Day Trips from Hoi An: Best Destinations for an Unforgettable Adventure (2025)

Day trips from Hoi An are one of the best ways to discover the incredible natural beauty, culture, and history of Central Vietnam. While Hoi An itself is enchanting, the region around it offers stunning mountains, ancient temples, remote villages, and pristine beaches—all easily accessible in a single day. This guide from Heera Travel shows you the top day trips from Hoi An for every style of traveler.

🌄 Why Take Day Trips from Hoi An?

Hoi An is perfectly located for exploring Central Vietnam’s highlights. Within one or two hours, you can be trekking in the Marble Mountains, soaking in hot springs, snorkeling on Cham Islands, or learning about the lost kingdom of My Son. Day trips let you escape the crowds, experience local life, and add variety to your trip—all while keeping Hoi An as your base.

🏛️ 1. My Son Sanctuary – Ancient Hindu Temples

One of Vietnam’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites, My Son Sanctuary is a must-see. Located about 40 km southwest of Hoi An (1 hour by car), these crumbling brick temples were built by the Cham civilization between the 4th and 13th centuries. Set in a lush jungle valley, My Son is beautiful at sunrise and early morning.
Highlights:

• Explore ancient towers, temples, and ruins with intricate carvings
• Enjoy traditional Cham dance performances (morning only)
• Walk scenic jungle trails

Tips:

• Arrive by 8am to beat the crowds and heat
• Wear good shoes and bring mosquito repellent
• Bring cash for the ticket (about 150,000 VND)

More info: Lonely Planet: My Son Sanctuary

🏝️ 2. Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham) – Pristine Beaches & Snorkeling

The Cham Islands are a cluster of beautiful, unspoiled islands about 20 km offshore from Hoi An. From March to September, you can take a speedboat from Cua Dai Port (20–30 minutes). The islands are famous for white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, coral reefs, and fresh seafood.
Highlights:

• Snorkeling and swimming in marine protected waters
• Visiting fishing villages and local markets
• Relaxing on Bai Chong or Bai Huong beaches
• Sampling seafood caught that morning

Tips:

• Bring sunscreen, hat, and dry bag
• Check weather conditions—trips may be canceled in rough seas
• No ATM on the islands; bring enough cash

More info: Vietnam Online: Cham Islands

⛰️ 3. Marble Mountains – Caves, Pagodas & Panoramic Views

About 25 minutes north of Hoi An (between Hoi An and Da Nang), the Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son) are a group of five limestone and marble hills named after the five elements. The site is famous for its caves, Buddhist temples, and breathtaking views of the coast.
Highlights:

• Climb stone steps to ancient pagodas and mountain peaks
• Explore Huyen Khong and Am Phu Caves
• Watch marble sculptors at work in nearby villages

Tips:

• Wear sturdy shoes for steep steps
• Entrance is about 40,000 VND; elevator costs extra
• Go early or late afternoon for cooler weather

See more: Tripadvisor: Marble Mountains

🌊 4. Da Nang City – Modern Life, Beach & Dragon Bridge

Just 30–40 minutes from Hoi An, Da Nang is Vietnam’s most dynamic city and a perfect contrast to Hoi An’s old-world charm. Take a day to explore its white sand beaches, vibrant street food scene, unique bridges, and striking modern architecture.
Highlights:

• Relax at My Khe Beach or Non Nuoc Beach
• Walk across Dragon Bridge (it breathes fire and water on weekend nights!)
• Visit the Cham Sculpture Museum and Han Market
• Try rooftop bars for city and river views

Tips:

• Use Grab or taxi to get around the city easily
• Packing a swimsuit and camera is a must
• Combine with Marble Mountains for a full-day adventure

Read more: Lonely Planet: Da Nang

🌿 5. Tra Que Vegetable Village – Rural Life Experience

Only 3 km from Hoi An, Tra Que Village offers a tranquil escape into the local countryside. Famous for organic gardens and farming traditions, visitors can learn to plant, harvest, and cook authentic Vietnamese food.
Highlights:

• Guided tours of vegetable fields and hands-on farming
• Cooking classes using fresh local ingredients
• Bicycle rides through lush rice paddies

Tips:

• Book a morning class for cooler weather
• Wear comfortable clothes and sandals
• Bring your camera—photos here are fantastic

More info: Vietnam-Guide: Tra Que Village

🔗 More Day Trip Inspiration from Hoi An

For a full list of what to see, eat, and experience in Hoi An itself, don’t miss our Hoi An Travel Guide 2025: What to Do, Eat & Experience.

• Tripadvisor: Best Day Trips from Hoi An
• Lonely Planet: Top Day Trips from Hoi An
• Vietnam-Guide: Hoi An Day Trips

🎒 Why Book Day Trips with Heera Travel?

Heera Travel’s local experts know the best routes, secret viewpoints, and trusted partners for every day trip. We help you craft a stress-free experience—whether you want a private transfer, local guide, or hands-on village tour. Avoid tourist traps, save money, and make memories with our team’s honest, up-to-date advice.

See our Hoi An Travel Guide 2025 for more inspiration!

🏞️ More Day Trip Destinations Near Hoi An

🚂 6. Hue Imperial City – The Ancient Capital

While it’s a longer journey (2.5–3 hours by car or train), a day trip to Hue rewards you with a glimpse into Vietnam’s royal history. Explore the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel, ornate royal tombs, and riverside pagodas.
Highlights:

• Walk the vast Imperial City and Forbidden Purple City
• Visit the serene Thien Mu Pagoda
• See the impressive tombs of emperors like Khai Dinh and Minh Mang

Tips:

• Start early and book private car or train for comfort
• Wear good walking shoes for the Citadel’s large grounds
• Bring snacks and water, as options are limited near some sites

Learn more: Lonely Planet: Hue

🏖️ 7. Bach Ma National Park – Trekking & Nature

About 2 hours north of Hoi An, Bach Ma National Park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The park is famous for lush mountains, cool waterfalls, and rare wildlife.
Highlights:

• Trek through the forest to Five Lakes and Do Quyen Waterfall
• Climb the Bach Ma Summit for panoramic views
• Watch for birds and butterflies along the trails

Tips:

• Pack bug spray, hiking shoes, and rain gear
• Guides are available at the park gate; start hikes by 9am
• Weather can change quickly—check the forecast

Park info: Vietnam-Guide: Bach Ma Park

🦀 8. Cam Thanh Coconut Village – Eco Tour & Basket Boats

Just 15 minutes from Hoi An Old Town, Cam Thanh Village is famous for its lush coconut palm waterways. Take a bamboo basket boat ride, try crab fishing, or join a cooking class in the countryside.
Highlights:

• Eco-friendly tours through coconut groves
• Learn traditional net casting and paddling
• Great for families and small groups

Tips:

• Wear a hat and sunscreen, especially mid-morning
• Bring small cash for tips
• Ask your guide for a chance to paddle the basket boat yourself

Read more: Vietnam-Guide: Cam Thanh Village

🏞️ 9. Hai Van Pass – Vietnam’s Most Scenic Drive

The legendary Hai Van Pass winds between Da Nang and Hue and is a bucket-list route for motorbike or car day trips. The winding road offers incredible views of the coastline, mountains, and sea.
Highlights:

• Panoramic viewpoints along the pass
• Lang Co Beach stop for fresh seafood
• Photo ops at the historic French bunkers at the summit

Tips:

• Travel by private car, jeep, or motorbike (confident riders only)
• Start early to avoid traffic and clouds
• Bring a jacket—it can get cool and windy at the top

Guide: Lonely Planet: Hai Van Pass

🧭 Day Trips from Hoi An: Quick Comparison Table

Destination	Travel Time (from Hoi An)	Main Attractions	Best For	Notes
My Son Sanctuary	1 hr	Ancient temples, jungle setting	History buffs, culture lovers	Go early for performances
Cham Islands	1 hr (boat)	Snorkeling, beaches, seafood	Beachgoers, families	Best March–Sept, cash only
Marble Mountains	30 min	Caves, pagodas, views	Photographers, hikers	Combine with Da Nang city
Da Nang City	40 min	Modern city, beaches, bridges	Urban explorers	Weekends: Dragon Bridge show
Tra Que Village	15 min	Gardens, cooking classes	Foodies, families	Morning is best
Hue	2.5–3 hr	Citadel, tombs, pagodas	History, architecture	Start early, long day
Bach Ma Park	2 hr	Hiking, waterfalls	Adventurers, nature lovers	Pack for rain, bugs
Cam Thanh Village	15 min	Basket boats, eco tours	Kids, couples	Fun, easy morning/afternoon
Hai Van Pass	1.5 hr	Scenic drive, sea views	Photographers, bikers	Motorbike or jeep

👫 Real Traveler Case Studies: Day Trips from Hoi An

Traveler Type	Favorite Day Trip	Highlights	Top Tip
Family with Kids	Cam Thanh Coconut Village	Basket boat ride, crab fishing, easy for kids	Bring sunhats and extra clothes
Solo Backpacker	My Son Sanctuary	Ancient ruins, morning photo ops, guided history tour	Go with a group to save costs
Couple	Hai Van Pass	Private jeep tour, epic views, seafood lunch	Book in advance, bring a camera
Foodie	Tra Que Village	Cooking class, fresh herbs, farm-to-table lunch	Book morning slots for the best produce

❓ FAQ – Day Trips from Hoi An

Do I need to book day trips in advance?

For popular destinations (Cham Islands, cooking classes, jeep tours), it’s smart to book at least a day ahead, especially in high season. Many trips can also be arranged last minute through your hotel or Heera Travel.

What should I bring on day trips?

Essentials: sunscreen, hat, camera, water bottle, comfortable shoes, local currency. For islands and parks: swimsuit, towel, bug spray, and snacks.

Can I rent a motorbike for day trips?

Yes, but only for experienced riders. Always wear a helmet, carry your license, and check your insurance coverage. Consider hiring a driver for longer routes like Hai Van Pass or Hue.

Are there vegan/vegetarian options on day trips?

Yes, but always tell your guide or host in advance. Most restaurants and villages can accommodate dietary needs with notice.

How do I avoid crowds?

Start early in the morning, visit on weekdays, and ask Heera Travel for less-touristy alternatives or local-only spots.

• Tripadvisor: Best Day Trips from Hoi An
• Lonely Planet: Top Day Trips from Hoi An
• Vietnam-Guide: Hoi An Day Trips

🎒 Experience Day Trips the Heera Travel Way

At Heera Travel, we help you discover the best of Central Vietnam with safe, custom, and insider-led day trips from Hoi An. Whether you’re craving adventure, culture, nature, or just a perfect beach day, our local team helps you avoid tourist traps and experience the real Vietnam.

For even more travel tips and experiences, check out our Hoi An Travel Guide 2025: What to Do, Eat & Experience.

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