Day trips from Hoi An: 12+ ideal and interesting destinations

Hoi An not only captivates visitors with its ancient charm but also serves as a perfect starting point for exploring Central Vietnam’s stunning natural and cultural attractions. Day trips from Hoi An allow you to expand your journey, offering diverse experiences, from pristine nature and rich heritage to unique local cuisine. If you’re looking for exciting destinations for a short getaway, check out these fantastic suggestions to make the most of your day!

Criteria for choosing a destination for day trips from Hoi An

To have a fulfilling day trip from Hoi An, travelers should carefully consider factors such as distance, diverse experiences, transportation options, and other essential amenities.

Reasonable travel distance 

When planning a day trip, distance is a key factor. Ideal destinations are typically within a 100 km radius of Hoi An to ensure: 

• Optimal travel time: About 1-2 hours of travel helps optimize experience instead of spending most of the time on the road.
• Less fatigue: Short distance travel helps visitors enjoy the trip without exhaustion, especially for journeys to discover multiple points in a day.
• Make the most of the vehicles: Flexible movement by motorbike, personal car, tourist car or grafting tour, suitable for many different groups of visitors.

Diverse experience: Culture, nature, cuisine 

An ideal trip should not be limited to just one type of tourism but instead offer a blend of culture, nature, and cuisine for a well-rounded experience:

• Cultural & historical aspects: Sites like My Son Sanctuary, Kim Bong Carpentry Village, and Thanh Ha Pottery Village allow visitors to explore local traditions and historical values.
• Natural landscapes: Destinations such as Cu Lao Cham, Ban Co Peak, Grang Waterfall, and Phu Ninh Lake provide a relaxing atmosphere and opportunities to discover unspoiled scenery.
• Local cuisine: Each region boasts its own specialties, from banh trang cuon thit heo (pork with rice paper rolls) in Da Nang to fresh seafood in Cu Lao Cham and rustic dishes in Tra Que Vegetable Village. A complete trip is never without delightful culinary experiences.

Suitable for various transportation options

Depending on personal preferences and conditions, travelers can choose from different transportation methods:

• Motorbike: Ideal for adventure seekers who prefer flexibility in timing, especially for destinations like Ban Co Peak and Tam Thanh Mural Village.
• Private car or tourist bus: Suitable for large groups, families with children, or longer distances such as Than Tai Hot Springs and Phu Ninh Lake.
• Group tours: A budget-friendly option for those who prefer a guided itinerary without planning, especially convenient for exploring Cu Lao Cham or My Son Sanctuary.

Optimal experience duration

A well-planned day trip should allow enough time to fully enjoy each destination while ensuring a return to Hoi An by evening. Therefore, an ideal destination should meet the following criteria:

• At least 3-5 hours of actual experience: Allow visitors to have enough time to visit, explore and enjoy food. 
• Not too many stops: Avoiding an overly packed itinerary allows for a deeper, more meaningful experience at each location. For instance, combining Son Tra Peninsula, My Khe Beach, and Dragon Bridge in Da Nang makes for a balanced trip rather than rushing through multiple places in one day.

Weather and peak travel seasons

Weather has a significant impact on the travel experience, so it’s important to choose destinations that match the season: 

• Dry season (March – September): Ideal for visiting Cu Lao Cham, My Khe Beach, and Phu Ninh Lake.
• Rainy season (October – February): More suitable for indoor attractions like Than Tai Hot Springs and Thanh Ha Terracotta Park.
• Time within a day: Certain places, such as Ban Co Peak and My Son Sanctuary, are best visited in the morning to avoid the heat, while Dragon Bridge and Love Bridge are most beautiful in the evening.

Services and support services

A great destination is not only beautiful but also well-equipped with essential facilities to ensure a comfortable experience for visitors:

• Availability of dining, restrooms, and resting areas: These amenities make the trip more pleasant, especially for families with young children or elderly travelers.
• Easy access and transportation: Destinations with convenient routes, such as Tra Que Vegetable Village and Bay Mau Coconut Forest, are suitable for all visitors, whereas places requiring more challenging travel, like Ban Co Peak and Grang Waterfall, should be carefully considered before visiting.
• Guides or informational signs: For historically significant sites like My Son Sanctuary, having a tour guide or informational materials enhances the understanding of cultural and historical values.

Choosing a destination for a day trip from Hoi An should be carefully considered to ensure a diverse, convenient, and memorable experience. With the criteria above, travelers can easily plan a perfect journey to explore the beautiful surroundings of Hoi An.

Read more: Central Vietnam itinerary 5 days: Must-visit destinations 

Recommendations for day trips from Hoi An

Hoi An is not only famous for its ancient streets but also serves as a perfect starting point for exploring nearby attractions. Below are 12 outstanding destinations for travelers looking to enjoy day trips from Hoi An, offering a blend of culture, nature, and cuisine.

1. Da Nang – A vibrant coastal city

Located about 30 km from Hoi An, Da Nang is a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of modern attractions and natural beauty. It is also one of the most popular day trip options from Hoi An.

Must-visit Attractions:

• Son Tra Peninsula – Home to Linh Ung Pagoda, which features Vietnam’s tallest Lady Buddha statue. This is also an ideal viewpoint to admire the panoramic beauty of Da Nang.
• My Khe Beach – One of the world’s most beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or water activities.
• Dragon Bridge & Love Bridge – Two of Da Nang’s most famous landmarks. Be sure to visit on weekends to witness the Dragon Bridge’s fire and water show.

Must-try Local Delicacies:

• Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo – A Central Vietnamese specialty, featuring tender boiled pork, fresh herbs, and a flavorful dipping sauce.
• Mi Quang – A signature Da Nang dish, known for its rich broth, chewy noodles, and toppings like shrimp, pork, and quail eggs.
• Bun Cha Ca – A delicious fish cake noodle soup, offering a light yet flavorful taste.

2. Cham Islands – A Tropical Paradise

Located 20 km from Hoi An, Cham Islands can be reached in just 15 minutes by speedboat, making it an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and fresh ocean air.

Exciting Activities:

• Snorkeling & Coral Viewing: Cham Islands is well-known for its diverse marine ecosystem, especially its vibrant coral reefs.
• Exploring the Fishing Village: Discover the daily life of local fishermen and enjoy fresh seafood right on the island.
• Swimming at Bai Chong & Bai Xep Beaches: These pristine beaches offer clear blue waters, perfect for relaxation and nature lovers.

Important Notes:

• Plastic bags are prohibited to help protect the island’s environment.
• Book speedboat tickets in advance during peak season to avoid unavailability.

3. My Son Sanctuary – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Located 40 km from Hoi An, My Son Sanctuary is a complex of Cham Kingdom relics and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an unmissable destination for those who love history and culture on a day trip from Hoi An.

Highlights for visitors:

• Admire the Ancient Cham Temple Architecture: These towers, built between the 4th and 13th centuries, showcase the unique cultural heritage of the Champa civilization.
• Watch Traditional Cham Dance Performances: A fascinating experience that provides deeper insight into Cham art and religious beliefs.
• Explore the Natural Surroundings: The site is surrounded by lush forests, creating a peaceful and mystical atmosphere.

Travel tips:

• Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy a tranquil experience.
• Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen, as there are few shaded areas within the sanctuary.

4. Tam Thanh mural village – Art in the middle of the countryside 

Located in Quang Nam Province, 50 km from Hoi An, Tam Thanh Mural Village is a perfect destination for art lovers and those seeking unique experience.

Special features of Tam Thanh mural village:

• Vibrant Wall Murals: The entire village is covered with colorful paintings depicting everyday life, creating a truly captivating artistic space.
• Explore the Traditional Fish Sauce Craft Village: Learn about the handmade fish sauce production process, a renowned local specialty.

Travel tips:

• Bring a camera or smartphone to capture lively and artistic moments.
• Combine your visit with a trip to Tam Thanh Beach, a peaceful seaside spot perfect for relaxation.

5. Ban Co Peak – A panoramic view of Da Nang from above

Approximately 50 km from Hoi An, Ban Co Peak is a favorite destination for adventure seekers, offering breathtaking scenery and a challenging ascent.

Highlights: 

• From the mountaintop, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Da Nang, featuring its long sandy beaches and the lush Son Tra Peninsula.
• The statue of De Thich playing chess adds a unique cultural touch and serves as a popular check-in spot.

Things to note when visiting Ban Co Peak:

• The road to the peak is quite steep, making it suitable only for experienced riders.
• It’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and capture the best lighting for photos.

6. Nui Than Tai Hot Springs Park – Relax amidst nature

Located about 60 km from Hoi An, Nui Than Tai is a famous hot spring resort, perfect for those seeking relaxation on a day trip from Hoi An.

Exciting experiences:

• Soak in the natural hot springs and enjoy a mud bath to relax and rejuvenate.
• Explore the water park, which offers fun activities for both children and adults.
• Try boiled eggs cooked in the hot spring water – a unique specialty of the park.

Things to note when visiting Nui Than Tai:

• Bring swimwear and a towel for a more comfortable experience.
• Book tickets in advance during peak seasons to avoid crowds.

7. Tra Que Vegetable Village – Experience Life as a Farmer

Located just 3 km from Hoi An’s center, Tra Que Vegetable Village is one of the most fascinating destinations for those interested in organic farming and local culinary culture. The village is renowned for its fresh, high-quality vegetables, grown using traditional methods without chemicals—only natural fertilizers from seaweed harvested in Tra Que Lagoon.

Exciting experiences at Tra Que Vegetable Village:

• Learn organic farming techniques: Visitors can get hands-on experience with every step of the process, from soil preparation and seed planting to watering and nurturing the crops, using natural seaweed fertilizer.
• Be a farmer for a day: Dress in traditional áo bà ba and a conical hat, work alongside local farmers, and immerse yourself in the peaceful rhythm of rural life.
• Join a Traditional Cooking Class: Learn how to prepare Hoi An specialties such as bánh xèo (Vietnamese sizzling pancake), tôm hữu (shrimp rolls), and Tra Que vegetable salad—using freshly harvested ingredients from the garden.
• Cycle Around the Village: Ride through narrow, tree-lined paths for a relaxing and scenic experience.

Things to note when visiting:

• It’s best to visit in the morning to enjoy the fresh air and avoid the midday heat.

• Booking an agricultural experience tour in advance ensures a guided and informative visit.

8. Thanh Ha Pottery Village – Preserving 500 years of ceramic craftsmanship

Located about 4 km from Hoi An, Thanh Ha Pottery Village is an ideal destination to explore the long-standing art of traditional ceramics. Dating back to the 16th century, the village is renowned for its exquisite handmade pottery, crafted entirely from local clay.

Must-try experiences at Thanh Ha Pottery Village:

• Visit Traditional Pottery Workshops: Watch skilled artisans knead clay, shape products on a potter’s wheel, and use traditional firing techniques.
• Try Your Hand at Pottery: Get hands-on experience in making your own ceramic creations, from bowls and vases to small figurines, as a unique souvenir.
• Explore Thanh Ha Terracotta Park: Vietnam’s largest ceramic museum, showcasing miniature replicas of famous architectural wonders worldwide, all crafted from terracotta.
• Discover the Lives of Pottery Artisans: Learn the stories behind the generations of craftsmen dedicated to preserving and evolving this traditional craft.

Things to keep in mind:

• Consider purchasing small ceramic souvenirs, but ensure they are carefully packed to avoid breakage.

9. Kim Bong Carpentry Village – A gathering lace for master wood carvers

Nestled along the Thu Bon River, about 3 km from Hoi An, Kim Bong Carpentry Village is home to talented artisans who specialize in crafting exquisite wooden products. Established in the 16th century, the village played a crucial role in building Hoi An’s wooden architecture and supplying ships to foreign traders.

Highlights of Kim Bong Carpentry Village:

• Visit Traditional Woodworking Workshops: Witness master artisans skillfully carving intricate patterns on statues, furniture, wooden doors, and sailing boats.
• Learn the Woodworking Process: Discover each step of crafting wooden products, from selecting raw materials to carving and polishing for a perfect finish.
• Shop for Handcrafted Wooden Souvenirs: Find unique handmade items such as small statues, engraved paintings, and wooden furniture, all reflecting the village’s artistic heritage.
• Experience Traditional Boat Building: Gain insights into the craftsmanship behind wooden boat construction, one of the village’s most important traditional trades.

Things to keep in mind:

• Engage with the artisans to better understand their dedication and creative process behind each handcrafted piece.
• If purchasing wooden souvenirs, consider placing an order in advance to ensure quality and allow time for customization.

10. Grang Waterfall – Untamed beauty amidst Quang Nam’s Mountains

Deep within the forests of Nam Giang District, about 80 km from Hoi An, Grang Waterfall is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. As one of the most stunning waterfalls in Quang Nam, it boasts an untouched charm with cascading white waters flowing through dense tropical forests.

Must-do activities at Grang Waterfall:

• Trek through the Pristine Forest: To reach Grang Waterfall, visitors must hike through breathtaking jungle trails filled with diverse flora and fauna, including vibrant butterflies and birds.
• Swim in the Natural Pools: Cool off in the crystal-clear water basins formed at the base of the waterfall, an ideal spot to relax after a rewarding trek.
• Capture stunning nature shots: The majestic scenery, featuring large rock formations and the waterfall’s frothy white streams, makes for a perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos.

Important travel tips:

• Wear trekking shoes, bring swimwear, and carry enough water, as the hike through the forest takes around 30-45 minutes.
• Avoid visiting during the rainy season (October – December) due to slippery trails and rising water levels.
• Keep the environment clean, do not litter and help preserve the natural ecosystem.

11. Phu Ninh Lake – A peaceful ecotourism area

Located in Tam Ky, about 60 kilometers from Hoi An, Phu Ninh Lake is one of the largest man-made lakes in Central Vietnam. With its lush green surroundings, peaceful atmosphere, and exciting recreational activities, this is an ideal getaway for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.

Exciting experiences at Phu Ninh Lake:

• Kayaking across the Vast Waters: Rent a kayak and explore the serene lake, paddling through its hidden corners while enjoying the calm and refreshing environment.
• Relax in Natural Hot Springs: The lake features natural hot mineral springs, providing a soothing experience that helps relieve stress and improve well-being.
• Camping and outdoor picnics: The spacious area around the lake is perfect for overnight camping or a fun picnic with family and friends.
• Discover the rich ecosystem: Phu Ninh Lake is home to diverse wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers to observe birds and other animals in their natural habitat.

Travel tips:

• Bring snacks and drinks if you plan to camp or have a picnic.
• For group trips, consider renting a large boat to explore more of the lake.
• Book the hot spring bath service in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.

Read more: Central Vietnam itinerary 7 days: Explore nature, culture and cuisine

12. Bay Mau Coconut Forest – A “Mini Mekong Delta” in Quang Nam

Just 5 km from Hoi An, Bay Mau Coconut Forest is a must-visit destination for those who love river landscapes and want to experience a taste of the Mekong Delta culture right in Central Vietnam. With its vast nipa palm forest, this area offers unique activities you won’t find anywhere else.

Highlights of Bay Mau Coconut Forest:

• Basket Boat Ride Through the Palm Forest: Enjoy a fun ride in a traditional round basket boat, weaving through narrow waterways shaded by lush coconut trees.
• Watch Bamboo Basket Boat Performances & Fishing Net Throwing: Local fishermen showcase their skills with mesmerizing boat-spinning tricks and net-casting demonstrations, creating a lively and entertaining experience.
• Explore the Unique Ecosystem: Covering more than 100 hectares, the coconut forest is home to various species of fish, crabs, and water birds.
• Taste Local Delicacies: Don’t miss out on regional specialties like crispy bánh xèo (Vietnamese savory pancakes), flavorful mixed clams, and fresh fish salad, all prepared with local ingredients.

Travel tips:

• Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun and fully enjoy the experience.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the area can get quite sunny.
• Book a guided tour in advance for a more insightful experience about the history and daily life of the local people.

After a day of exploring breathtaking destinations around Hoi An, there’s nothing better than unwinding at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness. Nestled along the tranquil Binh Minh Beach, this luxury resort offers a perfect blend of relaxation, modern comfort, and world-class wellness services.

With its prime beachfront location, attentive service, and premium facilities, Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness is the ultimate retreat to recharge, relax, and savor the serenity of Central Vietnam’s coastal paradise.