Vung Tau is a small, ocean side resort town in Southern Vietnam. It’s a popular weekend destination for locals and Westerners alike, and the city is home to several “must-see” attractions.
In this article, you’ll learn all about Vung Tau and why it’s a fantastic place to visit.
I’ll show you how to get to this city, what to do while you’re visiting, and where to stay.
Plus, you’ll get an in-depth look at the area’s nightlife and dating scene.
Let’s get started.
How To Get To Vung Tau
Unlike other cities (such as Can Tho or Da Nang), Vung Tau does not have a local airport. Instead, you’ll need to take the bus if you want to get here.
(Vietnamese Buses Are Very Nice)
If you’re an American, you’re probably thinking something like: “gross, buses suck.”
I grew up in the USA, and the bus system there is awful. But in Vietnam, things are much different. Buses are nice, clean, and quiet.
Plus, they’re all air-conditioned and most of them offer free WiFi during your trip.
Best of all, the bus service is cheap. Going from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau costs 95,000 VND ($4.18). For less than the price of a McDonald’s hamburger, you’re able to visit an entirely new city.
As far as travel time goes, it’s about a two-hour ride from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau.
That’s not too long, and riding the bus gives you plenty of time to read, watch a movie, or get some work done.
On top of all this, once you get to the city, the bus company actually offers a free shuttle that takes you to your hotel. There’s no need to grab a cab, saving you both time and money.
Things To Do In The City
Once you’re in Vung Tau, there’s plenty to do and see.
There are several nice beaches for swimming or relaxing on. And the downtown area has a few cool museums and historical sites as well.
However, one of the coolest attractions (in my opinion) is the massive Christ The Redeemer Statue located just outside of town. This is about five minutes from the city center, and it’s definitely worth checking out.
(Hiking Up A Massive Staircase To See This Christ The Redeemer Statue)
Not only is it a really interesting structure, but you can actually go inside the statue as well.
Other good attractions include:
- The Vung Tau Lighthouse.
- Villa Blanche (former home of a French governor and now a museum).
- Greyhound dog racing at Lam Son Stadium.
- Playing cards at the Grand Ho Tram Strip Casino.
These are all worth checking out, and each one is very enjoyable.
Where To Meet Women
As mentioned earlier, Vung Tau is a well-known resort town. And, it’s popular with Vietnamese locals. Many women go here to relax and unwind.
Unfortunately, most of these girls go with either friends or family. As a result, it’s tough to meet women by just walking up and talking to them. Why? Because hook-up culture still has a stigma in Vietnam. And many girls don’t want to look “easy” in front o their friends.
Because of this, I recommend one of two options:
1. Online Dating
Many of those “shy girls” you meet in coffee shops or clubs are more than happy to talk to you online.
In fact, Vietnam is one of the few countries I’ve ever been to where online dating is much easier than trying to meet women face-to-face.
The only downside is that many Western dating sites (like Plenty of Fish), just aren’t popular here.
In my experience, girls either use apps like Tinder and Badoo, or they join VietnamCupid.
And, while Tinder and Badoo are okay here, VietnamCupid is way more popular than any dating app here. It’s got a larger user-base, and the women on here are far more enthusiastic about dating Western men.
If you’re looking to meet women, give this site a try.
2. Bring A Date With You
While not everyone will agree with this, I think that Vung Tau is a great date destination. If you’re already seeing a girl (even if it’s not super serious), invite her to come along with you.
Since the city is cheap to stay in, it’ll hardly cost any more than if you visit here by yourself.
I’ve used Vung Tau as a second or third date idea several times, and it’s always gone great.
An extra bus ticket, dinner for two, and maybe an ice cream or dessert all cost very little. And your whole date can easily cost less than $15 (in addition to what you already planned to spend for a hotel, etc).
Where To Stay In Vung Tau?
There are tons of housing options here. You’ll find everything from cheap hostel rooms to luxury resorts.
Personally, I’m not one for excessive spending. That said, sharing a dorm room with three other strangers at some $4 a night hostel isn’t exactly my idea of a good time. Instead, I like staying at quality three and four star hotels.
These are very nice, and very affordable.
In fact, a great hotel in Vung Tau costs less than a crappy Super 8 Motel room back in the USA.
I enjoy staying at the Petro Hotel, and it’s less than $50 a night.
And, you’re often able to book a room for even less when you use Agoda.com.
(Great View From The Rex Hotel)
In fact, here are my top three hotel choices for staying in Vung Tau:
- Rex Hotel – Great place right on the beach. Rooms are spacious, comfortable, and clean. Complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, and a fitness center are also included in your stay.
- Petro Hotel – Excellent rooms, helpful staff, free Wifi, breakfast, and a swimming pool. This place is also within one block of the Lam Son Stadium (where dog races are held every Saturday night).
- The Grand Ho Tram Strip Resort – Great high-end hotel. This place is also home to a fantastic casino with live music and Vegas-style card tables. There’s also a big pool, gym, nightclub, and golf course all within the resort. Plus, you get access to a private beach for swimming and relaxing. If you’re looking for the absolute best amenities, this is for you.
Final Thoughts
(Beautiful View From One Of The Many Local Parks)
Vung Tau is a fun weekend destination. The city is great if you’re looking to go gambling, swim in the ocean, or relax on the beach.
When you’re in need of a quick (and cheap) vacation destination, this is an excellent spot. It’s an hour from Ho Chi Minh, has nice beaches, and offers a tranquil “resort-town” vibe. Definitely worth checking out.
P.S. I recommend coming here on a weekend. This way you can go to the local dog track or play cards at the Grand Strip Casino.