To better understand the adverse impacts of soil salinization and promote rice (Oryza sativa L.) production in crops from the north central coastal region of Vietnam, the spatiotemporal variability of soil salinity and its effects on rice production were investigated. Experiments were conducted at 19 plots widely distributed in the Quang Phuoc commune, in the Quang Dien district of the province of Thua Thien Hue in the north central coastal region of Vietnam. We determined the elevation of the 19 plots to evaluate the influence of elevation on salt accumulation. Soil samples from the 19 plots were collected in January, May and September 2012 and 2013 to study the spatiotemporal variability of salinity. A soil saturation paste was prepared and used to measure electrical conductivity (ECe). The elevation measurements obtained suggest that the research site could be divided into low- and high-elevation plots, with elevation of the low-elevation plots ranging from -0.52 to 0.07 m and the high-elevation plots from 0.26 to 0.86m (one of the sampling plot was designated with an elevation of 0m and the elevations of the remaining 18 plots were measured relative to that). ECe was high at low elevations. In conclusion, although the differences in elevation between the 19 plots were very small (centimeters to decimeters), they still led to large differences in soil salinity levels. In the high-elevation plots, soils were irrigated with freshwater, thus maintaining low ECe levels throughout the year (<1.0 dS m(-1)). In contrast, in the low-elevation plots, soils were subject to seawater intrusion, resulting in high ECe levels in all seasons (>1.9 dS m(-1)). We recommend several solutions to limit the unfavorable effects of salinity and promote rice production. First, a comprehensive dike system should be constructed along the lagoon to prevent seawater intrusion onto land. Second, it will be necessary to construct adequate drainage facilities in the depressed areas to promote rapid water drainage into canals during and after flooding and irrigation. Third, because ECe was high from May to September, adequate fresh irrigation water should be frequently supplied to lower the ECe during this period.