Top 10 Most Popular Backpacking Spots in Da Nang Loved by the Youth

Located on the Son Tra Peninsula, about 20km from Da Nang city center, Ghenh Bang is one of the most captivating and still pristine backpacking destinations in Da Nang. With peaceful surroundings and no crowds, this hidden gem offers a 2km stretch of white sandy beach, clear water, and lush greenery. Unlike other well-known tourist spots, Ghenh Bang remains relatively untouched by large crowds. The beach is lined with large and small rocks, and the area is covered with thick, green vegetation.

Behind the rugged rocks lies a long beach with golden sand, crystal-clear water, and rows of palm trees casting their shadows. Ghenh Bang retains its raw and rustic charm, with a few makeshift tents, fishing gear, and local dive masks available for visitors to explore the nearby coral reefs. If you visit, try snorkeling and exploring the vibrant underwater world, but be sure to be a confident swimmer. Another great way to unwind is by fishing at Ghenh Bang, where you can relax and enjoy a freshly caught meal.

Ghenh Bang is located near Bai But and Bai Che, a narrow strip of beach connecting to the Ghenh Rang isthmus. The trail down to the beach is steep and requires crossing dense, heart-shaped vines. The terrain is not easy, as visitors must navigate over rocky areas and be careful of sharp oysters lurking below the water’s surface. Despite being close to one of Vietnam's most popular tourist cities, Ghenh Bang remains a hidden paradise for nature lovers who appreciate its raw, untouched beauty.

Hai Van Pass forms the boundary between Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang, and is often referred to as the 'King of Passes.' It rises over 500 meters above sea level and stretches for 20km, with steep slopes reaching a 45-degree incline and notorious sharp turns. Despite its danger, it remains a captivating destination for travelers. The winding road is narrow and treacherous, but conquering it offers an unforgettable experience.

For young backpackers, Hai Van Pass is a must-see, offering thrilling moments and scenic views. To explore it, many opt to rent motorbikes in Da Nang, navigating the challenging path to the summit. It's essential to check the bike, especially the brakes, as the steep road can be tricky. A highlight of the journey is the Lonely Pine Tree, an ideal spot for capturing the majestic view of Hai Van Quan.

Hon Da Cu Rua is located along the southern part of Hai Van Pass, just below the summit. It's an easy-to-find café nestled in a beautiful spot with breathtaking views. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee while soaking in the natural beauty around you. Nearby, the Vòm Đồn Cầu bridge offers another stunning viewpoint across the pass, surrounded by lush mountains and a stream running beneath the bridge, making it a perfect stop for photo ops on your journey.

Located along the Han River, covering more than 860,000m2, Asia Park is one of the top entertainment destinations in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. With countless thrilling outdoor and indoor attractions, as well as a vibrant cultural space, the park features the Sun Wheel, one of the top 10 largest Ferris wheels in the world. Asia Park is divided into three main areas: the modern outdoor amusement park, the center with the iconic Sun Wheel, and the cultural park showcasing miniature architectural wonders from various Asian countries.

At Sun World Da Nang Wonders, you can immerse yourself in endless fun with thrilling rides and family-friendly activities, many of which are making their debut in Vietnam. The Sun Wheel opens up a magical world of Asian culture and entertainment, with architectural masterpieces like the City Gate, Clock Tower, Sun Wheel, Dragon Boat, and Buddha Statue. The park also features restaurants and souvenir shops that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Asia. Each country’s unique cultural identity is showcased, such as Japan’s carp lanterns symbolizing strength and India’s Buddhist festivals and traditional textile and print crafts.

The outdoor amusement park offers a variety of exciting rides for all ages. Popular attractions include roller coasters, water slides, the free-fall tower, and the cable cars, making Asia Park a must-visit spot for thrill-seekers. Don’t miss the Sun Wheel – the Giant Ferris Wheel, one of the world’s top 10. From a height of 115 meters, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Da Nang city. At night, the Sun Wheel becomes even more magical, illuminated by over 13,000 LED lights, making it a stunning highlight of Da Nang’s beautiful coastal cityscape.

When visiting Da Nang, no traveler can miss Ba Na, often called the 'precious gem' of Da Nang. Located about 30 kilometers southwest of the city center, Ba Na is famous for its year-round cool climate and pristine mountain landscapes. As a result, it has become one of the most sought-after resort destinations in Vietnam. Situated in the Truong Son mountain range at an altitude of 1487 meters above sea level, Ba Na enjoys an average temperature of just 20°C. In one day, you can experience all four seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The peak period for Ba Na is from April to August, coinciding with the summer holidays when it is busiest. If you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, this is the best time to visit. However, for a more peaceful and quiet experience, consider visiting during weekdays or the winter season. But, be aware that during the off-peak season, the area can feel eerily quiet at night. Choose the ideal time to make your trip enjoyable!

From over 1000 meters above sea level, the cable car ride up to the mountain peak offers an unforgettable experience, giving you a panoramic view of Ba Na, which looks like a perfect painting with clouds, mountains, and majestic waterfalls below. As the cable car climbs to higher altitudes, on a clear day, you may even pass through the clouds, creating a dreamlike experience. With the Ba Na Tourism Area sitting at 1414 meters above sea level, the Golden Bridge is a stunning architectural feat, stretching nearly 150 meters in a gentle curve high above the ground. The Golden Hand Bridge has become a popular spot for taking pictures, offering a surreal experience of walking among the clouds. Today, the Golden Bridge on Ba Na Hills has gained international attention, attracting tourists from all over the world. In a sea of similar structures, Ba Na Hills has managed to create a unique, sky-high landmark. A new and impressive attraction, the Golden Bridge deserves a spot on your list of must-visit places in Da Nang.

Forbes, the leading American business magazine, has ranked My Khe Beach in Da Nang among the six most beautiful beaches in the world. This beach has met all of Forbes' basic criteria for selection, including easy accessibility, free admission for all visitors, ideal wave conditions for water sports, a long and smooth sandy shore, luxury resorts, and international-standard villas. My Khe Beach is famous for its soft sand, gentle waves, warm water all year round, and the scenic coconut trees that line the coast. Visitors can swim year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to August. With its safe depth, the beach is perfect for activities like coral diving or simply swimming while enjoying views of the majestic Marble Mountains and the Cham Islands in the distance near Hoi An.

What makes My Khe Beach in Da Nang so appealing is not just its stunning beauty and clean waters but also its excellent tourist services. There is no overcharging, no matter the season. For this reason, the beach is a year-round destination for tourists. However, for those who prefer a more peaceful atmosphere to enjoy the sea, the best time to visit is from April to September, when the waters are calm, and the sun shines down on the long stretch of sand. Even during other months, the beauty of My Khe remains unchanged. Visitors can also sample local specialties like My Khe seaweed, Chuon fish egg salad, and My Khe rice cakes. My Khe Beach is waiting for you. Get ready for an unforgettable trip!

Heaven's Well is located within the Ba Na - Nui Chua Conservation Area in Da Nang, home to the famous Ba Na Hills tourist spot. The untouched natural beauty of this area is a haven for adventurers, offering activities like trekking, mountain climbing, camping, and river bathing. Starting from the Ba Na cable car parking lot, adventurers must conquer a winding 7.5 km mountain road, crossing streams and forests to reach this destination. After the first steep climb, the rest of the journey becomes much easier. The region’s diverse flora, part of the conservation area, adds to its charm. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk that also serves as a fitness challenge, or for those short on time, a motorbike ride on a sturdy bike is a great option. Once you lie down on the cool flat stone slabs, all the fatigue of the journey melts away, and the worries of everyday life disappear. In these moments, you feel at one with the stunning natural surroundings.

Due to its remote and pristine location, the area feels like a secluded paradise. Two streams from the western side of the Ba Na forest converge in a narrow gorge, creating a waterfall that cascades more than 20 meters down with a thunderous roar. The waterfall feeds into an oval-shaped pool, about 20 meters wide and 25 meters long, where the water continues downstream. The stunning scenery here has long been a favorite for photographers. Immersing yourself in the crystal-clear waters, it’s hard to resist the temptation to jump into the pool for a refreshing swim. The area around the waterfall and the pool remains wild and untouched, yet it has a certain tranquil beauty.

When talking about Da Nang, one cannot forget the picturesque Han River and the Han River Bridge, Vietnam's first rotating bridge—a source of pride for the people of Da Nang. The Han River Bridge is a symbol of the city’s rejuvenation and ambition, built through the contributions of its residents. Previously, the rotating mechanism of the bridge served to allow large boats to pass, operating between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m. daily. Later, the bridge rotation was scheduled for tourists to enjoy, occurring between midnight and 1 a.m. on weekends.

To further enhance the experience for visitors, Da Nang officially moved the rotation times earlier, from 11 p.m. to midnight on Saturdays and Sundays. This adjustment makes it easier for both tourists and locals to schedule their visit to witness the famous rotating bridge. The true beauty of the Han River seems to reveal itself most perfectly in the cool breeze and open space around the bridge. The Han River Bridge not only facilitates transportation and tourism but also awakens the economic potential of the vast eastern part of the city. It stands as a cultural landmark, a legacy for future generations of Da Nang.

The Son Tra Peninsula is home to many captivating beaches, often considered Da Nang's green lung. It hosts a variety of rare flora and fauna and offers some of the most picturesque scenery in the city. Bai Da Den stands out for its pristine beauty, just over an hour away from downtown Da Nang by boat. Visitors can reach it by taking a water route starting from the Han River, passing the Tien Sa Port, and continuing through the Tien Sa-Son Tra tourist area until reaching Bai Da Den. The beach features large black rocks scattered in unique patterns, creating striking viewpoints. Inside the rock area, several natural pools further enhance the landscape. Shielded by these massive rocks, the water here is crystal clear and the gentle waves make it perfect for swimming. At certain designated spots, guided groups can even participate in fishing or snorkeling activities to explore the coral reefs.

The Tien Sa Ecotourism Area located in the northern part of the Son Tra Peninsula, just 10 km from Da Nang's city center, is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination. It is closely tied to the legend of celestial beings descending to earth and has inspired many poems and songs. Tien Sa Beach remains pristine and peaceful, offering a perfect blend of blue sea, white sand, and golden sunshine. It is an ideal retreat for relaxation, picnics, and events. Nam Son Tra Beach, also known as Bai Nom or Bai Nom, is a stunning spot often referred to as one of the most beautiful beaches on the Son Tra Peninsula. Nearby, the Son Tra Resort & Spa provides a luxurious stay. From My Khe Beach, Nam Beach is visible in the distance. In the waters off Nam Beach, coral reefs thrive, and snorkeling activities are common.

Chessboard Peak is located on the Son Tra Peninsula, about 8 km west of Da Nang city center. Its coastal location makes it a popular tourist destination. The winding road leading to the peak offers stunning views of the Son Tra Peninsula's picturesque landscapes. According to legend, two celestial beings came here to play chess on the mountain's peak, but after many days, neither could win. One day, while the fairies were bathing on the beach, one of the immortals, distracted by the sight, lost the game. In anger, the immortal stomped his foot on a stone, causing the chessboard to fall into the sea before ascending back to the heavens. To commemorate the tale, a statue of the King sits alone by a stone resembling a chessboard. If you visit the peak at night, you'll be treated to a breathtaking view of Da Nang in miniature.

There are several versions of the Chessboard Peak legend. In one story, a celestial immortal descended to Son Tra, resting on a large rock. While admiring the serene landscape, he magically conjured a chessboard. After a while, the King happened to pass by, and seeing the immortal playing alone, he joined him. The two were evenly matched, and after days of play, the game had no conclusion. Meanwhile, the peaceful beauty of Son Tra added to the serenity of their game. One day, a group of fairies descended from the clouds to bathe in a nearby cove. As they played in the water, the immortal became distracted and lost. Furious, he stomped his foot on a stone, sending the chessboard into the sea. Later, the people named the nearby beach 'Tien Sa'—meaning 'Fairy Beach'.

Marble Mountains is a group of five limestone mountains that are located close to each other, each with unique heights and shapes. Also known as Non Nuoc Mountain, this site is located in Hoa Hai Ward, Ngũ Hành Sơn District, Da Nang, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Each of the five peaks is named after one of the five elements in the ancient philosophy of the Five Elements: Kim (Metal), Mộc (Wood), Thủy (Water), Hỏa (Fire), and Thổ (Earth). Many tourists visiting Marble Mountains choose to explore Thủy Sơn, the largest and most scenic of the mountains. Before embarking on your journey to Marble Mountains, it's a good idea to browse through the many stone sculptures and souvenirs available at shops near the base of the mountain. However, it's recommended not to buy anything right away since you will be embarking on a long walk, and carrying heavy items may be uncomfortable. You can choose a souvenir first and return to buy it after completing your visit.

Thủy Sơn is the most popular mountain in the Marble Mountains and offers the most stunning views. If you visit in the evening, you may have to walk down, as the elevator stops operating at dusk (staff will inform you when it's closed). Another option is to hike up to the Linh Ung Pagoda. This is suitable for those in good physical condition who enjoy mountain climbing. To reach Linh Ung Pagoda on the summit of Thủy Sơn, you'll need to ascend 108 steps from the eastern gate or 156 steps from the western gate to the Tam Thai Pagoda. The Linh Ung Pagoda at Marble Mountains is a prominent religious site, housing a 10-meter-tall statue of Buddha in the center, with statues of Bodhisattvas Ksitigarbha and Avalokitesvara on either side. According to guides, visitors should stop by Linh Ung Pagoda to light incense and pray, as it is believed to be a spiritually powerful site.

Next, you'll explore the fascinating cave system at Marble Mountains, which includes caves with names such as Huyền Không (Mystic Cave), Âm Phủ (Underworld Cave), Linh Nham, and Vân Nguyệt. Huyền Không is the largest and most beautiful of all the caves. Âm Phủ Cave has a mystical, eerie atmosphere, evoking a sense of entering the underworld. Visitors to this cave are advised to go with a group for safety. Each cave has its own unique beauty and formations that await your discovery.