Dive into Vung Tau’s vibrant seafood scene in Ho Chi Minh City’s coastal ward! Discover sustainable dining and book eco-friendly culinary tours with Legend Travel Group.
Capture the briny essence of Vung Tau’s seafood gemVung Tau, now a dynamic ward of Ho Chi Minh City following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, is a seafood lover’s paradise located 95 km southeast of District 1, drawing over 2 million visitors annually. Its 42-km coastline yields an abundance of fresh catches like lobster, squid, and shrimp, with dishes priced from $1–$10 (25,000–250,000 VND). The 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) makes it a year-round dining destination.
Vung Tau’s seafood culture thrives on sustainability, with local markets and restaurants adopting eco-friendly practices such as biodegradable packaging and responsible sourcing, aligning with Ho Chi Minh City’s “Green Metropolis” initiative. From vibrant markets to beachfront eateries, Vung Tau offers a rich culinary tapestry woven with local traditions. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable culinary tours immerse you in this coastal feast, supporting local fishermen and communities. Book your tour 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 trailblazer in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, crafts eco-conscious culinary tours in Vung Tau, perfect for travelers craving authentic seafood experiences. Our low-impact transport options, like electric shuttles, and expert English-speaking guides showcase Vung Tau’s sustainable fisheries, culinary heritage, and green practices. By supporting local fishing 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 hassle-free journey. Book our eco-tours via links on this page for a responsible dining adventure!
Photograph the vibrant allure of Vung Tau’s cuisine (Source: Internet)Vung Tau’s seafood tradition, rooted in its fishing legacy, has evolved into a culinary hotspot since the 1990s. The ward’s coastal waters provide a bounty of seafood, from clams to fish, served fresh at markets like Tran Phu and restaurants along Quang Trung Street. Sustainable practices, including regulated fishing and waste-free initiatives, protect over 150 marine species. Eco-friendly eateries with solar-powered kitchens and locally sourced ingredients elevate the dining experience. Whether at a bustling market or a seaside restaurant, Vung Tau’s seafood scene, just 1.5 hours from District 1, offers unforgettable flavors.
These eco-friendly culinary activities, costing $1–$10, blend fresh tastes with cultural immersion:
Enjoy grilled shrimp and squid at Tran Phu Market, best at 6:00 AM, for $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND), supporting local fishermen.
Cost: $1–$5.
Hours: Daily, 5:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Opt for sustainable seafood; use reusable bags.
Tip: Try fish salad; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Seafood Adventure ($60–$90).
Savor banh khot and lobster at Ganh Hao, best at 6:00 PM, for $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND), with beachside ambiance.
Cost: $3–$8.
Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Uses locally sourced seafood; minimal plastic waste.
Tip: Reserve a table near Bai Sau Beach; pair with nuoc mam.
Relish grilled oysters at Oc Tu Nhien, best at 5:00 PM, for $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND), near Bai Truoc Beach.
Cost: $2–$6.
Hours: Daily, 12:00 PM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Sourced from sustainable farms; eco-friendly utensils.
Tip: Add chili sauce; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Culinary Tour ($50–$80).
Indulge in grilled lobster at Thanh Phat, best at 7:00 PM, for $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND), with ocean views.
Cost: $5–$10.
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Uses biodegradable packaging; supports local fisheries.
Tip: Book a seaside table; near Thuy Van Street.
Learn to make banh khot and fish salad, best at 9:00 AM, for $8–$10 (200,000–250,000 VND), using market-fresh ingredients.
Cost: $8–$10.
Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–11:00 AM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Zero-waste cooking; sustainable seafood.
Tip: Book via local vendors; included in Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Foodie Tour ($70–$100).
Seize the vibrant spirit of Vung Tau Travel (Source: Internet)Visit from November to April for dry, sunny weather (22–28°C or 71.6–82.4°F), perfect for beachside dining and market visits. The rainy season (May–October) offers fresh seafood but may require indoor dining, with rain gear recommended. Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) see fewer crowds (5,000–15,000 daily visitors) than weekends (50,000–100,000), especially during Lunar New Year. Early mornings (5:00–8:00 AM) are ideal for market freshness, while evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) suit relaxed dining with cooler breezes.
Vung Tau, 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. 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.
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, Ho Chi Minh City” in offline maps (Maps.me); head to Tran Phu Market or Thuy Van Street for dining. 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.
Embrace the vibrant spirit of Vung Tau Travel adventures (Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable dining experience:
Clothing: Light layers, comfortable shoes for market strolls; 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), hand sanitizer ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
Culinary Gear: Small backpack, reusable tote for market purchases ($1–$2), notebook for recipes.
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable cutlery; biodegradable wipes.
Extras: Cash for small vendors; allergy medication for seafood sensitivities.
Culinary and Market Fees
Tran Phu Market Seafood: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Ganh Hao Banh Khot/Lobster: $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND).
Oc Tu Nhien Oysters: $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND).
Thanh Phat Lobster: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Seafood Cooking Class: $8–$10 (200,000–250,000 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., Dried Fish): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Guided Culinary 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: $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, market dining, snacks).
Mid-range: $25–$40 (ferry, restaurant meal, guided tour).
Luxury: $50–$80 (taxi, premium dining, cooking class).
Tip: Budget for dining ($1–$10) and transport ($5–$60); carry cash for markets (no cards accepted).
Seafood in Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Internet)Timing: Visit markets at 5:00–8:00 AM for freshest catches; November–April for outdoor dining. Weekdays for fewer crowds (5,000–15,000 vs. 50,000–100,000 on weekends). Avoid Lunar New Year for quieter dining.
Booking: Reserve restaurant tables for evenings; book Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead. Secure ferry tickets early for weekends.
Sustainability: Support restaurants with sustainable sourcing; avoid plastic waste. Buy from local fishermen at markets ($1–$5).
Navigation: Save “Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City” in offline maps; ask locals at Tran Phu Market for dining spots. Avoid night rides on rural roads.
Safety: Check for seafood allergies; secure valuables at markets. Confirm taxi/bus fares.
Weather: Dry season for seaside dining; rainy season needs indoor options and rain gear ($2–$5). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Greet vendors with “xin chào”; follow market etiquette. Avoid loud talking in eateries.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry hand sanitizer for market visits.
Our eco-friendly tours highlight Vung Tau’s seafood treasures:
Vung Tau Seafood Adventure ($60–$90/person, 1 day): Private car to Vung Tau for Tran Phu Market, Ganh Hao banh khot, and oyster tasting, with lunch ($3–$7). Includes guide, transport.
Vung Tau Coastal Culinary Escape ($120–$180/person, 2 days): Seafood markets, Thanh Phat dining, homestay ($15–$30/night). Includes meals, ferry.
Ho Chi Minh City & Coastal Food Journey ($280–$420/person, 3 days): Vung Tau seafood, Mekong Delta markets, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
Vung Tau, a coastal city in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Region, Ho CHi Minh CIty, captivates food lovers with its fresh seafood bounty, from Tran Phu Market’s squid to Ganh Hao’s banh khot, drawing over 2 million visitors yearly, located just 95 km from Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1. Sustainable practices like eco-friendly packaging and responsible fisheries preserve its coastal heritage, ensuring a responsible gastronomic escape. Legend Travel Group’s Vung Tau Tours guide you through this vibrant paradise, ensuring a sustainable Vung Tau Travel experience with culinary immersion at Oc Tu Nhien and cooking classes for fish salad, paired with visits to Christ the King Statue and White Palace. Don’t miss out—book your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group today!
Ready to explore Vung Tau’s seafood treasures? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable culinary 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.
Sources:
Vung Tau Seafood Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, vungtau.gov.vn, tripadvisor.com
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