What to Do and See in Lang Co | My Practical Guide
Today, I’m taking you to Lang Co, a fishing village that also happens to be a Vietnamese beach destination well worth a visit.
Here, the scenery is simply breathtaking: on one side, majestic mountains, on the other, the endless sea. And right in the middle? A pristine sandy beach, lapped by crystal-clear waters, with the legendary Hải Vân Pass as a stunning backdrop. A true postcard-perfect setting!
It’s the perfect stop to unwind after crossing the Hai Van Pass, especially if you’re traveling between Hoi An and Hué (or vice versa). So, are you ready? Follow me—I’m taking you to explore this hidden gem!
Lang Co in a Nutshell
Lang Co was originally a modest fishing village, settled on a sand dune forming a peninsula, nestled between a lagoon and the sea. Whether the Chams once lived here remains unknown, as no archaeological evidence has been found, but it is certain that Vietnamese settlers from the North established themselves in the area. The first migrations likely date back to the 15th century, following King Le Thanh Tong’s call for national defense. In fact, as early as 1306, this territory had already been ceded to the Viet people through a marriage alliance.
Over time, local life evolved around fishing, oyster farming, pearl cultivation, and more recently, tourism. A significant portion of the population is Christian, a legacy of French influence in the 19th century. Along Route 1A, three churches and a Christian cemetery still stand as a testament to this history.
Where is Lang Co?
Lang Co is a hidden gem nestled between Hoi An and Hue, along Vietnam’s central coast. It belongs to Phu Loc district in Thua Thien-Hue province and is located about 25 km from Da Nang and 60 km from Hue. What makes it so special? Its dreamy location—on one side, the Truong Son mountain range dramatically plunges into the sea, while on the other, you’ll find Lap An Lagoon, with its calm waters and oyster farms.
And as if that weren’t enough, Lang Co sits right at the foot of the legendary Hai Van Pass, one of the most scenic roads in Vietnam.
How to Get to Lang Co
1. By Car
One of the best ways to get to Lang Co is by private car with a driver, a popular option among travelers. This stop fits perfectly into an itinerary between Hue and Hoi An, giving you the chance to drive through the stunning Hai Van Pass along the way. I personally highly recommend Hoi An Transport Service, which I consider the best private car service in the region.
2. By Scooter
For the more adventurous, riding a scooter to Lang Co is a great option! Like with a private car, you can easily include it as part of your journey. This way, you can stop for photos, visit Lang Co and Lap An, and soak in the local atmosphere. Just make sure you’re comfortable with Vietnamese traffic and, of course, always wear a helmet.
3. By Plane
Lang Co doesn’t have an airport, but the nearest one is Da Nang International Airport, about 25-30 km away. From there, it’s easy to grab a taxi or private car to reach Lang Co.
4. By Train
Taking the train is also a great option, especially if you enjoy scenic coastal views. And the best part? If you’re coming from Hoi An, you’ll get an unbeatable view of the Hai Van Pass. You can book a ticket to Lang Co Train Station, which makes for an ideal alternative if you’re planning to stay for a night or two.
What to Do in Lang Co?
Vietnamese travelers, especially from Saigon and Hanoi, love coming here to enjoy the sea, beaches, and seafood restaurants, which definitely live up to their reputation. Lang Co is a quintessentially Vietnamese beach town, offering a lively yet authentic atmosphere.
1. Lang Co Bay – The Must-See Attraction
There’s no doubt about it—Lang Co Bay is the number one highlight of this destination.
Stretching over 42.5 km of coastline, Lang Co looks like something straight out of a postcard: crystal-clear blue water, pristine white sand, and unspoiled nature. It’s no surprise that in 2009, it was officially recognized as one of the most beautiful bays in the world by Worldbays!
Some of the beaches here are absolutely worth a visit, especially Canh Duong, Lang Co, and Binh An. But if I had to pick one magical spot, it would be Canh Duong Beach at sunrise. Imagine this: the sky slowly turning golden, the first rays of sunlight gently kissing the sea, and the beach—shaped like an arc—shimmering in the morning light. A breathtaking sight!
If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a train winding its way through the mountains, with Lang Co Bay sparkling in the background—a picture-perfect moment that feels straight out of a dream.
More Than Just a Pretty Beach
Beyond its stunning scenery, the beach is full of fun activities:
- Camping under the stars or renting a tent for a peaceful night by the water.
- Boat trips with local fishermen to explore the calm waters at the foot of Hai Van Pass.
- Paddle ( SUP )
So, grab your swimsuit, dive into this tropical paradise, and let time slow down. Here, nature does all the talking!
2. Lap An Lagoon – The True Star of Lang Co
If there’s one place in Lang Co that steals the show, it’s Lap An Lagoon.
Also known as An Cu Lagoon, this 800-hectare natural wonder is one of those places that instantly captivates you. Located just next to Lang Co Bay, it’s easily one of my favorite spots to soak up the local atmosphere. Life here revolves around the rhythm of the lagoon, with fishermen living in stilt houses and tending to their oyster farms. And the technique? Pretty unique—they use old tires as supports for the oysters, which are then harvested and brought back to shore by boat once they mature.
If you love photography, this is a must-stop. Between the water reflecting the sky and the silhouettes of fishermen at work, every shot here tells a story.
And because Vietnam is a paradise for Instagram lovers, they’ve even added a swing and bamboo installations specifically for photos. A little kitschy? Definitely. But tourists can’t get enough of it.
Let’s be real—you can’t talk about Lap An without mentioning its floating seafood restaurants. Built right on the water, these places offer a one-of-a-kind dining experience, making them a great spot for a foodie stop while traveling between Hoi An and Hue.
But if seafood isn’t your thing, be warned—this place is extremely touristy. In that case, you might want to skip it and move on to the next adventure!
3. Hai Van Pass
Hai Van Pass stretches over 20 km, connecting Da Nang to Hue. Known for its winding roads and breathtaking panoramas, it is often considered one of the most beautiful routes in Vietnam.
The pass gained international fame thanks to the British show Top Gear Vietnam Special, where the hosts rode along this legendary road on motorbikes, describing it as “one of the best coastal roads in the world.”
What truly makes this place unique is its exceptional view of Lang Co Bay, especially when you catch a glimpse of the train winding its way between the sea and the mountains. A morning ride here, with a coffee break at the summit, is the perfect way to soak in the breathtaking scenery and the fresh mountain air.
At the top of the pass, you’ll find the Hai Van Quan military fortress, built in 1826 and fully restored in 2024. Today, it marks the border between Thua Thien-Hue province and the city of Da Nang. Once in ruins, it has now been beautifully restored and is well worth a visit, offering a stunning panoramic view of the entire region.
4. Bach Ma National Park – A Nature Lover’s Paradise
About 30 km from Lang Co, Bach Ma National Park is a true natural gem, with lush green hills, steep slopes, and breathtaking landscapes. Towering at 1,450 meters, its summit makes it a favorite destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a wild, untouched escape.
If you have time, I’d highly recommend spending 2 to fully immerse yourself in this stunning natural haven. But if you’re on a tighter schedule, you can combine a short hike with a drive to the summit, which takes about 6 to 7 hours—perfect for a quick but rewarding adventure.
Must-See Spots in Bach Ma
- Hai Vong Dai – A spectacular viewpoint at the summit, offering panoramic views of the entire region.
- Do Quyen Waterfall – A stunning waterfall nestled in the heart of the park, where nature reigns supreme.
- The Five Lakes – Considered the most beautiful lakes in the Bach Ma forest, with crystal-clear, refreshing waters.
Whatever you choose, Bach Ma is a place where you can disconnect, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and soak up the beauty of unspoiled nature.
5. Laguna Golf Lang Co
If you’re a golf enthusiast, Lang Co is home to one of the most stunning courses in Vietnam: Laguna Golf Lang Co. Designed by Sir Nick Faldo, this 18-hole course is a true gem, nestled between mountains, the beach, and rice paddies. Playing here is a one-of-a-kind experience, with breathtaking scenery at every swing.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, the course offers just the right balance of challenge and accessibility. And after a round under the sun, what could be better than unwinding at the clubhouse with a drink in hand, soaking in the view? Whether you’re a die-hard golfer or just curious to give it a try, this is the perfect spot to combine sport and relaxation.
6. Surfing and Paddleboarding in Lang Co
If you love catching waves, Lang Co is a great surf spot from August to late October, right in the middle of the rainy season. During this time, west to southwest winds create clean and consistent waves, making it ideal for fun sessions on the water. No huge swells here, just smooth conditions perfect for enjoying the ride without too much effort.
Outside of the rainy season, I usually rent a paddleboard—it’s a great way to explore the coastline at a relaxed pace.
The best surf spots are located in the north of the beach, a more secluded area free from large tourist resorts. I personally rented my paddleboard from Laco Local Surf, and it was a great experience.
- Surflesson: 1.000.000 vnd
- Surfboard for rent: 200.000 VND/1hr | 300.000 VND/2h
- SUP for rent: 200.000 VND/1h30m
7. Seafood Restaurants in Lang Co
You simply can’t visit Lang Co without trying the seafood! The town is famous across Vietnam for its fresh catches—lobster, squid, crab, and of course, the region’s specialty: oysters. You’ll find seafood on the menu in almost every restaurant in Lang Co.
My personal favorites? Quán Biển Ngọc and Hoàng Nhi Quán—great spots for a delicious, authentic meal.
Most tourist buses stop near Lap An Lagoon, where you’ll find large floating seafood restaurants like Quan Na, Bé Thân, and Làng Chài Lang Co. But if you’re looking for something a bit quieter and more authentic, I’d recommend sticking to the restaurants near Lang Co Beach, where the atmosphere is much more relaxed and local.
What Are the Yellow Bottles on the Side of the Road?
Driving along National Route 1A, it’s impossible to miss the yellow bottles lined up in front of numerous shops—a true symbol of the region.
Lang Co, and especially the villages between the Phuoc Tuong and Phu Gia passes, is renowned for producing cajeput essential oil.
This oil is made exclusively from cajeput leaves and branches, harvested from the sandy forest dunes in the surrounding area. After being carefully washed, the plant material is distilled using traditional techniques, which helps preserve all of its natural properties. Thanks to the unique climatic conditions of this region, the oil produced here is particularly rich in active ingredients, much more so than in other parts of Vietnam.
It’s a local product that’s definitely worth discovering for its numerous benefits!
My Favorite Hotels in Lang Co
Lang Co is without a doubt one of the best places to take a break, enjoy a stunning beach, and disconnect from the hustle and bustle. You have a few different areas to choose from: Lang Co Beach, located right next to town, or Canh Duong Beach, which is quieter and more secluded.
• If you want to stay close to local life, with its fishing villages and seafood restaurants, the center of Lang Co and its main beach are the best options.
• If you prefer a more peaceful and wild setting, Canh Duong Beach is perfect for camping or unwinding in nature.
To help you decide, here are my top hotel picks:
1. Banyan Tree Lang Co – My Favorite!
Vibe: Ultimate seaside luxury retreat
Why I love it: Located at the other end of Canh Duong Beach, this resort is a haven of peace, featuring spacious villas, a spa, and romantic restaurants.
Bonus: A variety of villa options, some perched on the mountainside, others right on the beach or even by the lagoon. There’s something for everyone!
More info: banyantree.com/vietnam/lang-co
2. Angsana Lang Co Resort
Vibe: Luxury and modern comfort
Why I love it: Part of a 5-star resort complex, Angsana Lang Co is beautifully nestled between lush mountains and a white sandy beach. The rooms and suites are ultra-comfortable, with different options depending on your group size.
Bonus: The crescent-shaped bay view is simply breathtaking! Perfect for an unforgettable getaway.
More info: angsana.com/vietnam/lang-co
3. Lang Co Beach Resort
Vibe: A mix of traditional charm and modern comfort
Why I love it: This was the first luxury hotel built in Lang Co, featuring 127 rooms, including 97 villas designed in the traditional Hue architectural style. Each villa comes with a private balcony or terrace, surrounded by lush gardens.
Bonus: Perfect if you’re looking for great value for money and a touch of authentic charm in the setting.
My Opinion
Lang Co is a nice stopover on the Hoi An – Hue route—perfect for a swim or a meal at one of the town’s many seafood restaurants.
A quick detour to Lap An Lagoon might interest photographers and those curious about oyster farming and the local fishing village.
If you’re planning to stay overnight, I highly recommend the Banyan Tree Lang Co—I absolutely loved it!
