Vung Tau has long been a favorite weekend getaway for Saigon visitors thanks to its close distance and convenient travel. But beyond its blue seas, white sands, and amazing food, Vung Tau also offers many cultural, historical, and spiritual attractions you shouldn’t miss.
Thích Ca Phật Đài (Shakyamuni Buddha Shrine)
Located on the slopes of Big Mountain, this Buddhist complex is harmoniously built into the natural landscape. Its highlights include the 19-meter octagonal tower and the seated Buddha statue on a lotus pedestal—visible from afar.
Address: 608 Trần Phú Street, Vũng Tàu Ward
(From Lê Lợi → Trần Phú, pass Bãi Dâu toward Bến Đá.)
Christ the King Statue (Statue of Christ with Outstretched Arms)
One of Vung Tau’s most iconic landmarks, standing atop Small Mountain. The statue is 32 meters tall with an 18.3-meter arm span.
To reach the viewing platforms on the statue’s arms, visitors must climb 811 stone steps up the mountain, followed by 133 spiral steps inside the statue. Though challenging, scenic resting spots along the path offer stunning views of Vung Tau’s coastline.
Location: Peak of Small Mountain, Vung Tau City.
White Palace (Bạch Dinh)
Built in 1898 in Roman architectural style, this three-story mansion was once the summer residence of the Governor-General of Indochina. It backs onto Big Mountain and faces Front Beach, and still houses 19 historic cannons.
Address: 10 Trần Phú Street, Vũng Tàu Ward.
Thắng Tam Communal House Complex
This sacred complex includes the Temple of the Founders, Whale Temple (Lăng Ông Nam Hải), and Lady Temple (Miếu Bà), all built on a mound overlooking the sea. It is also where the famous Nghinh Ông Thắng Tam Festival—a traditional fishermen’s ceremony—takes place.
Address: 77A Hoàng Hoa Thám Street, Vũng Tàu Ward.
Niết Bàn Tịnh Xá (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
Considered one of the most beautiful temples in Vung Tau, built on Small Mountain with sweeping ocean views. The temple features a 12-meter reclining Buddha statue and modern architecture that blends with the natural environment.
Address: Hạ Long Street, Vũng Tàu Ward.
Linh Sơn Cổ Tự
The oldest Buddhist temple in Vung Tau, known for its 1.2-meter gold-gilded stone Buddha statue—exquisitely carved and highly revered.
Address: 61 Hoàng Hoa Thám Street, Vũng Tàu Ward.
Vung Tau Lighthouse
A symbol of the coastal city. From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the ocean, the city, and the famous white plumeria forest along the mountainside.
Location: Peak of Small Mountain, overlooking Front Beach.
Worldwide Arms Museum (Robert Taylor’s Museum of Ancient Weapons)
One of Vietnam’s most impressive private museums, founded by British collector Robert Taylor. The museum displays:
- 500 mannequins in historical military uniforms
- Over 1,200 firearms and 1,000 ancient swords
- Numerous rare and unique artifacts
- Perfect for military history enthusiasts.
A full-size replica of a British warhorse is also on display, popular for photos.
Hòn Bà Islet
A small island located near the foot of Small Mountain, between Bãi Dứa and Nghinh Phong. It features Hòn Bà Temple, built in 1881.
Highlight: During low tide, a natural rocky causeway appears, allowing visitors to walk across the sea to the island—an unforgettable experience.
