The Best Activities for Children in Da Nang and Hoi An, Vietnam
Da Nang and Hoi An, two of Vietnam’s most popular travel destinations, offer plenty of activities that make them perfect for family vacations. From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of fun things to do with children. Whether you’re looking for interactive museums, nature explorations, or exciting entertainment options, here are the best activities for children in Da Nang and Hoi An.
Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge (Da Nang)
One of the most iconic attractions in Da Nang, Ba Na Hills, offers a fantastic day out for families. With its mix of amusement park rides, stunning views, and cultural experiences, it’s a must-visit for children of all ages.
- Best for: Adventure, amusement rides, and scenic views
- Highlights: The highlight of Ba Na Hills is the famous Golden Bridge, a stunning architectural structure held up by giant stone hands, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The French Village area within Ba Na Hills has European-style architecture, shops, and restaurants. Children will love the Fantasy Park, a large indoor amusement park with rides, video games, and a 4D cinema.
- Tip: Be sure to ride the cable car, one of the longest in the world, for an unforgettable experience. It’s best to visit early in the day to avoid crowds.
Asia Park – Sun World (Da Nang)
Asia Park is one of the top amusement parks in Da Nang, offering a mix of cultural themes and thrilling rides. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon with kids who love excitement and games.
- Best for: Amusement rides and outdoor fun
- Highlights: The park features various rides suitable for all ages, including roller coasters, a giant Ferris wheel, and kid-friendly attractions. The Sun Wheel is one of the tallest in Asia and provides stunning views of Da Nang. There are also cultural sections representing different Asian countries, with replicas of famous landmarks.
- Tip: The park comes alive at night with colorful lights and evening performances, so visiting in the late afternoon and staying until dark is a magical experience.
Hoi An Impression Theme Park & Memories Show (Hoi An)
This unique theme park combines culture, history, and entertainment, making it an exciting option for families visiting Hoi An. The park is designed to recreate the old town of Hoi An and offers performances and interactive experiences for children.
- Best for: Cultural experiences and family-friendly performances
- Highlights: The park hosts the famous “Hoi An Memories Show,” a spectacular outdoor performance that tells the story of Hoi An’s history through music, dance, and lights. Kids will enjoy wandering through the park’s replica streets and seeing cultural exhibits, shows, and activities.
- Tip: The “Hoi An Memories Show” is held in the evening, so plan to arrive in the afternoon to explore the park before the show starts.
VinWonders Nam Hoi An (Hoi An)
VinWonders Nam Hoi An is a large amusement park located just outside Hoi An, offering a wide range of attractions, including water parks, zoos, and cultural experiences. It’s a perfect destination for families looking to combine fun with learning.
- Best for: Water park, zoo, and cultural activities
- Highlights: The water park has pools, slides, and play areas for children of all ages, while the River Safari lets kids see animals like giraffes, zebras, and elephants on a boat tour. There are also cultural villages where kids can learn about Vietnam’s traditional crafts and architecture.
- Tip: Bring swimsuits and towels if you plan to enjoy the water park. The safari tour is a unique experience, so make sure to fit it into your visit.
Cham Islands Snorkeling Tour (Day Trip from Hoi An)
For families who love nature and the sea, a day trip to the Cham Islands offers an exciting snorkeling adventure. Just off the coast of Hoi An, these islands are part of a marine protected area and are home to beautiful coral reefs and diverse marine life.
- Best for: Snorkeling, swimming, and exploring nature
- Highlights: A boat trip to the Cham Islands gives kids a chance to see colorful fish and coral while snorkeling. The clear, calm waters are perfect for beginners. The islands also have sandy beaches where children can play and swim.
- Tip: Tours often include lunch and snorkeling gear, but it’s a good idea to bring sunscreen, water, and snacks for the trip.
Da Nang Beaches
The beaches of Da Nang, such as My Khe and Non Nuoc, are ideal for families with young children. With soft sand, gentle waves, and plenty of space to play, a beach day is a simple yet fun activity for the whole family.
- Best for: Swimming, sandcastle building, and family relaxation
- Highlights: The wide beaches offer plenty of space for kids to run around, swim in the shallow waters, or build sandcastles. Many of the beach areas also have nearby cafes and restaurants where families can enjoy snacks and drinks after a day of fun in the sun.
- Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest sun. Some beaches also offer water sports like paddleboarding and kayaking.
More about Da Nang Beaches
Explore Hoi An Old Town by Bicycle
Hoi An’s charming, car-free old town is a fantastic place to explore by bicycle with kids. The narrow streets are safe for cycling, and the town’s architecture and atmosphere make it a fun, cultural experience for the whole family.
- Best for: Exploring the town, cultural immersion, and fun exercise
- Highlights: Kids will love riding through the lantern-lit streets, stopping at small shops and markets, and watching artisans create traditional crafts like lanterns and pottery. Many hotels and rental shops offer bicycles with child seats, making it easy for younger kids to join in.
- Tip: Rent bikes early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Don’t forget to stop for some ice cream or fresh fruit juice at one of the many cafes!
Basket Boat Ride in Coconut Village (Hoi An)
For a unique local experience, take the kids on a basket boat ride in the famous coconut forests of Hoi An. These round bamboo boats, piloted by local guides, take you on a gentle ride through the water, surrounded by swaying coconut palms.
- Best for: Adventure and cultural experiences
- Highlights: Kids will have fun watching the boatmen perform tricks, like spinning the boats or catching crabs. The ride also provides a relaxing and scenic way to explore the mangrove areas and learn about the traditional way of life in the countryside.
- Tip: Make sure to bring a hat and sunscreen, as the boats are open and there is little shade. Most tours include opportunities to try paddling the boat yourself, which kids find particularly fun.
Conclusion
Da Nang and Hoi An are filled with activities that are perfect for children, from exciting theme parks and cultural experiences to nature adventures and beach outings. Whether your family enjoys amusement park thrills, educational cultural experiences, or outdoor exploration, these two cities offer plenty of ways to keep children entertained and engaged. With a mix of fun and learning, these activities will make your family trip to central Vietnam a memorable one for everyone.