Vung Tau City Shore Excursion from Phu My Port

Planning a day trip from Phu My to Vung Tau can be a fantastic way to break up a cruise itinerary or explore Southern Vietnam’s coastal gems without the hassle of public transport. This private tour, priced at around $120 per group (up to three people), offers the comfort and flexibility of a tailored experience. With a knowledgeable driver, you’ll visit some of the most iconic sites, from stunning beaches to cultural landmarks, all in one day. The journey typically takes between 6 to 8 hours, making it a manageable yet enriching escape.

What we really like about this tour is its customizable nature. The guide and driver are there not just to chauffeur you around but to ensure you see what interests you most, whether that’s the scenic beaches or cultural sites. Plus, the private car means no rushing or sharing with strangers—just the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, you should keep in mind that this tour doesn’t include entrance fees or a guide, so a bit of self-research beforehand can help you make the most of each stop.

This experience would suit travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and authenticity. If you’re looking for a relaxed way to see Vung Tau with a local driver who can tailor the day, this could be an excellent choice. It’s especially appealing for groups or families wanting a low-cost, fuss-free day out without the constraints of a big tour group or crowded sightseeing buses.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with a knowledgeable driver who can adapt the itinerary.
• Comfortable transportation in a private car, ideal for large groups or those seeking flexibility.
• Multiple scenic and cultural stops, including beaches, a giant Christ statue, and historic sites.
• Cost-effective for groups, with the price per car rather than per person, offering good value.
• No guide included, so some independent planning or research might enhance your visit.
• Flexible duration of 6 to 8 hours, allowing for a relaxed exploration without feeling rushed.

An In-Depth Look at the Vung Tau Shore Excursion

The Convenience of Private Transportation from Phu My

Starting your day in a private car from Phu My means avoiding the common hassles of shared transport or public buses. The driver from MUINE PRIVATE CAR is described as friendly and accommodating in reviews, which makes for a smooth, stress-free journey. Since the transfer is priced per vehicle, not per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore with friends or family—saving money while maximizing comfort and flexibility.

The driver handles petrol, tolls, and parking fees, so you won’t need to worry about hidden costs. Plus, you can select your own departure time, which means you can tailor your day around cruise schedules or personal preferences.

Beaches in Vung Tau: Front Beach vs. Back Beach

Your first stop is Bai Bin Vung Tau, which encompasses four beaches, but Front Beach (Bãi Trc) is the most famous—and often the most crowded. It’s popular for its lively atmosphere and seafood stalls, but the water quality isn’t the best, which can be a disappointment if you’re expecting a pristine swim. For a more relaxed experience, many prefer Back Beach (Bãi Sau), which tends to be cleaner and offers great wind conditions ideal for surfing and kitesurfing.

One of the reviews notes that “the water at Front Beach is rather polluted and doesn’t offer the best beach setup,” but still, the area’s seafood stalls serve some of the best dishes in the south of Vietnam. You can enjoy freshly grilled seafood while watching the bustling scene—an authentic slice of local life.

The Iconic Jesus Christ Statue

No trip to Vung Tau is complete without visiting the Christ the King statue. Towering 32 meters with an 18-meter arm span, it’s taller than Rio’s Christ the Redeemer. You’ll get the best views from the observatory at the top of Little Mountain, where the statue is situated. The ascent involves some stairs but offers sweeping views of the city and the sea, making it well worth the effort.

One reviewer mentioned that “climbing to the top of Little Mountain and admiring the statue was one of the highlights,” and it’s easy to see why. The statue, built in the 1970s, is a symbol of Vung Tau’s spiritual side and offers a striking photo opportunity with the city and ocean as a backdrop.

The White Palace (Bach Dinh)

Perched on Big Mountain, the White Palace is a beautiful reminder of French colonial architecture. Built in 1898 as a summer villa for French Governors, it’s now a popular spot for photography and history enthusiasts. The all-white exterior and scenic hillside setting make it a photogenic stop, and the peaceful surroundings provide a nice contrast to the busy beaches.

The review notes that the palace was used for holiday retreats in the early 20th century, and today, visitors can enjoy its historic charm while taking in views of the coastline below. The entrance fee is included, so you can explore without extra costs.

Thich Ca Phat Dai: A Serene Buddhist Retreat

This Buddhist temple complex offers a calming atmosphere, with a large Zen monastery and a shrine dedicated to Shakyamuni Buddha. Built between 1961 and 1963, the site is spacious, set on a hilltop with scenic views. Visitors can wander through landscaped gardens, enjoy the serenity, and learn about Buddhist practices.

One reviewer appreciated the peaceful vibe, noting that “the temple’s scenic location and quiet atmosphere make it a good place to reflect.” The complex includes lodgings for pilgrims, adding depth to its spiritual significance.

The Whale Temple and Whale Bones

The Whale Temple houses a large skeleton collected by local fishermen, linked to a story about a giant whale that washed ashore in the 19th century. It’s a quirky, culturally interesting site that offers insight into local folklore and fishing traditions. The bones are well-preserved, and the story lends a memorable touch to this stop.

Expect about 30 minutes here; it’s a short but fascinating visit that adds a unique twist to your day. The review highlights that “people have worshipped the whale bones for over a century, making it a meaningful, if unusual, site.”

Chon Khong Monastery and the Golden Buddha

The monastery is regarded as one of the most beautiful in Vung Tau, with its large golden Buddha and scenic hilltop location. Recently expanded in early 2022, the site offers impressive views over the city and coastline. It’s a peaceful place to pause, admire the architecture, and perhaps toss a coin into the prayer bowls.

The monastery is free to visit, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in spiritual sites and panoramic vistas.

Practicalities and Value

This tour’s price point offers good value, especially considering it’s a private experience. With no guide included, you’ll need to decide whether to do some research on your own or just enjoy the ride and ask your driver for tips. The driver’s friendly and accommodating nature, as noted in reviews, can help fill in some informational gaps during your stops.

Timing is flexible, but expect the full day to be around 6 to 8 hours, including travel and sightseeing. The tour does not include entrance fees, so budgeting for these is wise. The stops are well-chosen for a mix of scenic, historic, and cultural experiences, giving you a well-rounded impression of Vung Tau.

The Overall Experience

The highlights of this tour are the scenic vistas from the Christ statue and White Palace, the authentic local flavor at the beaches, and the serene spiritual sites like Thich Ca Phat Dai and Chon Khong Monastery. The story-rich Whale Temple adds a local folklore element that travelers often find amusing and memorable.

Some reviewers have appreciated the flexibility and personal touch, with one saying, “Our driver was friendly and accommodating. He took us wherever we decided to go and also provided helpful information.” This indicates a level of service that can make your day more enjoyable and tailored.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private Vung Tau excursion is perfect for travelers who want a personalized, flexible experience without the constraints of large tour groups. It suits those interested in cultural landmarks, scenic views, and beaches, all in a single day. It’s ideal for groups or families who appreciate comfort, affordability, and the chance to customize their itinerary.

If you’re curious about local stories, enjoy beautiful vistas, and want a relaxed pace, this tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure. Remember, since it’s a private service, you can tweak the stops or timing if you wish, making it a highly adaptable choice.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation, petrol, tolls, and parking fees. Entrance fees to sites such as the White Palace and Thich Ca Phat Dai are included, but other costs like meals, tips, or additional activities are not.

Is a guide provided during the tour?
No, there is no guide included; you’ll have a driver who is friendly and helpful but not a tour guide. You may wish to do some pre-research on the sites to enhance your visit.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at each site.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the driver and service are flexible. You can prioritize certain stops or request additional destinations, subject to your preferences and timing.

Is this suitable for families or groups?
Absolutely. The price per vehicle makes it affordable for groups or families, and the comfort of private transport adds convenience, especially for those with children or elderly travelers.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s advisable to consider physical mobility if planning to climb stairs at sites like the Christ statue or White Palace.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sun protection, water, comfortable shoes, and maybe some snacks, especially if you plan to spend extra time at certain sites.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 94 days in advance, to secure availability and to plan your day around cruise schedules.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour start will not be refunded.

Final Thoughts

For those cruising through Southern Vietnam, this private shore excursion from Phu My to Vung Tau offers an excellent way to see a variety of sights without the stress of large tours. Its flexibility allows you to tailor the day to your interests—whether that’s relaxing on beaches, exploring historic sites, or soaking in panoramic views. The driver’s friendliness and the well-chosen stops make it a well-rounded, enjoyable experience.

While it doesn’t include guided commentary or entrance fees, the trip’s value lies in its convenience, comfort, and the authentic local sights you’ll experience. It’s especially suitable for travelers looking for a relaxed, customizable day out with a touch of local flavor and stunning scenery.

If you’re after a cost-effective, private way to discover Vung Tau and enjoy some of the best coastal sights Vietnam has to offer, this tour is a dependable choice. Just remember to plan ahead, bring essentials, and get ready for a memorable day exploring Vietnam’s vibrant seaside city.