Long Hai is a quieter, less developed beach town than Vung Tau, popular with Ho Chi Minh City residents for weekend escapes and known for calmer waters, fresh seafood shacks along the shore, and the Dinh Co temple complex on a hillside overlooking the sea. It receives far fewer international visitors than Vung Tau, making it a good option for travelers seeking a beach day without the crowds, though the longer drive and more limited public transport options make an organized car or driver the most practical way to visit for a single day.
| Distance | 115 km / 71 mi from central Ho Chi Minh City |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 2-2.5 hours by road each way |
| Getting there | Private car or Grab from District 1; less served by public bus than Vung Tau |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Address | Long Hai Town, Long Dien District, Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province |
How to get there
- Private car with driver, ~₫2,000,000-2,800,000 (~$77-108) round trip for up to 4 people
- Grab car booked one-way with a return arranged locally
Suggested itinerary
- 7:00am depart District 1; 9:30am arrive Long Hai; 9:30am-12:30pm beach time and Dinh Co temple visit; 1:00pm seafood lunch; 2:30pm depart; 5:00pm return to District 1
Location
Long Hai Town, Long Dien District, Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province
10.3833, 107.2500 View on map
Highlights
- Quieter, less crowded beach than Vung Tau
- Fresh seafood shacks along the shore
- Dinh Co temple complex on a coastal hillside
- Calmer swimming conditions in dry season
Tips for visiting
- Arrange a private car or driver given limited public transport options
- Visit outside of Vietnamese public holidays when it draws heavier weekend crowds
- Combine with a stop at Dinh Co temple on the hillside above the beach
When to visit
Morning departure
Accessibility
Beach areas are relatively flat; the temple hillside requires climbing steps.
Frequently asked questions
How does Long Hai compare to Vung Tau for a day trip?
Long Hai is quieter and less developed but has a longer drive and fewer public transport options; Vung Tau's hydrofoil makes it a faster and easier single-day option.