7 Free Things to Do in Vung Tau

Vung Tau, a coastal city in southern Vietnam, is a haven for digital nomads seeking a blend of beach life, culture, and affordability. With its laid-back vibe and scenic beauty, it's no wonder that many choose to stay for months at a time. While living costs can be low, finding free activities to enrich your experience is always a bonus. Here's a mix of popular and lesser-known free things to do in Vung Tau that will make your extended stay even more memorable.

Front Beach (Bãi Tr??c)

Front Beach, known locally as Bãi Tr??c, is the face of Vung Tau, offering a picturesque setting with calm waters and a bustling promenade. It's a popular spot for both tourists and locals to relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch the sunset. The beach is lined with statues and monuments, including the famous Jesus Christ statue, which you can see from afar. It's a great place to get a feel for the city's atmosphere and enjoy some leisure time without spending a dime.

Location: Thuy Van Street, Vung Tau. The beach stretches along the city center, making it easily accessible from various points in Vung Tau.

Travel Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and to experience the local vibe as residents come out for their daily exercise and socializing.

Nearby: Ganh Hao Seafood Restaurant is a short walk away, offering fresh seafood with a view of the ocean. It's a perfect spot to indulge in local flavors after a day at the beach.

Lighthouse

Perched atop Nui Nho mountain, the Vung Tau Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. It's one of the oldest lighthouses in Vietnam, dating back to the 19th century. The climb to the lighthouse is a bit of a workout, but the reward is a breathtaking vista that's well worth the effort. It's a popular destination for photographers and anyone looking to capture the beauty of Vung Tau from above.

Location: Small Mountain, Vung Tau, Vietnam. The lighthouse is situated on a hill, providing a scenic overlook of the surrounding area.

Travel Tip: Bring a camera and visit during the late afternoon to catch the golden hour light for stunning photos.

Nearby: After your visit, stop by the nearby Highlands Coffee for a refreshing drink and a comfortable place to rest your legs.

Statue of Jesus Christ

The imposing Statue of Jesus Christ, with outstretched arms overlooking the sea, is one of Vung Tau's most iconic landmarks. Standing at 32 meters high, it's considered one of the tallest statues of Jesus in Asia. Visitors can climb inside the statue and up to the arms for a small fee, but exploring the surrounding area and enjoying the statue from the base is completely free. The site offers a peaceful atmosphere and is a testament to the city's religious heritage.

Location: Mount Nho, Vung Tau, Vietnam. The statue is located on a small mountain, providing a serene setting away from the city bustle.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the climb and remember to dress respectfully, as this is a religious site.

Nearby: Try some local street food from vendors around the base of the mountain for an authentic and inexpensive meal.

Back Beach (Bãi Sau)

Back Beach, or Bãi Sau, is the largest and most popular beach in Vung Tau, known for its long stretches of golden sand and lively atmosphere. It's a favorite spot for swimming, surfing, and beach sports. The beach is also lined with a variety of food stalls and vendors, where you can sample local snacks. While the beach can get crowded, especially on weekends, it's a great place to mingle with locals and enjoy the vibrant beach culture of Vietnam.

Location: Thuy Van Street, Vung Tau, Vietnam. Back Beach spans a large area along the coastline, easily accessible from multiple points in the city.

Travel Tip: If you're looking for a quieter experience, visit on a weekday when the crowds are smaller.

Nearby: Co Ba Vung Tau is a well-known restaurant close to the beach where you can enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes in a cozy setting.

Thich Ca Phat Dai Pagoda

Thich Ca Phat Dai Pagoda is a serene Buddhist temple complex set amidst lush gardens and ornate architecture. It's a place of worship and meditation, offering a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Visitors can explore the grounds, admire the intricate designs, and observe the daily rituals of the monks. The pagoda is an excellent spot for those interested in Vietnamese culture and religion, and it provides a peaceful environment for reflection.

Location: Tran Phu Street, Ward 5, Vung Tau, Vietnam. The pagoda is situated in a quiet area, surrounded by greenery.

Travel Tip: Visit during the early morning to participate in or observe the monks' chanting sessions, which can be a moving experience.

Nearby: Enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee at one of the local cafés near the pagoda, where you can continue to soak in the peaceful ambiance.

Vung Tau's Street Art Alley

Tucked away in the heart of the city is Vung Tau's Street Art Alley, a lesser-known gem where local artists have transformed a narrow lane into a vibrant canvas of murals and graffiti. It's a colorful and ever-changing exhibition of street art that reflects the creativity and spirit of the city's youth. Strolling through this alley is like walking through an open-air gallery, and it's a perfect spot for those looking for inspiration or a unique photo backdrop.

Location: The exact location can vary as new art spaces pop up, but ask locals for the "hem phun" (spray alley) to find the latest street art spot.

Travel Tip: Keep an eye out for new pieces, as artists often update the walls with fresh artwork.

Nearby: Grab a refreshing smoothie or a quick bite at one of the nearby cafés that dot the area around the art alley.

Ho May Park

While Ho May Park is known for its amusement rides and attractions, which require a ticket, the park itself is situated on a mountain and offers numerous free hiking trails and natural spots to explore. The park's higher altitude provides cooler temperatures and stunning views of the city and coastline. It's an ideal place for nature lovers and those looking to get some exercise while enjoying the great outdoors.

Location: 1A Tran Phu, Ward 1, Vung Tau, Vietnam. The park is located on Big Mountain, offering a natural retreat from the urban environment.

Travel Tip: Pack a picnic and find a quiet spot to enjoy the scenery and fresh air.

Nearby: After your hike, visit the nearby Goc Pho Cafe for a relaxing drink and a chance to unwind in a charming setting.

Long Son Island

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, take a day trip to Long Son Island. This small island near Vung Tau is known for its traditional fishing villages and mangrove forests. While there's no direct cost to explore the island, you'll need to arrange for a boat ride to get there. Once on the island, you can wander through the villages, learn about the local way of life, and enjoy the untouched natural beauty without spending a penny.

Location: Long Son Island is located just off the coast of Vung Tau and can be reached by boat from the mainland.

Travel Tip: Bring your camera to capture the unique stilt houses and the picturesque scenery of the island.

Nearby: Sample some freshly caught seafood at one of the island's local eateries for an authentic and affordable meal.

Vung Tau's Historic French Villas

Vung Tau's colonial past is evident in its collection of historic French villas scattered throughout the city. These architectural relics from the French colonial era are free to admire from the outside and make for a fascinating walk through history. Many of these villas are located on the slopes of the city's hills, offering not only a glimpse into the past but also impressive views of the surrounding area.

Location: The villas can be found in various locations around Vung Tau, particularly on the hillsides.

Travel Tip: Respect the privacy of any villas that are private residences and enjoy the architecture from the street.

Nearby: Stop by one of the French-inspired cafés in the area, such as La Sirena, to enjoy a pastry and coffee in a setting that complements the historic ambiance.

Exploring Vung Tau's free attractions offers a wealth of experiences that range from cultural immersion to natural beauty. Whether you're a digital nomad on a budget or simply looking to make the most of your extended stay, these activities provide a glimpse into the heart and soul of this charming Vietnamese city.