Ba Ria - Vung Tau province in Southern Vietnam is one of the fastest economic growing areas in the country, characterized by the rapid port and industrial development along the Thi Vai river. The socio-economic situation of the area has generally been improved; however, its part of the local inhabitants has not gained benefits from the changes. 35 surface water samples and 25 sediment samples were analysed with the interpretation of the SPOT images for 1995 and 2005. The data showed that rapid port and industrial development have resulted in significant losses of mangroves and agriculture land. The surface water was seriously polluted, particularly in terms of organic materials and suspended solids. It contained high and increasing oil concentrations. The river sediment was saline and slightly alkaline. It was heavily reduced, organic-rich, and contaminated with oil and heavy metals (Cu, Pb, and Cr).