Discover Vung Tau Lighthouse, a historic gem in Ho Chi Minh City’s coastal ward! Explore eco-friendly activities and book sustainable tours with Legend Travel Group for a scenic adventure.
Vung Tau Lighthouse, perched atop Small Mountain (Nui Nho) in Vung Tau, now a ward of Ho Chi Minh City following Vietnam’s administrative merger, is a historic landmark 95 km southeast of District 1, attracting over 500,000 visitors annually. Built in 1862 during French colonial times, this 18-meter tower offers panoramic views of Vung Tau’s 42-km coastline and vibrant nightlife. With a 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), it’s a year-round destination. Entry costs $1 (25,000 VND), with nearby activities at $1–$7 (25,000–175,000 VND).
The lighthouse blends architectural heritage with sustainability, featuring solar-powered lighting and eco-friendly trails, aligning with Ho Chi Minh City’s “Green Metropolis” initiative. Its 1500W bulb, visible up to 65 km, guides ships and enchants visitors. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours offer an eco-conscious exploration of this iconic site, 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 leader in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, crafts eco-friendly tours to Vung Tau Lighthouse, perfect for travelers seeking history and scenic beauty. Our low-impact transport, like electric shuttles and bicycles, and English-speaking guides highlight the lighthouse’s heritage, coastal ecosystems, 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!
Photograph the flavorful allure of Vung Tau Lighthouse’s surroundings (Source: Internet)Located on Small Mountain, Vung Tau Lighthouse is a colonial-era structure rebuilt in 1913, offering 360-degree views of Vung Tau’s beaches and cityscape. Its 1500W bulb, radiating 65 km, remains a vital navigational aid. Surrounded by lush trails with 100+ plant species, the site supports local biodiversity. Sustainable practices, including waste-free campaigns and solar energy, preserve its pristine setting. Activities like hiking, cycling, and cultural visits, paired with eco-friendly facilities, make the lighthouse a must-visit, just 1.5 hours from District 1.
These eco-friendly activities, costing $0–$7, blend scenic beauty and cultural exploration:
Trek the 1-km trail to the lighthouse, best at 7:00 AM, for $1 (25,000 VND) entry, enjoying panoramic coastal views.
Cost: $1.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Stick to trails to protect flora; avoid single-use plastics.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Lighthouse Tour ($50–$80).
Visit the lighthouse balcony at 6:00 PM, for $1 (25,000 VND), to see Vung Tau’s vibrant nightlife.
Cost: $1.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use reusable bottles; support local vendors for snacks ($0.50–$2).
Tip: Bring a camera; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Coastal Tour ($60–$90).
Pedal trails around Small Mountain, best at 8:00 AM, with bike rentals at $3–$5/day (75,000–125,000 VND).
Cost: $3–$5; entry $1.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Bikes reduce emissions; stay on paths.
Tip: Rent near Bai Truoc Beach; carry water for 5-km ride.
Sample seafood at Tran Phu Market, 4 km away, best at 6:00 AM, for $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND), supporting fishermen.
Cost: $1–$5.
Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Choose sustainable seafood; use reusable bags.
Tip: Try banh khot; 10-minute drive from the lighthouse.
Hike 3 km to the 32m statue on Large Mountain, best at 4:00 PM, for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND), with stunning views.
Cost: $1–$2.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Stick to trails; avoid littering.
Tip: 1-hour hike; wear sturdy shoes.
Visit from November to April for dry, sunny weather (22–28°C or 71.6–82.4°F), ideal for hiking and cycling. The rainy season (May–October) offers lush greenery but slippery trails, requiring rain gear. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) see fewer crowds (1,000–5,000 daily visitors) than weekends (20,000–50,000), especially during Lunar New Year. Early mornings (7:00–9:00 AM) offer cool temperatures and clear views, while evenings (5:00–7:00 PM) are perfect for city lights and cooler breezes.
Experience Vung Tau Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Vung Tau Lighthouse, 95 km from District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, is reachable in 1.5–2 hours:
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 to Vung Tau, 1.5 hours, $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) round-trip, then a 10-minute taxi ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND) to Small Mountain. 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 to Vung Tau, 2 hours, $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND) round-trip, then a 10-minute xe om ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND) to the lighthouse.
By Private Tour Bus (Legend Travel Group): Group bus from District 1 to Vung Tau, 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, 110 km); Xanh SM taxi ($25–$35 or 625,000–875,000 VND); or airport bus to District 1 ($0.80 or 20,000 VND, 30 min) + ferry ($10–$15).
Navigation Tip: Save “Vung Tau Lighthouse, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow signs to Small Mountain. 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/xe om fares.
Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:
Clothing: Light layers, sturdy shoes for hiking; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season; hat for sun.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.
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).
Outdoor Gear: Small backpack, binoculars for coastal views, camera for cityscape shots.
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 small vendors.
Start your Vung Tau Travel with serene vistas (Source: Internet)Activity and Nearby Fees
Lighthouse Entry: $1 (25,000 VND).
Bicycle Rental: $3–$5/day (75,000–125,000 VND).
Christ the King Statue: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Tran Phu Market Seafood: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Local Snacks (e.g., Banh Khot): $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 District 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 + Taxi: $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND).
Private Motorcycle: $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND) fuel; rental $5–$10/day.
Public Bus + Xe Om: $7–$11 (175,000–275,000 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 + xe om, lighthouse entry, snacks).
Mid-range: $25–$40 (ferry + taxi, activities, guided tour).
Luxury: $50–$80 (taxi, premium tour, dining).
Tip: Budget for activities ($1–$7) and transport ($7–$60); carry cash for vendors (no cards accepted).
Timing: Visit at 7:00–9:00 AM for cool weather; November–April for clear skies. Weekdays for fewer crowds (1,000–5,000 vs. 20,000–50,000 on weekends). Avoid Lunar New Year for quieter trails.
Booking: Pay lighthouse entry on-site; reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead. Book ferries early for weekends.
Sustainability: Stick to trails to protect greenery; use reusable bottles. Support local vendors for snacks ($0.50–$2).
Navigation: Save “Vung Tau Lighthouse, Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City” in offline maps; ask locals at Small Mountain for directions. Avoid night rides on rural roads.
Safety: Watch for slippery trails; secure valuables. Confirm fares for taxis/xe om.
Weather: Dry season for hiking; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5) and waterproof bags ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Greet locals with “xin chào”; avoid loud talking at the lighthouse. Respect historical sites.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer.
Our eco-friendly tours showcase Vung Tau Lighthouse’s scenic allure:
Vung Tau Lighthouse Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Private car to the lighthouse, cycling, and Tran Phu Market visit, with lunch ($3–$7). Includes guide, transport.
Vung Tau Coastal Adventure ($120–$180/person, 2 days): Lighthouse, Bai Sau Beach, homestay ($15–$30/night). Includes meals, ferry.
Ho Chi Minh City & Coastal Journey ($280–$420/person, 3 days): Lighthouse, Can Gio Mangrove, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
Vung Tau Lighthouse captivates with its historic charm and 360-degree views, drawing over 500,000 visitors yearly, just 95 km from District 1. With affordable entry ($1), eco-friendly activities like hiking, and sustainable practices like solar lighting, it preserves its scenic beauty. Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Tours guide you through this coastal gem, ensuring a sustainable Vung Tau Travel experience blending history and nature. Whether cycling Small Mountain or savoring seafood at Tran Phu Market, Vung Tau Lighthouse promises an unforgettable adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly Vung Tau Lighthouse journey today!
Ready to explore Vung Tau Lighthouse? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable coastal adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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