Just about two hours by car or hydrofoil from Ho Chi Minh City, Vung Tau is a hugely popular beach resort for both locals and international travelers seeking a weekend getaway.
While the city boasts many attractions like fresh seafood and expansive beaches, the one must-visit spot is undoubtedly the ‘Vung Tau Lighthouse,’ a breathtaking vantage point offering panoramic views of the entire city and the blue sea. This guide goes beyond just the scenery, delving into the lighthouse’s history, essential access tips, and the super-local delicacies you absolutely must try at its base – all the real information travelers truly want to know.
Vung Tau Lighthouse
📍 Address: 40 Hải Đăng, Phường 2, Vũng Tàu, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Vung Tau Lighthouse is one of ‘Vietnam’s oldest lighthouses,’ built by the French in 1862. Its original purpose was to safely guide ships passing through the South China Sea. In 1913, it was rebuilt and relocated to its current position atop a small hill (Tao Phung Mountain) at an altitude of approximately 170m. The 18-meter-tall cylindrical tower, painted pristine white, beautifully contrasts with the blue sky and sea, and is cherished as a symbol of Vung Tau.
The biggest highlight, without a doubt, is the view from the lighthouse. After climbing the 55-step spiral staircase inside the lighthouse to reach the balcony, a 360-degree panoramic view awaits you, featuring Vung Tau’s city center, the gently curving coastline, and the endlessly stretching sea. While gazing at the deep blue sea during the day is splendid, visiting in the evening is also highly recommended, as you can enjoy a romantic scene where the city is bathed in an orange glow at sunset.
The site also features structures reminiscent of the French colonial era and a massive rainwater reservoir with a capacity of 1,000 cubic meters, built for the local residents, allowing visitors to feel the breath of history. Furthermore, despite being a hilltop tourist destination, the availability of clean, paid (small fee) restrooms is a highly appreciated convenience for international travelers.
A Must-Visit! The Delicious Yogurt & Soft-Boiled Egg Shop at the Foot of the Lighthouse
Travelers who visit Vung Tau Lighthouse unanimously declare, ‘It was as great as the view!’ and ‘You’ll regret leaving without trying this!’ referring to the local shops located at the foot of the lighthouse (along a slightly downward winding mountain path). Among them, ‘Yaourt Cô Tiên’ (Yao Co Tien) and similar stalls are particularly famous.
The specialties here are homemade ‘yogurt’ and ‘soft-boiled eggs’ (onsen tamago style), a seemingly unusual combination. The yogurt is smooth and runny, similar to a drinking yogurt, with a gentle sweetness that soothes your tired body after a walk. The other main star, the soft-boiled egg, is perfectly cooked to a slightly firm yet creamy consistency. When eaten with the classic Vietnamese seasoning of salt, pepper, and lime, it’s so delicious you could eat several. Enjoying this snack time sitting on low plastic stools, mingling with locals, and feeling the breeze will surely become an unforgettable memory of your Vung Tau trip.
Access and Tips for Avoiding Crowds (Practical Advice for Travelers)
While Vung Tau Lighthouse offers spectacular views and delicious food, access requires a bit of caution. The road leading to the summit is very narrow and winding, and during peak times like weekends or evenings, you might get caught in severe traffic jams if you go by taxi or car.
The most recommended way to access it is by ‘rental motorbike (scooter).’ There’s a parking area near the top where you can park for 5,000 VND (approximately 30 JPY). While Grab cars can take you almost to the base of the lighthouse, it’s best to visit during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings, to avoid congestion.
For those confident in their physical fitness or who prefer a leisurely stroll, hiking up from the base is another option (about a 30-minute walk from the city). In fact, many foreign tourists choose to walk down the scenic mountain path, shaded by trees, as it can be difficult to find a Grab or other car for the return journey. Since there are few shaded areas along the way, make sure to take full precautions against heatstroke, such as wearing a hat and staying hydrated, to fully enjoy Vung Tau’s premier scenic view.
