, the long bus ride may not suit everyone, especially if you prefer to stay close to Ho Chi Minh City or have limited travel stamina.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Hoi An Express offers a well-rounded day that captures the essence of Vung Tau’s seaside allure. The beauty of stunning views, the enjoyment of fresh seafood, and the chance to explore historic and spiritual sites make it a worthwhile day trip for many travelers.

It balances relaxation and exploration, giving you a taste of Vietnam’s natural and cultural richness without the hassle of planning every detail. The price reflects a good value for the included sights, meals, and guided experience, especially given the small group size and comfortable transportation.

In essence, it’s best suited for those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free escape to the coast—an authentic, scenic, and cultural taste of Vietnam that hits all the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau?
The journey takes about 2.5 hours each way, making it a comfortable trip with scenic views along the way.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees, lunch, bottled water, an English-speaking guide, and travel insurance.

Can I customize the start time of the tour?
Availability varies, so it’s best to check with the provider for specific starting times. The tour runs around 8 hours total.

Is this tour suitable for families or elderly travelers?
Yes, the itinerary is relaxed, with manageable walking at each site. However, be mindful of the bus ride and walking involved at each stop.

What should I bring for the day?
Sun protection (cream and hat), swimwear if you want to swim, flip-flops or sandals, a towel, camera, and any personal essentials.

Are there options for different group sizes?
Yes, private or small group experiences are available, which might be preferable if you want more flexibility and privacy.

This full-day Vung Tau coastal escape is a fantastic way to see another side of Vietnam—one of scenic beauty, historic charm, and fresh seafood—without straying too far from Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you’re after picture-perfect views, cultural insights, or just a relaxing beach day, this tour delivers on all fronts.