Da Nang is a vibrant coastal city in central Vietnam known for its beautiful beaches, modern bridges, and proximity to cultural sites. Choosing where to stay can greatly shape your experience. Whether you’re looking for a lively beachfront, a cultural city vibe, or a peaceful retreat, Da Nang offers a variety of excellent areas for travelers. Below are the top areas to stay in Da Nang, each with its unique atmosphere, advantages, and considerations.

My Khe Beach & An Thuong Area

Located along Da Nang’s main coastline, the My Khe Beach and An Thuong area is the heart of the city’s beach scene. This long stretch of sandy beach – often called one of the world’s most beautiful – is lined with hotels, seafood restaurants, and beach bars. The nearby An Thuong neighborhood (a grid of streets just inland from the beach) has become a popular enclave for expats and tourists, offering a mix of Western and local eateries and a fun nightlife. Staying here means having the sparkling East Sea at your doorstep and a lively atmosphere day and night.

Best Suited For:

• Beach lovers who want to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy water sports daily.
• First-time visitors looking for a central, tourist-friendly base with lots of dining options.
• Nightlife seekers – this area has the highest concentration of bars, pubs, and live music in Da Nang.
• Travelers who enjoy a mix of local and international cuisine (many restaurants cater to Korean, Western, and Vietnamese tastes).

Best Areas to Stay In:

• An Thuong Streets: A cluster of walkable streets (known as the “An Thuong quarter”) just a few blocks from the beach, packed with cafes, burger joints, local eateries, and bars. It’s an ideal spot if you enjoy evenings out and meeting other travelers.
• Beachfront along Vo Nguyen Giap Road: Staying in a hotel on (or just off) Vo Nguyen Giap, the main beach road, gives you panoramic sea views and immediate beach access. You’ll find morning exercise groups and night food stalls along the promenade.
• Pham Van Dong Area: At the north end of My Khe Beach near the Han River bridge, this area is slightly quieter but still close to the action. It’s convenient for walking to both the beach and crossing the Dragon Bridge into the city center, and there’s a lovely park at the beach entrance.

Areas to Avoid:

• Far North My Khe (Man Thai Village): The extreme northern stretch of the beach by Man Thai fishing village is a working fishing area. It’s less ideal for swimmers and those seeking a relaxing beach vibe, as you’ll see boats and fishing gear crowding the shore.
• Too Far Inland: Try not to stay more than a few blocks west of the beach road. The farther inland you go, the more you’ll lose the beach atmosphere and convenience. Inland accommodations might be cheaper, but you could end up in quiet residential streets with limited food options and a longer walk to the beach.
• Active Construction Zones: Da Nang is developing quickly. Some plots along the beach are under construction. If possible, avoid booking a hotel adjacent to an active construction site to prevent noise issues – check recent reviews or street view to be sure.

Pros:

• Stunning Beach: My Khe’s soft white sand and clear water are perfect for swimming and morning strolls. You can enjoy beach activities or just relax with the sound of waves.
• Vibrant Dining & Nightlife: The area never feels dull – by day you have seafood markets and cafes, by night the An Thuong area comes alive with music, craft beer, and socializing. There’s a wide variety of food, from local Vietnamese eateries to pizza, Indian, and Korean BBQ.
• Modern Amenities: Many hotels here are new or recently built, offering pools, rooftop bars, and ocean-view rooms. Convenience stores, spas, and tour agencies are plentiful, catering to visitor needs.
• Close to City Attractions: It’s only a 5–10 minute taxi or bike ride over the river to downtown (Han Market, Dragon Bridge), so you can easily sightsee in the city and return to the beach.

Cons:

• Tourist Crowds: This is the most popular area for tourists, which means the beach and main streets can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. Don’t expect a secluded vibe here.
• Higher Prices: Eating and shopping in this area can be a bit more expensive than in local neighborhoods (though still affordable by global standards). Some restaurants cater largely to tourists with higher prices than you’d find in the city center.
• Noise & Traffic: The bustle is part of the appeal, but it also means noise. Traffic along the beach road and toward the bridges can be heavy, and you might hear music or street noise at night in An Thuong. Also, ongoing construction in some parts can be heard from early morning.
• Less Local Culture: While you’re in Vietnam, this zone has a cosmopolitan feel. You might hear as much English, Korean, or Chinese as Vietnamese in some establishments. For a very traditional local atmosphere, you’d need to venture further afield.

Average Prices (per night per room):

• Budget: ~400,000 VND (≈ $17) – basic guesthouses or hostels in the area
• Mid-range: ~1,000,000 VND (≈ $42) – comfortable 3-4 star hotels one or two blocks from the beach
• Luxury: ~2,500,000 VND (≈ $105) – high-end beachfront hotels or resorts with sea views and pools

Da Nang City Center (Hai Chau District)

Da Nang’s city center, in Hai Chau District, is the commercial and cultural core of the city. Centered around the Han River’s west bank and stretching into bustling downtown streets, this area offers a taste of local life in Da Nang. Here you’ll find bustling markets, shopping streets, offices, temples, and museums all intermingled. The famous Dragon Bridge and Han River bridges light up the skyline at night, and the waterfront promenade on Bach Dang Street is perfect for an evening stroll. Staying in the city center puts you in the middle of Da Nang’s daily rhythm, away from the beach resorts but close to authentic food and urban convenience.

Best Suited For:

• Travelers interested in local culture and food – you’ll be near Han Market, Con Market, and countless street food stalls, coffee shops, and eateries frequented by residents.
• Budget travelers and backpackers – accommodation prices tend to be lower here, and cheap local dining is everywhere.
• Visitors who prefer a city atmosphere with easy access to museums (like the Cham Sculpture Museum), pagodas, and the riverfront parks.
• People who want to be centrally located for transportation – the airport and train station are just a short drive away, making arrivals, departures, or day trips convenient.

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Bach Dang Riverside: This lovely boulevard along the Han River is lined with hotels, ranging from boutique to upscale. Staying here gives you great views (some rooms overlook the Dragon Bridge or the river fireworks on festival days) and a pleasant environment for walking. The riverside area also has trendy cafes, rooftop lounges, and the nightly Dragon Bridge fire-and-water show is easily accessible on foot.
• Near Han Market / Cathedral: The blocks around Han Market and the pink Da Nang Cathedral (a.k.a. Rooster Church) are lively and central. By day you can shop for local products or souvenirs at the market and nearby shops; by night the area has a few bars, dessert cafes, and is well-lit with plenty of people around. It’s a balance of local commerce and tourist-friendly services.
• Nguyen Van Linh & Tran Phu Junction: This central crossroads area is near the western end of Dragon Bridge. Staying here means you’re equidistant to the riverfront, the Cham Museum, and lots of local restaurants. Nguyen Van Linh Street leads straight to the airport, and it’s packed with coffee shops (Da Nang people love their coffee culture).

Areas to Avoid:

• Around the Train Station/Bus Station: Unless you have an early train or bus, the immediate vicinity of Da Nang’s train station (in the north-west of the center) or the intercity bus station is not ideal for tourists. These areas are a bit out of the way from attractions and can be hectic and charmless, with fewer good hotel options.
• Western Suburbs of Hai Chau: If you go far west (beyond the city center toward districts like Cam Le or out by Nguyen Tat Thanh Street along the bay), you’ll find mostly local residential areas and industrial zones. These lack tourist infrastructure, and staying there would make you commute for sights or nice dining.
• Noisy Nightclub Zones: Da Nang’s nightlife in the city center is relatively low-key, but there are a couple of loud clubs (for example near the Asia Park area, just south of the center). Unless partying at clubs is your goal, avoid booking a hotel directly next to one, as the bass can thump late into the night. (Fortunately, most city hotels are in quieter spots – just double-check if you’re sensitive to noise.)

Pros:

• Authentic City Experience: You’ll be immersed in where locals live and work. Morning markets, school kids in uniforms, and elders exercising by the river – the city center offers genuine day-to-day Vietnamese life that you can observe and take part in.
• Great Street Food & Cafés: Hai Chau is famed for its food scene. Within walking distance you can try specialties like mi quang (noodles), banh mi, or banh xeo (sizzling pancakes) at hole-in-the-wall eateries. The coffee culture is fantastic – try a Vietnamese iced coffee or coconut coffee at a local café.
• Sightseeing Convenience: Many of Da Nang’s landmarks are here: the Dragon Bridge (which breathes fire on weekend nights), Han River bridges, Cham Museum (with ancient Cham sculptures), Han Market, Con Market, and the beautiful riverside Tran Thi Ly Bridge. You can see a lot without long rides.
• Budget-Friendly: Hotels and hostels in the city center often cost less than those by the beach. Plus, dining and shopping locally is very affordable. This area gives excellent value for money.
• Central for Travel: Being in the middle of the city, you have quick access to the airport (10 minutes), train station (10 minutes), and even rides to other sites. It’s also roughly halfway between the beach and the farther western sites like Ba Na Hills (saving a little travel time if you plan excursions).

Cons:

• Not Near the Beach: Obviously, if you stay here, you won’t have the beach at your doorstep. A commute of 4–5 km (15 minutes by car or bike) is needed to reach the ocean. If a morning swim or frequent beach time is a priority, this could be a drawback.
• Urban Noise and Traffic: As a city center, expect typical city noises – honking motorbikes, early morning activity, and perhaps construction. The traffic in Da Nang is moderate, but intersections in downtown can still be busy to cross. If you’re not used to Vietnamese city traffic, it can feel hectic.
• Limited Resort-style Hotels: Accommodation here tends to be city hotels – think modern high-rises or boutique inns. They might not have sprawling pools or gardens like the beach resorts. If you want a resort vibe with many leisure facilities, the city center hotels could feel lacking.
• Nightlife is Modest: While there are some bars and late-night eateries, the city center’s nightlife is more about sitting at a café or a quiet bar. If you want a party scene or lots of evening entertainment, you might find the downtown a bit too calm after 10 PM. (On the flip side, that means it’s usually quiet for sleeping.)

Average Prices (per night per room):

• Budget: ~300,000 VND (≈ $13) – small hotels or hostels; many clean, family-run guesthouses at low rates
• Mid-range: ~800,000 VND (≈ $34) – nice 3-star hotels or stylish boutique rooms in central locations
• Luxury: ~1,800,000 VND (≈ $75) – upscale hotels along the river or 4-5 star business hotels (often cheaper than comparable beach resorts)

Non Nuoc Beach (Marble Mountain Area)

Heading south of the main city, Non Nuoc Beach is a tranquil area known for its luxurious resorts and natural landmark, the Marble Mountains. This stretch is sometimes called the "Resort Coast" of Da Nang. It features a long, serene beach with far fewer crowds than My Khe, as well as five marble-and-limestone hills (the Marble Mountains) that house caves and Buddhist shrines. The area lies in Ngu Hanh Son District, roughly 8-10 km from the city center, and about 20 km from Hoi An. It’s an excellent spot if you’re seeking a relaxing beach vacation or a romantic getaway. Many high-end resorts here offer private beachfronts, golf courses, and spa facilities, making Non Nuoc ideal for those who want to unwind in comfort.

Best Suited For:

• Couples and Honeymooners: The peaceful, scenic environment is perfect for a romantic escape. Resorts often have honeymoon packages, private dining on the beach, and other couple-friendly amenities.
• Luxury Travelers & Families on Resort Holidays: If your priority is a full-service resort (pools, kids’ clubs, spa, fine dining), this area has some of the best. Families will appreciate the spacious grounds and activities for children available at many resorts here.
• Relaxation Seekers: Those who want to escape the city buzz and spend days lounging by the pool or sea, visiting the spa, and enjoying resort hospitality. Non Nuoc is all about a slower pace.
• Golf Enthusiasts: Da Nang’s top golf courses (including Montgomerie Links and BRG Da Nang Golf Club) are located in or near this area. You can stay nearby and have a short ride to your tee times.

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Beachfront Resorts on Truong Sa Road: This coastal road is lined with Da Nang’s most famous resorts, each occupying a vast beachfront property. Staying in one of these gives you direct beach access and expansive facilities. The central part of Non Nuoc Beach is especially nice, with clean, fine sand and calm surf.
• Near Marble Mountains (Non Nuoc Ward): A few smaller hotels and homestays are situated near the Marble Mountains attractions. This sub-area is great if you want to explore the caves and pagodas early in the morning before tour groups arrive, or if you’re on a tighter budget but still want to be in a beach district. You can walk to the Marble Mountains and enjoy local restaurants in the village nearby, while the beach is about 10-15 minutes walk or a quick taxi from here.
• Southern Coast toward Hoi An: On the far south end of Da Nang’s coast (still in Ngu Hanh Son District), there are some newer resorts and villas. Staying here positions you almost midway between Da Nang and Hoi An, which is convenient if you plan to visit both cities. These resorts often run shuttle buses to Hoi An, letting you enjoy the ancient town in the afternoon/evening and return to a quiet beach at night.

Areas to Avoid:

• Inland Side of the Coast Road: If you’re coming for the beach, avoid hotels that are located on the inland side of Truong Sa (the main coast highway) without direct beach access. Some smaller accommodations advertise being “near beach” but might require crossing a busy road and walking further. It’s best to stay on the ocean side of the road or within a short walk, so the beach is easily accessible and you’re not bothered by highway noise.
• Isolated Spots Far from Resorts: The Non Nuoc area is spread out. If you don’t plan on renting a scooter or taking taxis often, avoid lodging that is very far from any other resorts or town centers. For example, a lone villa rental down a long road might leave you without nearby shops or restaurants (aside from your hotel’s). You’ll want to have at least a minimart, a couple of eateries, or the resort next door within walking distance for convenience.
• Areas Lacking Shuttle/Transport Options: If staying at a resort, check if they offer shuttles or have easy taxi service. Avoid resorts that are beautiful but have no transportation support, especially if you intend to explore Da Nang city or Hoi An – otherwise you might feel “stuck” or pay high taxi fares. (Most big resorts do offer shuttle services, but double-check the schedule.)

Pros:

• Secluded & Peaceful: Non Nuoc Beach is far quieter than the city beaches. You can often find yourself on a wide stretch of sand with very few others around. The atmosphere is tranquil, ideal for meditation, yoga by the sea, or simply hearing the natural sound of waves without city noise.
• High-End Resorts: This area is home to multiple five-star resorts and villas, which means top-notch facilities: sprawling swimming pools, beachfront loungers, landscaped gardens, multiple on-site restaurants, and professional service. If you value luxury comforts, you’ll find them here.
• Natural Beauty: In addition to the beautiful beach, the Marble Mountains add unique charm. You can explore the caves and temples on these hills and enjoy panoramic views of the coast from the peaks. It’s a great mini-adventure close to your stay.
• Proximity to Hoi An: Being on the south side of Da Nang means you’re closer to the UNESCO heritage town of Hoi An. Many travelers choose this area to split their time – a bit of cultural sightseeing in Hoi An and relaxation in the resort. The drive to Hoi An’s Old Town is only about 20-30 minutes.
• Security and Cleanliness: The resort zone is well-maintained and secure. Beaches are generally kept clean by the resorts. The area feels very safe and private, as many properties are gated or monitored, which can be reassuring for families.

Cons:

• Distance from Da Nang City: If you want to frequently visit downtown Da Nang (for dining, nightlife, or tours), the commute can be a downside. It’s a 15-20 minute drive to the city center. This means extra planning (and cost) for taxis or shuttles whenever you want to do city activities or eat outside the resort.
• Limited Local Dining/Nightlife: Outside of the resorts, there’s relatively little in terms of independent restaurants, bars, or entertainment. You won’t find the street food stalls or variety of eateries here that you would in town or by My Khe. This means you might end up dining mostly at your resort (which can be pricey, and options might get repetitive). After dark, the area is very quiet – there are no nightlife districts in Non Nuoc.
• Costly Services: Staying in a luxury area means prices for food, drinks, and services (spa, etc.) tend to be higher. Also, as mentioned, you may rely on hotel restaurants or room service due to location. Budget travelers might feel a bit constrained here unless they venture out by taxi for cheaper meals.
• Fewer Budget Choices: The focus is on upscale accommodation. Budget hotels or hostels are scarce in this district, especially right by the beach. If you’re traveling on a strict budget, you might feel out of place or have trouble finding suitable low-cost lodging in the immediate vicinity.
• Beach Seasonality: While the beach is gorgeous, note that from approximately October to December the sea can be rougher and the weather cooler or rainier (monsoon season). Resorts still have pools and other amenities, but swimming in the ocean might not always be possible. (This is a minor con, as Da Nang weather is good most of the year, but something to keep in mind if a beach stay is your priority.)

Average Prices (per night per room):

• Budget: ~600,000 VND (≈ $25) – only a few guesthouses/homestays near Marble Mountain at this price; limited availability
• Mid-range: ~1,200,000 VND (≈ $50) – off-peak deals at smaller hotels or simple rooms in otherwise upscale resorts
• Luxury: ~4,000,000 VND (≈ $170) – average nightly rate for 5-star beachfront resorts (prices can spike higher for private pool villas or during peak season)

Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain)

Son Tra Peninsula, affectionately known as “Monkey Mountain,” is a lush mountainous area that juts into the sea to the northeast of Da Nang. Unlike the other areas on this list, Son Tra is not an urban neighborhood but rather a protected nature reserve offering a complete change of scenery. Staying here means surrounding yourself with jungle-covered hills, hidden beaches, and sweeping ocean views. The peninsula is home to the famous Lady Buddha statue at Linh Ứng Pagoda, and yes – a healthy population of monkeys (you might spot the rare red-shanked douc langur if you’re lucky). Accommodation on Son Tra is limited, but what exists is special: from one of Vietnam’s most luxurious resorts perched on a hill, to a few boutique retreats and homestays closer to the base of the mountain. This area is ideal for those who want tranquility and nature, still within a short drive of the city.

Best Suited For:

• Nature and Adventure Lovers: If you plan to hike forest trails, ride a motorbike up scenic mountain roads, visit quiet lookout points like Ban Co Peak, or go snorkeling off secluded coves, Son Tra is perfect. It’s a paradise for outdoor activities and photography.
• Luxury Retreat Seekers: The peninsula hosts a renowned 5-star resort that offers a secluded, high-end retreat with private beach access – great for travelers who want to splurge on world-class luxury in a unique setting.
• Families Seeking Quiet Time: For families (especially with kids) who prefer a calmer environment and plenty of space, Son Tra can be appealing. Children love the nature aspect (like spotting monkeys or deer), and there’s no traffic to worry about inside the resort areas.
• Longer-Term Visitors with Transport: If you’re a digital nomad or long-term traveler who doesn’t need to be in the city daily, staying on Son Tra with a scooter can be rewarding. You’ll get a peaceful home base and can ride into town or to the beach when needed (the ride itself is beautiful).

Best Areas to Stay In:

• Bai Bac / Northeast Side: This refers to the northern and northeastern coast of Son Tra, where the few high-end resorts are located with their own private bays. Staying here offers unparalleled luxury and isolation – you’ll have panoramic views of the East Sea and even as far as the Cham Islands on clear days. It’s the ultimate “away from it all” experience in Da Nang.
• Near Linh Ứng Pagoda (Northwest Base): Around the area of the giant Lady Buddha statue and pagoda, there are a couple of boutique hotels and villa rentals. This spot is halfway up the mountain, giving you cooler breezes and ocean views, but it’s still only about 15 minutes drive back down to the city’s edge. It’s a good middle ground if you want nature without feeling too remote.
• Eastern Coastal Road (Hoang Sa Road): The winding road that hugs the eastern coastline of Son Tra has a few small accommodations (like local guesthouses or specialty lodges). These put you right by quiet public beaches (such as Bai Rang or Bai Nam) where you can swim or snorkel. You’ll also have a head-start in the morning if you want to drive the loop road around the peninsula for sunrise.

Areas to Avoid:

• Deep Interior Without Access: Avoid staying somewhere deep in the forest interior of Son Tra (if you even find such accommodation) because you’ll be far from any facilities. The peninsula has wild areas and some restricted military zones – tourists should not wander or stay in those parts. Stick to established lodging on the coastal edges.
• Reliance on One Access Road: The main road up Son Tra (Hoang Sa or the route past Linh Ứng) can be steep. If an accommodation is too high up a narrow lane, it might become inaccessible during heavy rains or be stressful to drive to. Unless you’re confident on a motorbike, avoid places that require navigating very steep private hills.
• No Transport, No Service: Essentially, do not stay on Son Tra Peninsula if you have no personal mode of transport and your lodging doesn’t offer shuttle services. Unlike other areas, Grab (ride-hailing) and taxis are not as readily available on the peninsula, especially late at night. If you stay somewhere with no car/shuttle and you don’t drive a scooter, you could end up stranded or paying high fees for private transport.

Pros:

• Spectacular Scenery: Son Tra offers arguably the best natural scenery in Da Nang. From your accommodation, you might witness jungle-clad mountains meeting the sea, gorgeous sunrises, and lots of wildlife. It’s an Instagram dream, whether it’s the view from the famous Infinity Pool at a resort or a simple glimpse of monkeys on a tree near your bungalow.
• Peace and Privacy: There is a very low density of tourists overnight on Son Tra (most come for day trips only). In the evenings, you’ll experience a rare quietness and can see the city lights glimmering in the distance across the bay. It’s easy to relax, meditate, or write without interruption.
• Unique Activities: By staying here, you can do things others have to rush in a day: sunrise at Ban Co Peak (the Chessboard Point) is in your backyard, or an early morning walk to see monkeys before crowds arrive. You can explore hidden Buddhist shrines, go bird-watching, or take a bicycle around flatter roads – all with much less people around.
• Luxury Option: If you enjoy luxury, the top resort on Son Tra is frequently ranked among the best in Asia. You get unparalleled service, design, and experiences like private beach dinners, spa treatments in the forest, and funicular rides within the resort. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of stay for many.
• Cooler Climate: Being at a higher elevation and covered in forest, Son Tra can be a couple of degrees cooler than the city. In hot summer months, this is a welcome relief. The evenings can be fresher, which is nice for sitting outside or sleeping without blasting the AC.

Cons:

• Remote from City Life: The isolation means any trip to town or to the main tourist zones requires planning. If you crave the convenience of stepping out to a convenience store or walking to various restaurants, this is not the place – you might have only your hotel’s restaurant available unless you drive out. Spontaneous city nightlife or shopping trips become a trek.
• Limited Accommodation Choices: There are only a handful of places to stay on Son Tra. If those don’t meet your budget or style, you’re out of luck. For example, besides the one super-luxury resort and a couple mid-range spots, there aren’t hostels or many budget hotels here. Solo backpackers or shoestring travelers will have difficulty finding cheap lodging on the peninsula.
• Wildlife and Insects: Being close to nature means you will encounter creatures. Monkeys might try to grab food if you leave balcony doors open, you could see (harmless) geckos or larger insects in more open accommodations, and at night it gets quite dark (bring a flashlight if needed). This can be a downside if you prefer a completely controlled environment.
• Weather Constraints: In stormy weather, Son Tra’s roads can occasionally be risky (landslides have happened in extreme cases), and the peninsula might be shrouded in fog or rain while the city is clear. During such times, you might feel a bit stuck at your hotel. Additionally, swimming in the small bays can be unsafe if the sea is rough and there are no lifeguards around.
• Less Social Interaction: Because there are few other travelers around except those at your resort, you won’t find the social scene of hostel meetups or busy beach bars here. If you’re looking to mingle with other travelers or have a variety of people to chat with over dinner, a secluded peninsula might feel too isolated.

Average Prices (per night per room):

• Budget: ~800,000 VND (≈ $35) – very limited; perhaps a small guesthouse or homestay at the base of the peninsula (options are scarce)
• Mid-range: ~1,500,000 VND (≈ $65) – a boutique villa or 3-4 star retreat on the hillside, when available
• Luxury: ~6,000,000 VND (≈ $250) – exclusive 5-star resort pricing on Son Tra (high-end rooms/villas can cost more, especially in peak season)

Summary of Best Areas in Da Nang

Each of these areas showcases a different side of Da Nang. Whether you prefer waking up to ocean waves, stepping out into busy local markets, or listening to jungle sounds at night, Da Nang has an area that will feel just right for your travel style. By considering the pros and cons of each, you can choose the perfect base to make the most of your Da Nang experience. Enjoy your stay in this dynamic city!