How To See Hai Van Pass : The World’s Most Scenic Road?

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This post was crafted with care and occasional typos by Colleen (and not AI)

Our family are big Top Gear fans, and like millions of others, we watched the Vietnam episode and dreamed of adventure. They called the Hai Van Pass one of the world’s greatest roads, and I knew that if we ever made it to Vietnam, this journey would be on my list.

I’m not a biker. I’m never going to ride a motorbike and the idea of an easy rider isn’t for me either. When I planned our trip, I knew I’d have to find a different way.

Fast forward almost two decades and we’ve travelled the Hai Van Pass twice! Despite the sea mist on one trip, it was glorious. And if you’re wondering whether it lives up to the hype, the answer is yes.

Where Is the Hai Van Pass?

The Hai Van Pass winds through the Annamite Mountain Range along Vietnam’s central coast, separating Da Nang and Hoi An to the south from Hue in the north. Historically, the pass acted as a boundary between the north and south.

Hai Van translates to Ocean Cloud Pass, referencing the clouds that often sweep in from the coast. And in these misty mountains you’ll discover steep inclines, cliffs that stretch down to isolated beaches and a few thrilling hairpin bends.

The road climbs to an elevation of 500 metres, offering impressive views of the East Sea and the surrounding mountains.

How Long is the Hai Van Pass?

The Hai Van Pass is only 21 kilometres long, and while that might sound short, it packs a lot into those kilometres.

If you’re driving from Hoi An to Hue, the journey is around 130 kilometres, and from Da Nang to Hue, it’s approximately 100 kilometres.

Hai Van Pass Route : Hue, Da Nang Or Hoi An ?

The beauty of this journey is the ease of travelling it and that you can start from one of three great destinations. During out two months in Vietnam we spent time in all three, but were staying in Hue when we drove the Hai Van Pass.

We booked a private car one way and took the train back. We ended our car tour in Da Nang for the train back to Hue. Honestly, I think we enjoyed the views from the train more than from the car.

Top Tip: If you have the chance to travel in both directions (there and back), then jump on a train. There’s no station in Hoi An, so you choose either Hue or Da Nang.

What Is The Best Way to Travel The Hai Van Pass?

I’m not sure there’s a single best way; each option has pros and cons. But in the end, I also don’t think it matters.

We opted for a private car in one direction, spent some time in Da Nang, had lunch by the beach, and then took the train back to Hue; just in time to wander along the Perfume River as the sun was setting!

Cycling the Hai Van Pass

Easy Rider Tour

Hai Van Jeep Tour

Private Car Tour

Self-Drive Car or Motorbike Options

Sightseeing Group Tour

Train From Hue or Danang

Places to Visit Along the Hai Van Pass

If you choose to make a day of your tour, there are several excellent stops along the way. Booking a private driver allows for flexibility and planning a few stops adds value to your day and makes great use of your time!

Da Nang Beach

We spent Tet in Da Nang and while it may lack some of the history and charm of Hue and Hoi An, it boasts an incredible beach. My Khe Beach is considered the best spot for white sand, clear blue waters, and palm trees. You’ll find hotels, beach bars, and cafes lining the main tourist areas.

Dam Cau Hai or Tam Giang-Cau Hai Lagoon

If your itinerary allows, don’t miss Cau Hai Lagoon, located near the Hue side of the Hai Van Pass. This beautiful body of water is part of a larger lagoon system, often dotted with traditional fishing boats.

We visited early in the morning and strolled along the shore, watching local fishermen. The lagoon’s blue colours and mountain backdrop created a picture-perfect scene. Allow time to stop for a coffee, soaking up the very glorious views.

Hai Van Quan

Located at the highest point of the pass, Hai Van Quan was considered the ancient gate built during the Tran Dynasty (13th-14th century). Historically, it marked the boundary between the ancient kingdoms of Champa and Dai Viet and later became the symbolic divide between northern and southern Vietnam.

The ruins and the stunning 360-degree views make this a must-visit stop and you can hike up to the viewpoint.

Lady Buddha Da Nang

Lady Buddha, or the Bodhisattva of Mercy, is a towering 67-meter-tall white statue at the Linh Ung Pagoda, overlooking Da Nang. You can see this statue from the beach in Da Nang but it was our driver who suggested we visit; and it was a great call!

As one of the tallest statues in Vietnam, Lady Buddha serves as the spiritual protector of the city. The grounds are beautiful and the temples within the complex are worth exploring. She’s actually not Buddha but Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Mercy.

Lang Co Beach

Lang Co Beach is considered by some to be one of the most beautiful bays in Asia. This expansive, wild stretch of coast is nestled at the foot of the Hai Van Pass and often included in tours. It’s relatively undeveloped and offers a little bit of pristine scenery.

Lap An Lagoon

Lap An Lagoon, located near Lang Co Beach and surrounded by the Annamite Mountains, is a another pretty saltwater lagoon. Known for its oyster farms it’s another great stop for travellers. This lagoon was famously featured in the final scenes of the Top Gear journey over the Hai Van Pass.

Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains, just south of Da Nang, are a cluster of five limestone and marble hills named after the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. They are famous for their caves, temples, and pagodas, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s religious heritage.

The Huyen Khong Cave is the most popular, illuminated by natural light streaming through the cave ceiling. Many tours include a visit here, and it’s a perfect addition to your day trip.

7 Great Reasons To Visit the Hai Van Pass

1. Breathtaking Scenery : The Guardian lists this journey as one of the most scenic roads in the world, and it’s easy to see why. With a stunning mix of mountains, coast and forests and not forgetting the stunning blue lagoons!

2. Historical Significance : Dating back to the 1st century AD, the Hai Van Pass once marked the boundary between ancient kingdoms. It’s witnessed numerous conflicts and was a strategic military point during the Vietnam War.

3. Choice of Travel : You don’t have to take a motorbike! The Hai Van Pass is flexible for all travellers; even old ones like us!

4. Less Traffic : Since the new Hai Van bypass was built in 2005, most of the heavy traffic now uses the tunnel. While we did encounter the occasional large lorry, the road is mostly filled with sightseers and tourists.

5. Start Anywhere : Well, not anywhere, but you can start from Hoi An, Da Nang, or Hue. There are tours and options from each or you can take the train from Da Nang or Hue.

6. Top Gear Fame : If you’re a fan of the TV show, you’ll know the episode; the YouTube video alone has 11 million views. Even our kids were slightly impressed that we took this journey albeit a little disappointed that we didn’t do it by motorbike!

7. Mysteries and Legends : I love a good legend, and read that some strange occurrences along the pass have been reported, especially when the mist rolls in. As crazy as it sounds, I’m sure I caught a glimpse of a mysterious figure in the hills as we sped by on the train. Take a look for yourself at the photo below and tell me what you think!

What’s the Best Time of Year to Ride the Hai Van Pass?

Everything we’ve read suggests that the best time to ride the Hai Van Pass is during the dry season, from March to August/September.  I certainly can’t imagine taking this road in the rainy season, given the number of bends and the older condition of the road.

We visited in February, just at the end of the rainy season, and for the most part the weather was hot and sunny. We did encounter cloud and mist as we drove over the pass—which wasn’t surprising, considering it’s called Ocean Cloud Pass in Vietnamese. Thankfully, we had clear skies for the return journey.

Is It Worth Driving The Hai Van Pass?

I am so glad that we made this journey; and even happier that we did it twice! And yes! Is it worth doing, even if you’re not on a motorbike! Is Hai Van the world’s most scenic road? The jury is out on that but nonetheless it is a very beautiful drive and the whole day makes for a grand adventure.

Whether you’re cycling, riding a motorbike, or opting for the comfort of a car, I’m sure your journey will be fabulous. And some of the stops along the way are equally stunning. If you have the chance, we 100% recommend the train journey but ultimately, no matter which way you travel, I’m confident you’ll have a great time.

We spent two months travelling through this glorious country, from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, from the Delta to Ha Giang and we saw many incredible things. The Hai Van Pass is certainly one of those highlights. It’s an easy day trip, with the option to add a few other fabulous stops and you get to say that you’ve driven along one of the world’s most scenic roads!

Are You Travelling to Vietnam?

We travelled from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi and beyond during our two months in Vietnam. If you enjoyed this post you might like to take a look at :