Hai Van Pass

Viewing Point in Da Nang

CC BY-SA 2.0 / rhjpage

The Hai Van Pass is one of the top attractions in Da Nang, a dramatic 21-kilometer mountain road that curves between lush peaks and the glittering coastline of Central Vietnam. Featured on the popular TV show Top Gear, it has since become a legendary route for travellers seeking adventure and extraordinary scenery. It is often visited on walking tours of Da Nang that extend into the countryside or coastal viewpoints, offering a thrilling contrast to the city's beaches and urban highlights.

As you ride or drive along the pass, the landscape shifts from sunny coastline to mist-covered mountains, creating an atmosphere that feels both peaceful and exhilarating. This spot is one of the best places to see in Hai Van Pass for anyone who loves sweeping views, natural landscapes, and the freedom of an open mountain road. With gentle breezes, dramatic drops, and pristine viewpoints, the pass offers an unforgettable travel experience.

History and Significance of Hai Van Pass
Things to See and Do in Hai Van Pass
How to Get to Hai Van Pass
Practical Tips on Visiting Hai Van Pass
Where to Stay close to Hai Van Pass
Is Hai Van Pass Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Hai Van Pass
Nearby Attractions to Hai Van Pass

History and Significance of Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass has long been a strategic gateway between northern and southern Vietnam. Its name, meaning Ocean Cloud, refers to the mist that frequently blankets the peaks, creating the ethereal scenery travellers love today. Historically, the pass served as a natural border between ancient kingdoms and later became an important military and trade route.

During the French colonial era and later during the Vietnam War, bunkers were built along the pass as lookout points due to its commanding views over the coastline. Today, the remnants of these wartime structures still stand at the summit, adding a historical dimension to the scenic journey. While a new highway tunnel now handles most of the region’s traffic, the original pass road has become a quieter, safer, and more enjoyable route for travellers.

Things to See and Do in Hai Van Pass

The route itself is the main attraction, but there are many stops worth exploring. As you ascend, lookout points reveal sweeping views over Da Nang Bay, the Son Tra Peninsula, and the distant peaks of Bach Ma National Park. Photographers especially love the early morning hours when golden sunlight spills across the mountains.

At the summit, travellers can pause to visit the old French and Vietnamese bunkers. These weathered ruins stand as silent reminders of the area's turbulent history and offer some of the best panoramic views on the pass. From here, you can see both Da Nang and Lang Co Bay, creating a dramatic contrast of mountains and sea.

For those seeking a quieter experience, several hidden viewpoints and rest stops dot the route, offering places to enjoy the breeze and soak in the surroundings. Many travellers also pair the Hai Van Pass with visits to nearby beaches, lagoons, or villages, creating a full day of scenic exploration.

How to Get to Hai Van Pass

The nearest major airport is Da Nang International Airport, located within easy access to the city roads that lead toward the pass. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Da Nang on Booking.com.

Travellers arriving by train can begin the journey from Da Nang Railway Station, where taxis, motorbike rentals, and guided tours can take you directly toward the pass road. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Traveling by car is one of the most convenient ways to explore the Hai Van Pass. You can rent a car, hire a private driver, or join an organised tour. Parking and rest areas are available at several viewpoints along the route.

Practical Tips on Visiting Hai Van Pass

Best time to visit Hai Van Pass: Early morning for sunrise and clearer skies.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free to access the road and viewpoints.
Opening hours: Always open, though daylight hours provide the safest and most scenic experience.
Official website: Information typically available through Da Nang tourism pages.
How long to spend: 3–5 hours depending on stops and photo opportunities.
Accessibility: Mountain roads are steep; scooters require confident driving experience.
Facilities: Small cafés, scenic rest stops, parking areas, and viewpoints along the road.
Photography tip: Stop at the summit bunkers for the most dramatic sweeping views.
Guided tours: Motorbike tours and private car tours offer safe, scenic alternatives.
Nearby food options: Small roadside eateries and cafés along the route and near Lang Co Bay.

Where to Stay close to Hai Van Pass

Many visitors stay in Da Nang or Hue and make the Hai Van Pass a highlight of their itinerary. For easy access from Da Nang, Novotel Danang Premier Han River offers modern comfort and river views. Travellers looking to stay closer to the coast may enjoy A La Carte Da Nang Beach, which provides stylish rooms and excellent sea access. For those continuing to Hue, Banyan Tree Lang Co offers a luxurious mountain-to-sea retreat near the northern end of the pass.

Is Hai Van Pass Worth Visiting?

Hai Van Pass is absolutely worth visiting, especially for travellers who love scenic drives, photography, and dramatic mountain landscapes. With its misty peaks, historic bunkers, and sweeping ocean views, it offers one of the most memorable road experiences in Vietnam. Whether you explore by motorbike, car, or guided tour, the journey leaves a lasting impression.

FAQs for Visiting Hai Van Pass

Is it safe to ride a motorbike on Hai Van Pass?
Yes, but only for confident riders. The road has sharp curves and steep sections.

What is the best time of day to visit?
Early morning for sunrise and clearer views, or late afternoon for cooler temperatures.

Can cars drive the pass?
Yes, the road is suitable for cars, and many travellers hire private drivers.

Are there places to stop along the way?
Yes, multiple viewpoints, cafés, and bunker sites offer safe stopping points.

Is the weather unpredictable?
Fog and mist are common, especially at the summit, so proceed cautiously.

Nearby Attractions to Hai Van Pass

Lang Co Bay: A stunning turquoise lagoon bordered by sandy beaches.
Marble Mountains: A dramatic cluster of caves, temples, and viewpoints near Da Nang.
Son Tra Peninsula: Forested mountains and spiritual sites overlooking the sea.
Dragon Bridge: Da Nang's famous illuminated bridge with weekend fire shows.
Cham Museum: The world's largest collection of Cham artefacts, located in Da Nang.

The Hai Van Pass appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Da Nang!

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