7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Da Lat

Da Lat, known as the City of Eternal Spring, is a haven for digital nomads seeking the perfect blend of work and leisure. With its cool climate, scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture, it's no wonder that many choose to base themselves here. But even the most dedicated worker needs a break, and Da Lat's location in the Central Highlands of Vietnam makes it an ideal launching point for weekend getaways. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven destinations that offer a refreshing change of pace.

Nha Trang

Just a few hours from Da Lat lies the coastal city of Nha Trang, a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and the impressive Po Nagar Cham Towers, Nha Trang offers a perfect mix of relaxation and cultural exploration. Water enthusiasts can indulge in snorkeling, scuba diving, or simply lounging on the sandy shores. The Vinpearl Amusement Park is also a hit for those looking for some adrenaline-pumping activities.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Nha Trang from Da Lat is by bus or car, which typically takes around 3 to 4 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to soak in the Thap Ba Hot Springs, where you can enjoy a mud bath experience that's both fun and rejuvenating.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Mia Resort Nha Trang, which offers stunning sea views and private beach access, or the Amiana Resort and Villas, known for its luxurious accommodations and natural seawater pools.

Where to Eat: For a taste of local seafood, visit the Nha Trang Seafood restaurant, which is famous for its fresh and flavorful dishes. Alternatively, Lanterns Vietnamese Restaurant is a must-try for authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

Mui Ne

Mui Ne is a serene beach town that's become a hotspot for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing thanks to its strong sea breezes. The town's sand dunes, both the White and Red Dunes, offer a unique landscape that feels more like a desert than coastal Vietnam. Visitors can rent ATVs or try sandboarding for an exhilarating experience. Mui Ne also has a charming fishing village where you can observe the daily lives of the local fishermen.

How to Get There: The journey from Da Lat to Mui Ne is about 4 to 5 hours by bus, with several companies offering daily services.

Travel Tip: Make sure to catch a sunrise or sunset over the dunes for a truly breathtaking view that's perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Where to Stay: The Anantara Mui Ne Resort offers luxurious amenities and a beachfront location, while the Bamboo Village Beach Resort & Spa is known for its eco-friendly approach and tranquil atmosphere.

Where to Eat: The Sandals Restaurant in Mui Ne serves up a fusion of Vietnamese and international cuisine with a view of the ocean. For a more casual setting, Joe's Cafe offers live music and a great selection of food and drinks.

Buon Ma Thuot

For a less touristy experience, head to Buon Ma Thuot, the capital of Dak Lak Province. This city is the heart of Vietnam's coffee region and is perfect for those who want to learn more about the country's coffee production. Visit the Trung Nguyen Coffee Village for a coffee tasting tour, or explore the Ethnographic Museum to gain insight into the local indigenous cultures. The nearby Yok Don National Park is also a great spot for nature lovers, offering opportunities for trekking and wildlife watching.

How to Get There: Buon Ma Thuot is approximately a 4-hour drive from Da Lat. Buses are available, but renting a car or motorbike gives you more flexibility to explore the region.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting in March, try to catch the annual Elephant Race, a unique cultural event that showcases the importance of elephants in the local M'nong culture.

Where to Stay: The Dakruco Hotel offers comfortable accommodations and a central location, while the Coffee Tour Resort is a charming option for those interested in the local coffee culture.

Where to Eat: Y Jut is a local favorite for traditional Vietnamese dishes, especially their wild game specialties. For a coffee break, head to the Windmills Cafe, which serves some of the best brews in town.

Lak Lake

Lak Lake is an off-the-beaten-path destination that promises tranquility and a glimpse into the rural life of Vietnam's Central Highlands. As the largest natural freshwater lake in the region, it's surrounded by picturesque villages and rolling hills. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, visit the local Mnong tribe, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings on a bicycle tour. The nearby Jun Village is particularly interesting, with traditional longhouses and elephant rides available.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Lak Lake is by motorbike or car from Buon Ma Thuot, which takes about an hour.

Travel Tip: Stay overnight in a traditional longhouse for an authentic experience and to learn more about the local culture from the Mnong people.

Where to Stay: The Lak Tented Camp offers a unique glamping experience with comfortable tents and stunning views of the lake. For a more traditional stay, the Lak Resort provides bungalow accommodations right by the water.

Where to Eat: While dining options are limited around Lak Lake, the Lak Tented Camp has an on-site restaurant serving local and international dishes with ingredients sourced from nearby farms.

Cam Ranh Bay

Cam Ranh Bay is a beautiful and often overlooked coastal area known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches. It's an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some of Vietnam's best snorkeling and diving spots. The bay's calm waters also make it perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. For a touch of history, visit the Cam Ranh Military Base, which played a significant role during the Vietnam War.

How to Get There: The drive from Da Lat to Cam Ranh Bay takes about 3 to 4 hours by car or bus.

Travel Tip: Binh Ba Island, a short boat ride from Cam Ranh, is a hidden gem where you can enjoy fresh seafood and quiet beaches.

Where to Stay: The Duyen Ha Resort Cam Ranh boasts luxurious facilities and a private beach area, while the Cam Ranh Riviera Beach Resort & Spa offers a serene retreat with stunning ocean views.

Where to Eat: For a beachfront dining experience, try the Fresh Restaurant at the Cam Ranh Riviera Beach Resort, which specializes in fresh seafood and Vietnamese cuisine.

Elephant Waterfall

Just a short trip from Da Lat, Elephant Waterfall is a majestic natural wonder that's less frequented by tourists. The waterfall is named for the elephant-like rock formation at its base and offers a dramatic backdrop for a day of adventure. Visitors can hike down to the base of the falls, explore nearby caves, or simply enjoy the mist and roar of the water from the viewing platforms. The surrounding countryside is also perfect for a scenic motorbike ride.

How to Get There: Elephant Waterfall is about a 45-minute drive from Da Lat, and the best way to get there is by motorbike or taxi.

Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for a slippery and steep descent to the base of the waterfall. The effort is well worth it for the close-up views and photo opportunities.

Where to Stay: While there are no accommodations directly at Elephant Waterfall, the nearby city of Da Lat offers a wide range of options, from the luxurious Dalat Palace Heritage Hotel to the cozy Dreams Hotel.

Where to Eat: After visiting the waterfall, stop by the Thanh Thuy Blue Water Restaurant for a meal. They offer a variety of local dishes, including the regional specialty of grilled chicken with Lam rice.

Tuyen Lam Lake

Tuyen Lam Lake is a serene and picturesque destination just a stone's throw from Da Lat. This man-made lake is surrounded by lush pine forests and offers a quiet escape from the city. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, fishing, or hiking in the surrounding hills. The nearby Truc Lam Zen Monastery provides a spiritual retreat and stunning views of the lake and its tranquil environment.

How to Get There: Tuyen Lam Lake is only about 15 minutes from Da Lat by car or motorbike, making it an easy and quick getaway.

Travel Tip: Take the cable car from Robin Hill to Truc Lam Zen Monastery for an aerial view of the lake and the beautiful landscape below.

Where to Stay: The Terracotta Hotel & Resort offers comfortable lakeside accommodations, while the Dalat Edensee Lake Resort & Spa provides luxury rooms with panoramic views of Tuyen Lam Lake.

Where to Eat: The Dalat Train Villa & Café, located near the lake, is a charming spot to enjoy a meal in a converted train carriage with views of the surrounding gardens.

Whether you're looking for a beach getaway, a cultural experience, or a nature retreat, these destinations around Da Lat offer something for every type of traveler. As a digital nomad, taking the time to explore the beauty and diversity of Vietnam's Central Highlands and coastal regions can provide the perfect balance to a life of work and wanderlust.