Da Nang - The Destination for the Asia-Pacific Maritime Pilots' Forum 2025

As one of Vietnam's top three tourism hubs, Da Nang has officially been selected to host the 4th Asia-Pacific Maritime Pilots' Forum (APMPF) in 2025. This beautiful coastal city promises to captivate visitors with its rich cultural and historical heritage, alongside countless breathtaking attractions. Let's explore the highlights that make Da Nang a must-visit destination!

An Overview of Da Nang

Located in the heart of Vietnam, Da Nang lies 961 km south of Ho Chi Minh City and 766 km north of Hanoi, along National Highway 1 (QL1). Uniquely, the city is positioned between three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the ancient capital of Hue, the charming old town of Hoi An, and the sacred My Son Sanctuary.

Da Nang boasts a convenient transportation network, easily accessible by road, rail, sea, and air along Vietnam's North-South axis. It also sits at the endpoint of the East-West Economic Corridor, connecting Vietnam with Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar.

Thanks to its strategic importance, Da Nang is being continuously developed as an international lifestyle and service center for both Vietnam and the Indochina region.

Must-Visit Attractions in Da Nang

Outskirts & Natural Wonders

Son Tra Peninsula

Often referred to as Da Nang's "precious jewel," Son Tra offers lush ecosystems, stunning beaches, and unique attractions:

• Linh Ung Pagoda: Perched at 693 meters above sea level, Linh Ung Pagoda offers breathtaking panoramic views of Da Nang city and its stunning coastline. This is also home to Vietnam's tallest Lady Buddha statue, making it a sacred and iconic destination for both spiritual visitors and sightseers.
• Tien Sa Ecotourism Area: Known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sands, Tien Sa Beach is wrapped in a romantic, mystical atmosphere, inspired by local legends of heavenly fairies descending to earth. It's a perfect escape for those seeking natural beauty and a touch of fantasy.
• Ban Co Peak: At 700 meters above sea level, Ban Co Peak is one of the best spots to capture a full panoramic view of Da Nang. The scenic hike through lush green forests offers fresh air, tranquility, and a chance to fully immerse yourself in nature.
• Son Tra Lighthouse: This picturesque lighthouse is a favorite for visitors looking to enjoy sweeping sea views, snap stunning photos, and explore the serene surroundings.
• Radar Station 29: Boasting impressive views from above, Radar Station 29 attracts not only history enthusiasts but also adventurous travelers seeking unique and mysterious landmarks during their journey across Son Tra Peninsula.
• Ghenh Bang: Ghenh Bang is a natural rocky beach with large and small boulders stacked along the coast, creating a wild, unique landscape. The beach's clear blue waters and soft white sand make it a perfect destination for swimming, beach activities, and photography.
• Ho Xanh (Green Lake): Tucked inside a pristine forest, Green Lake is a peaceful freshwater lake surrounded by unspoiled nature. Its crystal-clear water and quiet ambiance offer visitors the perfect place to rest, relax, and enjoy the untouched beauty of the landscape.
• Bai But & Bai Rang: Though small, these two beaches are absolutely charming, known for their white sandy shores and turquoise waters, making them ideal for a peaceful seaside getaway.

Tien Stream

Tien Stream is one of the largest streams originating from the summit of Son Tra Peninsula. This is a perfect destination for nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes. Here, visitors can explore cascading white waterfalls, uniquely shaped rock formations, and colorful wildflowers in full bloom, all accompanied by the refreshing scent of the forest.

Ba Na Hills

Top attractions include Linh Ung Pagoda, Debay Wine Cellar, Le Jardin D'Amour flower gardens, and the iconic Golden Bridge. Staying overnight in the French Village is a popular experience.

Gieng Troi (Sky Well)

Located within the Ba Na - Nui Chua Nature Reserve, Gieng Troi is a hidden gem with untouched natural beauty. This destination is a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts who love trekking, mountain climbing, camping, or swimming in natural streams. The wild, unspoiled scenery offers a refreshing escape and endless opportunities for adventure.

Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son)

The Marble Mountains, also known as Ngu Hanh Son, are a cluster of five sacred hills, each named after one of the five elements in Eastern philosophy: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth.

These mountains are home to ancient pagodas and a network of natural caves, each with its own legends and mystical charm. The Marble Mountains are not only a spiritual haven but also a place of extraordinary natural beauty.

Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass, meaning “Ocean Clouds”, is world-renowned as one of the most spectacular coastal roads on the planet. Jeremy Clarkson, host of the BBC's Top Gear, famously called it "one of the best coastal roads in the world." With its winding curves, panoramic ocean views, and lush green mountains, this route is a must-see for road trip lovers and photographers alike.

Nam O Reef

Nam O Reef is a long stretch of rocks along the shoreline, uniquely shaped and covered in vibrant green moss. The reef is especially popular at sunrise and sunset when photographers gather to capture its serene beauty. This area is also famous for Nam O fish salad and traditional Nam O fish sauce, culinary treasures that have been passed down through generations of the local fishing community.

Ghenh Bang

Stretching along a 2-kilometer coastline, Ghenh Bang features flat sandy beaches, large and small rocks jutting into the sea, and beautiful coral reefs. Visitors often bring firewood, light snacks, and water to enjoy a day trip or beachside camping. It's a peaceful, natural retreat where you can relax, explore, and soak in the coastal scenery.

Traditional Villages

• Cam Ne Mat Village: Cam Ne Mat Village is famous for its beautiful traditional floral-patterned mats, which were once supplied to the royal court of the Nguyen Dynasty. This village preserves the artistry and heritage of traditional Vietnamese mat weaving.
• Tuy Loan Rice Paper Village: With over 500 years of history, Tuy Loan Village is a fascinating stop for visitors interested in exploring Da Nang's cultural roots. The village is well-known for its handmade rice paper and Quang-style noodles, both essential elements of local cuisine.
• Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village: Located at the base of the Marble Mountains, Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village boasts a nearly 400-year-old tradition. It is renowned for producing exquisite stone sculptures and handicrafts, all skillfully handcrafted by local artisans.

Hoa Trung Lake

Hoa Trung Lake is a serene artificial lake surrounded by small floating islands, making it a perfect destination for travelers who enjoy exploration, camping, and picnicking. Visitors planning to camp overnight should bring enough food, water, and supplies, and are kindly reminded to clean up thoroughly and take all waste home to protect the natural environment.

City Center Attractions

The city center of Da Nang is where the energy of the city truly comes alive, packed with exciting attractions and lively experiences. Let's explore the must-visit spots where you can fully embrace the dynamic spirit and endless vibrancy of this coastal city.

The Famous Bridges of Da Nang

Da Nang is often called “the City of Bridges” in Vietnam, and these impressive structures are not only engineering marvels but also popular tourist attractions where visitors love to stroll, take photos, and enjoy the city's scenic beauty.

• Love Bridge: Though it doesn't have a unique architectural style or historical significance, Love Bridge has an undeniable charm, especially for couples who visit to hang love locks and capture romantic photos.
• Dragon Bridge: One of Da Nang's most iconic landmarks, Dragon Bridge is particularly crowded on weekend nights when visitors gather to watch the spectacular fire and water shows performed by the dragon sculpture.
• Han River Bridge: This is Vietnam's first swing bridge. Measuring 487.7 meters in length and 12.9 meters in width, it features 11 spans, including two cable-stayed spans. The center section of the bridge can rotate 90 degrees to allow large ships to pass through, making it a fascinating sight for visitors.
• Thuan Phuoc Bridge: Thuan Phuoc Bridge is the longest suspension bridge in Vietnam, stretching 1,856 meters in length and 18 meters in width. It features two suspension towers firmly anchored into the riverbed, creating a stunning structure that connects the city across the Han River.
• Tran Thi Ly Bridge: Named after a heroic female revolutionary from Quang Nam province, Tran Thi Ly Bridge stands about 1.5 kilometers south of Dragon Bridge. Its elegant design and modern lines make it another remarkable feature of Da Nang's skyline.

My Khe Beach

My Khe Beach was once honored by Forbes magazine as one of the six most attractive beaches on the planet and was also ranked among the Top 25 most beautiful beaches in Asia in 2021 by TripAdvisor. This stunning beach stretches 900 meters along Pham Van Dong Street in Son Tra District. One of the best experiences here is watching the sunrise at My Khe Beach, where visitors can also observe and learn more about the daily life of local fishermen.

Da Nang Children's Cultural Center

The Da Nang Children's Cultural Center is a unique architectural landmark and a popular check-in spot. It is inspired by the Tangram puzzle and is celebrated for its creative design. This impressive structure was awarded the Vietnam National Architecture Gold Prize in 2016 by the Vietnam Association of Architects.

Museums

• Museum of Cham Sculpture: The only museum dedicated to Cham culture, preserving ancient relics from the former Champa Kingdom.
• Da Nang Fine Arts Museum: Home to over 1,000 modern art pieces, folk art collections, and traditional handicrafts.
• Buddhist Museum: Located within Quan The Am Pagoda, this museum features 200 ancient Buddhist artifacts and offers a peaceful space for visitors to explore Vietnam's religious heritage.

Da Nang Cathedral (Rooster Church)

Locally known as the “Rooster Church” due to the distinctive gray rooster statue on its bell tower, Da Nang Cathedral is a well-loved landmark in the city, often visited for its unique architecture and welcoming atmosphere.

Local Markets

• Con Market:
  • One of the oldest and largest markets in Da Nang's coastal city.
  • Widely known as a street food paradise with a vibrant atmosphere.
  • Countless food stalls, especially busy in the afternoon.
  • Offers breakfast, lunch, and a variety of afternoon snacks.
  • A must-visit destination for food lovers.
• Han Market:
  • Established in the 1940s, one of Da Nang's busiest and most popular traditional markets.
  • Prime location convenient for both road and waterway access.
  • Great place to shop for local specialties, souvenirs, and fresh produce.
• Night Markets:
  • Helio Night Market (2/9 Street, Hai Chau)
  • Son Tra Night Market (Ly Nam De Street at the intersection with Mai Hac De Street, Son Tra)
  • Thanh Khe Tay Night Market (Yen Khe 1 Street, Thanh Khe District)
  • Le Duan Night Market (Alley 144 Le Duan, Hai Chau)
  • Hoa Khanh Night Market (Nguyen Canh Chan Street)
  • Vibrant shopping and dining havens at night for both locals and tourists.

Unmissable Experiences in Da Nang

The city of Da Nang offers countless unique experiences, promising an exciting and unforgettable journey for every traveler:

Helicopter & Light Aircraft Tours

Helicopters depart from Nuoc Man Airport, circling to view Marble Mountains from above. The helicopter then flies toward Dragon Bridge, along the Han River for visitors to admire Han River Bridge, Thuan Phuoc Bridge, and the city's impressive high-rise buildings. Reaching Son Tra Peninsula, the helicopter circles out to sea, where visitors can see the largest Lady Buddha statue in Vietnam, then flies along Da Nang's coastline before returning to Nuoc Man Airport.

Han River Cruises

Boats take visitors from the tourist pier along the Han River to admire the city center at night and enjoy the unique bridges of Da Nang. The boats offer dining and live music services depending on visitors' preferences.

Da Nang's Nightlife

Da Nang at night is cool and not too noisy or crowded. The local people are kind and friendly. Food services, eateries, and bars stay open late, making it convenient for visitors to enjoy late-night meals or sip coffee.

A Culinary Heaven

• When visiting Da Nang, tourists are not only captivated by its natural landscapes but are also completely won over by its rich culinary world, featuring distinctive local specialties:
• Mi Quang: Mi Quang does not follow a fixed recipe but offers a variety of flavors such as Mi Quang with shrimp and pork, Mi Quang with snakehead fish, and Mi Quang with crab rolls. Mi Quang is a dry noodle dish, and a bowl of Mi Quang always includes roasted peanuts and crispy sesame rice crackers.
• Rice Paper Rolls with Pork:This is a fairly simple dish, but the careful selection of ingredients is what makes it special.
• Cau Mong Rare Veal:Locals in Da Nang often call this dish "Cau Mong rare beef." The veal, when taken out of the oven, must have two layers of rare and well-cooked meat, with the skin cooked until it is translucent, crispy, yet tender.
• Nam O Fish Salad: When served, the dry fish salad is paired with a firmly rolled rice paper sheet filled with fish salad and fresh herbs. The signature of Nam O fish salad is its dipping sauce made from boiled fish juice mixed with Nam O fish sauce, chili, tapioca starch,

  (Source: danangfantasticity.com, ivivu.com, alananhatrang.com, vinwonders.com, klook.com, media.mia.vn, duthuyendanang.com, hoaphuthanh.com.vn, danviet.vn, and other official tourism sources)

  Van Pass.
• Vietnamese Pancakes with Grilled Pork Skewers (Banh Xeo Nem Lui): The pancakes are crispy and wrapped perfectly with rice paper. The dipping sauce is hot, with a balanced flavor.
• Vermicelli with Fermented Fish Sauce (Bun Mam Nem): This is a popular local specialty, easy to find in Da Nang. A complete bowl includes pork, pig ears, beef sausage, fermented pork, fresh herbs, shredded green papaya or young jackfruit, and a bowl of fermented fish sauce. Essential condiments for this Quang-style dish are roasted peanuts and crispy rice crackers.
• Grilled Pork Vermicelli (Bun Thit Nuong): Like Bun Mam Nem, Bun Thit Nuong is a familiar dish to Da Nang locals. It is served with a special sauce that is rich and nutty, made from pork liver, minced pork, soybean paste, and other ingredients.
• Mixed Jackfruit Salad: Mixed jackfruit salad is a favorite dish for many people. Its main ingredients are young jackfruit, pork skin, dried beef, and peanuts, all mixed well and served with crispy rice crackers.
• Stir-Fried or Steamed Snails (Oc Hut): Oc Hut in Da Nang is often cooked in various flavors: stir-fried with coconut, stir-fried with lemongrass and chili, or simply boiled and served hot. This dish is typically eaten with spicy and sour shredded green papaya, following the traditional Central Vietnamese taste.

In Summary

With its modern infrastructure, stunning scenery, rich culture, and unique experiences, Da Nang promises an unforgettable journey for all visitors and delegates attending the 4th Asia-Pacific Maritime Pilots' Forum (APMPF) in 2025.

Come to Da Nang and experience the perfect harmony of tradition and modernity, nature and people.

(Source: Compiled from multiple references)