Da Nang has quickly become one of the most exciting travel destinations in Southeast Asia thanks to its beaches, mountain landscapes and easy access to historic towns. Many of the region’s most impressive locations are located just outside the city along coastal highways and mountain roads. Travelers who want to explore these places comfortably often choose to arrange a car rental in Da Nang before starting their trip. In 2026 the region continues to attract visitors looking for scenic road trips, cultural landmarks and spectacular viewpoints that can only be fully appreciated when traveling independently.
Hai Van Pass, Vietnam’s most famous coastal road
The Hai Van Pass is widely considered one of the most spectacular driving routes in Vietnam. This mountain pass connects Da Nang with the historic city of Hue and stretches for about 21 kilometers along steep coastal mountains. As the road climbs higher, the views open across the South China Sea, revealing dramatic cliffs and winding roads below.
Several viewpoints and small cafés along the route make it easy to stop and enjoy the scenery. Exploring the Hai Van Pass by car allows travelers to move at their own pace and fully experience one of the most iconic roads in Southeast Asia.
Son Tra Peninsula and the Lady Buddha viewpoint
Just a short drive from central Da Nang lies Son Tra Peninsula, a protected natural area known for jungle-covered hills and panoramic ocean views. The winding road around the peninsula leads to quiet beaches, forest viewpoints and the famous Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the towering Lady Buddha statue that overlooks the coastline.
From the higher sections of the road visitors can see My Khe Beach, Da Nang city skyline and fishing boats moving across the bay. Driving through Son Tra Peninsula is one of the most scenic experiences close to the city.
The coastal drive from Da Nang to Hoi An
Hoi An, located about 30 minutes south of Da Nang, is one of the most charming towns in Vietnam. The route between the two cities follows the coastline and passes beaches such as Non Nuoc Beach and An Bang Beach. Hoi An is famous for its preserved old town, lantern-lit streets and riverside cafés.
Traveling by car allows visitors to stop at the beaches along the way and explore nearby countryside villages and rice fields surrounding the historic town.
Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge
Ba Na Hills is one of the most visited attractions near Da Nang and sits high in the mountains about 40 kilometers from the city. The area is known for the famous Golden Bridge supported by giant stone hands as well as panoramic mountain views. Although visitors typically take a cable car to reach the main complex, the drive through the surrounding mountains already offers beautiful scenery.
Arriving early by car makes the trip significantly easier and allows travelers to continue exploring other locations around Da Nang on the same day.
Marble Mountains and cultural landmarks
The Marble Mountains are located between Da Nang and Hoi An and consist of five limestone hills filled with caves, pagodas and viewpoints. Visitors can climb stone staircases through hidden temples and reach scenic viewpoints overlooking the coastline. Because the mountains are located directly along the coastal road, they are easy to include during a road trip between the two cities.
Why exploring Da Nang by car in 2026 is the best choice
Central Vietnam offers an impressive variety of landscapes within short distances. Mountains, beaches, historic towns and natural reserves are all located close to Da Nang, which makes road travel one of the most rewarding ways to explore the region.
Driving allows travelers to stop at viewpoints, discover hidden coastal spots and visit cultural landmarks without depending on fixed tour schedules. For visitors who want to experience the region more freely, exploring the area by car often becomes one of the highlights of a trip to Vietnam.
