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The Hai Van Pass in Central Vietnam ranks among the most scenic routes you can ride in the country. This 21-kilometer road takes you from the coastal city of Da Nang to the fishing village of Lang Co, passing through impressive mountain landscapes and tropical jungle along the way. You’ll enjoy one breathtaking view after another throughout the journey. In this guide, you’ll discover practical information about Hai Van Pass and the best stops to make en route. In this post, I, Hamid, share about riding the Hai Van Pass, one of Vietnam’s Most Beautiful Coastal Roads with recommended stops Along the Way.
Hai Van Pass: Ride one of Vietnam’s Most Scenic Roads
Northern Vietnam is famous for the Ha Giang Loop, a spectacular three-to-five-day route that takes you past steep mountain passes, deep valleys, and remote villages. However, this mountain pass in Central Vietnam certainly holds its own. This winding mountain road runs along Vietnam’s east coast, connecting the coastal city of Da Nang with the lagoon near Lang Co. Stretching approximately 21 kilometers, it snakes its way up to nearly 500 meters above sea level. The higher you climb, the more dramatic the landscape changes become. You ride from the lively coastal bustle into lush green jungle and rugged mountain terrain.
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A strategic route between different kingdoms
For centuries, Hai Van Pass served as a natural border, both geographically and politically. Its high elevation and difficult accessibility created a clear division between different kingdoms and cultures in Vietnam, including the Champa Kingdom in the south.
The pass’s strategic height made it highly defensible. Ancient watchtowers and fortifications were built to strengthen its position, with Hai Van Gate (Hai Van Quan) being the most notable structure. During the French colonial period in Vietnam, the road over the pass was modernized to improve traffic flow between Hue and Da Nang. Later, during the Vietnam War, it was again used as a strategic defensive position.
That’s all history now, and since the opening of the Hai Van Tunnel in 2005, Hai Van Pass has become one of Vietnam’s most popular route to ride a motorbike along. You can still find several ruins and old military buildings along the road, but these are no longer in use.
What is the ride along the Hai Van Pass like
Hai Van Pass is located in Central Vietnam. Some motorbike riders start from Hoi An (30km south of Da Nang) and ride via Da Nang toward Hue. However, officially the Hai Van Pass runs from Da Nang to Lang Co Lagoon. This road stretches approximately 21 kilometers and takes about 40 minutes to complete. If you prefer riding from Hoi An to Hue or vice versa, you’ll cover around 160 kilometers in three to four hours. Travel time naturally depends on the number of stops you make along the way, traffic conditions, and your riding pace over the mountain pass.
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Route Map of Hai Van Pass
Must-See Attractions and Stops Along Hai Van Pass
When riding Hai Van Pass, beyond the numerous hairpin turns and countless viewpoints, there are several attractions worth stopping for. Our tip? Plan your stops in advance so you have enough time for the entire route. To be safe, allocate a full day for riding Hai Van Pass, allowing you to take your time throughout the journey. Below are some of the absolute must-sees along the Hai Van Pass route.
1. Hai Van Gate (Hai Van Quan)
This is perhaps the most famous attraction along the mountain pass. Hai Van Gate is an ancient border gate at the summit of the pass, built during the Nguyen Dynasty. This gate once marked the boundary between north and south and served as a strategic defensive point. Today, it’s an iconic stop for tourists. You’ll see old stone walls, classical inscriptions, and enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the mountains and coastline.
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2. The coastal town of Danang
Da Nang is Vietnam’s fourth-largest city and played a significant role during the Vietnam War, partly due to Hai Van Pass’s strategic location, when it served as an air hub for American and South Vietnamese forces. Today, however, you’ll enjoy wide sandy beaches, impressive attractions, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Be sure to visit the Golden Hands Bridge and watch the fire and water show at Dragon Bridge, or unwind at My Khe Beach. Staying longer? Don’t miss the giant Lady Buddha at Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula.
3. The Marble Mountains
The Marble Mountains are located in Da Nang and consist of a small cluster of five karst hills, each named after one of the five elements. It feels like an open-air museum in the mountains where you can enjoy beautiful walks and explore various sites. You can visit temples, pagodas, the impressive Xa Loi Tower, and caves, as well as admire beautiful Buddhist altars and statues carved directly from the rock.
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4. Lang Co Beach & Lagoon
At the foot of the pass lies Lang Co Lagoon, featuring a stunning white sand beach and turquoise water in the namesake bay. This ranks among the most beautiful bays in the world. It’s the ideal spot to pause after your ride and enjoy a refreshing swim or short walk along the beach. The view from the hills above the lagoon is equally spectacular.
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5. The Many Viewpoints Along the Pass
The road itself is perhaps one of the greatest attractions. At virtually every turn, you can stop at viewpoints that reveal new panoramas: deep valleys with glistening bays, white beaches, steep cliffs, or views over the green jungle. Some locations along the road have official stops with designated parking areas. If there’s no parking, only stop where the road is wide enough to safely park your scooter or motorcycle without obstructing traffic.
Ride the Hai Van Pass on a motorbike tour
There are two options for riding Hai Van Pass: on your own motorcycle or be a part of a tour across Vietnam. Do you have some riding experience and feel comfortable on winding, mountainous roads? Then you can confidently tackle the route solo on a motorcycle. If you choose to ride yourself, you’ll have complete freedom. You can stop wherever and whenever you want and cover the route at your own pace.
A local guide basically knows the roads better and can show you some beautiful hidden spots you might otherwise miss. Moreover, with motorbike tours in Vietnam, you only need to relax and enjoy the views (Pillion ride option). Both options are popular and have their pros and cons; it’s up to you to choose what best fits your travel style.
Riding on Hai Van Pass
Riding motorcycle along the Hai Van Pass is a unique experience, but it does require attention. Generally, the road is reasonably well-maintained, but some sections can be slippery or bumpy, especially after heavy rainfall. Since the opening of Hai Van Tunnel in 2005, heavy traffic has significantly decreased, though you’ll still encounter some scooters and cars here and there.
Safety always comes first. Always wear a helmet (even as a pillion passenger with an Easy Rider), sturdy shoes, and possibly an extra jacket. Always check beforehand that your scooter’s brakes work, the tires are properly inflated, and there’s enough fuel. Don’t ride too fast on tight corners and be extra cautious in fog or rain. Of course, we hope the sun shines when you ride this mountain pass yourself!
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Where Can You Join a Motorcycle Ride?
Want to ride the Hải Vân Pass yourself but not sure where to join a guided tour or adventure ride? You’ve got plenty of options. The Hải Vân Pass is one of Vietnam’s most famous and scenic mountain roads, and many trusted tour operators now offer motorcycle rides starting from Da Nang, Huế, or Hoi An.
For example, you can join a one-way motorbike adventure ride from Huế to Da Nang or Hoi An (or the other way around). There’s no need to return to your starting point. Your luggage is transported separately, so you can focus fully on the ride without carrying bags. Check out our tours and we make sure to include the ride along this dramatic ocean of clouds ride on our rides.
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When Is the Best Time to Ride Hai Van Pass?
The best time to ride Hai Van Pass is during the dry season, from March to September. You’ll have the best chance of good, clear weather, and the views of the mountains, the ocean, and winding road are optimal. From October to December, it can be foggy and slippery, making the ride riskier. Also try to start this ride as early as possible, giving yourself enough time to rest here and there and enjoy the views and attractions along the way.
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Video: A scenic ride along the Hai Van Pass on a Triumph Tiger 1200
Can’t wait to ride Hai Van Pass yourself? In the video below, you’ll get a preview of what to expect from this beautiful route in Central Vietnam. Don’t wait any longer to plan your visit!
Conclusion: Ready to Ride Hai Van Pass?
Hai Van Pass delivers everything you want in a Vietnamese mountain ride: dramatic coastal views, manageable challenge, and enough stops to break up the journey. Whether you rent your own bike or go with an Easy Rider, aim for the dry season between March and September for the clearest views. Start early, take your time at the viewpoints, and don’t skip Lang Co Beach at the bottom for a post-ride swim. The route’s gotten quieter since the tunnel opened, making it more enjoyable than ever. Pack a helmet, check your brakes, and you’re set for one of Central Vietnam’s best riding days.
About the author
Hamid is an adventure rider specializing in BMW and CB500X tours across Vietnam. He designs custom itineraries for international riders, with Hai Van Pass among his favorite routes to guide.
