Xuan Thieu Beach is far more than just a stretch of sand, it is an experience that blends natural beauty, peaceful relaxation, and authentic local life. Unlike the busier beaches in Da Nang, it offers a calm atmosphere where you can slow down, breathe in the sea breeze, and watch the sun transform the water into fiery shades at sunrise and sunset. With gentle waves for swimming and wide-open space to unwind, it is a rewarding coastal escape that can easily be included in your itinerary or explored through well-planned Da Nang tours, and GTrip is here to help you design a seamless and memorable coastal journey.
Feb - 12 - 2026
Xuan Thieu Beach is Da Nang's best-kept secret, offering a tranquil and authentic escape from the city’s more famous, bustling coastlines. Known locally as the "Red Sea", this serene stretch of sand captivates visitors with a spectacular natural phenomenon: at sunrise and sunset, the water glows with a brilliant red hue. It creates a breathtaking scene unique to this part of the coast. Its calm waters, proximity to world-class attractions a stone's throw away and its peaceful, local atmosphere make it an essential stop for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. This comprehensive GTrip guide is the only resource you will need, covering everything. Prepare to uncover the quiet charm of one of Central Vietnam's most underrated beaches.
Overview of Xuan Thieu Beach in Da Nang City
Before you pack your bag for this coastal paradise, understanding its location, history, and unique qualities will enhance your visit. Xuan Thieu Beach is a destination with a distinct character and a story that sets it apart from other beaches in Da Nang, such as the famous My Khe or Non Nuoc.
Where is Xuan Thieu Beach?
Location: Nguyen Tat Thanh Road, Hai Van Ward (formerly Hoa Hiep Nam Ward, Lien Chieu District), Da Nang City
Xuan Thieu Beach stretches gracefully along the northern curve of Da Nang Bay. It is located on Nguyen Tat Thanh Road, the city's scenic coastal highway that runs along the bay, and falls within the Hai Van Ward. This location places it conveniently between the city center and the iconic Hai Van Pass, making it an easily accessible yet peaceful retreat away from the main tourist hubs. Its position offers stunning, uninterrupted views across the water towards the Son Tra Peninsula.
Xuan Thieu Beach lies along Da Nang Bay on Nguyen Tat Thanh Road, offering easy access, a peaceful setting, and panoramic views toward the Son Tra Peninsula
Best time to visit Xuan Thieu Beach
The ideal time to visit Xuan Thieu Beach is during Da Nang’s dry season, which runs from April to August. During these months, you can expect abundant sunshine, clear blue skies, and calm, gentle seas, creating perfect conditions for swimming and beach activities. The water temperature is warm and inviting. To witness the famous "Red Sea" phenomenon, the best times of day are early morning for sunrise (around 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM) and late afternoon for sunset (around 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM). Visiting during the shoulder months, such as March and September, can also be pleasant with fewer visitors.
History of Xuan Thieu Beach
Xuan Thieu Beach has a fascinating history tied to the Vietnam War. During the 1960s and 1970s, it was a designated rest and recreation area for American soldiers stationed in Da Nang. They nicknamed it "Red Beach" not for any political reason, but for the striking crimson and scarlet colors that painted the water's surface during sunrise and sunset. This natural spectacle, caused by the reflection of the sun on the calm sea, left a lasting impression. Today, the name Xuan Thieu is official, but the romantic and descriptive moniker "Red Beach" endures among locals and informed travelers.
What makes Xuan Thieu Beach unique?
Xuan Thieu Beach's unique charm lies in a combination of three distinct factors. First and foremost is the famous "Red Sea" spectacle at dawn and dusk, a natural light show that offers unparalleled photographic opportunities and a truly memorable experience. Second, it provides a serene atmosphere. Unlike the high-energy, Xuan Thieu remains largely untouched by large crowds, offering a peaceful environment where you can hear the waves and feel a connection to the local way of life. Finally, its strategic location at the foot of the magnificent Hai Van Pass makes it a natural starting or ending point for one of Vietnam's most famous road trips.
Xuan Thieu Beach enchants visitors with its rare “Red Sea” sunrise and sunset, peaceful uncrowded atmosphere, and prime location near the scenic Hai Van Pass
How to get to Xuan Thieu Beach
Reaching Xuan Thieu Beach is straightforward, as it sits directly on a major coastal road. Located approximately 10-11 kilometers (about 6.5 miles) northwest of Da Nang's City center, the journey itself is a scenic drive along the beautiful Nguyen Tat Thanh Road. This wide, well-maintained boulevard traces the edge of Da Nang Bay, offering panoramic ocean views along the way. Your primary landmark upon arrival is the impressive Mikazuki Japanese Resorts & Spa, a large resort and water park located directly across the street from the beach.
From Da Nang City center
Getting to Xuan Thieu Beach from the Da Nang City center or the My Khe Beach area is a simple and pleasant drive. The most direct route involves heading towards the Nguyen Tat Thanh coastal road and following it northwest. The beach is well-signposted, and the large Mikazuki complex is impossible to miss. The drive typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Start from the Dragon Bridge or Han River Bridge and head west.
- Get on Duy Tan Street and then turn right onto Nguyen Van Linh Street.
- At the large roundabout, take the exit onto Nguyen Tri Phuong Street.
- Continue until you reach the Dien Bien Phu roundabout, then take the exit for Le Do Street.
- Follow Le Do Street until it merges with the expansive Nguyen Tat Thanh Road.
- Turn left onto Nguyen Tat Thanh and drive northwest along the coast for approximately 7-8 kilometers.
- You will see Xuan Thieu Beach on your right, with the Mikazuki Water Park on your left.
Xuan Thieu Beach easily reached by following Nguyen Tat Thanh coastal road northwest past the Mikazuki complex
From Hoi An
For travelers coming from the south, Xuan Thieu Beach is a perfect stop on the way to Da Nang’s northern attractions. If you are journeying from Hoi An, the beach serves as a refreshing break before tackling the iconic Hai Van Pass. Its location is ideal for itineraries that include onward travel to other stunning coastal spots, such as Lap An Lagoon, Lang Co Beach, or the mountainous Bach Ma National Park. The drive from Hoi An to Xuan Thieu Beach takes approximately 50 to 60 minutes, covering a distance of about 40 kilometers. You would first drive to Da Nang and then follow the city center directions.
Transportation options
Visitors have several convenient transportation options to choose from, each offering different benefits for budget, flexibility, and comfort.
- Motorbike/Scooter: The most popular choice for adventurers and budget travelers. Renting a motorbike gives you the ultimate flexibility to explore the coast at your own pace. The drive along Nguyen Tat Thanh Road is smooth and scenic.
- Car/Taxi/Ride-hailing: A comfortable and convenient option, especially for families or small groups. Taxis are readily available, and ride-hailing apps operate widely in Da Nang, offering fixed and affordable fares.
- Private tour: Many tour operators include Xuan Thieu Beach as part of a larger Da Nang City or Hai Van Pass tour, combining it with other nearby attractions for a seamless experience.
Note: While Da Nang has a public bus system, routes to Xuan Thieu Beach can be indirect and less convenient for tourists. A motorbike or taxi is the recommended mode of transport.
Visitors can reach Xuan Thieu Beach by motorbike, taxi, ride-hailing, or private tour, with motorbikes and taxis offering the most convenient and flexible options
Things to do on Xuan Thieu Beach
While Xuan Thieu Beach radiates a quieter, more relaxed energy than its southern counterparts, it is far from boring. The beach offers a delightful blend of peaceful relaxation, stunning natural beauty, and engaging recreational activities. You can enjoy magical sunrises, families can swim safely, and adventurers can use Xuan Thieu as a base for exploration, with wide sands and gentle waters creating a relaxing coastal experience. Its wide sands and gentle waters welcome visitors to unwind and play.
1. Admire the “Red Sea” sunrise and sunset at Xuan Thieu Beach
The absolute must-do activity at Xuan Thieu Beach is to witness the natural phenomenon that gave it the name "Red Beach". The spectacle is most dramatic during sunrise and sunset. As the sun hovers near the horizon, its low-angle light reflects off the calm surface of Da Nang Bay, transforming the water into a vast canvas of fiery reds, deep oranges, and brilliant pinks. The effect is almost magical, creating a serene and deeply photogenic moment. The best viewing time is between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM for sunrise and 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM for sunset. Find a comfortable spot on the soft sand, listen to the gentle lapping of the waves, and watch as the sea glows with an ethereal light.
Watching sunrise or sunset at Xuan Thieu Beach reveals its famous “Red Beach” glow, as the sea reflects vivid reds and oranges in a magical, photogenic display
2. Swimming in calm and safe waters
Is Xuan Thieu Beach clean and safe for swimming? Absolutely. The waters here are known for being exceptionally calm, clean, and shallow, with a gentle, sloping seabed. This makes it an ideal and safe swimming spot for families with children and less confident swimmers. Unlike My Khe Beach, the waves at Xuan Thieu Beach are typically mild, protected by the bay's natural curve. You will see many local families enjoying the water, especially in the late afternoon. For added safety, it's always wise to swim in areas where locals are present. The refreshing, clear water provides a perfect respite from the tropical heat, and the uncrowded nature of the beach means you can enjoy your swim in peace.
3. Beach walks & fresh sea air
The long, crescent-shaped shoreline of Xuan Thieu Beach, which stretches for over 3 kilometers is perfect for long, contemplative walks. The sand is fine and firm, making for easy strolling along the water's edge. As you walk, you are treated to a stunning panoramic vista that is unique to this location. To the east, the lush, green slopes of the Son Tra Peninsula rise majestically from the sea, home to the famous Lady Buddha Statue. To the northwest, the formidable, cloud-shrouded peaks of the Hai Van Pass create a dramatic and beautiful backdrop. The air here feels particularly fresh, carried on a gentle sea breeze that rustles through the casuarina trees lining the shore.
Xuan Thieu Beach’s 3-kilometer crescent shoreline is ideal for peaceful walks, offering fresh sea breezes and panoramic views of Son Tra Peninsula
4. Beach games & recreational activities
The vast, flat expanse of sand at Xuan Thieu Beach makes it a natural playground for a variety of recreational activities. In the late afternoons, the beach comes alive with locals and tour groups engaging in friendly competition. The wide shoreline is perfect for group games, such as beach volleyball, football, and even traditional Vietnamese games like tug of war. This creates a lively, joyful atmosphere that is infectious. Visitors are welcome to join in or simply find their own space to fly a kite, throw a frisbee, or participate in team-building exercises. This communal spirit provides a wonderful glimpse into the local culture and the importance of the beach as a community gathering space.
5. Visit Mikazuki Water Park & Japanese Onsen
Located directly across the road from Xuan Thieu Beach is one of Da Nang’s premier family attractions: the Mikazuki Water Park 365. This massive entertainment complex offers both indoor and outdoor fun, ensuring a great time regardless of the weather. The indoor park features Japan-themed slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, while the outdoor section boasts thrilling rides like the Dragon Slider. A key feature setting Mikazuki apart is its authentic Japanese onsen, providing a unique wellness experience to soothe your muscles after a day of exploring. A convenient pedestrian overpass, styled like a traditional Japanese bridge, connects the resort directly to Xuan Thieu Beach, allowing for effortless movement between the water park and the sea.
Mikazuki Water Park offering year-round family fun with themed rides, wave pools, and a Japanese onsen connected by a pedestrian bridge
6. Enjoy fresh seafood & local specialties
A trip to any Da Nang beach is incomplete without indulging in fresh seafood, and Xuan Thieu Beach is no exception. The restaurants lining Nguyen Tat Thanh Road offer an authentic and affordable dining experience. Because the area is less commercialized than the city center, seafood here is often sourced directly from local fishing boats and served at very reasonable prices. You'll find a range of casual, open-air eateries where you can pick your live seafood from tanks. Popular choices include fresh dishes, such as grilled squid, steamed clams with lemongrass, garlic butter prawns, and whole grilled fish. Dining with your feet in the sand while enjoying the sea breeze is the perfect way to cap off a day at Xuan Thieu Beach.
Accommodation near Xuan Thieu Beach
The area around Xuan Thieu Beach offers a diverse range of accommodations, such as a world-class luxury resort, comfortable hotels and budget-friendly guesthouses. Its proximity to both the beach and major transport routes makes it a convenient base for your Da Nang stay.
- Da Nang Mikazuki Japanese Resorts & Spa: The landmark luxury resort in the area, offering opulent rooms, a private beach area, an on-site water park, and Japanese-style hospitality.
- The Code Hotel & Spa: A modern hotel with a stunning rooftop pool and bar offering panoramic views of Da Nang Bay and the Son Tra Peninsula.
- Ngan Ha Hotel (Galaxy Hotel): A solid mid-range option located on Nguyen Tat Thanh street, known for clean rooms and friendly service.
- Seahorse Hotel & Hostel by HAVI: A budget-friendly choice offering both private rooms and dorm beds, popular with backpackers and solo travelers.
- Blue Beach Hotel: A simple and affordable hotel providing basic amenities and direct access to the quieter parts of the beach.
Xuan Thieu Beach offers accommodation options ranging from luxury resorts to budget hotels, making it a convenient and versatile base for exploring Da Nang
Other attractions near Xuan Thieu Beach
Xuan Thieu Beach's strategic location in the Hai Van Ward places it within easy reach of several other significant attractions, making it an excellent hub for exploring the northern side of Da Nang and beyond.
- Nam O Reef: Just a few kilometers north, this is a beautiful rocky reef covered in green moss (in season), creating a surreal landscape perfect for photography, especially at low tide.
- Hai Van Pass: The legendary mountain pass begins just past Xuan Thieu Beach, offering one of the most spectacular coastal drives in the world with breathtaking viewpoints.
- Lang Co Beach: A pristine, beautiful beach located on the other side of the Hai Van Pass, known for its turquoise water and white sand.
- Lap An Lagoon: Situated at the foot of the Hai Van Pass near Lang Co, this brackish lagoon is famous for its oyster farms and stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains.
- Son Tra Peninsula: Visible across the bay from Xuan Thieu, this nature reserve is home to the famous Lady Buddha, ancient banyan trees, and the rare red-shanked douc langur.
Xuan Thieu Beach is a convenient base for exploring northern Da Nang, with easy access to Nam O Reef, Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Beach, and Lap An Lagoon
Travel tips & useful information when visiting Xuan Thieu Beach
To make the most of your visit to Xuan Thieu Beach, keep these practical tips in mind to ensure a safe, comfortable, and memorable experience.
- Always bring proper sun protection: The Vietnamese sun can be intense even on cloudy days, so prepare high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
- Check the weather forecast in advance: If you plan to swim or join water activities, visit during the dry season from April to August for the best conditions.
- Practice responsible tourism: Dispose of your trash properly or take it with you to help preserve the beach’s natural beauty.
- Choose the right time for photography: Sunrise and sunset offer the best light to capture the famous “Red Sea” reflection effect.
- Combine nearby attractions: Consider pairing your beach visit with Hai Van Pass or Nam O Reef for a fuller day experience.
- Stay hydrated throughout the day: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration in Da Nang’s tropical climate.
Bring sun protection, check the weather, stay hydrated, and visit at sunrise or sunset to fully enjoy Xuan Thieu Beach while combining it with nearby attractions
