Da Nang vs Nha Trang: which is better for a beach holiday in Vietnam?

In Da Nang, the Lady Buddha statue is a worthwhile free excursion during a beach holiday. It is especially pleasant closer to evening when there are fewer visitors, but keep your distance from wild monkeys. You can then head down to Marina for sunset, although rooftop tables are often hard to get.

Da Nang is more orderly than Nha Trang — traffic lights work and streets feel safer. The sea is noticeably cleaner since no rivers flow into the ocean near the beach. Downside: heavy hotel construction everywhere, so choose accommodation carefully to avoid being next to a building site.

At Bãi Biển beach, vendors are very pushy — constantly offering boat trips and other services, which can be annoying during a relaxing beach day.

The local market is large but boat tour sellers are extremely aggressive. The famous evening show turned out to be underwhelming. Better to spend mornings at the nearby beach instead.