Hotel Spa or Local Spa? Which One Suits Your Travel Style in Da Nang & Hoi An?

Hi, I’m Chie from the editorial team.

Among all the moments you’ll experience on your trip, a spa visit might just be the most rejuvenating one.
In Da Nang and Hoi An, you’ll find countless spas — from luxurious hotel sanctuaries to cozy local gems loved by residents.

But if it’s your first time here, you might wonder:

Let’s break down the differences, explore what each offers, and highlight some of the most-loved spas in both categories — so you can find the perfect place to unwind your body and soul.

Hotel Spa vs. Local Spa — What’s the Difference?

Both offer massages and treatments, but the experience, atmosphere, and price can vary dramatically.

Hotel Spa

• Located inside luxury resorts — quiet, private, and fully immersive
• Every detail is curated: scent, music, lighting, and service
• Higher price range (≈ 1.5–3 million VND / 60–90 min)
• Facilities often include steam rooms or saunas
• Convenient if you’re already staying at the hotel

Local Spa

• Found throughout the city or near tourist areas — easy to access
• More affordable (≈ 400k–900k VND / 60 min)
• High skill levels — many therapists trained at top resorts
• Often use natural oils and local herbs
• Some offer free pick-up/drop-off from your hotel

Hotel Spas — Indulge in Pure Serenity

Hotel spas are for travelers who want more than just relaxation — they’re for those seeking an experience.
From the scent of lemongrass to the sound of the ocean, these spaces make time slow down.

Naman Retreat – Pure Spa

A 20-minute drive from Da Nang’s city center, Naman Retreat is a masterpiece of bamboo architecture and calm minimalism.
Its signature Pure Spa blends nature, architecture, and holistic wellness — a retreat within a retreat.

Recommended Treatment: Hot Stone Massage (60 min)
Warm stones melt away deep tension and restore circulation. Perfect after long flights.
Afterward, sip herbal tea in the tranquil courtyard and feel your mind reset.

Novotel Danang – InBalance Spa

（source：Novotel official website）

In the heart of Da Nang, overlooking the Han River, the InBalance Spa inside Novotel Danang Premier Han River offers a sophisticated urban escape.

Soft lighting, delicate scents, and skillful therapists work together to ease both body and mind.
It’s the ideal stop between sightseeing and evening cocktails.

Recommended Treatment: Aromatic Oil Massage (60 min)
A classic full-body massage using natural essential oils — deeply relaxing yet refreshing.

Pullman Danang Beach Resort – The Nang Spa

（source：Pullman Danang Beach Resort official website）

Beachside luxury at its finest.
At The Nang Spa, within Pullman Danang Beach Resort, every element — from the scent to the music — is designed to bring balance and calm.

Their signature Hot Stone Massage (90 min) combines Vietnamese techniques with aromatherapy and gentle sound healing.
Guests can also enjoy a detox drink, sauna, and steam room before or after the session.

Local Spas — Discover Everyday Luxury

While hotel spas promise grandeur, local spas offer something equally special: authentic connection.
In these family-run sanctuaries, you’ll feel both the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality and the artistry of its ancient healing traditions.

Art Spa – Hoi An

（source：Art Spa googlemap）

Hidden on a quiet street in Hoi An Old Town, Art Spa captures the essence of the city — yellow walls, glowing lanterns, and gentle smiles.
From the first foot bath to the final cup of tea, every gesture feels personal.

Recommended Treatment: Traditional Vietnamese Massage (60 min)
Precise pressure and rhythmic movements ease fatigue after a long day of walking.

Son Hoi An Spa – Hoi An

（source：Son Hoi An Spa official website)

Set amid lush greenery, Son Hoi An Spa is a holistic sanctuary dedicated to “healing from within.”
Organic oils and herbs meet intuitive techniques for deep relaxation.

Recommended Treatment: Deep Tissue Muscle Therapy (60 min)
Targets deep muscle tension — perfect for office workers and travelers recovering from long flights.
Afterward, enjoy vegan snacks and herbal tea made in-house.

Herbal Spa – Danang

（source：Herbal Spa official website)

A long-time favorite among locals and travelers alike, Herbal Spa in Da Nang combines nature-inspired interiors with exceptional care.

Therapists use gentle techniques and herbal-based oils, while the post-massage tea and handmade sweets leave guests glowing inside and out.

Which One’s Right for You?

Editor’s Note – Make Spa Time Part of Your Journey

In Da Nang and Hoi An, a spa visit isn’t just a massage — it’s a way to feel the culture.
At a local spa, you might smell Vietnamese herbs while hearing the buzz of the city outside.
At a hotel spa, you’ll feel as though the world has paused for you.

Either way, spa time here is more than self-care — it’s a reminder to slow down and reconnect with yourself.

Final Thoughts

If you crave luxury and serenity, go for a hotel spa (Naman Retreat / Novotel / Pullman).
If you seek local charm and skilled hands, try a local spa (Art Spa / Son Spa / Herbal Spa).

Both tell a story of Vietnam — one of wellness, kindness, and warmth.
Whichever you choose, it won’t just relax your body — it’ll stay with your heart long after your trip ends.