Things To Do
in Bà Rịa

Bà Rịa is a coastal city located in southern Vietnam, known for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage. It serves as the capital of Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu Province and is a gateway to various tourist attractions in the region. The city is a blend of urban development and natural beauty, with lush greenery and scenic landscapes.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of traditional Vietnamese culture and modern amenities here.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Bà Rịa
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Bà Rịa Market, where you can enjoy local breakfast specialties like bánh mì and phở.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic pagodas in the area, including the Linh Sơn Cổ Tự, and take a leisurely stroll around the city center.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant along the coast, followed by a sunset walk on the beach.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Long Tan Beach for a relaxing morning by the sea, where you can swim or sunbathe.

afternoon
:

Take a trip to the nearby Núi Dinh mountain for a hike and enjoy panoramic views of the region.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a bar or café, trying out some local drinks and making new friends.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Pho$1.50
🍺Local Beer$1.00
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$5.00
🚖Taxi Ride (5km)$3.00
Coffee$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local cuisine.
  • Friendly and hospitable locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Vietnamese speakers.
  • Public transport options are not very extensive.
  • "Xin chào" - Hello
  • "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
  • "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
  • "Tôi không hiểu" - I don't understand
  • "Giá bao nhiêu?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Bà Rịa

Visit one of these nice places.

Long Tan Beach

A picturesque beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunset photography.

Linh Sơn Cổ Tự Pagoda

An ancient pagoda surrounded by lush greenery, offering a serene backdrop for photos.

Núi Dinh

A mountain with stunning panoramic views, ideal for capturing the beauty of Bà Rịa.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bà Rịa

Bà Rịa offers a vibrant culinary scene, featuring fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese dishes that reflect the local culture.

Bà Rịa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bánh Khọt

Mini savory pancakes topped with shrimp, served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Cá Kho Tộ

Caramelized fish cooked in clay pots, often served with rice.

Hủ Tiếu

A noodle dish that can be served in various styles, often with a rich broth and fresh ingredients.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bà Rịa Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of fresh produce, street food, and local delicacies.

Bánh Mì Stalls

Street vendors selling bánh mì sandwiches filled with various meats and fresh vegetables.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bà Rịa experiences a tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season. The average temperature ranges from 25°C to 35°C throughout the year. The dry season from December to April is characterized by lower humidity and plenty of sunshine, while the rainy season brings higher humidity and frequent showers, especially in the afternoons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A slight bow or nod is customary; handshake is common among men.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals, addressing them politely.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bà Rịa is generally safe for tourists; however, it's advisable to stay alert in crowded areas. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, so keep your belongings secure. Always use reputable transportation services and avoid isolated areas at night.

Tipping in Bà Rịa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but many restaurants and shops accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to April)

Expect sunny weather, ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

Rainy Season (May to November)

Frequent rain showers; plan indoor activities and be prepared for wet conditions.

Tet Festival (January/February)

Experience vibrant celebrations, but expect crowded places and some closures.

Summer (June to August)

Hot and humid; stay hydrated and wear sunscreen during outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Bà Rịa at Night

Bà Rịa offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a mix of local bars, casual cafés, and beachfront lounges. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it easy to strike up conversations with locals and other travelers. Live music is common in some venues, and you can often find places serving delicious cocktails and local beers.

Hiking in Bà Rịa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Núi Dinh Trail

A popular hiking trail that offers a moderate challenge and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Bà Rịa National Park

Features various trails through lush forests and diverse wildlife, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Bà Rịa by plane.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)

Located approximately 120 km away in Ho Chi Minh City, this is the nearest major airport, offering domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bà Rịa is moderately walkable, particularly in the city center where many attractions, markets, and eateries are within walking distance. Sidewalks can be uneven or crowded in some areas, so caution is advised. Renting a bicycle is also a popular way to explore the city and its surroundings.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Vietnamese Ethnic Groups

The majority of the population is ethnic Vietnamese, with a rich cultural background.

Expats and Tourists

A growing number of expatriates and tourists visit Bà Rịa, contributing to the local economy and cultural exchange.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A favorite pastime among locals, with many informal games played in parks and beaches.

Martial Arts

Traditional Vietnamese martial arts are practiced, with many schools offering classes to locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bà Rịa can be busy, particularly during rush hours, with a mix of motorbikes, cars, and bicycles. Public transportation is limited, but taxis and ride-hailing services are available for convenience. It's advisable to exercise caution when crossing streets, as traffic rules may not always be strictly followed.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bà Rịa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian alternatives, but it's best to specify your needs.

Allergies

Be clear about any allergies, as some dishes may contain shellfish or peanuts.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Bà Rịa is accessible with several local clinics and hospitals available. Basic medical care is provided, but for specialized treatments, larger hospitals in nearby Vũng Tàu may be necessary. Travelers are advised to carry travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Vietnam

Read more in our Vietnam 2025 Travel Guide.

Vietnam Travel Guide