Where to Stay in Da Nang? The Complete Neighborhood Guide
- maya dalal
- Jan 8
- 12 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Because choosing the right neighborhood will determine whether you fall in love with Da Nang or run away from it
So you've decided to fly to Da Nang. You've seen the photos of My Khe Beach with its perfect waves, the Dragon Bridge breathing fire on weekends, and those incredible cafes with excellent WiFi.
But then you opened the booking sites and discovered something confusing: Da Nang isn't just a "beach city" – it's divided into two completely different sides, with dozens of neighborhoods, each offering an entirely different experience.
The difference between staying in the buzzing An Thuong with all the digital nomads versus the quiet, green Son Tra is like the difference between a beach party and a forest retreat. Both are Da Nang, but not in the same way.
I know because I spent a full month in Da Nang, got to know the different areas intimately, and tried to understand what really suits whom. This guide is designed to help you understand the charm (and challenges) of each area, so you can choose exactly where you want to wake up in the morning.
💭 A Personal Note Before We Dive In
My first apartment in Da Nang was in the My An area, walking distance from the beach. It was perfect location-wise – cafes on every corner, the beach just across the street, and an atmosphere of "everything happens here." But...
The noise. Karaoke that didn't end until 3 AM. Loudspeakers on motorbikes selling food until late at night. The constant construction that starts at 6 AM. I'm not saying it's bad – but if you're sensitive to noise or need good sleep for work, you need to know this upfront.
That's exactly why I wrote this guide – so you know exactly where you're going, what you'll get, and what it means for you.
How is Da Nang Structured?
Unlike other cities you might know, Da Nang is divided into two sides with the Han River in the middle. One side is the "Beach Side" – where most tourists and digital nomads live. The other side is the "City Side" – more local, less touristy, but with quick access to waterfalls, mountains, and nature.
The Han River is the central border. Five bridges connect the two sides, including the famous Dragon Bridge that spits fire and water on weekends.
The Beach Side is divided into two main districts:
• Ngu Hanh Son – more southern, includes My An, An Thuong, Khue My, and Non Nuoc Beach
• Son Tra – more northern, includes the Son Tra Peninsula with nature and tranquility
The City Side is divided into several districts, the main one being:
• Hai Chau – the city center, markets, and local life
My An / An Thuong: The Heart of the Action, Where Everything Happens
The Vibe
This is the place everyone talks about. Rows of colorful cafes with fast WiFi, restaurants from around the world (Mexican, Korean, sushi, Italian), bars with cheap cocktails, and the beach just a 2-minute walk away.
This is the area where all the digital nomads gather. You'll see laptops everywhere, English conversations all around, and a feeling of "I'm not alone here." It's the most international atmosphere you'll find in Da Nang.
Perfect For
Digital nomads who want community, nightlife enthusiasts, people who love having everything within walking distance, and anyone who wants to work from different cafes every day.
Advantages
• Excellent WiFi everywhere – the cafes here know exactly what digital nomads need
• Diverse international food – Mexican, Korean, sushi, burgers, alongside authentic Vietnamese food
• My Khe Beach within walking distance – one of the world's most beautiful beaches according to Forbes
• Large nomad community – easy to meet new people, work together, and make friends
Disadvantages
• Heavy noise – karaoke until late at night, construction everywhere, motorbikes with loudspeakers
• Too touristy – sometimes it feels like an expat enclave rather than authentic Vietnam
• Higher prices – compared to the rest of Da Nang, though competition has brought prices down somewhat, it's still more expensive than the other side of the river
• Not for noise-sensitive people – if you need quiet for work or sleep, this place isn't for you
💡 Important Tip
If you choose to stay in An Thuong, request a room on the upper floors and away from the main roads. Check reviews that mention noise. Noise-cancelling headphones are a great tool for work, and quality earplugs can save your sleep.
Recommendation in An Thuong (Mid-range)
Platinum Beach Hotel & Apartment is an excellent option for those who want to be in the heart of the action but with some distance from the noise. The hotel is on a slightly quieter street, with a rooftop pool, excellent WiFi, and clean, well-designed rooms.
💡 My tip: This location is great for those who want both worlds - the beach within walking distance and An Thuong's action in 5 minutes. The rooftop pool is wonderful after a day of working in cafes. Check availability and prices here.
Recommendation in An Thuong (Budget)
Aris Hotel And Aparment is a small, cute boutique hotel with a young, relaxed vibe. Located in the heart of An Thuong, close to everything happening, with reasonable prices.
💡 My tip: This place is perfect for those who want to save money while being in the heart of the action. If you're noise-sensitive, request a room on the upper floors. The balcony has a beautiful view of An Thuong's bustling streets. Check availability and prices here.
My Khe Beach: The Famous Beach
The Vibe
This is the beach that made Da Nang famous. 7 km of soft white sand, gentle waves, and crystal-clear water. Forbes ranked it as one of the six most beautiful beaches in the world, and American soldiers during the Vietnam War called it "China Beach."
The beach here is wide, clean, and less crowded than you'd expect. Most locals come here early in the morning before sunrise or after sunset – not to lie on the beach, but to exercise and work out.
What's Special
• Surfing – the best place in Da Nang to learn surfing, with many kiosks offering lessons
• Walking and cycling along the promenade – a paved path along the entire beach
• Stunning sunsets – every evening is a show
💡 Important Tip
The quietest and cleanest beach is in the international hotels area (Phước Mỹ area) – where the road is farther from the beach and the noise is much lower.
Recommendation near My Khe Beach (Luxury)
Palazzo Boutique Hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel with ocean views, a full spa, rooftop pool, and excellent service. You can venture out into the chaos and return to your "oasis."
💡 My tip: This is the perfect place for those who want to wake up in the morning, walk down to the beach in 2 minutes, and return to a pampering hotel with all the comforts. The ocean view from the rooms is worth the investment. Check availability and luxury here.
Recommendation near My Khe Beach (Mid-range)
Raon Danang Beach - Stay 24H is a modern hotel with ocean views, excellent WiFi, and clean rooms. Great location for those who want the beach within walking distance but also close to An Thuong.
💡 My tip: This is the perfect place for those who want both worlds – the calm My Khe Beach in the morning, and An Thuong's action in the evening. The distance to both is either walking or 5 minutes by Grab. Check availability and prices here.
Hai Chau (City Center): The Authentic and Local
The Vibe
This is the other side of Da Nang – the part most tourists don't reach. Local markets with fresh vegetables, real street food stalls (not for tourists), and buildings that look like authentic Vietnam.
Here you'll find Han Market – the city's central market, full of cheap local food, fabrics, and goods. This is also where the famous pink cathedral (Da Nang Cathedral) is located, and the Dragon Bridge that spits fire on weekends.
Perfect For
Those who want to experience the real Da Nang, digital nomads looking for cheaper prices, and people who don't necessarily need to be close to the beach.
Advantages
• Completely authentic – you'll see how locals really live
• Much cheaper – both accommodation and food
• Close to markets and cultural sites – Han Market, the cathedral, Dragon Bridge
• Easy to get everywhere – centrally located, close to the airport and train station
Disadvantages
• Far from the beach – need Grab (taxi) or a motorbike to get to the beach
• Fewer expats and nomads – harder to find an international community
• Very low English level – even more so than on the beach side
💡 Important Tip
If you choose Hai Chau, look for a place near the river promenade (Bach Dang Street) – it's the most beautiful and pleasant area, with a riverfront walkway and amazing atmosphere in the evenings.
Recommendation in Hai Chau (Mid-range)
Happy Day Hotel (Riverside) is a hotel on the riverbank, close to the Dragon Bridge and Han Market. Stunning views, excellent WiFi, and fair prices.
💡 My tip: This location is perfect for those who want to see the Dragon Bridge sculptures every morning from the balcony. In the evenings, you can go down to the promenade and enjoy the fire and water show. It's pure magic. Check availability and prices here.
Recommendation in Hai Chau (Budget)
Lavender Riverside Hotel is a small, charming hotel on the riverbank, with beautiful views, clean rooms, and cheap prices. Close to everything happening on the city side.
💡 My tip: This is the perfect place for those who want to save money while still being in a central location with views. In the evenings, you can sit on the promenade and watch the city come alive with lights. Check availability and prices here.
Recommendation in Hai Chau (Luxury)
ANFADA Hotel Danang is a pampering 4-star hotel on the riverbank, with spacious rooms, perfect service, and breathtaking views. This place is a "vacation within a vacation."
💡 My tip: This isn't for those who want An Thuong's young vibe. It's for those who want luxury and quiet with quick access to the airport (perfect if you have an early flight). The river view at sunset is stunning. Check availability and pricing here.
Son Tra Peninsula: Nature, Tranquility, and Views
The Vibe
The Son Tra Peninsula is Da Nang's green, quiet corner. Tree-covered mountains, secret beaches, ancient pagodas, and stunning views of the city and sea.
Fewer expats live here and more local families. The area feels like a small fishing village, with traditional markets, low houses, and a quiet atmosphere.
Perfect For
Those who want quiet and nature but still close to the city, hiking enthusiasts, and people looking for an authentic local experience.
Advantages
• Stunning nature – mountains, forests, secret beaches
• Complete quiet – without An Thuong's noise
• Local and authentic – you'll see real Vietnam
• Cheap prices – fewer tourists = better prices
Disadvantages
• Need a motorbike or Grab – not everything is within walking distance
• Fewer food and entertainment options – mainly local restaurants
• Hard to find a nomad community – fewer expats in the area
💡 Important Tip
Son Tra is perfect for those who have a rented motorbike. The ride along the peninsula is one of the most beautiful experiences in Da Nang – ocean views from every side, green forests, and ancient pagodas.
Khue My: The Perfect Middle Ground
The Vibe
A quiet residential neighborhood located between bustling My An and quiet Son Tra. This is the area that veteran digital nomads discover after they tire of An Thuong's noise.
Perfect For
Digital nomads who want quiet but still close to the action, couples, and people looking for a balance between beach and city.
Advantages
• Relative quiet – without An Thuong's noise
• Close to everywhere – 5 minutes by Grab to An Thuong, close to the river and beach
• More authentic – local neighborhood with a neighborhood vibe
• Good prices – cheaper than An Thuong
Disadvantages
• Fewer food and entertainment options within walking distance – need a motorbike or Grab
• Not in the heart of the action – if you want everything within walking distance, this isn't the place
Non Nuoc Beach / Resort Coast: Luxury and Calm
The Vibe
This is Da Nang's resort beach – the most pampering hotels, the quietest beaches, and the most beautiful views. Here you'll find the big resorts like Hyatt, Pullman, Furama, and many more.
Perfect For
Couples who want a romantic getaway, families with children, and people willing to pay more for luxury and quiet.
Advantages
• Private and quiet beaches – without My Khe's hustle and bustle
• Luxury hotels – world-class
• Close to Marble Mountains – famous tourist attraction
Disadvantages
• Far from the center – about 20 minutes by Grab from An Thuong
• Expensive – both accommodation and food
• Less authentic – feels like a "tourist bubble"
Safety: Is Da Nang Safe?
Absolutely yes! Da Nang is considered one of the safest cities in Vietnam. The crime rate is very low, and locals are friendly and welcoming.
Some Basic Safety Tips
• In crowded places: Han Market and An Thuong streets at peak hours can be very busy. Keep your bag close to your body
• Grab over taxis: Use Grab (like Uber) – it's more convenient and saves haggling
• Motorbikes: If you rent a motorbike, always wear a helmet and drive slowly – traffic in Da Nang is less crazy than Hanoi, but you still need to be careful
The Bottom Line
• Want to be in the heart of the action with all the digital nomads and don't mind noise? → My An / An Thuong
• Looking for the most beautiful beach and a more local vibe? → My Khe Beach / Son Tra
• Want an authentic experience, cheap prices, and local life? → Hai Chau (City Center)
• Looking for quiet, nature, and a neighborhood vibe? → Khue My / Son Tra Peninsula
• Want absolute luxury and don't mind being far from the center? → Non Nuoc Beach / Resort Coast
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does accommodation cost per night in Da Nang?
Prices vary depending on the neighborhood and season. In the An Thuong area, you'll find hostels from $10-15 per night, mid-range hotels at $30-50, and luxury hotels at $80-150. In the Hai Chau area, prices are cheaper – you can find good rooms for $20-30. The resorts at Non Nuoc Beach start at $100 and go up to $300+ per night.
Which neighborhood is best for digital nomads?
My An / An Thuong are the most popular neighborhoods among digital nomads because of the excellent WiFi everywhere, numerous cafes, international community, and proximity to the beach. If you're noise-sensitive, Khue My is a quieter alternative that's still close to everything you need.
Do I need to rent a motorbike in Da Nang?
It depends on which neighborhood you're in. If you're in An Thuong or My Khe, you can easily get by with walking and Grab. If you're in Son Tra or Hai Chau, a motorbike will make your life much easier. Remember you always need a helmet, and traffic in Vietnam can be challenging for those not used to it.
What's the difference between My An and An Thuong?
Technically, An Thuong is part of the My An neighborhood, but the term "An Thuong" specifically refers to the vertical streets called An Thuong (An Thuong 1, An Thuong 2, etc.). This is the most bustling area with the highest concentration of cafes, restaurants, and bars. My An is the broader area that also includes An Thuong.
What's the best season to visit Da Nang?
The best season is between February and August – beautiful weather, less rain, and calm seas. The rainy season (September-January) can be challenging with heavy rains, business closures, and mold issues. If you must come in the rainy season, be prepared with appropriate clothing and flexible planning.
🗺️ My Da Nang Map - Available Now!
After weeks of searching, testing, and documenting every place in Da Nang – the ultimate map is finally here!
This isn't just another list from Google. It's a real experience map that includes only the places that are truly worth it – where locals eat, work, and enjoy themselves.
The map includes:
• ✨ Perfect cafes for digital nomads
• 🍜 Restaurants and street food stalls that locals love
• 🏖️ Secret and quiet beaches
• 🏛️ Attractions worth visiting (and which to skip)
• 💆 High-quality spas and massages
• 📍 All the little tips that save time and money
The map includes over 70 places I personally tested, with detailed notes about each one – what's special, when to go, and how much it costs.
💡 Need Help Planning Your Route?
If you feel like you want something more personal – a custom itinerary made just for you, with all recommendations that fit exactly your travel style and budget – I'm here for you!
I offer personal consultation and custom itinerary planning for people who want to travel smart, save time, and avoid expensive mistakes.
Enjoy your vacation in Da Nang,
Maya 🧡
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that if you decide to book through them, I'll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This is a wonderful way to support my journey and the time it takes to create guides like these, and I'm so grateful for it.
Read More About Vietnam:
⭐Get to Know Vietnam: The Complete Guide
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