The San Diu engage in farming either in submerged fields or on a part of burnt-over land or river bank. They also practise animal husbandry, forest exploitation, fishing, fish-raising, tile-and brick-making, balcksmithing and basketry.

From time immemorial, the San Diu manufactured the wheel-less quet cart drawn by a buffalo to transport goods. The way of carrying goods by pole was used only when they went to the market.

The San Diu's daily meals include steamed rice and porridge. They use weak porridge as a refreshment.

The San Diu have gradually adopted the Kinh's wear. It is San Diu women's habit to chew betel and always bring with them a segment-shaped cloth bag to contain betel and a small knife to open areca. The bag is embroidered with many colourful motifs and the knife is protected by a wood scabbard engraved with many beautiful figures.

The San Diu settle in each hamlet. The house is built level with the ground, the roof is covered with thatch or tile and the walls are built of bricks.

Patriarchy is the rule of San Diu family. The husband (father) is the head of the family. The children take the family name of the father and not only sons have the right of inheritance. The parents decide the marriage of their children, although it still depends on the "examination of age" of the future couple.

The funeral is celebrated with many rites. Three years after the burial, the dead are exhumed to take the remains to bury again in a final tomb. This is also one of the San Diu's joyful ceremonies.

The San Diu worship their ancestors, the god of the kitchen, the genie of the earth and even the goddess of childbirth. In a year, they hold many ceremonies such as before crop, after crop, new rice and rain praying which are related to production. The San Diu also worship Kwan Yin, Three Saints and their group founders.