Ba Ria Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food and drink scene, transportation options, and safety tips in Ba Ria, Vietnam with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Ba Ria

Ba Ria is a province located in Southern Vietnam along the coastline. This beautiful destination is home to pristine beaches, lush mountains, and delicious cuisine. Ba Ria offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a popular spot for both domestic and foreign travelers. In this comprehensive guide to Ba Ria, we will explore the best places to visit, food and drink scene, transportation options, and safety tips to help you plan your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Ba Ria

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ba Ria is home to several culturally significant attractions that are worth visiting. One of the most notable is the Long Tan Cross, which was erected to commemorate the battle that took place there during the Vietnam War. The Minh Dam Revolutionary Base and Binh Chau Hot Springs are also popular historical sites that offer insight into the region’s past.

Natural Attractions of Ba Ria: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ba Ria is blessed with numerous natural wonders that make it a popular destination for outdoors enthusiasts. The Vung Tau Beach, Long Hai Beach, and Ho Coc Beach offer picturesque views of the coastline, and are great for activities like swimming, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. The Dinh Mountain and Phuoc Hai Mountain are also popular hiking spots that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ba Ria

If you’re looking for an active way to explore Ba Ria, then hiking or biking are great options. Some of the best routes include the Dinh Mountain Trail, which offers panoramic views of the coastline, and the Con Dao Trail, which takes you through lush forests and past cascading waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Ba Ria: Activities and Tours

Ba Ria offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to different interests and budgets. One of the most popular activities is visiting the Binh Chau Hot Springs, which offers a variety of spa treatments and relaxation options. For adventure seekers, there are tours that offer scuba diving or snorkeling at nearby islands, while foodies can enjoy a street food tour or visit a local market to learn about Vietnamese cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ba Ria

Here is a sample week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Ba Ria:

Day 1-2: Explore the beaches of Vung Tau and Long Hai, and take a walk along the promenade at night to enjoy the nightlife.

Day 3: Visit the Long Tan Cross and Minh Dam Revolutionary Base to learn about Vietnam’s history.

Day 4: Take a hike up Dinh Mountain or bike along the Con Dao Trail.

Day 5: Relax and rejuvenate at the Binh Chau Hot Springs.

Day 6: Take a day trip to nearby Con Dao Island for scuba diving or snorkeling.

Day 7: Enjoy a street food tour or visit a local market to sample Vietnamese cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Ba Ria

Must-Try Dishes

Ba Ria is known for its delicious seafood dishes, such as grilled squid, shrimp spring rolls, and fried fish. Other popular dishes include banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes), banh beo (steamed rice cakes), and bun dau mam tom (vermicelli with tofu and shrimp paste).

Local Beverages

Vietnamese coffee is a must-try beverage while in Ba Ria. Other popular drinks include sugarcane juice, coconut water, and fresh fruit smoothies.

Where to Stay in Ba Ria: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ba Ria has a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some popular choices include the Alma Oasis Long Hai Resort, Green Hill Hotel, and Long Chau Hotel.

What to Buy in Ba Ria: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ba Ria is known for its seafood products, such as dried squid and shrimp paste. Other popular souvenirs include handicrafts made from coconut shells and bamboo, as well as locally-made clothes and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Ba Ria

Vietnamese culture is deeply ingrained in everyday life in Ba Ria. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, such as taking off shoes before entering someone’s home and dressing modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Ba Ria

The best time to visit Ba Ria is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is generally sunny and warm, with occasional rainstorms in the afternoon. The monsoon season, which runs from May to October, can bring heavy rains and storms, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ba Ria

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, especially seafood dishes.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Take precautions to protect yourself from the sun and heat.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs or traditions.
  • Take photos of military or government installations without permission.
  • Engage in any activities that harm the environment or wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ba Ria

Ba Ria is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it’s important to take common-sense precautions, such as keeping your valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings. It’s also a good idea to avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas.

Health in Ba Ria

Visitors to Ba Ria should take precautions to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and malaria. It’s also important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, as the weather can be hot and humid.

Getting to Ba Ria: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ba Ria

The nearest airport to Ba Ria is Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, which is about 2 hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Ba Ria

Ba Ria has a central bus station that connects to nearby cities and tourist destinations.

Other Options

Taxis and private cars are also available for hire in Ba Ria.

How to Get Around in Ba Ria

Ba Ria is a small province, and most attractions are within a short driving distance from one another. Taxis and motorbike rentals are readily available, and buses also connect the major tourist sites.

Where to Go Next from Ba Ria: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ba Ria is well-connected to nearby destinations like Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, and Dalat, which offer a range of cultural and natural attractions. Con Dao Island is also a popular day trip destination for activities like scuba diving and snorkeling.

Conclusion

Ba Ria is a beautiful destination that offers an immersive cultural experience and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites, relaxing on the beach, or trying new foods, there’s something for everyone in Ba Ria. With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this unique corner of Vietnam.