Vung Tau Shore Excursion Uncover the Beauty from Phu My Port

A Complete Guide to the Vung Tau Shore Excursion from Phu My Port

If you’re cruising through Vietnam and looking to add a rich, authentic experience to your journey, this full-day shore excursion to Vung Tau might be just what you need. For around $231 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours and 20 minutes exploring some of the most iconic sights in southern Vietnam. From towering Jesus Christ statues to bustling markets, this trip offers a well-rounded taste of local culture, history, and scenery. The best part? It’s a private tour, meaning you get a personalized experience with an expert guide.

What we love about this tour is the chance to visit Vung Tau’s top landmarks—like the Whale Temple and the White Palace—without the hassle of planning each step ourselves. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional Vietnamese lunch and a relaxing stretch at Back Beach makes it feel like a well-balanced day. That said, with so many stops packed into one day, it’s a fairly full schedule, so be prepared for a busy but rewarding experience. If you enjoy cultural landmarks, scenic views, and local flavors, this tour suits travelers who want to dive into a vibrant Vietnamese town without the stress of organizing transport or admission tickets.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines cultural sights, scenery, and local cuisine.
• Expert guide: Guides speak excellent English and add insights that bring the sights to life.
• Convenient logistics: Private air-conditioned transport makes the day comfortable.
• Authentic flavor: Enjoy local dishes and visit markets to see daily Vietnamese life.
• Flexible and hassle-free: Entrance fees, taxes, and tips are all included, reducing surprises.
• Ideal for cruise travelers: Designed to fit into a single day, perfect for those on a cruise schedule.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experiences

Starting from Phu My Port

Your day begins at the cruise port, where a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle awaits. The transfer to Vung Tau takes about 40 minutes, a scenic ride along National Highway 1 through lush rice fields. During this short drive, you’ll likely find yourself glancing out the window and thinking about how Vietnam’s countryside transitions into coastal city life.

The Jesus Christ Statue: A Must-See Landmark

Your first stop is the famous Jesus Christ Statue, a 32-meter-tall figure perched on a hill with sweeping views of the coast. It’s a classic photo opportunity and a great way to get a sense of the city’s skyline. The admission is included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs. Many travelers, including one reviewer, appreciated climbing the hundred steps to reach the statue, describing the view as “nice” and the climb as “fun”. One guide, Tom, is praised for his clear explanations and engaging storytelling, making this stop both educational and enjoyable.

The Whale Temple: A Unique Cultural Spot

Next, a visit to the Thang Tam Temple (Whale Temple) offers insight into local fishing traditions. Built as a place to worship the whale spirit, it reflects the community’s respect for the sea. The unique architecture and fishing-related rituals provide a glimpse into the local livelihoods and beliefs. Visitors often find it a peaceful spot that adds depth to the tour, especially with guides explaining the cultural significance.

The White Palace: Colonial Elegance

After exploring religious sites, you’ll visit the White Palace (Bach Dinh), a colonial-era villa once used by French governors. Perched on a hilltop, it offers a blend of French colonial architecture and panoramic views of the coast. This stop allows a moment to appreciate the history of Vietnam’s colonial past, and many enjoy the picturesque setting as a contrast to the bustling city life.

Authentic Vietnamese Lunch

Midday, the tour includes a visit to a local restaurant for a traditional Vietnamese meal. Expect a variety of regional dishes that highlight the culinary richness of southern Vietnam. From fresh herbs to savory seafood, this meal is designed to give you a taste of local flavors. One reviewer remarked, “The meal reflected the culinary traditions of the region,” making it a highlight of the day.

Relaxation at Back Beach

After lunch, you’ll have about two hours at Thuy Van Beach (Back Beach)—one of Vietnam’s most beautiful stretches of sand. The gentle surf and clean shoreline provide a relaxing break from sightseeing, and many travelers appreciate this downtime. It’s a chance to dip your toes in the water, soak up the sun, or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery.

Vung Tau Market: A Lively Local Hub

Next, a visit to the Vung Tau Market immerses you in everyday Vietnamese life. Here, locals sell fresh seafood, produce, and handmade goods. The market’s lively atmosphere offers wonderful photo opportunities and a chance to observe daily commerce. For those interested in souvenirs or just soaking in the local vibe, this stop adds a lively, authentic touch to the tour.

Returning to Phu My

Around 5:00 PM, your guide will lead you back to Phu My Port. The return journey is a good time to reflect on the day’s highlights, ask last-minute questions, or simply enjoy the scenery passing by. The total day feels balanced—filled with sights, tastes, and relaxation—making it a well-rounded experience.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer praised the well-organized nature of the trip, noting that “tour guide speaks great English and is very kind.” They especially enjoyed the climb up to the Jesus Statue, describing it as a “nice view” and a “fun” activity. Another mentioned the delicious food and the familiarity of local customs, illustrating how this tour offers more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersion in Vietnamese culture.

Some travelers might find the schedule packed, but that’s part of what makes it rewarding. With all entrance fees and taxes included, the value is evident, and the personalized aspect of a private tour can make all the difference in comfort and experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal if you’re a cruise passenger who wants to maximize your time ashore without feeling rushed. It’s also suited for history buffs, culture seekers, and beach lovers who want a taste of both scenic beauty and lively local markets. The guided elements and included meals make it particularly attractive for those who prefer a hassle-free, all-in-one day.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In terms of value, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Vung Tau’s highlights, with the convenience of private transport and guided commentary. The admission fees, lunch, and entrance tickets are included, simplifying planning and budgeting. The guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, turning what could be a lengthy bus ride into an engaging experience.

For travelers craving a cultural snapshot, scenic views, and local flavors all wrapped into one day, this tour delivers. It’s especially perfect if you enjoy walking around iconic landmarks, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and exploring bustling markets—all with the comfort of a small-group setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the overall tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes, including transportation, sightseeing, lunch, and relaxation time.

What are the main sights visited?
You’ll see the Jesus Christ Statue, Whale Temple, White Palace, enjoy a local Vietnamese lunch, relax at Back Beach, and visit Vung Tau Market.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking, especially climbing the steps at the Jesus Statue.

How much walking is involved?
There’s some walking at each site, but the pace is generally comfortable, and stops are brief enough for a relaxed experience.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to the attractions listed are included in the price.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and some cash for personal purchases if desired.

Is food included?
Yes, a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant is part of the tour.

Can I customize the experience?
Being a private tour, it’s possible to ask your guide for minor adjustments, but most of the itinerary is fixed for a well-rounded experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of cultural landmarks, scenic beaches, local markets, and culinary experiences makes this a well-balanced and authentic day out.

How do I book?
You can reserve this tour through platforms like Viator, and it’s often booked 208 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your spot.

To sum it up, this Vung Tau shore excursion from Phu My offers a thoughtfully curated day that balances sightseeing, local culture, and relaxation. It’s perfect for cruise travelers looking for a comprehensive, hassle-free glimpse into southern Vietnam’s charm. Whether you’re admiring panoramic views from the Jesus Statue, wandering lively markets, or soaking up the sun on Back Beach, this trip promises a meaningful and memorable experience.