Vung Tau is often dismissed as a quick weekend escape for Saigon residents, but staying for 10 days allows you to peel back the layers of this coastal city. For families, the pace here is manageable, the food is consistent, and the geography offers enough variety to keep kids and adults occupied without the stress of constant transit.
Day 1 — Finding Your Feet
Start at Bai Truoc (Front Beach). It is not for swimming, but it is the best place to get a sense of the city’s layout. Walk the promenade, grab a "ca phe sua da" at a local cafe, and let the kids run on the grass at the park. Off-script: Visit the Bach Dinh (White Palace) in the late afternoon to explore the colonial-era architecture and the shaded gardens.
Day 2 — The Giant Statue
Head to the Christ the King statue on Nui Nho. It is a steep climb, so go early at 7:00 AM to beat the heat. The view from the top is worth the effort. Off-script: Stop at a nearby stall for "banh khot", the local specialty of crispy mini-pancakes topped with shrimp.
Day 3 — Beach Day at Bai Sau
Bai Sau (Back Beach) is the primary swimming spot. It is long and sandy. Rent a chair, grab a coconut, and settle in. Off-script: In the evening, head to the night market near the intersection of Nguyen Trai and Thuy Van for fresh seafood.
Day 4 — Lighthouse Views
Take a taxi or motorbike up to the Vung Tau (붕따우 / 头顿 / ブンタウ) Lighthouse. It is a paved, winding road that offers great perspectives of the coastline. Off-script: On the way down, look for a small shop selling "yogurt" (sua chua) and flan, a local favorite snack for Vung Tau students.
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Day 5 — Cultural Immersion
Visit the Niet Ban Tinh Xa pagoda. It is quiet, respectful, and offers a glimpse into the local spiritual life. Off-script: Walk through the local market on Nam Ky Khoi Nghia to see the morning catch being sold.
Day 6 — The Fishing Village
Head to the northern end of the peninsula to see the traditional fishing boats. It is a working harbor, not a tourist trap. Off-script: Try a bowl of "hu tieu" at a local roadside shop—it is often fresher and cheaper here than in the city center.
Day 7 — Exploring the Islands
Take a boat trip to Hon Ba. You can only reach it by foot when the tide is low, so check the tide charts carefully before heading out. Off-script: Pack a picnic of "goi cuon" and fruit to eat on the beach once you return to the mainland.
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Day 8 — Coffee and History
Spend the morning at the Worldwide Arms Museum. It is surprisingly detailed and keeps children engaged with its vast collection of uniforms and weapons. Off-script: Spend the afternoon at a quiet cafe near the lighthouse, sipping "lotus tea" while watching the ships pass.
Day 9 — The Quiet Side
Head to Bai Dau. It is much quieter than the main beaches and perfect for a family swim without the crowds. Off-script: Look for a local vendor selling "banh beo" nearby for a light afternoon snack.
Day 10 — Final Sunset
Spend your last day revisiting your favorite spot. Maybe it is the view from the lighthouse or a specific stall serving "bun rieu (분지에우 / 蟹肉米粉汤 / ブンリュウ)". Off-script: Take a final walk along the seawall at sunset to watch the local fishermen cast their nets.
Practical notes
Bring comfortable walking shoes and plenty of sunscreen, as the sun is intense even on cloudy days. Taxis are plentiful and affordable, but using a ride-hailing app like Grab will save you from having to negotiate prices.
Last updated · May 30, 2026 · independently researched, never sponsored.
