Planning a trip to Vietnam? You might picture yourself in Hanoi or cruising Ha Long Bay, but there’s a coastal city that needs to be on your radar because of its central location: Da Nang.
Da Nang beaches are some of the best stretches of white sand in the country. They offer a perfect place to relax amidst your travels across Vietnam.
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Best Beaches in Da Nang
Da Nang has a variety of beaches. Each beach, while unique, shares crystal-clear waters with sand that seems pristine.
North of the city centre you find both Xuan Thieu (Red Beach) and Thanh Binh, known for calm blue water. These are perfect spots to spread your beach towel.
Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain)
The Son Tra Peninsula is a journey in itself and is great for any adventurous tourist. You’re going to find some rewarding views. Renting a scooter is the go-to transport solution to experience everything the peninsula offers.
There are beaches scattered around the peninsula, but some are privately owned. Bai Bac (North Beach) is off-limits unless you’re staying at that specific resort. Head to Tien Sa Beach on Son Tra for a peaceful day.
South Da Nang Beach
Just east of downtown, a lengthy 30-kilometer beach begins with palm trees to give shade. The whole stretch of sand has clear blue water making it one of the most inviting destinations. This makes it a great area for any visitor.
From north to south, you’ll encounter Pham Van Dong, My Khe, Bac My Anh, and Non Nuoc (Non Nuoc beach). My Khe, being closest to the city center, sees more foot traffic. Still, during the day, you’ll have plenty of space on this fine white sand.
Lang Co Beach
Willing to venture a little further from the Da Nang city center? Lang Co beach is approximately an hour north by car and many tourists will be found at nearby attractions. Lang Co makes a great addition to time on the Hai Van Pass.
Since it’s also a fishing village, you’ve got amazing seafood to enjoy in Lang Co. Think steamed lemongrass infused dishes with locally caught fish. There are numerous hotels here as well in this paradise beach setting.
Cham Islands
Take a boat just to the east to get to the Cham Islands, from the city centre. It offers several ideal diving spots. Many will visit the Cham Islands from Da Nang or Hoi An.
After a day of water sports and relaxation, homestays await you. For those looking for more rugged accommodations, you can opt for camping under the stars.
Things to Do near Da Nang Beaches
Sure, soaking up the sun on Da Nang beaches is tempting. It offers a perfect place to relax after more strenuous tourist activity. Here’s a few suggestions of additional things you can do.
Cham Museum
The Cham Museum houses a wide array of Cham sculptures. Exploring the museum is a nice touch of something more educational, and different, away from Da Nang city center. This is great option when the Da Nang weather isn’t ideal.
Marble Mountains
A brief trip from downtown, these five mountains offer beautiful cave networks and shrines. Take the time to visit the Marble Mountains to find some perspective and peace before heading down to relax. There is a lot of history with these mountains.
Dragon Bridge
Of the bridges found in Da Nang, the Dragon Bridge stands out. It is in the shape of a Dragon. Saturdays and Sundays at 9 PM, this Dragon actually breathes fire.
| Sights | Description | Why visit it? |
|---|---|---|
| Marble Mountain | These five mountains south of the city are known for natural beauty, historic connections, and religious context. | Great panoramic views while having unique history to reflect on as you visit Da Nang. |
| Cham Museum | Largest collection of Cham Sculptures in the world and well worth a stop. | Great way to find educational context and see pieces of historic art, unique to the region. |
| Dragon Bridge | A bridge built to replicate an actual Dragon that shoots fire out of its mouth Saturday and Sunday Nights. | This modern architectural achievement adds a piece of character and whimsy to Da Nang. |
How To Reach Da Nang
Reaching Da Nang is pretty straightforward for people all over the world. Da Nang has its own international airport. Recent upgrades included additional capacity for more direct connections.
A ten-minute drive via taxi, where you’ll only deal with metered prices, puts you straight downtown. Trains can transport you right through town.
The Da Nang train station marks middle point to the entire line running between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Getting a rental vehicle is fairly reasonably priced. Keep in mind you’ll encounter lots of local drivers.
Where to Dine in Da Nang
Dining options in Da Nang offer cuisine variety. Beyond well-prepared pho and banh mi options, worldwide flavors are easily accessible.
Local Flavors
Visit the Han Market when getting introduced to the city. It allows the first time Da Nang vistor some exposure to real local cooking styles. Remember you can try local food while purchasing mementos there.
For something specific, seek *mi quang*. Mi Quang Ti is a common go-to option to explore this dish.
International Options
Walking around Nguyen Chi Thanh opens a doorway to international offerings. Sushi, burgers, pizza – take your pick.
Not experiencing any of the beaches without fresh seafood feels wrong. Various locations along Da Nang beaches cook seafood with that famous local style using flavors like lemongrass.
Best Time to Visit Da Nang
Temperature in the region stays pleasant with 75 degrees fahrenheit being standard. This alone has clear benefit, as extremes on either end might ruin a visitors day. You do not want bad Da Nang weather.
The city has wet and dry cycles, typical of its tropical classification. Expect quick, unexpected rainfall when in wet seasons. If planned properly, it’s possible to navigate around this.
Aim to arrive at the leading beach around February or March. You can then spend plenty of afternoons just walking along the white sand, free from humidity. For those who want more action, water sports options exist across numerous locations, all following high safety standards.
FAQs about Da Nang beaches
Can you swim in Da Nang beaches?
Yes, Da Nang beaches are great for swimming and other water activities. The conditions along beaches like My Khe have crystal-clear waters that meet safety standards.
Does Da Nang have good beaches?
Yes, the beaches of Da Nang are beautiful destinations that blend serene beauty. This is not even factoring in nearby beach options across areas like Son Tra beach or Lang Co beach. They hold different context.
Is Da Nang worth visiting?
Absolutely, and particularly for the beaches. Consider starting your journey here instead of solely considering typical stops like Phu Quoc or Nha Trang. It could make planning easier.
Which beach is less crowded in Da Nang?
Tien Sa Beach usually has far fewer people compared to options like Bai Bac beach. Or any beach in Son Tra Peninsula. This comes from being more privately enclosed.
Conclusion
Da Nang beaches should no longer be off your mind if Vietnam is calling. Instead of being restricted to Hanoi, there’s an alternative on the coast of Da Nang. You have amazing views with palm trees and white sand.
Da Nang acts as a crucial connector, but even beyond transportation, it has the beach front many crave. It truly has a perfect blend of many things you would look for as a traveler. Start planning your Da Nang Vietnam trip.
