Vung Tau is at 125km from Ho Chi Minh City. It is a popular destination for the inhabitants of the metropolis, who often come to Vung Tau for the weekend. The whole city area lies on a peninsula which is separated from the mainland by a river called Co May. Today, Vung Tau’s importance as a shipping port has diminished, but it still plays a significant role in Vietnam's offshore oil industry. Indeed, Vung Tau is the only city in Vietnam where crude oil and gas exploitation activities dominate the local economy.



The Lighthouse
The lighthouse was rebuilt in 1911 on a rocky peak, where it still stands today. Next to the platform are 4 old French cannons which role was to defend the premises in the event of naval attacks. The lighthouse offers panoramic views on Vung Tau.

Thang Tam Temple
This temple is a special feature of Vung Tau. It was erected to worship the three men who founded the three villages of Thang in Vung Tau. The architecture is particularly interesting around the Tam Quan gate, the sanctum, the public commune, the meeting room and the scene for military opera stage that was skillfully engraved.

The Christ of Vung Tau (also known as the statue of the Christ with outstretched arms)
This 28-meter high statue was built in 1971 and is standing at the top of Little Mountain. Representing Jesus Christ opening his arms, it seems to contemplate the China Sea. The two shoulders are in fact balconies accessible by stairs and offering splendid views of the surrounding landscape.

White Villa (Bach Dinh)
Built by the French between 1898 and 1916, this holiday home was named "Villa Blanche" by its owner, the Governor General Paul Doumer. It is located on the slopes of the Big Mountain, 50m above sea level. The exterior walls are decorated with beads and Greek statues and its balcony offers a view of the beautiful waterfront and on Hai Nguu Island, which shape resembles a water buffalo wallowing in the ocean.