10 Best Things To Do In Da Nang For A Perfect Trip

Da Nang is not just known for its breathtaking natural scenery but also for a wealth of exciting activities that promise unforgettable experiences. What to see in Da Nang? What are the activities that you can do around this beautiful place? Let’s explore 19 amazing things to do around Da Nang that will make your trip truly memorable!

1. Spending Your Day At The Beach

Da Nang boasts some of Vietnam's most beautiful beaches with their white sand and clear waters. My Khe Beach stretches impressively from the foot of Son Tra Peninsula to Marble Mountains, offering soft white sand and calm waters ideal for swimming and relaxation. For the best experience, visit early morning or late afternoon when locals exercise and swim, giving you a glimpse into authentic Vietnamese daily life.

If you prefer stronger waves, Non Nuoc Beach is perfect for adult swimming and water activities. The An Thuong area near the beach is filled with bars and restaurants, making it an excellent base for beach lovers. Da Nang's beaches are among the cleanest in Vietnam, offering a perfect retreat after exploring the city's other attractions.  

Da Nang is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam - Image Source: Collected

Lounging

Most locals head to the beach early in the morning or around sunset, not during the heat of the day. These times are the busiest, but also the most fun—you’ll see people exercising, playing, and enjoying the cool breeze. The sunrise here is absolutely worth waking up for.

Outside of the summer tourist season, the beach is usually peaceful, especially if you walk south from the main My Khe Beach area.

Just keep in mind, the farther south you go, the quieter and more remote it becomes. There aren’t many shops or cafés, so it’s a good idea to bring your own towel, snacks, and drinks if you plan to chill there for a while.

Surfing

Before you get too excited, let me be honest—Da Nang isn’t the spot for pro surfers chasing big waves. The water here is usually pretty gentle, so seasoned surfers might not find it thrilling. But if you’re just starting out, this place is awesome for learning!

One thing to keep in mind is the time of year really affects the waves. In summer (around June to August), the sea is super calm—almost like a lake. In winter (November to January), it can get wild due to storms. So, the best time to try surfing is during the spring or fall, when the waves are just right for beginners.

Swimming

Swimming rules in Vietnam can be a little hit or miss. Some days, lifeguards are super strict and only let you swim in certain spots. Other days, no one seems to care what you do.

At My Khe Beach, especially when it’s busy, you’ll likely have to stay inside the marked swimming zone, which usually only goes up to chest-deep water. If you head to quieter parts of the beach, you can swim more freely. Surfers usually don’t have to follow these rules at all. If you're not a strong swimmer, this setup might make you feel safer. But for someone used to open-water swimming like me, it can feel a bit limiting.

2. Enjoy Flavorful Local Cuisine

Da Nang is described as a "foodie town" with hundreds of glittering cafes and restaurants in every corner. The Central Vietnamese cuisine is diverse and delicious. Must-try dishes include:

• Banh Xeo: Often called a Vietnamese pancake, but it’s more like a thin, crispy crepe filled with tasty ingredients like pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. It's savory, not sweet, and usually wrapped in lettuce with herbs before dipping into sauce. A must-try local favorite!
• Banh Canh: A well-loved Vietnamese soup made with thick, chewy noodles and a heavy, flavorful broth. It’s warm, filling, and perfect when you’re craving comfort food in a bowl.
• Xoi Ga: A tasty dish made with sticky rice and shredded chicken on top - simple, filling, and full of flavor.
• Com Suon Nuong: It’s a simple meal with grilled pork, rice, and some veggies—but the magic is in the pork. It’s usually cooked with lemongrass, giving it a super tasty, smoky flavor that’s hard to beat.
• Seafood: Being right by the sea, Da Nang is full of fresh and tasty seafood. You’ll find all kinds, but my personal favorites are the grilled clams and scallops—they’re packed with flavor and super satisfying!

Da Nang is described as a "foodie town" with hundreds of glittering cafes and restaurants in every corner - Image Source: Collected

3. Riding through the Hai Van Pass

Connecting Da Nang and Hue, the Hai Van Pass is famed as "the first grand pass under heaven". It’s a paradise for adventure lovers, offering a blend of dramatic mountain and coastal views.

The winding curves of the Hai Van Pass attract thrill-seekers who love conquering its sharp bends amidst breathtaking landscapes. Recently reopened in August 2024, Hai Van Quan, a historic relic from the Nguyen Dynasty, adds a touch of cultural exploration to your journey.

Connecting Da Nang and Hue, the Hai Van Pass is famed as "the first grand pass under heaven" - Image Source: Collected

What to consider for this activity?

• Travel during the day for safety and to enjoy the scenery.
• Be suitable for experienced riders while beginners should exercise caution.
• Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and carry safety gear.
• Ride with friends for mutual support during the journey.

4. Adventure on Son Tra Peninsula

The Son Tra Peninsula is renowned for its diverse marine ecosystem, pristine beaches, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Its old-growth forest is home to over 1,000 plant species and nearly 300 animal species, including rare creatures like the red-shanked douc langurs.

Visitors to Son Tra can enjoy trekking through forest trails, exploring captivating natural scenery, and admiring the rich biodiversity. Additionally, highlights include visiting Ban Co Peak, known as the “roof” of Da Nang, and Linh Ung Pagoda, home to Vietnam’s tallest statue of the Goddess of Mercy.

The Son Tra Peninsula is renowned for its diverse marine ecosystem, pristine beaches, and breathtaking natural landscapes - Image Source: Collected

What to consider for this activity?

• Ensure you are in good health, especially free from conditions like heart disease or high blood pressure, if you plan to trek.
• Bring sufficient water, snacks, and necessary medications.
• Wear comfortable, suitable clothing for hiking.
• Follow environmental conservation rules: avoid littering and damaging the forest ecosystem.

5. Check in at Ba Na Hills

Chances are you’ve seen the Golden Hands Bridge on Instagram or TikTok—it’s one of the most famous spots in Da Nang. You’ll find it up in Ba Na Hills, which has a lot more to explore.

Besides the bridge, there’s a fun theme park with a European-style village, an arcade, bars, restaurants, and even some rides. You can book a guided tour or just grab your ticket online ahead of time to skip the long lines.

The Golden Bridge is a popular place to snap photos and check in - Image Source: Collected

What to consider for this activity?

• Wear warm clothes as it gets chilly in the morning and evening.
• Bring sports shoes for easy movement.
• Arrival at Ba Na Hills early in the morning to fully experience the exciting activities here.
• Absolutely comply with safety regulations when using the cable car system.

6. Watch the Fire Breathing Dragon

Da Nang loves its bridges—there are seven crossing the Han River, and most of them are big and flashy. But let’s be honest, the one that really stands out is the Dragon Bridge.

By day, its golden, twisting design already grabs your attention. But the real magic happens at night. On weekend nights (usually Friday and Saturday—double-check the schedule when you arrive), the dragon actually breathes fire. Yep, real Fire Show!

It’s a super fun show and definitely worth seeing at least once. Afterward, just walk over to Son Tra Night Market across the street for some tasty local street food.

Dragon Bridge lights up Da Nang with real fire shows every weekend - Image Soure: Collected

What to consider for this activity?

• Opt for favorable viewing spots, for example, along Tran Hung Dao Street or from riverside cafés.
• Double check the agenda of the event - the fire and water performance happens every Saturday and Sunday at 09:00 PM.
• Arrive about 30 minutes early to avoid heavy traffic.
• Follow traffic regulations and avoid parking or stopping on the bridge.

7. Visit Lady Buddha and Linh Ung Pagoda

One of the first things you’ll probably notice when you arrive in Da Nang is the giant white statue of Lady Buddha on the Son Tra Peninsula. You can even spot her from most parts of My Khe Beach!

The area around the statue is calm and relaxing, with beautiful gardens and amazing views of both the city and the sea. It’s the perfect place to take a break, enjoy the breeze, and soak in the peaceful vibe. I usually spend at least an hour here every time I go.

Even better—it’s free to visit and super easy to get to. Just hop on a Grab ride, and you’ll be there in about 10 to 20 minutes, depending on where you’re staying.

The giant white statue of Lady Buddha is a must-visit spot when you travel to Da Nang - Image Source: Collected

What to consider for this activity? 

• Always keep quiet while visiting the temple, not affecting the pure space.
• Do not litter in the temple grounds.
• Dress neatly and politely when entering the temple. 

8. Take a Day Trip to Hoi An

If you’re staying in Da Nang, Hoi An makes for a perfect day trip. It’s only about 30 to 40 minutes away. I live in Da Nang and often hop on my scooter just to grab lunch, have a coffee, or ride around the peaceful rice fields near Hoi An. The simplest way to get there is by using the Grab app—quick and hassle-free.

Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some first-timers might feel it’s a bit too polished or touristy, but I still think it’s a charming place worth seeing. Plus, Hoi An isn’t just about the Old Town—it’s just one small part of the area.

Visit Hoi An Ancient Town to admire its unique historic architecture - Image Source: Collected

As you move out of the center, the surroundings feel like quiet countryside villages. It’s easy to walk around, and within 10 minutes, you can reach beaches like An Bang and Cua Dai. You’ll also find beautiful rice fields nearby, like those in Cam Thanh or by NGHE Rice Paddy Café to the north.

If you’re up for a unique way to explore both the scenery and local food, consider booking the Day Tour | Explore Hoi An's Cuisine by Jeep with Joytime—it’s a fun and tasty adventure through the countryside with a local twist.

9. Rent A Motorbike And Exlore the City

Riding a motorbike is one of the easiest and most fun ways to explore Da Nang. The roads are usually clear, with little traffic, making it a smooth ride around the city and to nearby spots. Once you get away from the busy tourist areas, you’ll see a different, more local side of Da Nang that’s worth discovering.

Many travelers rent scooters from places like Quang Nga Motorbikes Rental in the My An area. Daily prices start at around 200,000 VND, while larger or newer bikes can go up to 300,000 - 400,000 VND or more.

A popular and easy ride is from Da Nang to Hoi An—perfect for a day trip. Another scenic route takes you northwest along Da Nang Bay and up the famous Hai Van Pass, known for its mountain views.

Riding a motorbike is one of the easiest and most fun ways to explore Da Nang - Image Source: Collected

For a shorter trip, head north along the beach to Lady Buddha and continue around the Son Tra Peninsula—there’s even a chance to spot some wild monkeys along the way!

Da Nang is also known for its bridges—there are five in total. Riding across them is a fun way to see the city. The Dragon Bridge is the most famous, but for the best views of the bay and river, don’t miss a ride over Thuan Phuoc Bridge, the northernmost one.

10. Enjoy a Cold Beer and Meet New People at Night

Da Nang has a lively social scene, thanks to its big community of expats, digital nomads, and travelers. It’s the kind of place where it’s easy to meet new people—what starts as a casual chat over drinks often turns into a fun night with new friends.

For those staying near the beach and wanting to hang out with other foreigners, the An Thuong area is a great spot. Just steps from My Khe Beach, this small neighborhood is filled with bars, live music, and international food. It’s easy to hop from one place to the next on foot.

If the goal is to connect more with locals, there are two great options. First, head into the city center, where bars tend to be more popular with local crowds. A top pick for many is Tê Bar.

Te Bar is one of the most famous bar in Da Nang - Image Source: Collected

Second, try one of the many large local-style restaurants scattered throughout Da Nang. These places are usually bright, semi-outdoor spots with metal tables and a casual, buzzing vibe. Locals gather here to enjoy seafood, drink cheap beer and rice wine, and sing karaoke well into the night. It’s a fun, down-to-earth way to experience real Vietnamese nightlife.

Frequently Asked Questions About Da Nang

Is It Worth Visiting Da Nang?

Da Nang is definitely worth a visit. It offers the perfect mix: a relaxed beach vibe, a vibrant city feel, and beautiful natural scenery all around. Plus, it’s a great base for fun day trips. For many travelers, that combination is hard to beat.

Is Da Nang Safe?

Overall, Da Nang is a safe city for travelers. Just like in any other place, it’s best to stay aware—especially at night—and always keep an eye on your things.

Some solo female travelers have shared that men on motorbikes sometimes follow them, though it usually doesn’t go beyond that. To feel more comfortable, it’s a good idea to go out with a friend or stay in a busy area to avoid walking home alone late at night.

What Are The Must-visit Attractions For First-time Visitors To Da Nang?

First-time visitors to Da Nang should prioritize:

• My Khe Beach and Non Nuoc Beach for relaxation on clean, white sand with clear waters
• Marble Mountains for exploring caves, temples, and pagodas in this ancient site
• Lady Buddha statue and Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula for spiritual experience and panoramic views
• Dragon Bridge to witness the impressive fire and water show on weekend evenings
• Sun World Ba Na Hills for a day of entertainment and to see the famous Golden Bridge
• Cham Museum to learn about the ancient Cham civilization through the world's largest collection of Cham sculptures

When Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Da Nang?

The best time to visit Da Nang is from late January to early May, during the early dry season. During this period, you can expect sunny weather, low humidity, and milder temperatures—ideal for outdoor activities. Da Nang's dry season runs from April to August, with June through August being the hottest months (temperatures can reach 35°C/95°F). The rainy season extends from September to March, with most rainfall occurring between September and December.

What evening activities and nightlife are available in Da Nang?

Da Nang offers diverse evening entertainment:

• Stroll along the illuminated riverfront and beachfront promenades
• Visit Son Tra Night Market near Dragon Bridge for street food, souvenirs, and crafts
• Experience rooftop bars, lounges, and nightclubs scattered throughout the city
• Watch the Dragon Bridge fire and water show at 9 PM on weekends
• During May/June, witness the spectacular Da Nang International Fireworks Festival with displays over the Han River

How many days should I spend in Da Nang?

A minimum of 3 days is recommended to explore Da Nang properly. This allows one day for exploring Marble Mountains and other city attractions, one day for Ba Na Hills, and a third day for visiting Hoi An and enjoying the beaches. However, if you want to include more day trips and have a relaxed pace, 5-7 days would be ideal to fully experience Da Nang and its surrounding attractions without feeling rushed.

Da Nang offers a beautiful blend of city life, beach relaxation, and cultural experiences that make it one of Vietnam's most appealing destinations. With so many things to do at Da Nang and around the city, you'll likely find yourself planning a return visit to experience everything this coastal gem has to offer.