Nestled along Vietnam's southern coast, Vung Tau is a vibrant city that blends natural beauty with cultural richness. Known for its stunning beaches, historic sites, and welcoming atmosphere, Vung Tau has become a sought-after destination for travelers. Whether you’re seeking relaxation by the sea, a taste of local culture, or an adventure through history, Vung Tau offers it all. Let’s take a walk through the must-see attractions, local delicacies, and unique experiences that make Vung Tau a true coastal gem.
Population: Approximately 470,000 in 2022.
Economy: Vung Tau’s economy thrives on tourism, oil and gas industries, and shipping. The city’s port plays a key role, while tourism boosts local businesses and hospitality services.
Landmarks: Famous for the statue Christ of Vung Tau, Vung Tau Lighthouse, and White Palace.
Vietnam
Vung Tau's history is as rich as its landscapes. Once a humble fishing village, the city gained prominence during French colonial times, leaving behind a legacy of elegant architecture and a cosmopolitan flair. During the Vietnam War, Vung Tau served as an important military base, and remnants of this era can be explored in museums and memorials throughout the city. This blend of influences—French colonial, Cham, and Vietnamese—has shaped Vung Tau into a cultural mosaic, offering travelers a unique opportunity to step back in time while enjoying modern amenities.
Vung Tau is home to a population of approximately 470,000 residents, making it a lively yet manageable city. The citizens of Vung Tau are known for their friendliness and hospitality, welcoming visitors with open arms. The population is a mix of locals, many of whom have deep-rooted ties to the fishing industry, and a growing number of people from other parts of Vietnam who have moved to the city for work or its coastal lifestyle. This blend of old and new creates a vibrant community that values tradition while embracing modernity.
Vung Tau City - © Hữu Phú
Vung Tau is a treasure trove of attractions that cater to history buffs, nature lovers, and beachgoers alike. These attractions, each with its unique charm, showcase the diverse experiences Vung Tau offers.
Christ of Vung Tau - © VnExpress
Vung Tau’s culinary tradition is a delightful reflection of its coastal location and cultural influences. The city’s vibrant food culture offers a feast for the senses, from fresh seafood to traditional Vietnamese delicacies.
Banh Khot (Mini Savory Pancake) - © Dan Viet News
The Whale Festival is one of the most important and culturally significant events in Vung Tau. Held annually, typically in August, this festival honors Ca Ong, the whale god, who is revered by the local fishing community as a protector of fishermen and their livelihoods. The festival features elaborate ceremonies, including the procession of a whale skeleton through the streets, accompanied by traditional music and dance. The highlight of the event is the offering of sacrifices and prayers at the Whale Temple (God Thang Tam Temple), where locals express their gratitude and seek blessings for a bountiful fishing season. The atmosphere is one of reverence and celebration, attracting both locals and tourists.
Celebrated in nearby Long Hai Beach, the Dinh Co Festival is a grand annual event held in February or March, depending on the lunar calendar. This festival honors Lady Dinh Cô, a local deity believed to protect sailors and fishermen. The festival spans several days and includes a range of activities such as ceremonial offerings, traditional music performances, and dragon dances. Pilgrims from all over the region flock to the Dinh Co Temple to pay their respects and participate in the rituals. The festival also features a vibrant market where visitors can purchase local goods and enjoy traditional foods. The Dinh Co Festival is a deeply spiritual experience, reflecting the community’s devotion and cultural heritage.
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The Whale Festival - © Ba Ria-Vung Tau Official Website
Relax at Vung Tau serene beach - © MIA
Off-peak season at Vung Tau - © MIA
Vung Tau at night - © Vietnam Tourism
Vung Tau offers a range of banking and financial services to accommodate both locals and tourists. Numerous ATMs are conveniently located throughout the city, especially in popular areas such as the city center, near major hotels, and shopping districts, and they typically accept international credit and debit cards for cash withdrawals. Banking branches are also available, where you can conduct transactions, exchange currency, and access financial assistance. While credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, it's wise to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Tucked away in Sri Lanka’s southeastern corner, Yala National Park is where wild nature meets deep tradition. Known worldwide for its leopard population, the park is also home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. Beyond wildlife, Yala opens doors to a cultural landscape dotted with ancient temples, Buddhist ruins, and coastal villages. For travelers seeking more than just a safari, Yala offers a chance to explore eco-tourism, local communities, and sacred heritage sites.
Population: The Yala National Park area doesn’t have a human population.
Economy: The economy around Yala National Park thrives on a blend of eco-tourism, agriculture, and local services. Safari tours, eco-lodges, and cultural experiences drive steady income for nearby towns like Tissamaharama and Kataragama, supporting thousands of families.
Landmarks: Famous for Block I of Yala and wildlife encounters, including elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and exotic bird species.
Nestled on Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, Galle is a vibrant city where history meets the sea. Its cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and serene beaches make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Galle captivates visitors with its Dutch Fort, bustling markets, and friendly locals. Whether you’re exploring the ramparts at sunset or savoring fresh seafood by the shore, Galle promises an unforgettable journey into Sri Lanka’s heritage.
Population: Approximately 113,000 in 2023.
Economy: Galle’s economy thrives on tourism, trade, and fisheries. The city’s historic fort, colonial architecture, and coastal charm draw thousands of international visitors each year, making tourism its main economic driver. Fishing remains vital for local livelihoods, supplying fresh seafood across the region.
Landmarks: Famous for the Galle Fort, Dutch Reformed Church & Maritime Museum, and Unawatuna Beach.
Nestled along Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, Bentota is a tropical paradise that blends golden beaches, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures. Famous for its calm waters, luxury resorts, and scenic river estuary, Bentota has become a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and authentic experiences. From serene beach walks at sunrise to adrenaline-pumping water sports, this coastal town offers a perfect balance of leisure and exploration. With its proximity to Colombo and Galle, Bentota is easy to reach, making it an ideal stop for both short escapes and extended holidays.
Population: Approximately 37,000 in 2023.
Economy: Bentota’s economy thrives mainly on tourism, which drives local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and wellness retreats. The town also benefits from fishing, coconut cultivation, and handicrafts like wood carving and batik textiles. Many residents rely on the growing demand for water sports and Ayurvedic treatments, making tourism the backbone of both income and employment in the area.
Landmarks: Famous for Bentota Beach, Bentota River Safari, and Kande Vihara Temple.
Mirissa is a charming coastal town on Sri Lanka’s southern shoreline. Known for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, it has become a must-visit stop for travelers exploring the island. Many come for whale watching, surfing, and sunset views at Coconut Tree Hill, but Mirissa offers much more than postcard beauty. The fishing boats you see anchored by the bay carry generations of stories. Local traditions, delicious cuisine, and a laid-back rhythm of life shape every visitor’s experience.
Population: Approximately 4,700 in 2023.
Economy: Mirissa’s economy is largely shaped by its coastal location. Fishing has long been the backbone of local livelihoods, with generations relying on the Indian Ocean for income. In recent decades, tourism has become the main driver of growth, thanks to whale watching, surfing, and beachside hospitality.
Landmarks: Famous for Mirissa Beach, Coconut Tree Hill, and Parrot Rock Bridge.
Tucked away in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is often called “Little England”. With its rolling tea plantations, cool misty mornings, and colonial charm, this mountain town feels like a step into another world. Travelers come here to breathe fresh air, walk through flower gardens, sip the finest Ceylon Tea, and enjoy a pace of life far from the island’s busy cities. Whether you’re drawn by scenic landscapes, heritage architecture, or the warmth of its people, Nuwara Eliya is a destination that blends nature, culture, and history in perfect harmony.
Population: Approximately 781,000 in 2023.
Economy: Nuwara Eliya’s economy thrives mainly on tea production, as it sits in the heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, famous worldwide for Ceylon Tea. The city also benefits from a growing tourism industry, attracting visitors with its colonial charm, cool climate, and scenic landscapes.
Landmarks: Famous for Gregory Lake, Hakgala Botanical Garden, and Victoria Park.
Nestled on the banks of the Kinabatangan River in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, Sukau is a destination where wildlife, culture, and conservation come together. Known as one of Asia’s top spots for river safaris and eco-tourism, this quiet village offers a front-row seat to encounters with Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and exotic birdlife.
Population: Approximately 1,400 in 2019.
Economy: Sukau’s economy is shaped by its riverine location and natural resources. Traditionally, the Orang Sungai community relied on fishing, small-scale farming, and forest gathering for their livelihood. Today, the village has shifted toward eco-tourism, with river cruises, jungle trekking, and homestays providing income.
Landmarks: Famous for the Kinabatangan River cruises, Gomantong Caves, and Ox-bow lakes and wetlands.