Planning Your Hai Van Pass Adventure

To plan your trip, review Vietnam Travel.

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Da Nang International Airport.

Check our latest Vietnam travel guides for updated entry rules. Renting a motorbike is a popular way to see the pass. Cars and private drivers are also available for a safer ride.

Always check your vehicle before you leave the city center. Test your brakes and tires for the steep mountain roads. Fuel up your tank because stations are rare on the pass.

You can find many free nature spots in Danang before you start. Pack a light jacket for the cooler air at the top. Sunscreen and plenty of water are essential for this sunny drive.

10 Best Stops on the Hai Van Pass Scenic Driving Route

There are many places to pull over and enjoy the view. The road winds through several different climates and landscapes. Each stop offers a unique perspective of the Vietnamese coast.

One great stop near the start is the Nam O Reef. You can find more info in our Nam O Reef moss season guide. This area is perfect for morning photos near the water.

Make sure to keep your camera ready at every turn. The scenery changes quickly as you climb higher up the hills. Respect the local environment and take your trash with you.

1. The Historic Hai Van Gate Ruins
   • Type: historic mountain gate
   • Why go: see ancient ruins
   • Best for: history buffs
   • Where: highest pass point
   • Time: one hour stay
   • Cost: free to visit
   • Getting there: drive or tour
   • Tip: bring a jacket
2. The Van Village Overlook Point
   • Type: scenic coastal viewpoint
   • Why go: see hidden beaches
   • Best for: landscape photography
   • Where: southern pass slope
   • Time: twenty minutes total
   • Cost: free to access
   • Getting there: roadside pullout
   • Tip: use a zoom lens
3. The Famous Lonely Pine Tree
   • Type: iconic photo spot
   • Why go: very popular pictures
   • Best for: social media
   • Where: middle pass section
   • Time: fifteen minutes stop
   • Cost: free to visit
   • Getting there: easy roadside stop
   • Tip: wait for crowds
4. Lang Co Beach Bay View
   • Type: natural beach vista
   • Why go: stunning blue water
   • Best for: relaxing views
   • Where: northern pass base
   • Time: thirty minutes stop
   • Cost: free coastal view
   • Getting there: main road stop
   • Tip: visit at noon
5. Lap An Lagoon Oyster Farms
   • Type: local nature experience
   • Why go: see traditional farming
   • Best for: seafood lovers
   • Where: near Lang Co
   • Time: one hour visit
   • Cost: cheap local food
   • Getting there: short detour north
   • Tip: try the oysters
6. Suoi Luong Eco-Tourism Stream
   • Type: forest nature park
   • Why go: cool mountain water
   • Best for: family picnics
   • Where: southern pass base
   • Time: two hours stay
   • Cost: small entrance fee
   • Getting there: follow local signs
   • Tip: bring swimming gear
7. Nam O Reef Moss Rocks
   • Type: seasonal nature sight
   • Why go: beautiful green moss
   • Best for: early birds
   • Where: near Danang side
   • Time: forty minutes total
   • Cost: free to explore
   • Getting there: short beach walk
   • Tip: check moss season
8. Da Nang City Coastal Viewpoint
   • Type: urban skyline view
   • Why go: see the city
   • Best for: night views
   • Where: lower south pass
   • Time: ten minutes stop
   • Cost: free roadside view
   • Getting there: first major curve
   • Tip: watch for bikes
9. Abandoned French Colonial Fort
   • Type: historic brick fort
   • Why go: explore old walls
   • Best for: urban explorers
   • Where: near the summit
   • Time: thirty minutes exploration
   • Cost: free to enter
   • Getting there: walk from gate
   • Tip: wear sturdy shoes
10. Local Mountain Top Coffee Shops
    • Type: local cafe experience
    • Why go: drink Vietnamese coffee
    • Best for: tired drivers
    • Where: various pass spots
    • Time: forty-five minutes rest
    • Cost: very low prices
    • Getting there: look for chairs
    • Tip: try coconut coffee

Safety Tips for Driving the Pass

Safety is the most important part of your mountain trip. The Hai Van Pass has many sharp turns and steep hills. Always stay on your side of the road during curves.

Large trucks and buses often use the main road through the tunnel. However, some large vehicles still drive over the pass. Listen for horns and give them plenty of space.

Check your brakes frequently as you go down the mountain. The heat can make brakes less effective on long slopes. Stop at a cafe to let your engine cool down.

Avoid driving the pass at night or in heavy rain. The roads can become very slippery and hard to see. Keep your headlights on even during the bright day.

Best Time to Visit and Weather

The dry season is the best time for this drive. This usually lasts from February until the end of August. You will have clear skies and the best visibility.

The rainy season brings clouds that hide the beautiful views. Check the Hoa Trung Lake Danang visiting guide for weather tips. Fog can be very thick at the top of the pass.

Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photos. Mid-morning is also good for seeing the bright blue ocean. Avoid the hottest part of the day if you can.

Temperatures at the summit are cooler than in the city. The wind can be quite strong near the historic gate. Check the local forecast before you leave your hotel.

Nearby Attractions in Danang and Hue

After the pass, explore the best viewpoints on Son Tra Peninsula. This area is home to rare monkeys and beautiful forests. It is only a short drive from the pass base.

You should also check the Linh Ung Pagoda Danang entrance fee. The giant Lady Buddha statue is visible from the pass. It is a peaceful place to visit after your drive.

Relax with the best free activities at My Khe Beach. The soft sand and warm water are perfect for swimming. It is a great way to end your adventure.

In Hue, you can visit the ancient Imperial City ruins. The city is famous for its royal history and food. Spend at least one night there to see everything.