There are several Da Nang things to do that should not be missed, as there is a wealth of different attractions and activities in this city. The city is located between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, and is bordered by the sea and Thua Thien-Hue. Da Nang has a tropical climate, and a yearly monsoon season, so plan accordingly.

Track on Marble Mountains

This is a cluster of five different marble mountains that are just south of the city. The mountains are named after the different elements of earth, fire, wood, water, and metal. There are caves and tunnels running through the mountains, and you can even climb to the top of one. The caves contain several Buddhist sanctuaries, and the Viet Cong once used the caves as hideaways during the war. Besides the mountains, the area is also known for its stone sculptures and stone cutting. This is the place to purchase a stone sculpture as a souvenir. Stop into the craft village for something very special to take home.

Look at Sculptures

The Museum of Cham Sculpture is one of a kind, and one of the best museums in the city. This museum holds the world’s largest and best collection of Cham art, which mainly features sculptures. This has been designated a UNESCO world heritage site, and many of the pieces are as old as the 14th century. The museum building is quite lovely, as its many open-air courtyards feature bougainvillea and fruit trees.

Enjoy the Beach

A historic spot is Non Nuoc Beach, as this was the main R& R spot for American soldiers during the Vietnam War. This white, sandy beach is very beautiful, and you can go surfing, swimming, boating, fishing and more. The beach is lined with luxury resorts.

Visit Temples

A fantastic archaeological site is the Cham ruins of My Son, which has been traced back more than one thousand years. This was once a forested valley that held the capital of the Champa Kingdom. It was also an important religious center, with more than 70 different types of temples. It was badly damaged due to bombings in the 1960s, but you can still view the 20 structures that are still standing. In 1999 it was designated a UNESCO world heritage site.

Explore Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass is the highest pass outside of Da Nang, and from the top, the view is truly spectacular. Hai Van Pass actually translates to "Path of the clouds." This pass creates the natural boundary between North and South Vietnam, and there are still fortifications standing from the French, Americans and South Vietnamese.