Where to stay in Da Nang

Da Nang is a modern, fast-growing city on Vietnam's central coast, with a long sandy beach on one side and the Han River running through its centre. It's a convenient base for Hoi An, the Marble Mountains and the hills of Ba Na.

Most visitors stay near the beach, where a grid of streets behind My Khe is packed with hotels, seafood restaurants and cafés, a short ride from the river and the city's famous bridges.

Airport
Da Nang International (DAD), in the city
Getting around
Grab, taxis and walking; the city is easy to navigate
Beach
My Khe, a long sandy beach on the east side
Best for
Beaches, food, city breaks and day trips

Places to stay in Da Nang

12 hotels

"Our order" puts hotels we have fully written up first. Commission doesn't affect the order.

Da Nang, area by area

The beach and the centre are only a few kilometres apart, linked by bridges across the Han River.

My Khe and Bac My An

Best for beach holidays

The streets behind My Khe Beach and, further south, Bac My An are where most visitors stay. You're a short walk from the sand and close to seafood restaurants and cafés, with the river and bridges a few minutes away by car.

The city centre and Han River

Best for nightlife and sightseeing

On the west bank, the centre has markets, the Cham Museum, riverside promenades and views of the Dragon Bridge. It's handy for the airport and the station, and the beach is about 10 minutes away by car.

The Son Tra peninsula

Best for views and nature

North of the city, the forested Son Tra peninsula has winding roads, viewpoints, small beaches and the Linh Ung Pagoda with its huge Lady Buddha statue. A few resorts are tucked along its coast; you'll need transport to reach the city.

Getting to and around Da Nang

Da Nang International Airport is close to the city centre, usually 10 to 20 minutes by car from the beach hotels. The city is also on Vietnam's main north-south railway. Grab and metered taxis are cheap and easy, and the beach promenade is good for walking.

Things to do

Spend mornings on My Khe Beach, then explore the Marble Mountains' caves and pagodas south of the city. Drive up the Son Tra peninsula to the Lady Buddha statue for wide views, and take a day trip to Ba Na Hills and its Golden Bridge, or to Hoi An's Ancient Town, around 45 minutes away.

At the weekend, the Dragon Bridge breathes fire and water in the evening; check the current schedule locally. The Love Lock Bridge and riverside night market are nearby.

Eating in Da Nang

Seafood is the star near the beach, where restaurants display tanks of fish, crabs and clams and cook them to order. In the centre, look out for mi quang, a turmeric noodle dish from the region, and banh xeo pancakes. Han Market and Con Market are good places to try local snacks and buy coffee and dried goods.

The city's café culture is strong too, from simple pavement stalls to rooftop bars with views over the river.

Practical tips

Da Nang is generally easy for first-time visitors: Grab works well, prices are clearly displayed in many places and the beach promenade is well lit. Swim only where there are lifeguards and flags, as currents can be strong, particularly outside the summer months.

If you plan day trips to Ba Na Hills, Hoi An or the Hai Van Pass, a car with a driver is often the most comfortable way to combine several stops in one day.

When to go

The drier, sunnier months usually run from around February to August, with the calmest sea in late spring and summer. From roughly September to December there's more rain, and the central coast can be affected by storms.

Questions about staying in Da Nang

Where is the best area to stay in Da Nang?

Near My Khe Beach for a beach holiday, or by the Han River for the city's restaurants, bars and bridges.

How far is the airport from My Khe Beach?

Usually around 10 to 20 minutes by car.

Can I visit Hoi An from Da Nang?

Yes, it's about 45 minutes away by road, an easy day trip or evening out.

When does the Dragon Bridge breathe fire?

Usually on weekend evenings. Times can change, so check locally.

Is My Khe Beach good for swimming?

Usually, in the calmer months from around spring to late summer. Stick to areas with lifeguards and flags, as currents can be strong.

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