Foreign tourists join lively beachside group dance sessions in Vietnam’s Da Nang

What began as a neighborhood fitness activity has grown into a vibrant community gathering, giving foreign tourists a unique way to experience the city's welcoming atmosphere and beach culture on the shores of the world-renowned My Khe Beach.

Every afternoon, as soon as a portable speaker is set up on the sidewalk along My Khe Beach in An Hai Ward, an impromptu dance floor comes to life.

International visitors join Da Nang residents in lively group dances, creating a joyful and peaceful atmosphere.

What was once a gathering spot mainly for local residents has evolved into a welcoming community space for both locals and travelers.

As upbeat music blends with the sound of the waves, curious passers-by along the bustling beachfront boulevard often stop to watch before joining the locals on the dance floor.

Phuong Nga, who has been dancing with the group for years, said the sessions now attract large numbers of foreign visitors almost every evening.

She said the dance sessions began as a gathering for local residents because the spacious beachfront allowed music to be played without disturbing nearby neighborhoods.

Over time, however, the informal group began attracting newcomers, especially international visitors staying in Da Nang, many of whom have since become regulars.

“Group dancing doesn't require lessons or fancy outfits,” Nga said.

“You simply stand with everyone else and follow the instructor's lead.

"People keep coming because the atmosphere is fun and full of energy. Some even join barefoot right after swimming in the sea.”

The group has no fixed membership and typically draws between 100 and 200 participants.

The crowd changes every day as newcomers, particularly foreign tourists, continue to join in.

Ivanov, a Russian tourist who has been staying in Da Nang for more than three months, said he first discovered the dance sessions over two months ago.

"When I first came to the beach, I just stood and watched because I didn't know anyone," he said.

"But everyone was so welcoming that I eventually joined in. Now I come here not only for exercise but also to learn more about the local culture."

He said the relaxed atmosphere keeps him coming back.

"Everything here feels relaxed and easygoing. You don't need to register or know anyone," he said.

“If you love music, you can simply dance with everyone else.

“The cool sea breeze and positive energy are why I love coming here." 

Emma Wilson, a tourist from Australia, came across the beachside dance floor for the first time while taking an evening walk along the coast.

She said she initially stopped to record a few videos after noticing dozens of people, many of them foreign tourists, dancing in unison on the sidewalk.

In many places, she added, people are reluctant to join community activities unless they already know someone.

"Here it's completely different. Everyone is welcome as long as they're willing to dance," Wilson said.

Although she did not know many of the songs, she simply followed the instructor's lead.

She said dancing together, moving to the same rhythm, and making new friends made her feel like a local rather than just a tourist.

Stretching about 900 meters, My Khe Beach is located about two kilometers from downtown Da Nang and is known for its soft white sand, gentle waves, and warm, clear water, making it ideal for year-round swimming.

My Khe was named one of the world's six most attractive beaches by U.S. magazine Forbes in 2005 and was included among Asia's 10 most beautiful beaches by U.S. travel platform TripAdvisor in 2023.

In 2024, UK newspaper The Daily Telegraph listed My Khe and Non Nuoc, another popular beach in Da Nang, among the world's 50 greatest beaches.