Travel Guide: Rio 02 Homestay, Vung Tau, Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province

Introduction

Tucked away in the laid-back coastal city of Vung Tau, just a two-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, Rio 02 Homestay offers a quiet, homey escape from Vietnam’s bustling capital. Perfect for weekend getaways, family beach trips, and slow coastal retreats, this locally run homestay blends the comfort of private accommodation with the authentic charm of Vung Tau’s seaside lifestyle. Whether you’re here to sunbathe on golden sands, sample fresh seafood, or unwind far from the crowds, Rio 02 Homestay positions you perfectly to explore all that Ba Ria-Vung Tau’s most popular coastal city has to offer.

Hotel Overview

Rio 02 Homestay is located at 17/2 Ho Qu Ly, Thang Tam Ward, Vung Tau City, Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, putting you within walking distance of the coast and close to local markets and food stalls. As a family-focused property, it offers spacious family rooms and designated non-smoking accommodations, with complimentary WiFi across the entire property and free private parking available without reservation for guests arriving by car. Each room comes with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a private en-suite bathroom, while the shared simple kitchen is fully equipped with kitchenware and a washing machine, ideal for longer stays or families preparing light meals. The homestay’s standout features include a private plunge pool, a shaded terrace for morning coffee or evening drinks, and a relaxing hot tub for post-beach sore muscles. The property is staffed by local Vietnamese-speaking hosts who are happy to share insider tips for exploring the area.

Nearby Attractions

Three unmissable local attractions are just a short drive from the homestay:

• Back Beach (Bai Sau): Less than 2 kilometers from Rio 02, this 8-kilometer stretch of soft golden sand is Vung Tau’s most popular swimming beach. Calm waters, a palm-lined promenade, and dozens of street food stalls serving grilled squid and fresh coconut make it perfect for a full day of sun and relaxation.
• Jesus Christ Statue (Nui Nhon): A 10-minute drive from the homestay, this iconic 32-meter tall standing statue perches on Nui Nhon hill. Climb the 800+ steps to the base for sweeping panoramic views of Vung Tau’s coastline and the South China Sea; the statue’s outstretched arms frame postcard-worthy shots you won’t want to miss.
• Vung Tau Lighthouse: Perched on Vung Tau Mountain, the 19th-century French-built lighthouse is one of the oldest in Vietnam. The winding road up leads through cool pine forest, and the top of the lighthouse offers unobstructed 360-degree views of the city and surrounding ocean.

Travel Tips

Since hosts speak only Vietnamese, download a translation app like Google Translate before arrival to smooth communication. Book your stay during the dry season (December to April) for the best beach weather, and avoid the monsoon months of July to September when afternoon rains are frequent. The homestay’s kitchen makes it easy to stock up on fresh seafood from the nearby Thang Tam Market for a home-cooked meal, just a 10-minute walk from the property. Grab cash before arriving, as local markets and small food stalls near the homestay rarely accept card payments. For day trips, you can rent a motorbike for around $5 USD a day close to the homestay to explore Vung Tau at your own pace.