Things To Do
in Thạnh Phú
Thạnh Phú is a quiet coastal district in Ba Rịa–Vũng Tàu province, Vietnam, where rivers meet the sea and fishing remains a way of life. Swaths of salt ponds and shrimp farms shape the landscape, giving the town a distinctly rural coastal character. The pace here is slow, the scenery authentic, and the seafood is exceptionally fresh from nearby waters.
Visiting Thạnh Phú offers a window into rural southern Vietnam away from the crowds of bigger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Thạnh Phú and get settled in your chosen accommodation. After unpacking, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the coastal town. Take a stroll along the riverbank to stretch your legs and get acquainted with your surroundings.
After lunch, embark on a boat tour of the beautiful mangrove forests surrounding Thạnh Phú. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and learn about the unique ecosystem that thrives in the area. Conclude the exploration with a visit to a local fishing village to witness the daily routines of the fishermen.
In the evening, savor a delicious seafood dinner at a popular local restaurant, where you can feast on fresh catch of the day. Enjoy a slow walk along the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves and watching the sunset. Gather at a local bar for a taste of Vietnamese craft beer or a signature cocktail.
Begin your day with a guided kayak tour through the mangrove forests, paddling quietly to appreciate the serene beauty of nature. As you glide along the water, observe the intricate root systems and various bird species that inhabit the area. Stop at small fishing platforms and interact with the locals to learn about their daily lives.
Return to shore for a traditional lunch in a local home, experiencing authentic Vietnamese cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients. Post-lunch, visit Thạnh Phú's community market, where you can sample local snacks, shop for handicrafts, and engage with friendly vendors. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and take some time to capture memories with your camera.
During the evening, join a cooking class where you will learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes using the ingredients you gathered from the market. Share your culinary creations with fellow travelers and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Wind down with a visit to a local cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-2 |
| 🛵Scooter rental per day | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/guesthouse per night | $15-30 |
| 🦞Seafood dinner for two | $12-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh seafood and coastal scenery
- Slow pace and authentic rural charm
- Friendly locals and access to mangroves and rivers
- Limited nightlife and few big-city amenities
- Language barrier in rural areas
- Public transport can be sparse outside town centers
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
- "Tôi ăn chay" - I am vegetarian
- "Có món chay không?" - Do you have vegetarian dishes?
- "Tạm biệt" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Thạnh Phú
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour light as boats drift past mangroves and the river narrows toward the sea; a classic coastal shot.
A quiet path through mangrove forests offering dramatic reflections and birdlife photography opportunities.
Activity and color as fishermen prepare gear and nets, with reflections on the water and a sense of daily rhythm.
Geometric patterns of salt pans bathed in warm light—great for wide-angle compositions.
Food in Thạnh Phú
Thạnh Phú Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy mini pancakes topped with shrimp and scallions, typically served with herbs and a fish-sauce dipping sauce.
Must-Try!
Fish braised slowly in a clay pot with caramel, garlic, and fish sauce for a rich, comforting flavor.
Seafood hotpot with a mix of fish, shrimp, squid, and vegetables in a fragrant, sour-sweet broth.
Sour fish soup with tomatoes, tamarind, pineapple, and okra for a bright, tangy balance.
Fresh shrimp spring rolls with herbs and rice paper, served with a light dipping sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning market where locals trade fresh seafood, vegetables, and daily staples; great for tasting bites and watching daily life.
Dedicated fish market with live catches; ideal for selecting ingredients for a seafood meal or watching fishermen negotiate prices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove hats, and behave quietly. Ask for permission before photographing people or sacred objects.
Greet with 'Xin chào' or 'Chào anh/chị.' Use polite language, especially with elders and in market settings.
Avoid touching heads; use both hands to give or receive items when exchanging money or documents.
Safety
Tipping in Thạnh Phú
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a strict custom in most local operations, but a small gratuity (5–10%) for good service in tourist-oriented spots is appreciated.
Cash in Vietnamese dong is widely used; some larger establishments may accept cards or digital wallets (Momo, ZaloPay). Carry small denominations for markets and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with plenty of sun. Expect clear skies ideal for beach time and boat trips, but carry water and sun protection.
Frequent showers and heavy rain in the afternoons; higher humidity and lush greenery, with occasional storms. Great for birding in mangroves but plan for soggy trails.
Cooler mornings and pleasant afternoons with dry conditions; comfortable for cycling, hiking, and long coastal walks.
Thạnh Phú at Night
Hiking in Thạnh Phú
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-covered hill with hiking trails and temple at the summit; offers panoramic coastal views and a refreshing escape from the coast.
Longer day trips from Thạnh Phú; mangrove forests, birdlife, and boardwalk trails suitable for nature walks.
Airports
How to reach Thạnh Phú by plane.
Ho Chi Minh City’s main international gateway; common arrival point for southern Vietnam and a base for domestic connections to the district.
Under development, planned as a major regional hub to improve access to southern Vietnam; expect shorter road connections once operational.
Nearby Mekong Delta airport option; farther from Thạnh Phú but useful for multi-destination trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnicity in Thạnh Phú, with local communities tied to fishing, farming, and salt production.
A strong presence of people engaged in artisanal fishing, shrimp farming, and agriculture; close-knit communities with local traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local teams and pickup games are common in towns and schools.
Fishing, swimming, and light water sports are popular along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Thạnh Phú.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes, and fresh fruit; request dishes without fish sauce or seafood stock, and consider self-catering if needed.