Conquering the Hai Van Pass (Deo Hai Van) – Vietnam’s Best Coast Road
The Hai Van Pass—its name translates as the “Ocean Mist Pass”—delivers one of Southeast Asia’s most celebrated road trips. This spectacular 21-kilometer stretch of mountainous road climbs over the Bach Ma range, drawing a dramatic line between Da Nang City and Thua Thien Hue Province. The pass gained international fame when the Top Gear television show declared it “a deserted ribbon of perfection.”
Most importantly, travelers seek out the pass today for its breathtaking, unobstructed views, as the construction of the Hai Van Tunnel has diverted most heavy traffic, making the old road quieter and safer for tourists.
I. Essential Visitor Information & Access
Visitors should first know that conquering the pass is an adventure in itself, not a simple stopover.
Location: The southern entry point is located approximately 20 kilometers north of central Da Nang.
Best Ways to Travel: Tourists predominantly choose active travel methods to truly experience the pass:
Motorbike/Easy Rider: This is the most popular option. You actively rent a bike in Da Nang or Hue, or you hire a professional “Easy Rider” guide who drives you. Consequently, you gain maximum freedom to stop for photos.
Jeep Tour/Private Car: Alternatively, you can hire a private car or join a jeep tour. Therefore, you maintain comfort while still accessing the viewpoints.
Train: The scenic train ride between Da Nang and Hue offers fantastic views of the pass’s foothills and the coastline, giving you a unique perspective.
Opening Hours & Fee: The pass is a public national highway, meaning it has no official opening or closing hours. Crucially, authorities charge no entrance fee to drive the pass itself. However, you pay a small fee if you use the Hai Van Tunnel.
II. History and Cultural Landmarks
The pass’s beauty deeply entwines with its historical significance, marking an ancient cultural and military frontier.
Hai Van Gate (Hai Van Quan): This historical stone gateway sits at the summit. Built during the Nguyen Dynasty, it once served as a defensive military fortification and symbolically marked the border between two historical kingdoms. Visitors actively explore the old fortifications and bunkers surrounding the gate, offering a tangible link to Vietnam’s past conflicts.
“The Greatest Pass Under Heaven” (Thien Ha De Nhat Hung Quan): Emperor Le Thanh Tong bestowed this title upon the pass, reflecting its challenging terrain and majestic beauty.
III. Must-See Photo Stops
The drive delivers spectacular views, but a few spots demand a dedicated stop.
Summit Viewpoint: Park near the Hai Van Gate. From this high altitude, you gain a 360-degree panorama: look south to see the vast Da Nang City skyline and the Son Tra Peninsula, and look north to admire the stunning crescent-shaped Lang Co Bay and Lap An Lagoon.
The Lonely Pine Tree: A well-known photo spot, this solitary tree provides a dramatic subject against the backdrop of the rugged coastline.
Abandoned Bunkers: Travelers frequently stop and climb on the decaying French and American war-era fortifications. Furthermore, these ruins provide fantastic, rugged foregrounds for photography.
IV. Safety and Travel Tips
If you choose to ride the pass, you must prioritize safety.
Best Time to Go: We highly recommend planning your trip for the dry season (March to July). Conversely, the rainy season (October to January) often brings heavy fog and mist, which dramatically reduces visibility and increases danger on the winding road.
Driving Advice: Always drive slowly, especially on the steep, curved sections. Consequently, you ensure both your safety and the ability to enjoy the views.
Fuel and Refreshments: Fuel stations are absent on the pass itself. Therefore, fill up your tank completely before starting the journey from either Da Nang or Hue. Small vendors at the summit sell drinks and snacks.
