Da Nang beaches become hub for swimming, freediving communities

These community activities not only help connect people with shared passions but also contribute to spreading awareness of marine ecosystem conservation.

From individual habits to community activities in Da Nang

Before sunrise, many people can already be seen gathering along Da Nang's beaches to start their day with swimming sessions.

What was once a personal fitness routine for a small number of sports enthusiasts has evolved into vibrant communities that welcome participants of all ages.

Among them, the Oceanman Da Nang Club is a notable example. On weekend mornings, the club regularly welcomes between 100 and 200 participants.

More than just physical activity, these training sessions have become opportunities for people to socialize, exchange experiences, and build close relationships.

Safety remains the club’s top priority. Before entering the water, members receive guidance on proper warm-up exercises, swimming routes and energy-conservation techniques.

Each session is supported by a dedicated rescue team of around 10 to 15 personnel, while kayak paddlers closely accompany swimmers along the route to provide immediate assistance and respond to any emergencies.

Understanding the sea to love and protect it

Alongside the growing popularity of sea swimming, freediving is attracting a large number of sea lovers in Da Nang.

Organized by PADI Freediving Instructor Dao Dang Cong Trung, the freediving training courses have so far welcomed more than 100 participants, around 30% of whom are visitors and residents from other localities.

According to Mr. Trung, the freediving program began in the summer of 2025, starting with experiential diving sessions.

It has since been developed into a structured training system based on international PADI standards, ranging from discovery sessions to foundational freediving courses.

The programs are tailored to suit each participant’s physical condition and personal goals.

He described freediving as a journey of learning to listen to one’s body, stay calm under pressure and connect deeply with nature.

Beneath the surface, divers not only admire the beauty of coral reefs and schools of fish but also witness the reality of marine pollution, including litter and abandoned “ghost nets” trapped on the seabed.

These firsthand experiences help participants understand that the ocean is far more than a recreational space, it is a priceless ecosystem that deserves protection.

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Seeing coral reefs, schools of fish, as well as marine debris and ghost nets entangled on the seabed with their own eyes, divers will gain a deeper understanding of the value of marine ecosystems and develop a stronger sense of responsibility toward protecting the ocean.

Mr. Dao Dang Cong Trung
PADI Freediving Instructor

After the courses, many participants continue to engage in such environment protection activities as underwater cleanups, removing abandoned fishing nets, and supporting the protection of coral reefs.

Through these activities, a responsible community of ocean lovers is gradually taking shape, spreading messages of sustainable living and harmonious coexistence with nature.

As an internationally recognized beach destination, Da Nang is increasingly becoming a meeting place for like-minded individuals.

Here, locals and tourists not only improve their fitness and challenge their personal limits but also discover connection, mutual support and a deeper appreciation for living in harmony with the natural world.

As a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the sea spreads, communities that love the sea will contribute to promoting a green lifestyle, enriching maritime culture, and working together to preserve this precious resource for today and tomorrow.