Ratings Beach

Nearby Bãi Bấc (Ratings Beach), the dining scene is charmingly simple, with a focus on fresh seafood and home-cooked Vietnamese cuisine. Sohora Beach and Bungalow stands out for its cozy, beachfront setting and an eclectic menu featuring local specialties and grilled seafood. Guests rave about the friendly service and the chance to dine with toes in the sand while enjoying ocean views. The restaurant is LGBTQ+ friendly and offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all travelers.

Sohora Sea Mountain Bungalow is another notable spot, offering a scenic setting with views of both sea and mountains. Their menu features fresh catches of the day and traditional Vietnamese dishes, often praised for their authenticity and generous portions. Both establishments provide a relaxed dining experience, ideal for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture while savoring the flavors of the ocean and countryside.

Accommodation near Ratings Beach ranges from budget-friendly homestays to charming bungalow resorts, all offering easy beach access and a laid-back island atmosphere. Fly Up Resort is a popular choice, known for its modern design and comfortable amenities, including spacious rooms and a swimming pool. With a solid 3.9-star rating from over 300 reviews, guests appreciate its cleanliness and friendly staff.

Khu du lịch Bãi Bàng is a well-rated RV park and bungalow complex, ideal for those seeking a rustic yet comfortable stay. The park features accessible facilities and is praised for its peaceful location and beautiful surroundings. Hòn Sơn - WINDY Hotel is a highly rated holiday home offering cozy accommodations and personalized service, perfect for families or groups. Another excellent option is Nhà Nghỉ Ngọc Phượng Hòn Sơn, a budget hotel with clean rooms and essential amenities, ideal for travelers looking for affordability and convenience. Sohora Sea Mountain Bungalow rounds out the top choices, providing a scenic retreat with excellent reviews for its tranquil setting and attentive service.

Ratings Beach and its surrounding area provide essential amenities for a comfortable visit. Most accommodations offer private restrooms, Wi-Fi, and sometimes complimentary breakfast. Public access to restrooms and showers is available at larger resorts and beachside facilities, though these can be limited in the most remote stretches. Picnic areas with basic tables and benches are common, encouraging visitors to enjoy meals outdoors with ocean views.

Rental equipment for beach activities, such as umbrellas, lounge chairs, and mats, is often available at nearby resorts or can be arranged through homestays. The area is relatively undeveloped, so amenities are simple but sufficient for most travelers, ensuring a relaxed and authentic island experience. Beach vendors occasionally sell drinks and snacks, while local shops provide basic necessities for longer stays.

Ratings Beach offers a wide array of activities for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. Swimming in the calm, crystal-clear waters is a favorite pastime, with lifeguards on duty at certain times for added safety. The beach is also popular for kayaking and paddleboarding, allowing guests to explore the coastline and nearby limestone formations at their own pace. Fishing is a traditional activity, and local fishermen sometimes offer tours or equipment rentals.

For those who prefer land-based adventures, hiking trails wind through the island’s hills, offering panoramic views of the beach and the sea. Volleyball and beach soccer are common among groups, while the natural setting is perfect for yoga or simply unwinding with a good book. In the evenings, sunset walks and beachside gatherings create a memorable atmosphere, making the beach a versatile destination for all types of travelers.

While Ratings Beach is somewhat remote and predominantly natural, several accommodations and attractions in the area offer accessible features. Khu du lịch Bãi Bàng specifically highlights wheelchair accessible entrances and parking, making it a suitable option for visitors with mobility challenges. The terrain around the beach can be sandy and uneven, which may present difficulties for standard wheelchairs, but assistance is often available from friendly locals or hotel staff.

Accessible restrooms and ramps are available at select resorts and public areas, though these are not as widespread as in more developed destinations. Most homestays and bungalows are single-story buildings with level access, making them suitable for travelers with limited mobility. While the island’s natural landscape presents some barriers, the community’s welcoming attitude and willingness to assist ensure a positive experience for all visitors.

Parking at Ratings Beach is straightforward and aligns with the area’s relaxed, rustic vibe. Most accommodations provide on-site parking for guests, with ample space for cars and motorbikes. There is no centralized parking lot for the beach itself, but visitors can park near their chosen homestay or resort and walk down to the shore, usually via short, sandy paths.

Street parking is available in the nearby village, though spaces may be limited during peak periods. Some resorts and RV parks offer accessible spaces for guests with disabilities. There is no entry fee for the beach itself, and parking is typically free for guests of local hotels and homestays, making it convenient for day-trippers and overnight visitors alike.

Ratings Beach, known locally as Bãi Bấc or Bãi Bàng, is part of Lại Sơn Island’s growing reputation as a hidden gem in Vietnam’s island tourism. The beach’s remote location means it remains relatively undiscovered compared to more famous destinations like Phú Quốc, offering a peaceful retreat for those in the know. Local wildlife includes a variety of seabirds and occasional sightings of dolphins in the Gulf of Thailand.

The island is also notable for its friendly, tight-knit community and a strong tradition of sustainable fishing. Visitors often remark on the warm hospitality of the locals and the sense of stepping back in time. The area’s undeveloped nature and lack of commercialization make it a special place for travelers seeking authenticity and tranquility, with each visit offering a unique connection to the local way of life.

The natural attractions of Lại Sơn Island are a highlight for visitors to Ratings Beach. The beach itself is framed by dramatic limestone cliffs and lush greenery, creating a postcard-perfect setting. For those looking to explore beyond the sand, hiking trails lead to viewpoints with breathtaking panoramas of the Gulf of Thailand and the surrounding islands.

Nearby fishing villages provide a glimpse into local life, and guided tours are available for those interested in learning about traditional fishing practices. The island’s laid-back atmosphere and scenic landscapes make it a haven for photographers and nature lovers. No major commercial attractions or lighthouses exist in the immediate vicinity, but the pristine environment and authentic local culture ensure a rewarding experience for all who visit.