My Khe is the long beach that curves along the east side of Da Nang, and when the swell is right it becomes a surf spot. A taster lesson with an instructor is an easy way to try the sport on a trip to central Vietnam, with boards supplied, a land briefing and then time in the water. The sand is soft and wide, the water is warm, and the setting, with the city on one side and the sea on the other, is a pleasant mix of urban and beach. It suits beginners, teenagers and active families, and it makes a good half-day break from temples and old town streets.
How it works
You meet the instructor on the beach, are fitted with a board and, where needed, a rash vest, and start with a briefing on the sand covering paddling, how to pop up and how to read the waves. You then move into the water for around an hour, with the instructor nearby to push you into waves and correct your technique.
Group sizes are usually small. Equipment, instruction and sometimes photos or a drink after are included, but check the exact inclusions and age limits when you book. Lesson length varies, and a one-hour taster is typical.
Conditions
Surfing here depends on the season. The best waves usually come in the cooler months, roughly autumn into early winter, when swells arrive from the north east, and the summer months are calmer, with small waves that are gentler for beginners but sometimes flat. The instructor will choose the right spot and size of board for the day.
Currents and shore break can be strong when the sea is rough, and red flags mean the beach is unsafe, so follow the lifeguards and your instructor. Sunscreen is essential, ideally a reef-friendly formula, and a rash vest helps with sunburn and board rash.
Who it suits
You need to be comfortable in the water and able to swim, and you should be reasonably fit, because paddling is tiring. Children from a certain age can often join, but the minimum differs by operator, so ask. If you have shoulder problems or back pain, tell the instructor. The lesson is a good fit for a morning before the heat builds, and you can have a late breakfast on the beach afterwards. Evenings along My Khe, with seafood restaurants and cafes, are lively and make a good finish to the day.
Timing and weather
Mornings are best for clean conditions and cooler air, while afternoons can bring onshore wind. Typhoons and heavy storms, most common in the autumn, can close the beach for days, and the operator may cancel or reschedule. The drier months from roughly February to May give calmer seas. If you have only one day in Da Nang, you can combine the lesson with the Marble Mountains, which sit near the same stretch of coast, or with Son Tra in the afternoon.
Hoi An's An Bang beach offers gentler swimming for non-surfers in the same party. If you are staying in Hoi An, the beach is a drive away, so check where the lesson meets and how long the transfer takes, and bring a change of clothes and a towel. Ask the school about their safety equipment and whether instructors hold lifesaving certification, which is a reasonable thing to ask of any water-sports operator.
What to expect
The experience
A small-group beginner surf lesson on My Khe Beach with a land briefing and instructor support in the water.
Best time
Morning, with the best waves usually in the cooler months.
How long
About one hour in the water, one to two hours in total.
Tips
You need to swim, use sunscreen and a rash vest, follow lifeguard flags and check age limits.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Beginners and active visitors who want to try surfing in Vietnam.
- Families
- Teenagers and fit older children can usually join; check age limits.
- Couples
- A fun shared activity followed by beach seafood.
- Pair with
- The Marble Mountains, Son Tra or a Han River evening.
- Time needed
- Half a morning.
Good questions
Do I need experience?+
No. The lesson is aimed at beginners, but you should be able to swim.
When are the best waves?+
Usually in the cooler months, with calmer seas in summer. Ask the operator for current conditions.
What is included?+
Board and instruction at minimum. Check for rash vests or photos when you book.
Is it safe?+
Follow your instructor and the lifeguard flags. Red flags mean the beach is unsafe.
What if conditions are poor?+
Lessons can be moved or cancelled. Check the policy when you book.
