Escape the bustle of Ho Chi Minh City and discover Vung Tau, a popular coastal city nestled on a picturesque peninsula just a couple of hours away. Known for its refreshing sea breezes, accessible beaches, and prominent landmarks perched on rolling hills, Vung Tau offers a diverse mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and history, making it a favourite weekend getaway. From its historic lighthouse guiding ships to its iconic statue overlooking the sea, the city presents a variety of attractions catering to different interests, all within a relatively compact area easily explored during a short visit.

The city's landscape is dominated by two main mountains, Nho Mountain (Small Mountain) and Lon Mountain (Big Mountain), both offering key attractions. On Nho Mountain, visitors can undertake the rewarding climb up nearly 800 steps to the base of the towering Christ the King statue, one of Asia's largest, and even venture inside for breathtaking panoramic views. Nearby on the same mountain, the historic Vung Tau Lighthouse provides equally stunning, easily accessible vistas over the city and coastline, while the dramatic Nghinh Phong Cape at the mountain's southern tip offers windswept coastal scenery.

Beyond the mountains, Vung Tau's beaches call. Back Beach (Bai Sau) is the main hub for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the lively beach resort atmosphere, while the calmer Front Beach (Bai Truoc) provides a scenic promenade for sunset walks, harbour views, and glimpses of the tiny Hon Ba islet temple (accessible at low tide). For a touch of colonial history, explore the elegant White Palace (Bach Dinh) on Lon Mountain. This blend of accessible beaches, stunning viewpoints, and historical landmarks makes Vung Tau a convenient and multifaceted coastal destination perfect for a refreshing break (as of April 2025).