Beaches Abroad: Da Nang, Vietnam.
Da Nang's coastline stretches over 30 kilometers and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia, including My Khe, Non Nuoc, and Bac My An. The soft, white sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush green mountains in the backdrop create a breathtaking landscape that draws visitors from all over the world.
Why go?
The beaches of Da Nang offer a wide range of water sports and activities, including surfing, paddleboarding, jet-skiing, and snorkeling. The warm, calm waters make it an ideal destination for both beginners and experienced water sports enthusiasts. But Da Nang is not only about the beach. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins at My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the Marble Mountains, a cluster of limestone and marble hills housing sacred Buddhist and Hindu grottoes. Perhaps most compellingly, Vietnamese people are famous for their warm hospitality and friendliness, making for a truly memorable experience.
Where should I eat?
Vietnamese food is renowned for its fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and diverse dishes. Da Nang is no exception, offering visitors the opportunity to taste local seafood specialties, traditional Vietnamese dishes, and a fusion of international cuisines at beachfront restaurants and street food vendors.
Nén Restaurant — helmed by Chef Đặng Tuấn Phong — is one of Da Nang's top culinary destinations. It offers a contemporary Vietnamese fine dining experience, combining traditional flavors with modern techniques and presentation. The chef's tasting menu features dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients, providing a true taste of Vietnamese cuisine.
For an authentic local dining experience, Quán Bé Mặn is a popular choice among both tourists and locals. This casual eatery specializes in central Vietnamese cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood dishes. Some of the must-try items include grilled fish, steamed clams, and squid stir-fried with pineapple.
If budget is not a constraint, and you can get a table, visit La Maison 1888. Located within the luxurious InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, La Maison 1888 is a fine dining restaurant that offers a unique blend of French and Vietnamese cuisines. The restaurant's elegant setting is inspired by a French colonial mansion, and the menu is designed by world-renowned chef Pierre Gagnaire. Diners can enjoy a range of gourmet dishes, such as foie gras, lobster bisque, and wagyu beef, accompanied by an extensive wine list.
How do I get there?
There are no direct flights from the United States to Da Nang. However, you can take connecting flights from various cities in the US to Da Nang, usually with a layover in a major Asian city. Airlines such as Korean Air, Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, and Singapore Airlines offer flights from Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and New York (JFK) to Da Nang (DAD), often with layovers in Seoul, Singapore, or Tokyo. While Vietnam Airlines does not operate direct flights from the US to Da Nang, you can fly from US cities to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) or Hanoi (HAN) and then take a domestic flight to Da Nang.
How much does it cost?
In Da Nang, visitors can enjoy a fantastic beach vacation without breaking the bank. Budget hostels and guesthouses can be found for $5–$15 per night, while mid-range 3-star hotels run $30–$60 per night. Luxury 4- and 5-star hotels and resorts cost from $100–$500+ or more per night.
Street food and local eateries serve delicious fare for $1–$3 per meal, with mid-range sit-down lunches and dinners running $5–$15. High-end restaurants will cost $20–$50 or more per person.
Transportation is also cheap. Taxis run $0.50–$0.70 per kilometer, with a starting fare of $0.60–$1. Motorbike rentals are $5–$10 per day, while bikes rent for $2–$5 per day.
Guided tours to popular sites such as My Son Sanctuary and Ba Na Hills will run $20–$50 per person, depending on the tour company.
Water sports, including surfing, paddleboarding and jet-skiing, will cost $10–$50, depending on duration and equipment.
Where should I stay?
Da Nang has accommodations to fit every budget. Danang Backpackers Hostel (106 Nguyen Chi Thanh, Hai Chau District) is a budget-friendly option located close to My Khe Beach and offers dormitory-style accommodations as well as private rooms. There's free Wi-Fi, a rooftop bar, and a common area for socializing. The hostel also organizes tours and activities for guests to explore Da Nang and the surrounding areas.
Fusion Suites Da Nang (An Cu 5 Residential, Vo Nguyen Giap Street, Man Thai Ward, Son Tra District) is a stylish and contemporary beachfront hotel near My Khe Beach. The hotel features a rooftop pool, a spa, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Fusion Suites Da Nang is known for its "breakfast anywhere, anytime" concept.
If you're looking for luxury, look no further than the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort (Bai Bac, Son Tra Peninsula). This luxurious 5-star resort is nestled within the Son Tra Peninsula nature reserve, offering stunning views of the East Sea. The resort features a variety of lavish rooms, suites, and villas, each with elegant furnishings and top-notch amenities. Guests can indulge in several on-site restaurants, including the acclaimed La Maison 1888, a spa, a private beach, and multiple swimming pools.
Originally published in Beach Happy Magazine, Issue 13 — Summer 2023.
