Finding that perfect short getaway during the school holidays can be a real challenge for Singaporean parents. We've all been there: scrolling endlessly, trying to find a destination that pleases both the adults and the kids. My wife and I were looking for that perfect mix: somewhere close to Singapore, packed with culture, but with enough fun to stop our six-year-old daughter and four-year-old son from getting bored.
The answer? A quick 3-day, 2-night hop over to Da Nang and Hoi An in Central Vietnam. It was the perfect, stress-free solution—a short flight away, offering a magical blend of resort relaxation and vibrant cultural experiences that our whole family loved.
Why Da Nang & Hoi An is the Ideal Family Getaway from Singapore
This destination hits the "trifecta" of what makes a family trip successful: an ideal mix of activities, incredible affordability, and easy proximity to home.
A Quick and Easy Journey: The direct flight from Changi to Da Nang is just under 3 hours. This is a game-changer when travelling with young children, as it minimises travel stress and avoids the dreaded "are we there yet?" chorus.
Incredible Value for Your Dollar: The Singapore Dollar goes a long way in Vietnam. From delicious food and cheap Grab rides to high-quality accommodation, you can enjoy a more comfortable and experience-rich holiday without the financial strain of other popular regional destinations.
The Perfect Activity Mix: You get world-class beaches, modern resort fun, and the ancient, magical charm of a UNESCO World Heritage site all in one place. It’s a fantastic way to introduce children to a new culture while ensuring there’s plenty of fun for them, too.
Our Family-Friendly Basecamp: Mikazuki Japanese Resorts & Spa
Where you stay can make or break a family holiday. We decided to make the Mikazuki Japanese Resorts & Spa in Da Nang our home base, and it was the best decision we could have made.
While the impeccable Japanese-style hospitality and serene atmosphere were a treat for us, the real winner for the kids was the massive indoor water park. It was the perfect way to let them burn off their energy, and honestly, splashing down the slides was a blast for me too! Having this incredible facility on-site meant we could have a relaxing resort morning before heading out to explore in the afternoon—the ideal pace for family travel, especially in a tropical climate.
The Ultimate 3-Day, 2-Night Da Nang & Hoi An Family Itinerary
Here’s a step-by-step guide to our trip that you can easily follow for your own family adventure.
Day 1: Arrival, Resort Fun, and Local Flavours
We landed at Da Nang International Airport (DAD) in the morning. Immigration was smooth, and we easily booked a Grab to the hotel. After checking in, we headed straight for the Mikazuki water park. It was the perfect antidote to a morning of travel, letting the kids splash and play to their hearts' content.
For the evening, we kept it simple with dinner at a local Vietnamese restaurant near the resort. The kids happily tucked into some chicken pho and fresh spring rolls, giving us an easy and authentic taste of Vietnam on our very first day.
Day 2: Sandcastles and Magical Lanterns
After a leisurely breakfast at the resort, we took a short Grab ride to the famous My Khe Beach. The soft white sand and gentle waves were perfect for a few hours of good old-fashioned sandcastle building.
But the absolute highlight of our trip was the evening we spent in Hoi An. A short 30-minute ride away, the ancient town transforms into a real-life fairytale as the sun sets. Watching the kids' faces light up at the sight of thousands of colourful lanterns illuminating the streets was pure magic. We navigated the bustling night market, took a peaceful boat ride on the river to release a prayer lantern for good luck, and soaked in the incredible atmosphere. It felt a world away from our usual Singapore life.
Day 3: Last Souvenirs and a Smooth Trip Home
On our final morning, we enjoyed one last splash in the resort pool. You could also use this time for a quick trip to Han Market to grab some famous Vietnamese coffee or local snacks to bring home. After a relaxed morning, we checked out and made the easy trip back to the airport, with two very happy (and tired) children ready for the flight home.
Was It Worth It? The Verdict for Singaporean Families
This trip was the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. We got the resort fun the kids crave at Mikazuki and the rich cultural experience we wanted in Hoi An. For any Singaporean family looking for a memorable, easy, and relatively affordable short trip, I can't recommend this itinerary enough.
It’s a fantastic way to introduce your little ones to the wonders of travel without the stress of a long-haul flight. We're already thinking about when we can go back!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best time of year to visit Da Nang and Hoi An with family?
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from February to August, when you can expect sunny skies and calm seas, perfect for beach activities and exploring.
2. Is the food in Hoi An and Da Nang suitable for picky eaters?
Absolutely. Beyond delicious local cuisine, you'll find plenty of kid-friendly options like plain rice, grilled chicken, fresh bread (Banh Mi without the fillings), and fantastic fruit smoothies. Most resorts also offer familiar Western dishes.
3. How easy is it to get around with young children?
Getting around is very convenient and affordable. The Grab app (Southeast Asia's version of Uber) is widely available and reliable for booking cars to get between your hotel, the beach, and Hoi An. The rides are generally short, which is great for little ones with short attention spans.
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