Nestled on the central coast of Vietnam, Dong Hoi is a small, relatively unknown city that serves primarily as a gateway to one of the country’s most spectacular natural wonders: Phong Nha National Park. Although not a bustling tourist hub, Dong Hoi has a quiet charm that some travelers appreciate, with its wide streets and peaceful riverside atmosphere. However, for many, it’s simply a stopover en route to greater adventures.
- Introduction to Dong Hoi
- Staying in Dong Hoi
- How to get there
- From Dong Hoi to Phong Nha
- Direct transfers to Phong Nha
- Best things to do
- Best time to visit
Introduction to Dong Hoi
Where is Dong Hoi located?
Dong Hoi is located in Quang Binh Province, approximately halfway between Hanoi and Da Nang, making it a convenient stop for those exploring Vietnam’s central region. It’s set along the Nhat Le River and close to the coastline, with beaches that stretch for miles, though these are often overlooked by travelers heading to the caves and jungles inland.
Where is Dong Hoi known for
Dong Hoi carries historical weight as a significant site during the Vietnam War. The Battle of Dong Hoi, a series of aerial bombardments, left its mark on the city’s landscape. Its proximity to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) further underscores its role in the conflict.
Today, Dong Hoi has transformed into the primary access point for Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its breathtaking caves, lush jungles, and pristine rivers.
Staying in Dong Hoi
Is is worth staying overnight in Dong Hoi?
In short, no. Dong Hoi is not a destination where you’d want to spend much time unless absolutely necessary. The city itself lacks the charm or atmosphere found in nearby places, especially when compared to the stunning scenery of Son Trach town in Phong Nha National Park. If your main goal is to explore Phong Nha’s breathtaking caves, rivers, and jungles, it is highly recommended to stay in Son Trach instead, which is located within the park and offers much more in terms of natural beauty and adventure.
Dong Hoi is still a 45-minute drive from Phong Nha, so it’s not the most convenient place to base yourself for trips into the park. The only real reason to stay here would be if you have a very early train or flight departing from Dong Hoi the next morning. Fortunately, many tours from Phong Nha include pick-up and drop-off services from Dong Hoi, making it easy to avoid staying in the city itself.
Recommended accommodations
If, for some reason, you do need to stay in Dong Hoi, here are a few options that might suit your needs:
Lena Homestay & Villa
A well-maintained property with spacious, clean rooms. The location is in a quiet neighborhood close to the waterfront, with plenty of nearby cafes and restaurants. The hostess is welcoming, though English communication may be limited.
Dolphin Home
This homestay is known for its warm and helpful host family, who go above and beyond to assist guests with everything from dining recommendations to travel arrangements. Rooms are clean and functional, providing a cozy place to rest.
Cagina Boutique Hostel
Located near Nhat Le Beach, this hostel offers affordable rates, clean rooms, and a quiet atmosphere. With friendly staff and comfortable beds, it’s a decent option for a short stay if you really need to be in Dong Hoi.
How to get to Dong Hoi
Buses to Dong Hoi
Dong Hoi is not a major hub, but it is located along the bus routes between Hanoi and Da Nang, so it’s easy to catch a bus that can drop you off there. Many buses travel this route, but because Dong Hoi is remote from other popular destinations, trips often take a long time. Most travelers opt for sleeper buses, which travel overnight and help save daytime hours. If comfort is a priority, consider the VIP sleeper bus, offering more space and privacy. That said, sleeper buses are not for everyone, as some find it hard to sleep on them, and there are occasional safety concerns.
- From Da Nang to Dong Hoi: 4.5 to 5 hours
- From Hanoi to Dong Hoi: 8 to 9.5 hours
- From Ninh Binh to Dong Hoi: 6.5 to 7.5 hours
- From Hue to Dong Hoi: 2.5 to 3 hours
Dong Hoi Train station
Dong Hoi has its own train station, conveniently located along the railway route between Hanoi and Da Nang. This makes it easy to travel to Dong Hoi by train from major cities in the north and south.
- From the north: You can board the train from cities like Hanoi and Ninh Binh, with trips taking approximately 9-10 hours and 7-8 hours, respectively.
- From the south: Trains run from places like Hue (2.5-3 hours) and Da Nang (4-5 hours). If you’re traveling further south, cities like Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City are also connected by train, but these trips can take over 10 hours. For longer journeys, a flight is often a more efficient option.
Train tickets from Hanoi or Da Nang to Dong Hoi typically start at around $30 for a 4-berth sleeper cabin, the best option for longer distances. For more details, check our guide on train travel in Vietnam.
Dong Hoi Airport
If you prefer flying, Dong Hoi has a small airport located just outside the city. It primarily connects to Vietnam’s two main hubs: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
- To Hanoi: Flights take about 1 hour and are operated by Vietnam Airlines. Prices start at around $50.
- To Ho Chi Minh City: Flights take approximately 1.5 hours, operated by both VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines, with prices starting from $60.
For more tips on booking domestic flights, read our guide: domestic flights in Vietnam.
From Dong Hoi to Phong Nha
Most visitors don’t come to Dong Hoi for its own attractions but to reach the extraordinary Phong Nha National Park. This park, with its dense jungles and massive caves, is one of Vietnam’s greatest natural treasures. It’s also less touristy than other major attractions, offering a more off-the-beaten-track experience. The distance from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha is about 45 kilometers, and the journey takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. There are several ways to make this trip:
Tour with pick up
One of the most cost-effective ways to travel from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha is to book a tour that includes transportation. Many tour operators in Phong Nha will pick you up in Dong Hoi at no extra charge. This is a great option if you arrive early by train or bus; you can get picked up with your luggage, enjoy a tour of the park, and then be dropped off at your accommodation in Phong Nha. This option saves both time and money.
Public bus
For those on a budget, the public bus from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha is the cheapest option. The ticket costs just a few dollars, and buses depart approximately every hour. The journey takes about 1 hour, and the buses are quite basic but functional. They depart from the main bus station in Dong Hoi.
Private car or taxi
If you’re looking for convenience, a private car or taxi is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Phong Nha. You can arrange for a car to pick you up directly from the bus or train station and drop you off at your accommodation in Phong Nha. Prices range from $25 to $35 for the one-hour journey, and a private car can often be arranged through your accommodation or travel agency.
Phong Nna customized tour
At Local Vietnam, we offer fully customized tours to Phong Nha National Park, which include transfers from Dong Hoi, train or bus tickets if necessary, accommodations, and unique experiences in the park. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing in the caves or more adventurous jungle treks and cave expeditions, we can create a tailored itinerary just for you. Request your tour here or check our Phong Nha tours.
Direct transfers to Phong Nha
If you’d prefer to skip Dong Hoi altogether and head straight to Phong Nha, there are several direct options available from nearby popular destinations. This can save you the hassle of stopping in Dong Hoi and having to find additional transportation.
Hue to Phong Nha
Several direct buses travel from Hue to Phong Nha, making this a convenient choice for travelers. The trip costs around $10 and takes approximately 3 hours. It’s an affordable and straightforward way to reach Phong Nha if you’re coming from central Vietnam.
Tour through the DMZ
An excellent alternative to a standard bus ride is hiring a private driver to take you through the DMZ on the way to Phong Nha. You’ll get to stop at significant historical sites like the Vinh Moc Tunnels and other combat bases, turning your transfer into a memorable sightseeing experience. This option is ideal for history enthusiasts and provides a much more engaging journey. You can find details on our DMZ sightseeing transfers.
Phong Nha to Ninh Binh
There are also direct buses that run between Ninh Binh and Phong Nha. This journey is longer, taking around 6.5 hours, and costs about $20. It’s a great option for those traveling between northern and central Vietnam, bypassing Dong Hoi altogether.
Best things to do in Dong Hoi
If you happen to find yourself spending some time in Dong Hoi, don’t worry, there are still a handful of interesting things to explore. While this city may not offer as many tourist attractions as other destinations in Vietnam, there are enough highlights to keep you busy for a day. Here are the best things to do in Dong Hoi:
1. Phong Nha National Park
Without a doubt, the primary reason people pass through Dong Hoi is to visit Phong Nha National Park, a short 45-minute drive away. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts some of the most extraordinary natural scenery in Vietnam, including the world’s largest cave, Son Doong. Whether you’re up for cave exploration, jungle trekking, or river cruises, spending a full day in Phong Nha is an absolute must. Many tours departing from Dong Hoi make it easy to arrange a visit, offering pick-up services from the city.
2. Explore rural Quang Binh
Even though Phong Nha in phong nha you can find the most beautiful nature in Vietnam, it does not see that many tourists. So you can immagine the kind of off the beaten track experience you can get in the rest of the province where Phong Nha is located. You’ll pass through small villages where the sight of a foreigner is a rare event. Don’t be surprised if locals invite you to stop for a drink or snap a photo together. Exploring rural Quang Binh is one of the most untouched and enriching experiences you can have in this region.
3. Enjoy beaches near Dong Hoi
Dong Hoi is a coastal city, so naturally, there are a few beaches nearby that offer quiet, relaxing retreats. While not packed with tourists, these beaches are often deserted during the day, with locals only appearing in the late afternoon.
Nhat Le Beach: This is the most popular beach in Dong Hoi, named after the Nhat Le River that flows into the sea. With its wide stretch of white sand and clear blue water, it’s a peaceful spot to enjoy the ocean breeze. Some beach resorts are also located nearby.
Bao Ninh Beach: Slightly less frequented than Nhat Le, Bao Ninh offers an equally beautiful shoreline with soft white sand and cool, inviting waters. The area is well-maintained, and it’s a great place to unwind if you want to escape the city’s hustle.
4. Dong Hoi Citadel
One of the most significant historical landmarks in Dong Hoi is the Dong Hoi Citadel, constructed in the early 19th century during the reign of the Nguyen Dynasty. This star-shaped fortress was built to protect the city from foreign invasions and later served as a military stronghold during the French colonial era.
Today, parts of the structure remains intact, and it’s a fascinating spot for history lovers to explore, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s turbulent past.
5. Tam Toa Church
Tam Toa Church is a hauntingly beautiful remnant of Vietnam’s colonial era. Originally built in the late 19th century, the church was heavily damaged during the Vietnam War. What remains today is the facade and bell tower, standing behind a wrought iron gate as a poignant reminder of the destruction brought by war. For history buffs, it’s a must-visit spot in Dong Hoi, offering a powerful insight into the resilience of the Vietnamese people.
6. Bau Tro Lake
Bau Tro Lake is a peaceful freshwater lake nestled in the coastal sand dunes just outside Dong Hoi. This serene spot is not only a relaxing place to enjoy the natural surroundings but also an important archaeological site where ancient Neolithic tools were discovered. Surrounded by lush greenery, Bau Tro Lake provides a refreshing escape from the city, perfect for a quiet afternoon.
7. Quang Phu Sand Dunes
The Quang Phu Sand Dunes are a surprising and beautiful natural attraction located just a short distance from Dong Hoi. These expansive dunes offer stunning views and are perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities. You can rent ATVs, go sandboarding, or simply wander the rolling dunes to admire the dramatic landscape. Sunset is particularly magical here, with the light casting long shadows across the undulating sand.
8. Dong Hoi Night Market
For a taste of local life, head to the Dong Hoi Night Market, a lively spot that comes alive in the evening along the banks of the Nhat Le River. This market offers a wide range of street food, drinks, and local specialties, perfect for anyone looking to sample authentic Vietnamese cuisine. There are also stalls selling souvenirs and other items, making it a fun and casual way to spend an evening in the city.
9. A trip to the DMZ
Although not located directly in Dong Hoi, the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is one of the most significant historical sites in Vietnam, lying between Dong Hoi and Hue. This area marks the former border between North and South Vietnam during the war and is rich in history. It’s a popular stop for those traveling between the two cities, offering the chance to visit important war sites like the Vinh Moc Tunnels and other remnants of the conflict. You can easily combine a DMZ tour with a transfer from Dong Hoi to Hue.
10. Ho Chi Minh Trail
The famous Ho Chi Minh Trail runs through this region, making it another must-see for history and adventure enthusiasts. This vast network of roads and paths was used during the Vietnam War to transport soldiers and supplies from North to South Vietnam. Today, you can explore parts of the trail, either by car or motorcycle, to get a deeper understanding of its significance. For those seeking a more immersive experience, you can book a multi-day tour that includes travel along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, through the DMZ, and on to historic sites like the Hai Van Pass and Marble Mountains.
Best time to visit Dong Hoi
The best time to visit Dong Hoi is during the dry season, from March to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. This period is ideal for beach activities, exploring Phong Nha National Park, and outdoor adventures, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
The rainy season (September to November) brings heavy downpours and occasional flooding, which can disrupt travel plans. However, it’s a quieter time with fewer tourists, and you can still enjoy the caves in Phong Nha.
From December to February, the weather is cooler, with temperatures around 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). While beach activities may be less appealing, it’s a comfortable time for sightseeing without the intense heat.
