Hue to Hoi An Scenic Route: Hai Van Pass & What Else to See?

Journeying between these two vibrant coastal cities takes travelers across a legendary mountain pass, where winding roads reveal breathtaking panoramic views of turquoise ocean bays and lush peaks. Along the way, you can pause to admire serene coastal gems, tranquil lagoons, and historic stone gates perched high in the clouds. Finally, the route sweeps past scenic limestone hills before arriving safely in the ancient, lantern-lit streets of your destination.

You may also like: Hue to Da Nang Train (Hai Van Pass Train)

• Content by Tam Le, founder of HOIAN DAY TRIP

• Designed by Giang Cong Minh, co-founder of LS E&C LTD and his team

• Photo by Dang Cong Loi, Dao Xuan Son, Tam Le & others

The Most Scenic Route from Hue to Hoi An

Lap An Lagoon

Nestled right against the majestic Bach Ma mountain range and the edge of Lang Co town, Lap An Lagoon is a serene and picturesque brackish water lagoon. Famous for its mirror-like surface that brilliantly reflects the dramatic skies, the lagoon is home to traditional floating fishing villages and thriving oyster farming beds. Visitors can stroll along tranquil wooden piers, enjoy fresh local seafood at waterfront restaurants, and take in the peaceful, romantic ambiance – especially during magical sunset hours when the surrounding mountains glow in the fading light.

This lagoon is nearly 70km away from Hue city center. If go by car/van, it takes the visitor around 1.5 hours. Here are highlights:

+ Between Hue city center and Lap An Lagoon, visitors will see small towns, rural areas with villages and rice fields, wooded mountains and hills, Cau Hai Lagoon – the largest lagoon in Tam Giang – Cau Hai Lagoon System (on the left hand side) and two mountain passes – Phuoc Tuong Pass and Phu Gia Pass if go by motorbike (car drivers usually choose the tunnels to save time).

+ At this point on the map 16°17’12.0″N 107°50’31.5″E, there is a big banyan tree (known as Da Bac Banyan Tree) that ages up to 300 years and reaches to a height of 25 meters. This tree is not yet popular on the tourist trails. Additionally, visitors can find some authentic local restaurants serving fresh seafood and specialty fishes from the lagoon in the nearby area.

+ Between Phuoc Tuong and Phu Gia passes, along the highway, there’re local factories/distelleries and shops selling cajeput oil (and other essential oils), the special product from the area. The oil is made of leaves collected from natural cajeput forests growing in surrounding sand dunes.

Lang Co Beach (Alternative to Lap An Lagoon)

Framed by lush tropical green mountains and a sparkling turquoise lagoon, Lang Co Beach boasts a breathtaking, uninterrupted 10-kilometer stretch of pristine white sand. Celebrated globally as one of the world’s most beautiful bays, it offers an idyllic, tranquil coastal escape far away from bustling city life. The warm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and relaxation, while the local beachside shacks serve up some of the freshest seafood in central Vietnam, making it a wonderful haven for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.

The best time to visit Lang Co Beach is during its dry season from March to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. During these months, the sea is calm and crystal-clear, making it ideal for swimming, beach relaxation, and outdoor exploration. Visitors should generally avoid the rainy season between September and December, which brings rough seas and heavy downpours.

Hai Van Pass

Winding dramatically between Thua Thien Hue province and Da Nang, the Hai Van Pass (meaning “Ocean Cloud Pass”) is one of Vietnam’s most legendary coastal mountain roads. Perched at nearly 500 meters above sea level, it features thrilling hairpin curves and offers truly panoramic vistas of lush green peaks sweeping down into sparkling turquoise ocean bays. Historically a strategic military boundary, the pass still features remnants of old fortifications. Today, it remains an iconic journey for adventurous travelers seeking unforgettable landscapes, fresh mountain breezes, and a deep appreciation of the region’s geography.

On the Hai Van Pass, we recommend stopping at these places if go from Hue:

Spot 1: Lang Co Bay Viewpoint (see more information)

*visitors often spend 15 minutes here.

Spot 2: Hai Van Gate on the top of Hai Van Pass (see more information)

*visitors often spend 30-45 minutes here if like to sightsee the old fortress, and 30 minutes if just like getting a coffee with a view.

Spot 3: Turtle Rock (see more information)

*visitors often spend 15 minutes here, and longer if have a coffee with a view or take photos.

Hai Van Gate (Hai Van Pass Summit)

Perched at the highest point of the legendary pass, the historic Hai Van Gate (known as Hai Van Quan) is a magnificent architectural relic built in the early 19th century under the Nguyen Dynasty. Originally serving as a heavily fortified checkpoint and border gate between Hue and Da Nang, this ancient stone fortress features arched gateways and weathered brick walls inscribed with Chinese characters. Restored to preserve its rich heritage, it offers visitors a dramatic historical landmark alongside sweeping, panoramic views of the clouds, winding mountain roads, and the coastline below.

Visitors need to buy a ticket to enter Hai Van Gate. The price is 70.000 VND per adult and kid from 12.

To visit Hai Van Gate, it’s needed to climb many stairs. If have a limited mobility, skip this place and have a coffee with a view instead.

During the rainy days or season, it’s densely foggy and windy at Hai Van Gate, so visitors should a clear/sunny to visit.

The Marble Mountains

A cluster of five majestic limestone hills named after the natural elements, the Marble Mountains in Da Nang feature a fascinating network of ancient caves, hidden Buddhist sanctuaries, and stunning viewpoints. Visitors can explore sacred grottoes illuminated by natural skylights, climb winding stone steps to reach historic pagodas, and discover intricate shrines carved directly into the rock face. At the base, traditional stone-carving villages showcase generations of local craftsmanship. From the peaks, hikers are rewarded with sweeping panoramic vistas of the surrounding coastal plains, nearby rivers, and the endless expanse of the East Vietnam Sea.

Because of lots of stairs to visit temples and caves at Marble Mountains, visitors need to spend 1-2 hours.

Opening hours: 7 am to 5:30 pm

Ticket price: 40.000 VND per adult

Elevation ticket: 15.000 VND per person per way

Best Places to See Near Hue Hoi An Scenic Route

Linh Ung Pagoda & Lady Buddha

Perched majestically on the lush slopes of the Son Tra Peninsula in Da Nang, Linh Ung Pagoda is a serene spiritual haven famous for housing Vietnam’s tallest Lady Buddha statue. Towering at nearly 67 meters, the magnificent white statue gazes peacefully out toward the open sea, offering protection to local fishermen. The temple grounds feature beautifully landscaped bonsai gardens, intricately carved marble pillars, and ornate temple roofs. Visitors are treated to a tranquil atmosphere and sweeping panoramic views of Da Nang’s coastline, the sparkling ocean bay, and the bustling city in the distance.

Bach Ma National Park

Spanning across southern Hue city, Bach Ma National Park is a breathtaking protected area renowned for its astonishing biodiversity, cool climate, and dramatic mountain landscapes. Rising to an altitude of over 1,450 meters, the park served as a historic French colonial hill station, and moss-covered remnants of old villas still peek through the dense jungle mist. Visitors can hike scenic trails leading to cascading waterfalls like Do Quyen and Ngu Ho, explore lush botanical gardens, and climb to the summit’s stone pavilion for jaw-dropping panoramic views of lagoons, coastal plains, and the sparkling sea.

Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery

Nestled high within the cool, misty mountain forests of Bach Ma National Park, the Bach Ma Monastery is a peaceful sanctuary of stone and timber architecture. Blending rustic European monastic design with serene natural surroundings, it offers visitors a profound sense of isolation and spiritual reflection. Surrounded by towering ancient trees, cascading streams, and winding mountain trails, the monastery provides a tranquil retreat from the modern world. The crisp mountain air, chorus of native wildlife, and ethereal fog rolling through the valley create an unforgettable, meditative atmosphere for hikers and nature lovers alike.

Nhi Ho Waterfalls

Hidden deep within a lush valley near central Vietnam’s scenic coastal routes, Nhi Ho Waterfall is a refreshing natural gem featuring two cascading tiers of crystal-clear water. Surrounded by rugged rock formations and dense tropical greenery, the site is famous for its deep, cool natural pools that invite visitors to take a refreshing dip. The journey to the waterfall involves a light hike through scenic woodlands, making it a favorite spot for adventurous travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path beauty. Its peaceful ambiance and untouched natural surroundings provide an ideal escape for a relaxing picnic or quiet afternoon. See more information and details

Suoi Mo (Dream) Stream

Flowing gracefully through lush forest canopies, Suoi Mo Dream Stream is an enchanting eco-tourism destination known for its crystal-clear freshwater springs and natural swimming pools. The stream cascades gently over smooth stone terraces, creating shallow, refreshing wading areas surrounded by vibrant greenery and shaded picnic spots. Visitors can enjoy a tranquil escape by swimming in the cool mountain waters, walking across charming wooden bridges, or simply relaxing to the soothing sounds of nature. It offers an idyllic, family-friendly retreat for those looking to cool off and reconnect with the serene landscapes of central Vietnam. See more information and details

Chan May Beach

Tucked away along the tranquil central coast of Vietnam between Hue and Da Nang, Chan May Beach is an unspoiled coastal treasure. Boasting a sweeping crescent of soft golden sand backed by rolling green hills and gentle turquoise waves, it remains largely untouched by heavy commercial tourism. The calm, shallow waters make it a wonderful spot for a quiet seaside stroll, beachcombing, or soaking up the peaceful sun. With its dramatic mountain backdrop and soothing ocean breezes, Chan May provides a serene and authentic coastal experience away from the bustling tourist crowds. See more information and details