Hai Van Pass
Vietnam
This coastal day drive links Da Nang and Hue over the legendary Hai Van Pass, where the road climbs forested mountains before opening to sweeping views of the South China Sea and Lang Co Lagoon. It combines dramatic switchbacks, old military relics, and classic central Vietnam scenery.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Da Nang
Start in Vietnam's lively coastal hub, where riverfront streets and beach roads set an easy pace. Stock up before the climb north.
- Dragon Bridge
This dragon-shaped bridge spans the Han River with a bold modern skyline backdrop. It is a quick, iconic photo stop before leaving the city.
- Hải Vân Tunnel South Portal
A fast contrast to the old pass, with traffic funnelling through the mountain base. It marks the road corridor that the route climbs above.
- Hai Van Pass Viewpoint
The road crests into wide sea views, cloud banks, and steep green ridges. Pull over for the classic sweep over Da Nang and the coast.
- Hai Van Gate
This old mountain gate sits near the historic summit crossing. Rusted relics and stonework give the pass a strong sense of history.
- Lang Co Beach
A bright sandbar beach curves between the mountains and the bay. It is a relaxing place to pause after the winding descent.
- Lap An Lagoon
Shallow water mirrors the sky and nearby cliffs, especially late in the day. Oyster farms and quiet roadside stops make it a scenic final pause.
- Thuan An Beach
Finish near Hue's long, breezy shoreline after the mountain ride. The coast here feels calmer, with fishing boats and open sea views.
Where to Eat
- Banh Mi PhuongVietnamese sandwich
A famous stop in Da Nang for crisp baguettes packed with savory fillings. Good for an early grab-and-go meal before the pass.
- Madam Lan RestaurantCentral Vietnamese
A well-known Da Nang restaurant serving regional dishes in a polished setting. It is a good sit-down option before heading north.
- Hai Van Gate CafeCoffee and snacks
A simple mountain stop near the summit for Vietnamese coffee and light bites. Ideal for a short break with pass views.
- Lang Co Seafood RestaurantSeafood
Roadside seafood is a highlight around Lang Co and Lap An Lagoon. Look for grilled clams, shrimp, and fresh fish with lagoon views.
- Tinh Gia Vien RestaurantHue cuisine
A respected Hue restaurant known for refined central Vietnamese flavors. It is a strong dinner choice if you end the route in Hue.
Things to Do
- Climb the Hai Van Pass by roadscenic drive
Drive or ride the classic switchbacks and stop at the pullouts for sea and mountain views. The ascent is the main highlight of the route.
- Photograph Hai Van Gatehistoric landmark
Explore the old gate and surrounding military remnants near the summit. The weathered walls and ridge views make for a memorable stop.
- Stop at Hai Van Pass Viewpointviewpoint
Take in the broad panorama over Da Nang Bay and the South China Sea. Clear mornings and late afternoons are best for visibility.
- Relax at Lang Co Beachbeach
Walk the sandbar and watch fishing boats in the bay. It is an easy place to stretch your legs after the mountain section.
- Visit Lap An Lagoonnature
Watch the changing light over the lagoon and oyster farms. The calm water and mountain backdrop make it one of the prettiest stops on the route.
Travel advisory
The summit section is steep, narrow, and often busy with trucks, scooters, and tour traffic. Ride or drive cautiously in wet weather, when visibility can drop quickly and roadside pullouts become slick.