What is Vung Tau Lighthouse like?
Vung Tau Lighthouse sits on the top of Tao Phung, also called Small Mountain, about 170 meters above sea level. From a distance, the tower is easy to spot: a simple white cylinder about 18 meters tall, built in a French Western style.
The area around the lighthouse feels surprisingly green, with century-old frangipani trees providing shade and winding mountain roads leading up. While it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists, it isn’t always busy—early mornings and late afternoons can still feel peaceful, with sea breezes and wide views over the city.
History of Vung Tau Lighthouse
The French first built Vung Tau Lighthouse in 1862, making it one of the earliest lighthouses in Vietnam. Its purpose was straightforward but vital: guiding ships safely through the busy waters of the South China Sea and toward the Saigon River delta.
In 1913, the French rebuilt the structure and relocated it slightly higher to its current elevation of 170 meters above sea level. The cylindrical tower that stands today reflects European architectural style, with a height of 18 meters and a diameter of 3 meters. Inside, a spiral staircase leads to the top where the light source is housed.
Originally, the beacon was powered by a mainspring mechanism that needed to be wound every few hours. Today, a high-powered electric lamp works with a rotating prism system, casting beams visible as far as 55–65 kilometers at sea. Beyond its practical role for navigation, the lighthouse has become a symbol of Vung Tau and is among the oldest still-functioning lighthouses in Southeast Asia.
Practical visiting information
Opening hours & Entrance
The Vung Tau Lighthouse is open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Entry is free, though if you drive or ride up you’ll usually need to pay a small parking fee.
Getting there
The lighthouse is only a few kilometers from the city center, not the 15 km that some guides mention. Most people go by motorbike, but taxis can also take you most of the way. If you’re up for it, walking is possible, though it’s a steady uphill climb.
The road itself is part of the experience: winding and narrow, shaded by old trees, and especially scenic in late spring and early summer when bougainvillea and flamboyant trees are in bloom. On weekends the road often gets congested with motorbikes heading up, so expect a slower ride. Google Maps is reliable for directions.
Parking & Access
Parking costs about 5,000 VND, but space is very limited, especially on busy days. It’s common to find motorbikes crammed into every available spot. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle, park lower on the mountain and walk the rest of the way.
Best time to visit
Sunrise and sunset are the most rewarding times, both for the softer light and for cooler temperatures. During the middle of the day it can feel hot and crowded. From May to July, the roads and hill around the lighthouse are particularly photogenic thanks to blooming bougainvillea and phoenix flowers.
What to expect at the lighthouse
Inside the tower, a spiral staircase of 55 steps leads to a small balcony near the light chamber. From here, you can enjoy 360° views of Vung Tau: Front Beach, Back Beach, the giant Jesus Christ Statue across the hill, Hon Ba Island, and even the hills stretching toward Long Hai.
The grounds are small, with the lightkeeper’s house and some shaded areas under old frangipani trees. Expect plenty of people taking photos, especially around sunset, but if you time it right the atmosphere can still feel peaceful.
Snacks & Drinks
At the base and nearby you’ll find a few local favorites:
- Yaourt Cô Tiên – simple, cheap yogurt that’s become something of a tradition for visitors.
- Son Dang Café – a small coffee shop with good views, just a short walk from the lighthouse.
- Other vendors sell juices and snacks; ice cream is hit or miss depending on where you buy it.
Practical tips
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk up.
- Charge your phone or camera – this is one of the best photo spots in town.
- Traffic jams on the narrow road are common on weekends and holidays, so try to go outside peak hours.
- Unfortunately, trash left behind by visitors is a recurring issue, so don’t expect a spotless environment.
- The visit itself is fairly short – most people spend 20–40 minutes at the top before heading on.
Nearby sights
Vung Tau Lighthouse stands on the tip of the peninsula, making it easy to combine with several of the city’s main landmarks. A short drive along the coastal roads brings you to these well-known spots:
- Jesus Christ Statue – On the opposite hill, this towering figure can be seen from the lighthouse itself. You can climb inside the statue for another panoramic view over the city and coastline.
- Nghinh Phong Cape – A rocky headland with dramatic sea cliffs and the popular “sky gate” photo spot, just a few minutes away by motorbike.
- Hon Ba Island – A small island offshore, connected to the mainland by a walkway that only appears at low tide. The temple on top is modest, but the sea path is a unique experience if the timing works.
- Back Beach (Bai Sau) – The city’s main stretch of sand, busy with swimmers, beach chairs, and water sports.
- Front Beach (Bai Truoc) – Quieter than Back Beach, this area is lined with fishing boats and has a relaxed promenade for an evening stroll.
- White Palace (Bach Dinh) – A colonial residence built for the French governor, now a museum with sea views and a collection of historic artifacts.
Is Vung Tau Lighthouse worth visiting?
Vung Tau Lighthouse is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and it’s easy to see why—it’s close to the center, simple to reach, and offers some of the best views in town. The winding road up the mountain is almost as enjoyable as the lighthouse itself, especially when the trees and flowers are in bloom.
That said, the visit is fairly short. The lighthouse tower is small, and while you can climb it, the main appeal lies in the views and the atmosphere rather than the building itself. On weekends and holidays, expect crowds, traffic jams, and tight parking, which can take away some of the charm.
Overall, it’s worth a stop if you’re in Vung Tau, especially when combined with nearby attractions like the Jesus Statue, Nghinh Phong Cape, or the beaches. It won’t be the highlight of your Vietnam trip, but as part of a coastal drive or a relaxed day in the city, it’s a rewarding and memorable stop.
