Discover the top 10 eco-friendly activities in Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City’s coastal ward! Explore beaches, pagodas, and sustainable tours with Legend Travel Group.
Vung Tau, now a vibrant ward of Ho Chi Minh City following Vietnam’s administrative merger effective July 2025, lies 95 km southeast of Ward 1 (formerly District 1), drawing over 2 million visitors annually to its 42-km coastline. Offering a blend of pristine beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant nightlife, Vung Tau’s tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 22–28°C or 71.6–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F) supports year-round exploration. Activities cost $0–$15, catering to all budgets.
Vung Tau embraces sustainable tourism with eco-friendly practices like waste-free beach campaigns, renewable energy, and local sourcing, aligning with Ho Chi Minh City’s “Green Metropolis” initiative. From serene pagodas to thrilling dog racing, Vung Tau offers diverse experiences. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours enhance your visit, supporting local communities. Book via links on this page or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s administrative reform has merged Ba Ria - Vung Tau into Ho Chi Minh City, reclassifying Vung Tau as a ward. Use “Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City” for seamless navigation with ward-based maps.
Legend Travel Group, a pioneer in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism with over 17 years of experience, offers eco-friendly tours showcasing Vung Tau’s top attractions, perfect for travelers seeking authentic experiences. Our low-impact transport, like electric shuttles and bicycles, and expert English-speaking guides highlight Vung Tau’s ecosystems, culture, and green practices. Supporting local communities, we align with Ho Chi Minh City’s sustainability goals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Book our eco-tours via links on this page for a responsible adventure!
Vung Tau’s 141 km² coastal landscape, a historic port since the 19th century, blends natural beauty with cultural richness. Sustainable initiatives, like regulated fishing and eco-certified accommodations, preserve its biodiversity, including over 150 marine species. Accessible in 1.5 hours from Ward 1, Vung Tau’s attractions, from beaches to pagodas, cater to diverse interests. Pair these with eco-conscious activities for a memorable, green getaway.
These eco-friendly activities, costing $0–$15, offer adventure, culture, and relaxation:
Surf or swim at this 10-km beach, best at 7:00 AM, with board rentals at $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND).
Cost: Free; rentals $5–$8.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Location: Thuy Van Street, Ward 2, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support beach clean-ups; use reusable bottles.
Tip: Rent at Beach Club Surf Station; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Beach Tour ($60–$90).
Climb 800 steps to the 32-meter statue on Small Mountain, best at 8:00 AM, for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Cost: $1–$2.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Location: Ha Long Street, Ward 2, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City.
Eco-Friendly Note: Stay on trails to protect flora; avoid plastic waste.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; combine with White Palace visit.
Explore Vung Tau’s oldest pagoda, best at 9:00 AM, free entry, to admire its 1.2m gold-gilded Buddha statue.
Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Location: Hoang Hoa Tham Street, Ward 2, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City.
Eco-Friendly Note: Avoid plastic offerings; respect sacred spaces.
Tip: Dress modestly; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Cultural Tour ($50–$80).
Taste sustainable seafood pancakes, best at 6:00 PM, for $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND), supporting local vendors.
Cost: $1–$3.
Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.
Location: Tran Phu Street, Ward 5, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City.
Eco-Friendly Note: Locally sourced seafood; reusable baskets.
Tip: Try stingray hotpot; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Foodie Tour ($50–$80).
Admire the 17-meter Blessing Tower, best at 8:00 AM, free entry, in a jungle-like setting.
Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$1.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Location: Tran Phu Street, Ward 5, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City.
Eco-Friendly Note: Biodegradable offerings; minimal waste.
Tip: Visit early for tranquility; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Cultural Tour ($50–$80).
Discover this 1898 French-Greek villa, best at 8:00 AM, for $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND), with shipwreck artifacts.
Cost: $0.50–$1.
Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM–11:30 AM, 1:30 PM–5:30 PM.
Location: 4 Tran Phu Street, Ward 1, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City.
Eco-Friendly Note: Eco-friendly maintenance; local guides.
Tip: Stroll the gardens; combine with Front Beach.
Cycle to this 1862 French-built lighthouse, best at 7:00 AM, for $1 (25,000 VND), with city views.
Cost: $1; bike rentals $3–$5/day (75,000–125,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM.
Location: Small Mountain, Ward 2, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City.
Eco-Friendly Note: Bikes reduce emissions; stay on trails.
Tip: Rent bikes near Front Beach; carry water.
Ride a solar-powered cable car to this mountain-top park, best at 10:00 AM, for $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 VND), with rides and games.
Cost: $12–$15.
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Location: Large Mountain, Ward 1, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City.
Eco-Friendly Note: Renewable energy; recycle waste.
Tip: Book cable car tickets early; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Adventure Tour ($60–$90).
Paddle at this serene beach, 15 km from Vung Tau, best at 8:00 AM, with rentals at $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND).
Cost: Free; rentals $4–$7.
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Location: Long Dien, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City.
Eco-Friendly Note: Non-motorized kayaks; support local vendors.
Tip: Visit Minh Dam Mountain nearby; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Nature Tour ($70–$100).
Enjoy greyhound races, best at 7:00 PM on Saturdays, for $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND), with optional betting from $0.50.
Cost: $2–$4; betting $0.50–$5.
Hours: Saturdays, 6:00 PM–10:00 PM.
Location: 15 Le Loi, Ward 1, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City.
Eco-Friendly Note: LED lighting; biodegradable packaging.
Tip: Arrive by 6:30 PM; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Night Tour ($50–$80).
Visit from November to April for dry, sunny weather (22–28°C or 71.6–82.4°F), ideal for beaches, hiking, and outdoor dining. The rainy season (May–October) offers lush scenery and fewer crowds but requires rain gear. Weekdays (5,000–15,000 daily visitors) are less crowded than weekends (50,000–100,000), especially during Lunar New Year. Early mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) suit outdoor activities, while evenings (6:00–10:00 PM) are perfect for markets and dog racing.
Vung Tau is reachable in 1.5–2 hours from Ward 1, Ho Chi Minh City:
By Private Car: Drive 1.5 hours via Long Thanh-Dau Giay Expressway, $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people. Book via Legend Travel Group.
By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): Eco-friendly VinFast taxis, 1.5 hours, $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) one-way; $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND) round-trip. Use Xanh SM app.
By High-Speed Ferry: From Bach Dang Wharf, 1.5 hours, $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) round-trip. Book via GreenlinesDP.
By Private Motorcycle: Ride via Highway 51, 2 hours, $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND) fuel; rental $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND). Helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).
By Public Bus: Futa or Hoa Mai buses from Mien Dong Station, 2 hours, $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND) round-trip.
By Private Tour Bus (Legend Travel Group): Group bus from Ward 1, 1.5 hours, $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND)/person for 15+ people, including guide.
From Tan Son Nhat Airport: Private car ($30–$45 or 750,000–1,125,000 VND, 2 hours); Xanh SM taxi ($25–$35 or 625,000–875,000 VND); or airport bus to Ward 1 ($0.80 or 20,000 VND, 30 min) + ferry ($10–$15).
Navigation Tip: Save “Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow signs to Thuy Van or Tran Phu Street. Parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Ferries or electric taxis reduce emissions; group buses lower per-person impact.
Safety: Wear helmets on motorcycles; confirm taxi/bus fares.
Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:
Clothing: Light layers, sturdy shoes for hikes; swimsuit for beaches; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, hat.
Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
Activity Gear: Small backpack, beach towel, camera for lighthouse views, cash for betting ($0.50–$5).
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for snacks ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.
Extras: Snacks for hikes; cash for vendors.
Activity Fees
Back Beach Activities: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).
Christ the King Statue: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Linh Son Co Tu Pagoda: Free; donations $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Tran Phu Market Banh Khot: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Thich Ca Phat Dai Pagoda: Free; donations $0.50–$1.
White Palace: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Vung Tau Lighthouse: $1 (25,000 VND).
Ho May Park: $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 VND).
Long Hai Beach Kayaking: $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND).
Lam Son Stadium Dog Racing: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND); betting $0.50–$5.
Local Snacks: $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Drinks (Water, Coffee): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).
Souvenirs (e.g., Seashell Crafts): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Guided Eco-Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from Ward 1)
Private Car: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND).
Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND).
High-Speed Ferry: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Private Motorcycle: $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND) fuel; rental $5–$10/day.
Public Bus: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND).
Private Tour Bus: $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND)/person.
Airport to Vung Tau: $30–$45 (750,000–1,125,000 VND).
Parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $7–$15 (bus, free sites, market snacks).
Mid-range: $25–$40 (ferry, activities, guided tour).
Luxury: $50–$80 (taxi, premium tour, dining).
Tip: Budget for activities ($0–$15) and transport ($5–$60); carry cash for vendors (no cards accepted).
Timing: Visit at 6:00–9:00 AM for cool weather; November–April for dry conditions. Weekdays for fewer crowds (5,000–15,000 vs. 50,000–100,000 on weekends). Avoid Lunar New Year for quieter sites.
Booking: Buy activity tickets on-site; reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead. Book ferries early for weekends.
Sustainability: Stay on trails to protect ecosystems; use reusable items. Support local vendors for snacks ($0.50–$2).
Navigation: Save “Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City” in offline maps; ask locals at Thuy Van Street for directions. Avoid night rides on rural roads.
Safety: Wear non-slip shoes for hikes; secure valuables. Confirm fares for taxis/ferries.
Weather: Dry season for outdoor fun; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5) and waterproof bags ($3–$7). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at pagodas (cover shoulders/knees); say “xin chào” to locals. Gamble responsibly at dog races.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer.
Our eco-friendly tours showcase Vung Tau’s top attractions:
Vung Tau Coastal Eco-Tour ($60–$90/person, 1 day): Private car to Back Beach, Christ the King Statue, and seafood lunch ($3–$7). Includes guide, transport.
Vung Tau Cultural & Night Escape ($120–$180/person, 2 days): Linh Son Co Tu, Lam Son Stadium, homestay ($15–$30/night). Includes meals, ferry.
Ho Chi Minh City & Coastal Journey ($280–$420/person, 3 days): Ho May Park, Long Hai Beach, eco-lodges. Includes meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City’s coastal ward, captivates with its top 10 sustainable activities, from Back Beach surfing to dog racing at Lam Son Stadium, drawing over 2 million visitors yearly, just 95 km from Ward 1. Eco-friendly practices like renewable energy and waste-free campaigns preserve its coastal allure. Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Tours guide you through Vung Tau’s highlights, blending adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether hiking to the lighthouse or savoring banh khot at Tran Phu Market, Vung Tau promises an unforgettable eco-friendly journey. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group today!
Ready to explore Vung Tau’s sustainable coastal adventures? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable journey!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group (for content copyright).
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