Hai Van Pass by car: 6 stops worth it
Where to stop for the best views between Da Nang and Hue.
Hai Van Pass climbs nearly 500 m over the mountains between Da Nang and Hue. Most traffic now uses the tunnel, so the old road over the top is quiet, green and full of views. With a private car you can stop wherever you like. These are our drivers’ favourite stops, from south to north.
- Nam O: a fishing village at the foot of the pass, known for its fish sauce and a calm stretch of sea.
- Viewpoints on the Da Nang side: the road curves high above Da Nang Bay; on clear mornings you see the whole city.
- Hai Van Gate: the old brick fort at the top, built in the 19th century. Small cafés sell coconuts and coffee.
- Lang Co lookout: on the way down, the first view of Lang Co beach and lagoon.
- Lap An lagoon: still water, oyster farms and mountain reflections, good for a short walk.
- Lang Co beach: a long, quiet beach with seafood restaurants for lunch before the last stretch to Hue.
Good to know
The top of the pass is often in cloud during the cooler months, which is how it got its name, “ocean cloud pass”. Mornings usually have the clearest views. Allow 4–5 hours from Da Nang to Hue with stops.
