Things To Do
in Dawei
Dawei is a sun-washed port town in southern Myanmar known for its relaxed pace and expansive coastline. It blends a laid-back, tatty-charm with pockets of colonial architecture and a vibrant riverfront life. The region opens up to rugged hills, fishing villages, and long sandy beaches just a short ride away.
With warm hospitality and seafood-focused cuisine, Dawei offers a quieter alternative to the busier tourist hubs in the country.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Dawei Market, where local vendors display fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts. Engage with the friendly locals and sample traditional Burmese snacks like mohinga, a flavorful fish soup. As you stroll through the market, immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and aromas that define Dawei's culture.
After lunch at a nearby eatery, head to the impressive Dawei Pagoda, known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city. Spend some time reflecting in the peaceful surroundings and capturing photographs of the intricate designs. Later, visit the nearby colonial-era buildings that tell the story of Dawei's rich history during British rule.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, where the golden hues of the sky reflect on the water. Stop at a local seafood restaurant to indulge in a fresh catch of the day, paired with traditional side dishes. End your evening by mingling with locals at a nearby tea shop, savoring the unique flavors of Burmese tea.
Begin your day at Maungmagan Beach, a stunning stretch of coastline just a short drive from Dawei. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters and soak up the sun on the soft, white sand. For the adventurous, try your hand at beach volleyball or rent a kayak to explore the beautiful shoreline.
After a morning of fun in the sun, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach with fresh fruits and local delicacies. Spend the afternoon lounging under a beach umbrella or taking a leisurely stroll along the shore to collect seashells. If you're feeling adventurous, consider joining a snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant marine life beneath the waves.
As evening approaches, watch the breathtaking sunset over the Andaman Sea, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. Head to a beachside restaurant to savor a delicious seafood dinner while listening to the gentle sound of the waves. Conclude your day with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and laughter with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🛌One night in a budget hotel | $15-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip within town) | $1-5 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm coastal town with fewer crowds than other Myanmar destinations
- Fresh seafood, friendly locals, and scenic beaches nearby
- Limited Western-style amenities and slower internet in some areas
- Transport options can be sparse outside the town center and beaches
- "Mingalaba" - Hello / Please (formal)
- "Thaw Kyae, Kyaung Thu Da-zin Nyaung?" - Do you speak English?
- "What is the price?" - Nay-tot pay ma hmar?
- "A-kyi,?" - Please / Thank you
- "Tee-hta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kyae-baw-din-zu-bei" - I would like this, please
Places to Visit in Dawei
Visit one of these nice places.
Long exposure opportunities with boats and fishermen returning at first light, capturing reflections on the Tavoy River.
Wooden shophouses and faded signage along wide Main Street provide a nostalgic cityscape during golden hour.
Expansive shoreline with silhouettes of palm trees and distant headlands; ideal for wide-angle sunset shots.
Temple complexes and hill viewpoints offer layered city and sea panoramas, especially during early morning hours.
Food in Dawei
Dawei Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fish noodle soup and a Burmese classic, commonly enjoyed for breakfast or a light meal at markets and streetside stalls.
Must-Try!
Fermented tea leaf salad mixed with nuts, peas, and sesame oil—popular across Myanmar and widely available in Dawei’s eateries.
Creamy curry featuring fresh local fish, coconut milk, and lime—often paired with steamed rice.
Fresh prawns marinated with garlic, lime, and chili, typically served with chili-lime dipping sauce by the waterfront.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A busy mercado-style market where you can try breakfast bowls, snacks, and freshly grilled seafood from stalls along the lanes.
Casual stalls near the Tavoy River offering fried snacks, grilled fish, and refreshing fruit juices with scenic views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting sacred sites; remove shoes and hats where required; speak softly and move respectfully around worshipers.
Show deference in religious and community spaces; ask permission before photographing people, especially monks and elders.
Safety
Tipping in Dawei
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In hotels and higher-end restaurants, a small tip (around 5-10% if service charge is not included) is common; in markets and street stalls tipping is not expected. Hand tips directly to staff with a smile.
Cash in Burmese kyat is widely used; some mid-range spots may accept USD or cards in larger establishments, but cash is best for most markets and street food. ATMs are available in town for cash withdrawals, though machine availability can be limited in more remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with occasional sea breezes; humidity is high, so carry water, sunscreen, and a hat. Early mornings are best for outdoor activities and photography before the heat peaks.
Likely heavy showers from May to October; expect cloudy days and lush green landscapes. Pack a compact rain cover, and plan indoor or covered photography options during downpours.
Pleasant temperatures with cooler evenings; great for outdoor exploration and hillside walks without the intensity of heat.
Dawei at Night
Hiking in Dawei
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal hike with ocean views and occasional viewpoints over small villages; suitable for a half-day trek.
Gentle ascent to a hilltop temple offering panoramic views of Dawei and surrounding countryside.
Airports
How to reach Dawei by plane.
Domestic flights connect Dawei to Yangon and other regional hubs; expect modest passenger volumes and limited international connections.
Major international gateway with connections to many global destinations; from Yangon, domestic flights or overland routes can reach Dawei.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local population with its own dialects and cultural traditions; the area also hosts Mon, Bamar, and other migrant communities.
Several ethnic groups contribute to the region’s cultural diversity through language, food, and festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport among locals, with games and informal leagues in parks and school grounds.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games happen in the evenings.
Coastal communities engage in fishing; beach volleyball is popular on open beaches during weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dawei.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Burmese dishes are adaptable; opt for vegetable curries, bean-based salads, and fresh fruit; clearly communicate ‘meka-nyaung-thi’ (no fish, no meat) to stalls and kitchen staff.