I was looking forward to arriving in Da Nang specifically, because it is a coastal town and we all know how much I love my beaches. Well, I can tell you that the big & beautiful Da Nang Beach is all that I hoped it would be and more.
Da Nang
A huge city, there are basically two main parts as far as I understand. One is the downtown core, very large, traditional and a local centric area. Then there is the beach portion of the city, separated from the down town core by a river.
The beach area is more touristy, lined with many hotels, both luxury and budget and is a lively place both day and night.
The Beach
Historically this area was quite run down and there really was no beach, just a swampy and garbage filled space. The municipality has taken great strides to turn this into a world class beach and boy have they ever done a great job.
None of the sand here is natural but looks as though it is. Fine and silky soft, this light gray sand is a dream to walk on. The beach is zero depth entry, meaning one can walk a along ways in before it begins to feel deep.
The Water
Surprisingly so, it is crystal clear and refreshingly cool in winter. I imagine temperatures will fluctuate quite a bit once the seasons change, but for now, this is a great time to swim although I see very few people actually doing so.
The Vibe
There is a young and fun vibe here in Da Nang and that carries over to the beach. In the morning you can watch the fishermen bring in their daily catch.
There are surfers out and at least three places to rent boards and take lessons from.
Numerous clubs line the beach, especially ,in the hotel zone and My Khe Beach. The promenade is the place for a coffee and snacks.
The Garbage
Iโll be honest here; the beach is cleaned every morning. The tourist area is done early and first, so every time I have been, it is free of debris and absolutely gorgeous.
However, if I walk far, in either direction but especially left, I soon find myself in uncleaned areas and the garbage seems quite a problem. The ocean water also gets foamy and a bit stinky the further outside of the tourist areas you venture.
By the time I have reach the part of the beach called โMan Thaiโ, it is quite unpleasant. Saying this, the beach in Da Nang is absolutely huge, so very long and wide. One would have no problem walking for a lengthy beach combing venture before ever seeing these parts if you stay up near My Khe Beach. ๐
I am so happy to be near a beach and especially one that is this walk-able. The weather in January has been overcast almost every day with a good chance of rain or drizzle. This has not stopped me from getting my feet into that soft sand and spending time at the waters edge.
