Situated at the mouth of the Nhat Le River along the least-visited stretch of coastline in Northern Vietnam, Dong Hoi is often overlooked by travelers. Those visiting the laid-back city typically use it as a base to explore nearby Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, where the UNESCO–listed karst landscapes hide jungle trails and more than a hundred caves—including the world’s largest. But caving adventures and underground river cruises aren’t the only things to do in Dong Hoi: There’s also a white-sand beach, a 19th-century citadel, and a lively local market.
Visit in the dry season (March through August) to enjoy caving tours or relax on the beach. It’s the hottest time of year, with a lot of humidity and temperatures reaching highs of up to 95°F (35°C), but it’s usually cooler inside the caves. The rainy season (September to November) is best avoided if possible—the unpredictable weather and heavy downpours render many caves inaccessible, and tours and treks are often canceled at the last minute.
It’s easy to explore Dong Hoi’s historic center and old citadel on foot, and the beaches are also within walking distance. As with all Vietnamese towns, tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, and taxis ply the streets, so finding cheap transport is never a problem if you tire of walking. To reach Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park, booking a tour is the most convenient option, and many include pickup and drop-off at your Dong Hoi accommodation.
Adventurous travelers will want to head to the jungle-clad cliffs and caves of Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park or go sandboarding at the Quang Phu Sand Dunes, but Dong Hoi has a few interesting sites for history buffs. After exploring the citadel and the ruins of Tam Toa Church, take a day trip to the Vietnamese Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) south of Dong Hoi, where you can explore the beachside Vinh Moc Tunnels and underground bunkers used in the Vietnam War.
