Welcome to my digital nomad guide to living in Da Nang. Home to everything from stunning beaches and scuba diving to dedicated coworking spaces and an abundance of laptop-friendly cafes.
This epic city is Vietnam’s 5th largest and is ideally located on the central east coast. Often overshadowed by the bigger cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang is a fantastic location with so much to offer. So, if you’re contemplating becoming a Da Nang digital nomad, read on to see why it should be high on your list of Vietnam destinations.
SEE ALSO: 10 Best Places in Vietnam for Digital Nomads
About Da Nang
With a population of just over a million people, Da Nang seamlessly blends natural beauty, rich history, and modern development. Nestled between lush mountains and the clear waters of the East Sea, it has some of the most incredible beaches I have ever seen – and I’ve seen a lot!
In stark contrast to this tranquil beach vibe, the city’s skyline is decorated with huge skyscrapers, fabulous hotels, office buildings, and a vibrant social scene. There are also several striking bridges, notably the iconic Dragon Bridge which breathes fire on weekend evenings!
Da Nang is a city steeped in history, but also one that’s embracing modernization with open arms. The city’s development is evident in its world-class resorts, golf courses, and entertainment complexes that cater to tourists from around the world.
Digital Nomad in Da Nang: Personal Experience
I had initially intended to use Da Nang as a short stopping-off point en route to Hanoi from Ho Chi Minh City, but I quickly realized it deserved a closer look. I was ideally located for other awesome locations like Hoi An and Hue and ended up extending my time in Da Nang to explore and make the most of its great facilities.
The combination of beach life and cosmopolitan amenities is perfect for a digital nomad living in Da Nang. As you find yourself amidst towering skyscrapers and modern infrastructure, the city exudes a metropolitan vibe. However, this metropolis sensation swiftly fades away as the ocean and white sandy beaches come into view.
I found Da Nang to be a place that provided the best of both worlds. Additionally, I encountered a significant number of expats, offering me slices of familiarity and Western culture when I craved it.
Da Nang ticked all the boxes for me with its readily available WiFi, low cost of living, and excellent social scene – I’d recommend it to any remote worker seeking their next home base.
Is Da Nang Safe?
With a high volume of tourists and business visitors each year, Da Nang is considered a very safe place to visit. Crime rates are ranked as low to very low across the board and I felt safe during the entirety of my stay.
As with anywhere, it’s always advisable to be wary of your belongings and surroundings at all times. Vietnam does experience crimes such as pickpocketing, but with common-sense practices, most opportunities for such incidents can be mitigated.
The roads of Da Nang are considerably less chaotic than Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. But, I still witnessed many driving practices that would warrant an arrest in the UK or the US! Crossing roads can be one of the most dangerous things for visitors in Vietnam and Da Nang is no exception.
Best Areas to Live in Da Nang
Da Nang offers several vibrant neighborhoods, each with its distinct charm and appeal. These five areas are the city’s best spots for digital nomads to call home:
1. Son Tra Peninsula
Cutting out into the waters of the East Sea and known for its stunning coastal views and lush greenery, Son Tra Peninsula is a tranquil retreat from the busy city. The neighborhood is home to the famous Linh Ung Pagoda, perched atop a hillside overlooking the sea. You’ll also find pristine beaches including Bai But and Bai Rang here.
With its serene ambiance and proximity to nature, Son Tra Peninsula is an ideal neighborhood for anyone seeking relaxation and a break from the busy city whilst maintaining plenty of convenient amenities. It’s also a great spot for those who love outdoor activities.
2. Hai Chau District
As the city’s central business district, Hai Chau is where I stayed during my time in the city. It’s a bustling, modern area teeming with commercial activity but there are also plenty of cultural landmarks and it has easy access to the beach.
Here is where you’ll find the iconic Dragon Bridge as well as the very popular Han Market, which is a warren of street food and market stalls that’s an experience not to be missed. Hai Chau District caters to business and leisure travelers with its vibrant atmosphere and diverse amenities.
3. My An
One of the great things about Da Nang is the surprisingly small distance between the bustling city center and the fabulous beaches. My An is situated along the scenic coastline and is known as a popular residential area. It also has several beautiful beaches, upscale cocktail bars, and a lively waterfront nightlife.
The neighborhood is dotted with luxury resorts and beachfront villas, making it a favorite among affluent travelers. Subsequently, there are many dining options around My An making it a popular hub for residents and visitors alike.
4. An Thuong
Nestled between My An Beach and My Khe Beach, An Thuong is another lively neighborhood known for having a vibrant nightlife and varied dining scene. Moreover, the area is lined with cute cafes, lively bars, and international restaurants, which gives it a very cosmopolitan atmosphere.
In contrast to My An, An Thuong offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to affordable Aribnbs. It’s a popular choice for backpackers and anyone living in Da Nang as a digital nomad wanting to experience the good life without breaking the bank.
5. Hoa Hai
Located to the south of Da Nang, Hoa Hai is a quiet and affluent neighborhood renowned for its high-end resorts and pristine beaches. This area is home to the acclaimed Montgomerie Links golf course, as well as the Marble Mountains, a limestone outcrop adorned with Buddhist shrines.
With its upscale accommodation, Hoa Hai is the location of choice for anyone seeking a more luxurious retreat away from the city center. Despite the escapism it offers, there are plenty of family-run shops and traditional restaurants that provide parts of Hoa Hai with a more down-to-earth vibe.
How to Find Accommodation in Da Nang
As a popular tourist spot, there are plenty of choices when it comes to booking accommodation in Da Nang. Here are a few of my top places to look and tips for ensuring you get the best deal.
1. Booking.com. The ability to cancel at late notice and book without payment is a major advantage of Booking.com. It helps me in a huge way with budgeting and planning months ahead. Level 3 of their Genius Membership offers great discounts and perks with many bookings.
2. Trusted Housesitters. I used house sitting sites on 4 occasions during my time in Vietnam – it’s a fantastic way to save money on accommodation. It also enhances your overall traveling experience as you get a more authentic stay. My site of choice is Trustedhousesitters.com as they have thousands of listings worldwide and regular Vietnam posts available.
3. Local Agents. Numerous local agents such as houserentaldanang.com are available to assist visitors with finding longer-term accommodation options. However, most will require a contracted commitment period, but this can be ideal if you intend to stay for a long time.
4. Airbnb. My go-to option for longer stays is Airbnb, as many hosts will offer large discounts if booking for at least 4-weeks. Da Nang has a host of listings with everything from a room in a shared apartment to entire houses waiting to be booked.
Cost of Living in Da Nang
Like much of Vietnam, many visitors will find the cost of living in Da Nang very affordable. Here’s a break down of some everyday expenditures and what you should expect to pay:
Restaurants and Groceries
Dining out and grocery shopping is one of the areas where visitors to Da Nang will see some of the biggest savings. Traditional street food or a meal in a local restaurant will cost less than $2.
A trip to one of Da Nang’s fancier or international restaurants will set you back on average around $15pp, but that’s not too bad for 3-courses!
A trip to the supermarket in Da Nang can be a fun experience. I found meat, vegetables, fruits, rice, pasta, and eggs all to be around 40-60% cheaper than back home in the UK. Cheese is often more expensive though, and good cheese can be hard to find.
Accommodation Costs
Whether booking via a travel company like Airbnb or officially securing a long-term rental with a local agent, property prices are very affordable in Da Nang.
Based on a long-term/semi-permanent home, the average cost for a city center apartment is under $250/month and utilities, including WiFi, should set you back no more than $60/month.
But even when booking more ‘touristy’ accommodations, prices start incredibly low and go as high as you want to spend. From personal experience in Vietnam, a figure of around $500/month secures a nice apartment in a great location with plenty of modern amenities.
Transportation Costs in Da Nang
Getting around Da Nang is very easy to do. Good buses link all parts of the city and although getting your hands on a correct schedule is a much harder feat, I found I never waited more than 5-10 minutes for a local bus. Google Maps provides some fairly accurate routes and bus tickets cost as little as $0.40.
A couple of reliable taxi companies are on hand as well as Grab, (which is like the South Asian equivalent of Uber). Local rides usually cost around $1-$2 and can be booked and paid for on the app. I suggest getting set up on Grab before you arrive in Vietnam.
SIM Cards and Data
Although WiFi is seemingly available everywhere in Da Nang, I’d recommend picking up a data SIM card. It just makes things a little easier when out and about, and offers a bit of security should your WiFi ever go down.
Viettel, Mobiphone, and Vinaphone are 3 of the big telecommunications companies in Vietnam. All offer hefty data SIMs for visitors that start at around $6/month. Head to an official retail store and they’ll set your phone up there and then with a Vietnam SIM.
Money Saving Tips for Da Nang
Here are a few of my top tips for saving money whilst in Da Nang.
- Eat Local. Street food stalls and local restaurants offer delicious meals for under $2.
- House sit. Get signed up on a house sitting site like Trustedhousesitters.com and secure a free stay in Da Nang. Be sure to read my previous article – How to Become a House Sitter in Vietnam.
- Stay a while. Airbnb and other platforms offer hefty discounts for anyone staying 4 weeks or more.
- Enjoy the free stuff. Much of Da Nang’s natural beauty such as the beaches and fantastic countryside is free to enjoy.
- Visit the markets. Da Nang has numerous local markets where great deals on everything from groceries to clothes are to be had.
- Haggle. The Vietnamese famously love to haggle, especially in the marketplaces, so don’t fear a little negotiation.
- Grab Unlimited. If you’re new to Grab you may be offered a free trial of their Unlimited membership, which has extra savings on trips and food orders and can be canceled for free anytime.
- Use local transport. Regular and reliable buses connect most of Da Nang and further afield, tickets start at $0.40.
Coworking Spaces in Da Nang and WiFi Speed
As a major metropolitan city and a business hub, there are plenty of coworking spaces for digital nomads to take advantage of while working remotely in Da Nang. Here are a few of my top choices;
1. Seaview Coworking
Located on the 9th floor of the Waikiki Hotel and as the name suggests offering stunning sea views, Seaview Coworking is open 24/7 and a great spot for digital nomads.
The hosts are super friendly, the space is very modern and comfortable for working in, and free tea and coffee are supplied for all visitors. Expect great WiFi, picturesque views, and a welcoming environment for as little as $3/day.
2. Beans Workspace
A super sleek and modern setting with a motivating and vibrant atmosphere, Beans Workspace is a convenient and ideal choice for digital nomads living in Da Nang. A day pass can be bought for as little as $3.50 and secures the perfect setting for a day of work.
Beans is a popular spot but with ample desks and seating options, it has never felt too busy when I have visited. The adjoining cafe offers a great selection of drink and food options at very affordable prices too.
3. Ace Coworking
With a variety of price options to suit however long you plan to stay in Da Nang, Ace Coworking is an excellent option for anyone seeking a professional and reliable working base. It has ergonomic chairs, tons of natural light, and an excellent coffee shop on the ground floor.
From hourly to monthly rates, and with prices starting at just $2, I recommend securing yourself a hot desk here. Pre-booking your spot is required, and can be done by phone, WhatsApp, or Instagram.
Best Cafes to Work From in Da Nang
Coffee is a big deal in Vietnam and as such there are plenty of great cafes in Da Nang that are laptop-friendly and welcoming to digital nomads. Here are a few of my top recommendations;
- The Hideout Cafe. A popular spot for digital nomads living in Da Nang, The Hideout Cafe offers a cool and chilled modern interior with a nice open-plan patio that are both great places to work from. The WiFi is reliable and among many great food options, the breakfast here is excellent.
- Craft Cafe: Specializing in gluten-free waffles (which are delicious!) Craft Cafe is a small but very comfortable place to situate for a day of remote work. Friendly staff are welcoming of Da Nang digital nomads and the drinks list has everything from organic smoothies and coffee to protein shakes.
- The Cups Coffee. Situated just a block from the beach, The Cups Coffee is a spacious and lively cafe. Selling some seriously good coffee, ample seating choices, decent WiFi, and an array of excellent sweet treats to fuel your day, what’s not to love?
Activities and Things To Do in Da Nang
I don’t know about you but I certainly didn’t set off traveling with my laptop just to sit in front of it all day and work! There are plenty of fantastic activities in Da Nang for visitors to enjoy, here are a few of my favorites;
1. Golden Bridge
Before arriving in Da Nang, my Instagram feed kept showing me an epic bridge held up by huge hands that you can walk across. I’ve since found out, it’s actually called the Golden Bridge and is easily accessed from Da Nang.
To get to it you’ll need to ride one of the world’s longest cable cars. This will take you high up to Ba Na Hills where a resort and theme park await. It’s a great day that mixes sensational scenic beauty with adventure and fun. I took a day trip with pick up and drop off and everything included, click here to see the tour I booked.
2. Visit Marble Mountain and Monkey Mountain
During one excellent day trip, you can take in two of Da Nang’s most awesome sights. The epic Lady Buddha statue which is the largest Buddhist statue in Vietnam is an incredible sight. The nearby Am Phu Caves of Marble Mountain are also breathtaking.
It’s possible to do both via taxi and organize it all yourself, but it doesn’t cost too much more to have a guided tour and hotel pick up and drop off. I booked an excellent small tour and I’m glad I did as I certainly would have missed a lot of interesting stuff! Click here to learn more.
3. Visit Hoi An
One of my favorite places to visit in the whole of Vietnam is Hoi An. The ancient port town which is situated about 40 minutes south along the coast from Da Nang has so much historical provenance and cultural attraction, it’s a must-visit town.
Old Town Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and once you get there you’ll understand why. The cobbled small streets, buzzing night market, and stunning architecture create an endearing environment that attracts visitors from around the world. Taxis and buses will get you to Hoi An, or take a look at this great tour I found.
4. Visit Hue
The wonderful Imperial city of Hue lies within easy reach of Da Nang and is well worth a visit. The 2-hour car journey there has to be one of the most spectacular I’ve ever taken.
The city itself is full of ancient architecture and cultural artifacts, perfect for history geeks like me! The Complex of Hue Monuments is a sprawling architectural feat, renowned for its ornate mix of imperial palaces, temples, and tombs, showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of the Nguyen Dynasty. Click here to learn more about day trips to Hue.
5. Snorkeling and Island Hopping
Da Nang has pristine waters and a couple of amazing islands just waiting to be explored. Getting to enjoy this side of life is what being a digital nomad in Da Nang is all about. This was one of my all-time favorite day trips so far.
You can take a speed boat from Da Nang (why not?), go snorkeling, and explore the calm waters of the Cham and Tai Islands before settling down to enjoy a seafood barbecue lunch. What a perfect day! Click here to learn more and book your tour.
Weather in Da Nang
Da Nang receives an average of 2612 hours of sunlight annually and has a pleasant and tropical climate year-round, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads who, like me, enjoy sunshine and warmth.
Located centrally in Vietnam, the city experiences distinct seasons, with the dry season typically spanning from January to August. During this time, there are plenty of clear skies, abundant sunshine, and temperatures ranging from 20°C to 33°C (69°F to 92°F).
The wet season, which occurs from September to December, brings occasional very heavy rain showers and slightly cooler temperatures. Overall, Da Nang’s climate ensures that visitors can enjoy its beauty and outdoor activities throughout the year.
Pros and Cons of Living in Da Nang
Life in Da Nang comes with plenty of positives but, as with anywhere in the the world, there are a few negatives to consider too. Let’s take a look at the top considerations for digital nomads living in Da Nang:
Pros of Living in Da Nang
- Pleasant climate. If, like me, you hate the cold, then Da Nang is perfect. Temperatures rarely ever drop below 20°C (69°F) and it also receives 2162 hours of sunlight annually.
- Low cost of living. Like much of Vietnam, many visitors to Da Nang will find prices across the board are cheaper than back home, especially for things like dining out and accommodation.
- Great coworking spaces. Da Nang has numerous options for digital nomads to situate themselves. Remote workers can find both dedicated coworking locations and cool, laptop-friendly cafes to set up shop.
- Beautiful surroundings. Da Nang is blessed with some of the best beaches and most lush countryside I’ve experienced in Vietnam.
- Outdoor activities. The previously mentioned beautiful surroundings subsequently means there are plenty of outdoor pursuits to enjoy. Hiking, surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving are just a few easy possibilities.
Cons of Living in Da Nang
- The rainy season. With Da Nang’s tropical climate comes a rainy season that can be torrential at times. Typhoons are not uncommon and can make daily life in Da Nang a struggle.
- Traffic congestion: As the city grows, traffic congestion has become a common issue, especially during peak hours.
- Tourist Crowds: Da Nang’s popularity as a tourist destination can lead to crowded beaches and attractions, particularly during the high season.
- Pollution: Rapid urbanization and industrialization mean there are some pollution concerns, including air and water pollution in some areas.
- Cultural adjustment: Ex-pats may experience cultural differences and adjustments, which can be challenging for some, particularly those unfamiliar with Vietnamese customs and traditions.
- Language Barrier: While English is increasingly spoken, communication may still be challenging, particularly in rural areas or with older generations.
Digital Nomad Visa for Da Nang
Vietnam doesn’t currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa. Subsequently, different conditions and varying lengths of stay are permitted depending on where you’re from.
As an example, as a UK Citizen, I was able to stay visa-free in Vietnam for 45 days, but was also able to extend my stay for up to 90 days by applying online before arriving. You can also do this at designated international entry points. This policy applies to citizens of 12 other countries as well.
It’s a little trickier for citizens of the USA and Canada who must obtain a tourist visa. This can be applied for online or at select international entry points. A tourist visa can be obtained for either 1 or 3 months and will cost between $25 and $50, depending on the stay duration you select and the number of times you wish to leave and re-enter Vietnam.
In Conclusion
I hope this digital nomad guide to Da Nang has inspired you to consider this incredible destination for your next remote working location. It’s a fantastic city that offers all the good bits of a metropolis alongside the quaintness and beach vibe that most remote workers crave.
I had an amazing time in Da Nang and I’m certain you will too.
