Hai Van Pass — Motorbike riding tips and the 7 most beautiful photo stops

Hai Van Pass is 21km long and 496m high, connecting Da Nang with Thua Thien Hue. In 2008, it was ranked by BBC's Top Gear as "the most beautiful coastal road in the world". There is now the Hải Vân Tunnel running parallel to it (cars are required to use the tunnel), but motorbikes can still ride over the pass, an experience you simply must try when visiting Da Nang.

Riding a motorbike over Hai Van Pass — is it safe? The road was upgraded in 2020, the surface is good, and there are guardrails. But there are many sharp bends — new motorbike riders shouldn't go on their own. Who should go: those with experience riding semi-automatic/manual clutch motorbikes. Who shouldn't: those who have never ridden on mountain pass roads. Alternative: go "easy rider" style — hire a motorbike with a driver for 500-700k/day and just sit on the back.

Motorbike rental prices for mountain pass riding: 125cc semi-automatic bikes 120-150k/day. Manual clutch bikes (Winner/Exciter) 200-250k/day. Big bikes (CBR, Z650) 500-800k/day. Always check the brakes, tires, and lights before heading up the pass. Bring your passport + international driving permit (if you are a foreigner).

The 7 most beautiful photo stops: (1) Km 496 — a view of Da Nang Bay + Son Tra. (2) Hai Van Gate — a historic Nguyen Dynasty citadel relic, ticket 50k. (3) Km at the top of the pass — restaurant and cafe with a 360° view. (4) Huế side, km 15 — Lăng Cô Bay right below. (5) Abandoned old tunnel — a super cool photo spot. (6) Lăng Cô gas station — the sea right beside the road. (7) Lang Co Bridge — capture a stunning sunset.

1-day Hai Van + Lang Co itinerary: 8:00 depart from Da Nang. 9:00 head up the pass, stop at Km 496. 9:45 Hai Van Gate for 30 minutes. 10:30 descend the pass on the Hue side. 11:00 Enjoy seafood at Lang Co Bay (Bé Thân and Chú Hồi restaurants). 13:00 Swim at Lang Co Beach. 15:00 Head back to the pass and stop to take sunset photos. 17:30 Return to Da Nang.

Safety when riding mountain passes: Always wear a good full-face helmet. Wear a jacket even if it's hot (the wind on the pass is cold). Ride at 30-50 km/h and don't overtake trucks. Mornings have thick fog — be careful. Bring insect repellent and sunscreen.

👉 Rent a motorbike safely: Choose a reputable shop that offers insurance — check reviews of Da Nang merchants on VietSpots to avoid rip-off shops.

Hai Van Pass — one of the roads you'll remember for the rest of your life when you come to Da Nang.