Son Tra Peninsula – Discover Danang’s “green lung”
Located just about 10 km from Da Nang city center, Son Tra Peninsula is known as the city’s vital green lung, providing fresh and beautiful natural spaces. This destination attracts visitors not only for its harmonious mountain and sea landscapes but also for its rich cultural and historical values.
Son Tra Peninsula Danang
Son Tra Peninsula, often called the “green lung” of Da Nang city, is one of the most unique and enchanting natural destinations in Central Vietnam. Located about 10 kilometers northeast of downtown Da Nang, Son Tra covers a vast area of over 60 square kilometers, featuring majestic mountains and a diverse primary forest ecosystem. The highest peak reaches 693 meters, creating a stunning landscape where the sea meets the sky.
Son Tra Peninsula is surrounded by the East Sea on three sides and connected to the mainland on one side, forming a distinctive cone shape. This makes it not only an ideal spot to enjoy breathtaking ocean views but also a rich ecological zone home to many rare plant and animal species.
Getting there from Da Nang city center is very convenient. Visitors can easily rent a motorbike or car and take a scenic coastal road, which takes about 20 – 30 minutes to reach the peninsula. Additionally, taxis and shuttle services are widely available to suit different travel needs.
Son Tra experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with the dry season from March to September being the best time to visit. During this period, you can enjoy clear skies, sunny weather, and calm seas – perfect conditions for outdoor activities and beach relaxation. This is also the peak season that attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists to explore. On the other hand, the rainy season runs from October to February, bringing heavy rains and storms, making it less suitable for tourism.
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Discover the best experiences on Son Tra Peninsula Vietnam
Son Tra Peninsula is not only the green lung of Da Nang city but also an ideal destination for those who love exploring and enjoying pristine natural beauty. The journey to discover Son Tra will take you to notable landmarks, from the sacred Linh Ung Pagoda to the spectacular views from Ban Co Peak, as well as through primeval forest trails and tranquil beaches.
Visit Linh Ung Pagoda and admire the Lady Buddha Statue
Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula is one of the most prominent spiritual destinations in the area. Situated on the mountainside with a prime location, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the vast blue sea and the modern city of Da Nang below. The highlight that cannot be missed is the 67-meter-tall Lady Buddha (Quan Am) statue, standing majestically as a symbol of peace and protection for the land.
When visiting, guests can not only admire the pagoda’s solemn and serene architecture but also feel a deep sense of tranquility while lighting incense, praying, or simply strolling through the pagoda’s lush grounds. Especially during major festivals, Linh Ung Pagoda attracts many pilgrims and visitors who come to participate in traditional ceremonies.
Exploring Ban Co Peak
Ban Co Peak, located on Son Tra Peninsula, is one of the most captivating destinations in Da Nang. It is renowned not only for its sweeping panoramic views of the city and the East Sea but also for its mysterious legend involving two celestial beings playing a game of chess.
According to local folklore, two fairies chose this mountaintop as their chessboard, engaging in a match that lasted for days without a winner. One day, distracted during the game, one of them lost. In frustration, he kicked the chessboard into the sea and ascended to the heavens. Inspired by this tale, locals later built a stone chessboard and a statue of a deity deep in thought beside it, known as the statue of De Thich.
The road to the summit is steep and winding, but the breathtaking natural scenery, with lush green forests and fresh mountain air, makes the journey worthwhile. Upon reaching the top, visitors are rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of Da Nang City, My Khe Beach, Dragon Bridge, and the Son Tra Peninsula from an elevation of approximately 700 meters above sea level.
Gazing at the the legendary banyan tree
If Son Tra Peninsula is considered the green lung of the city, then the thousand-year-old banyan tree is the green heart quietly beating within the ancient forest, preserving the spirit and breath of nature through centuries. In this tranquil space, where dense foliage and birdsong echo through the leaves, the banyan tree stands as a silent witness, intimately connected to Son Tra since its earliest days.
Standing about 20 meters tall with a trunk circumference of over 10 meters and a network of aerial roots intertwining like giant arms gripping the earth, the banyan tree is not only a natural masterpiece but also carries a sacred beauty. Locals regard it as the “sacred tree spirit” – a symbol guarding the forest, where many visitors stop to offer incense and pray for peace.
To reach the thousand-year-old banyan tree, you can ride a motorbike along Hoang Sa Road following the coastline up to Son Tra Peninsula. After passing Linh Ung Pagoda for about 6 kilometers, you will see a sign directing you to turn right onto the path leading to the banyan tree. The road is steep but clearly marked and can be navigated by a manual motorbike.
Discover the Tien Sa Lighthouse
The Tien Sa Lighthouse is not only an important maritime navigation structure but also a cultural and historical symbol deeply connected to the people of Da Nang. Built in 1905 during the French colonial period, the lighthouse, with its classic architecture and elegant white color, has accompanied countless ships crossing the waves of the East Sea.
From the top of the lighthouse, you can cast your eyes far out to admire the endless stretch of the East Sea, Son Tra Island, and the small shimmering boats on the water. Tien Sa Lighthouse is also a popular destination attracting many tourists and photographers who come to capture the sunrise, sunset, or to gaze at the starry sky at night. The peaceful atmosphere, cool sea breeze, and the ancient beauty of the lighthouse will surely leave you with unforgettable impressions.
Relax by the pristine and picturesque beaches of Son Tra Peninsula
Danang Son Tra Peninsula is not only renowned for its pristine forests and cultural sites but also boasts many beautiful beaches, offering visitors peaceful and relaxing natural retreats.
Famous beaches such as Bac Beach, Nam Beach, Rang Beach, and Da Den Beach all maintain their untouched charm with clear blue waters and fine white sand. Each beach has its own unique features, suitable for various activities like swimming, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the fresh air and the picturesque coastal scenery.
Bac Beach is known as the widest and quietest beach, ideal for those wanting to escape the city’s noise. Rang Beach is famous for its attractive diving spots, drawing enthusiasts eager to explore underwater life. Meanwhile, Da Den Beach, with its large rock formations and majestic views, is perfect for photography and seaside strolls.
Trek the Monkey Path
The Monkey Path is one of the most fascinating trails on Son Tra Peninsula, attracting adventurers and nature lovers alike. This approximately 4-kilometer-long trail winds through pristine forests abundant with diverse flora and fauna, especially brown-shanked douc langurs – a rare primate species native to this area. Visitors have the chance to observe and photograph these playful and gentle langurs in their natural habitat. This unique experience provides deeper insight into Son Tra’s diverse ecosystem and wildlife conservation efforts.
However, it is important to remember not to feed the langurs, as this can alter their natural behaviors and negatively impact the ecosystem. Additionally, while hiking the trail, visitors should keep the area clean and avoid littering to protect this precious natural forest environment. For a safe and enjoyable experience, it is recommended to travel in groups or with a local guide and to wear suitable footwear, as some parts of the path can be steep and slippery.
Watch romantic sunrises and sunsets on Son Tra Peninsula
Watching the sunrise and sunset on Son Tra Peninsula Danang is an unforgettable experience when visiting Da Nang. Each morning, as the sun slowly rises over the East Sea horizon, the mountains and sea blend into a serene and colorful natural painting. You can choose high vantage points like the Ban Co Peak or quiet beaches around the peninsula to fully enjoy this beautiful moment.
In the late afternoon, the sunset on Son Tra is equally romantic, with warm golden light reflecting off the deep blue sea. The cool breeze, the gentle sound of waves, and the majestic natural scenery create a relaxing atmosphere that allows you to connect deeply with nature. It is also an ideal time for photography and to enjoy the peaceful environment, a perfect contrast to the city’s hustle and bustle.
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Son Tra Peninsula is truly a natural treasure of Da Nang, offering visitors a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife. A visit to this green lung not only refreshes the body and mind but also deepens your connection with nature and the unique spirit of central Vietnam. We hope this article from Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness has helped you better understand the exciting activities you can enjoy on Son Tra Peninsula.
