Overview of Son Tra Peninsula

Son Tra Peninsula, located in Son Tra Ward, City. Da Nang, a large mountain massif reaching out to the East Sea, is known as the "green lung" of the city. This peninsula is famous for its rich natural forest ecosystem, closely linked to the sea, combining old forests, high mountains and pristine beaches. With an altitude of about 696 meters above sea level, Son Tra has a cool climate all year round and is a place to preserve many rare flora and fauna species, especially the Red-shanked Douc Langur, known as the "Primate Queen".

Son Peninsula Tra

Son Tra Peninsula is not only a nature reserve but also an important spiritual tourism and resort destination. With a strategic location overlooking the entire city and Da Nang Bay, Son Tra is home to important radar stations and famous religious works such as Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda. Coastal roads and the road to Ban Co peak provide wonderful exploration and sightseeing experiences. Son Tra is currently a strongly operating eco-tourism and spiritual cultural destination in Da Nang.

Outstanding attractions in Son Tra Peninsula

Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda

Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda

Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda is a One of the three most famous Linh Ung pagodas in Da Nang, located in a prime location on the mountainside, with its back leaning against the mountain, facing the East Sea and Da Nang Bay. The most prominent highlight is the 67-meter-high Avalokiteśvara Buddha Statue, recognized as the tallest Buddha statue in Vietnam, standing on a 35-meter-wide lotus throne. This is a peaceful spiritual pilgrimage site, and an ideal place for tourists to enjoy panoramic views of the city and sea.

Ban Co Peak

Peak of the Board

Ban Co Peak is located at an altitude of nearly 700 meters above sea level, the highest point on Son Tra peninsula. This place is associated with the legend of two fairies sitting and playing chess. Coming to Ban Co Peak, visitors can not only admire the statue of an immortal sitting and play chess, but can also enjoy a panoramic view of Da Nang, from the Han River, My Khe beach to famous bridges.

Radar Station 29 (Indochina God's Eye)

Radar Station 29

Radar Station 29, also known as the "Indochina God's Eye", is an important military project located near Ban Co Peak. Although visitors are not allowed inside the military area, visitors can observe the radar station's unique hemispherical architecture from afar. This location has an ideal panoramic view, helping visitors understand more about the strategic position of Son Tra.

Thousand Year Banyan Tree

The Thousand Year Banyan Tree

The Thousand Year Banyan Tree Age is a symbol of the strong vitality of the Son Tra ecosystem. This ancient banyan tree is located at an altitude of about 700m and is estimated to be more than 1000 years old. The tree's trunk stands tall with many giant side roots intertwined, forming a large, majestic canopy like a "house" in the forest. This is an ideal stop to rest, take photos and an opportunity for visitors to learn about the rare flora in the reserve.

Bai But

Bai But

Bai But is located in the south of Son Tra Peninsula, is one of the most beautiful and pristine beaches, where forests and mountains meet the sea. Bai But is famous for its clear blue water, calm waves and is a place to develop eco-tourism activities such as diving to see coral and underwater games. This is also an ideal place to organize camping and picnic activities.

Mui Nghe

Nose Nghe

Mui Nghe is the easternmost point of Son Tra Peninsula. This place is famous for its rocky outcrop shaped like a crocodile reaching out to the sea. Mui Nghe is a challenging and attractive trekking (hiking) destination, where visitors can experience the feeling of welcoming the city's first rays of sunrise. This area is also a place to fish and admire the pristine sea.

Here are 5 other suggested attractions in Son Tra Peninsula:

• Tien Sa Beach: Famous tourist resort and marina, with beautiful beaches and high-end water sports services.

• Den Da Beach: Unique beach with stacked black rocks, creating an impressive photography scene.

• Ghenh Bang: Natural rocky beach area with clear water, suitable for scuba diving and fishing.

• Son Tra Lighthouse: An ancient architectural work, an ideal sightseeing and photography spot with views of the East Sea.

• Road around the peninsula (North Beach Road - South Beach Road): Beautiful coastal route, where visitors can stop to admire the scenery, observe the Red-shanked Douc Langur and immerse themselves in nature.

Best time to travel

The most ideal time to explore Son Tra Peninsula is during the Dry Season, lasting from March to September. During this period, the weather in Son Tra Ward is often sunny, with few storms, very convenient for traveling and sightseeing. These perfect conditions help visitors easily conquer Ban Co Peak, participate in marine activities such as diving to see coral at Bai But and have the opportunity to observe the Red-shanked Douc Langur. This is the best time to have a complete trip.

On the contrary, the rainy season (from October to February of the following year) is an unfavorable travel time for Son Tra. This area often experiences heavy rain and strong winds, making the roads to attractions easily slippery and may be banned for safety reasons. Big waves and turbid sea water also seriously affect marine activities. If tourists come during this season, they need to check the weather forecast carefully and prioritize safety, staying away from dangerous warning areas.

Travel information

By air

Da Nang International Airport (DAD)

• Popular flight route Variable: Son Tra Peninsula is located near Da Nang airport. Popular flight routes are Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) -> Da Nang (DAD), Hanoi (HAN) -> Da Nang (DAD), and many other international routes.

• Operating airlines: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, Pacific Airlines and many international airlines.

• Arrival airport: Da Nang International Airport (DAD), about 8 - 10 km from the foot of Son Tra Peninsula (Son Tra Ward).

• Transportation from the airport to Son Tra: Taxi, technology car, or private rental car.

• Save Note:

  • DAD Airport is the only destination for tourists who want to go to Son Tra by air.

  • Travel time from the airport to the foot of the peninsula (near the beach area) is only about 15 - 20 minutes.

  • Visitors can easily rent a taxi or book a technology car right at the airport.

By road

Popular route:

• From Da Nang center (Hai Chau Ward) to Son Tra (Son Tra Ward): About 8 - 10 km, travel time 15 - 25 minutes.

• Reputable car companies: Taxi (Mai Linh, Tien Sa), city bus (Beach route), private tour car, technology car.

• Reference fare:

  • Taxi/Technology car: about 100,000 - 150,000 VND/trip from Da Nang center.

  • Bus: Very low fare (depending on route).

Departure bus station:

• At Da Nang: Da Nang Central Bus Station (Hoa Minh Ward area), about 12-15 km from Son Tra.

• At Son Tra: There is no large bus station, only parking spots at tourist areas (such as Linh Ung Pagoda) and public parking lots.

Note:

• The road to Son Tra peak (Ban Co Peak, Cay Ban) has a high slope. Geared vehicles and manual motorbikes are encouraged to use, and the brakes need to be thoroughly checked.

• The area at the top of the peninsula may prohibit or restrict self-driving cars from moving into some road sections to ensure safety.

Movement in Son Tra Peninsula

Popular means of transport:

• Motorbike: The most popular and flexible means of exploring steep roads and sightseeing.

• Rented car with driver/Jeep tour: Suitable for large groups or tourists who want to safely reach high points like Ban Co Peak.

• Electric vehicle (in Bai But area): Operates in resorts or flat beach areas.

Reputable motorbike rental address:

• Visitors should rent motorbikes in the central areas of Da Nang (Hai Chau Ward, Thanh Khe Ward) or ask directly at the hotel hotel.

• Car rental shops are often concentrated along the sea route (for example, the area near An Hai Ward) before going to Son Tra.

Reference motorbike rental price:

• Motorbike number: 100,000 – 150,000 VND/day

• Scooter: 150,000 – 250,000 VND/day

Address for renting a car / tourist vehicle:

• Tourists should contact tour companies Large operators and transport companies with clear business registration in Da Nang to rent 4–45-seat tourist cars (for example: DANAGO Tourism Joint Stock Company, Vietravel Tourism Company - Da Nang Branch).

Accommodation information

Luxury class (4–5 stars)

Novotel Danang Premier Han River

This is one of Da Nang's most prominent 5-star luxury hotels, located in the city center but with direct views of the Son Tra peninsula and Han River. Novotel provides international standard services, suitable for both travel and business. The hotel stands out with its infinity swimming pool and Sky Bar on the top floor, an ideal choice for travelers who want city amenities but still easily move to Son Tra.

• Address: 36 Bach Dang, Hai Chau Ward, City. Da Nang.

• Reference price: 2,500,000 - 4,500,000 VND/night.

Grand Tourane Hotel

Grand Tourane Hotel

5-star hotel located near the beach My Khe, convenient to move to areas on Son Tra (only about 5-10 minutes from the foot of the mountain). The hotel has modern design, full amenities, outdoor swimming pool and high standard service. This location is suitable for tourists who want to combine visiting Son Tra and enjoying My Khe beach.

• Address: 252 Vo Nguyen Giap, Phuoc My Ward, City. Da Nang.

• Reference price: 1,500,000 - 2,500,000 VND/night.

If you want more options for a luxury vacation in the center of Da Nang near Son Tra, you can consider other quality hotels:

• Sea Phoenix Hotel – 122 Ly Van To, Phuoc My Ward, City. Da Nang – Price about 900,000 – 1,600,000 VND/night.

• Four Points by Sheraton Danang – 118 – 120 Vo Nguyen Giap, Phuoc My Ward, City. Da Nang – Price about 2,000,000 – 3,500,000 VND/night.

Resort (Resort, Villa)

InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort

InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort

5-star resort, designed by famous architect Bill Bensley and located isolated on the mountainside, with its own private beach (Bai Bac). This is the most luxurious resort in the area, offering lavish villas and suites. The resort is famous for its unique design, private butler service and absolute tranquility, ideal for a honeymoon or long-term vacation.

• Address: Bai Bac, Son Tra Ward, City. Da Nang.

• Reference price: 8,000,000 - 20,000,000 VND/night.

Son Tra Resort & Spa

The resort is designed in the form of bungalows and separate villas, located in Bai But. This resort offers a quiet, romantic space, with sea views and amenities such as a swimming pool and seafood restaurant. This resort is suitable for tourists who love being close to nature and has a more reasonable cost than InterContinental.

• Address: Bai But, Son Tra Ward, City. Da Nang.

• Reference price: 2,500,000 - 5,000,000 VND/night.

For diverse options for tourists who love nature and want to find a peaceful space among the mountains and forests, you can refer to some other resorts/villas:

• Premier Village Danang Resort – 99 Vo Nguyen Giap, My An Ward, City. Da Nang (about 15 minutes from Son Tra) - Price from 4,000,000 - 8,000,000 VND/night.

• Furama Resort Da Nang - 105 Vo Nguyen Giap, Khue My Ward, City. Da Nang (about 20 minutes from Son Tra) – Price from 3,500,000 – 7,000,000 VND/night.

Experience (2–3 stars, Homestay, Co hotel)

Tung Lam Homestay

Is an option Typical homestay located near the foot of Son Tra mountain. This homestay provides clean, cozy rooms at a reasonable cost, suitable for backpackers or young people who want to experience being close to local people and convenient for renting motorbikes up the mountain.

• Address: Lot 18, An Hai 3, An Hai Ward, City. Da Nang.

• Reference price: 400,000 - 700,000 VND/night.

Bamboo Green Hotel

3-star hotel located near the city center and convenient to move to Son Tra. This hotel provides modern, clean, fully equipped rooms, suitable for travelers who want a comfortable place to stay at an economical cost.

• Address: 177 – 179 Tran Phu, Hai Chau Ward, City. Da Nang.

• Reference price: 700,000 - 1,200,000 VND/night.

For travelers who love a cozy space, reasonable cost but still fully equipped, the following places are worth a try:

• Hana Homestay Danang – 203 Ho Nghinh, Phuoc My Ward, City. Da Nang – Price from 500,000 – 900,000 VND/night.

• Nice Hotel & Apartment – ​​49 An Thuong 26, My An Ward, City. Da Nang – Price from 600,000 – 1,000,000 VND/night.

• Hai Yen Hotel – 301 Nguyen Van Thoai, Phuoc My Ward, City. Da Nang – Price from 550,000 – 850,000 VND/night.

Festival cuisine and culture 

High-class restaurant

Citron Restaurant (InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort)

Citron Restaurant

Citron is a famous restaurant located in the 5-star InterContinental resort. The restaurant impresses with the design of a hanging cone-shaped seating area, providing beautiful views of the East Sea. The menu serves premium Asian-European and Vietnamese Fusion cuisine, the most luxurious culinary experience in Son Tra Ward.

• Address: Bai Bac, Son Tra Ward, City. Da Nang.

• Average price: From 1,000,000 - 3,000,000 VND/person.

Sea Son Restaurant (Son Tra Resort & Spa)

The restaurant is located in the Son Tra Resort, specializing in serving Serving fresh seafood dishes caught during the day in Son Tra waters. The open restaurant space, facing the sea, is ideal for romantic dinners. In addition to seafood, Sea Son also serves basic Asian and European dishes and BBQ grills.

• Address: Bai But, Son Tra Ward, City. Da Nang.

• Average price: 500,000 - 1,200,000 VND/person.

Some other high-class culinary places you can refer to near Son Tra Peninsula:

• The Fishman Restaurant – 15A Tran Hung Dao, An Hai Ward, City. Da Nang – Price about 400,000 – 900,000 VND/person (Specializing in seafood).

• Be Man Seafood Restaurant – Lot 14 Hoang Sa, Phuoc My Ward, City. Da Nang – Price about 300,000 – 800,000 VND/person (Famous location).

• A La Carte Restaurant (in A La Carte Hotel) – 200 Vo Nguyen Giap, Phuoc My Ward, City. Da Nang - Pool view, price from 500,000 VND/person.

Local cuisine

Fresh seafood

Seafood is the "soul" of local cuisine in Son Tra. Dishes such as snails, salt-roasted mantis shrimp, grilled fish in foil, and seafood salads are prepared right after catching. Tourists can find rustic seafood restaurants concentrated in the area along Hoang Sa road, near the foot of the peninsula, providing a culinary experience close to the sea.

Suggested address:

• Spontaneous seafood restaurants along Hoang Sa road: Providing the experience of eating seafood right next to the sea.

• Night seafood market at Tho Quang fishing port: Nai Hien Dong Ward area (neighboring Son Tra) - A place to buy fresh and processed seafood at affordable prices.

Nam O Fish Salad Specialties

This is a typical dish of coastal fishermen in Da Nang (area near Hoa Hiep Bac Ward, but often widely sold). The salad is made from thinly sliced ​​fresh fish (usually herring), mixed with spices and served with rice paper and wild vegetables.

Suggested address:

• Nam O Thanh Huong Fish Salad - 1029 Nguyen Luong Bang, Hoa Hiep Bac Ward, City. Da Nang (Famous address, near Son Tra).

• Small fish salad shops: Concentrated along Nguyen Tat Thanh street.

Experience cuisine

>Eating and drinking at Bai But and Bai Nam

In the Bai But or Bai Nam area, some tourist establishments and homestays offer outdoor seafood BBQ or campfire night barbecue services. Visitors can choose fresh seafood themselves at the area near the port or buy it on the spot, then organize a barbecue with friends under the stars. This experience brings a feeling of closeness to the nature of Son Tra island.

Suggested address:

• Son Tra Resort & Spa: Provides private BBQ service upon request.

• Camping sites (licensed) at Bai But: Often available for rent grill and ingredients.

>Experience cuisine in fishing villages

Visitors can visit small fishing villages neighboring Son Tra (Nai Hien Dong Ward area) in the morning to watch fishermen bring seafood, buy directly and ask households to prepare rustic dishes, and enjoy a "fishermen rice" style meal. people".

Culture & Festival Experience

Avalokiteśvara Festival (Linh Ung Pagoda)

Avalokiteśvara Festival (Linh Ung Pagoda)

Avalokiteśvara Festival is the largest spiritual event taking place on Son Tra Peninsula. The festival is held on February 19 of the lunar calendar every year at Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda. The festival attracts thousands of Buddhists and tourists, including solemn rituals such as processions, incense offerings, prayers, and folk cultural activities. This is an opportunity for visitors to experience the spiritual and sacred atmosphere.

Cau Ngu Festival (Coastal Area)

Cau Ngu Festival is a traditional ritual of fishermen, often held in neighboring coastal fishing villages (An Hai Ward or Nai Hien Dong Ward). This festival aims to express gratitude to Ong fish (whale) and pray for a prosperous fishing season and peace at sea. The festival includes traditional rituals and typical cultural activities of coastal residents.

Other cultural festivals in Son Tra Ward and neighboring areas:

• Rituals at Linh Ung Pagoda: Such as Buddha's Birthday and Vu Lan ceremony, often held solemnly according to the lunar calendar.

• Food and beer festivals: Often held at beaches in the Phuoc My Ward area (neighboring Son Tra) in the summer.

Amusement area

Because Son Tra Peninsula is a strict nature reserve, there are no large-scale amusement parks like Ba Na Hills. Fun and experiential activities mainly focus on eco-tourism, natural exploration and marine sports.

Bai But and coastal resorts

Bai But, in Son Tra Ward, is an area famous for water sports and scuba diving activities. The sea water here is relatively calm and clear, ideal for tourists who want to explore the marine ecosystem. High-end resorts such as InterContinental and Son Tra Resort also offer exclusive beach services.

• Popular activities: Snorkeling and scuba diving to see coral, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).

• Save Note: Scuba diving activities are often organized by professional tour operators, licensed by the Conservation Area Management Board.

Tien Sa Beach (Marina Area)

Bai Tien Sa

Bai Tien Sa, located in the west of the Peninsula, is famous tourist area and marina. This area offers a variety of beach entertainment services, from thrilling games to relaxing activities on the private beach. Visitors can easily rent canoes to visit nearby small islands or fish offshore.

Son Tra Peninsula also has many attractive places to visit and experience suitable for tourists who want to relax and explore:

• Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda: Spiritual sightseeing spot and panoramic view of the city.

• Son Tra Lighthouse: Ideal photo spot with ancient architecture and panoramic views.

• Da Den Beach (Da Ong Beach): Natural rock area, suitable for check-in and light picnics.

• High-end resorts (InterContinental, Son Tra Resort): Providing luxurious entertainment facilities, spa and infinity pool.

Suggested tour

Experience tour

Linh Ung Discovery Tour - Half Day Ban Co Peak

• Itinerary: Depart from Da Nang - Visit Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda (admire the Lady Buddha Statue) - Conquer Ban Co Peak (panoramic view of the city) - Visit the Thousand Year Banyan Tree - Finish and return.

• Features: Focus on iconic check-in points and sightseeing at high altitude, suitable for tourists with little time.

• Transportation: Tourist car or Motorbike (self-driving).

• Reference tour price: 400,000 - 600,000 VND/person (Not including meals).

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  Suggested organizer: Danang Explorer, tourist motorbike rental services.

Adventure - discovery tour

Son Tra Coral Diving & Ecological Discovery Tour 1 day

• Itinerary: Departure - Canoe/boat to the diving area (Bai But/Hon Nghe) - Snorkeling to see coral (Snorkeling/Scuba) - Seafood lunch - Visit Mui Nghe - Explore the forest and observe douc langurs (late afternoon).

• Characteristics: For tourists who want to experience marine activities island and explore the natural ecosystem of Son Tra Peninsula.

• Transportation: Car + High-speed canoe + Diving equipment.

• Reference tour price: 750,000 - 1,500,000 VND/person (Depending on type of diving and time diving).

• Suggested organizer: Professional scuba diving centers in Da Nang, Ecotourism company.

South Beach Trekking and Camping Tour 2 days 1 night

• Schedule itinerary:

  • Day 1: Trekking to explore the forest roads - Go to Bai Nam area - Set up camp, swim at the beach - Have seafood BBQ dinner and campfire exchange.

  • Day 2: Welcoming the sunrise on the sea - Explore the rocky beach area - Clean up and return to the center.

• Features: Suitable for tourists who love adventure, exploring the pristine area of the peninsula.

• Transportation: Car + Trekking.

• Reference tour price: 1,800,000 – 3,000,000 VND/person (Including tents, equipment and 3 meals).

• Suggested organizers: Da Nang Trekking Clubs, Danang Explore Travel.

Family tour

Tour Son Tra & My Khe Beach Half Day

• Itinerary: Morning: Depart - Visit Linh Ung Pagoda (spiritual) - Visit Bai But (take photos, rest). Afternoon: Return to My Khe Beach area (Phuoc My Ward) - Swimming, fun activities on the sand - Seafood dinner.

• Features: Combining spiritual relaxation, sightseeing and relaxation at the beach, suitable for families with young children.

• Transportation: 16–29 seat tourist car.

• Reference tour price: 550,000 - 800,000 VND/person (Including shuttle).

• Group unit Suggested organization: Vietravel - Da Nang Branch, Saigontourist.

Eco-tourism

1-day Red-shanked Douc Observation Tour (Early morning)

• Itinerary: Very early departure (5:00 a.m.) - Transportation Go on hunting and observation routes - Observe the Red-shanked Douc Langur (6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.) with an ecological guide - Return for breakfast - Combine with visiting scenic spots.

• Features: Specialized tour for those who love nature and want to take photos and explore rare primates. Strict compliance with conservation rules is required.

• Transportation: Specialized car + Light walking.

• Reference tour price: 800,000 - 1,500,000 VND/person (Depends on professional ecological tour guide service).

• Suggested organizer: Licensed local ecotourism companies.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Shopping activities at Son Tra Peninsula  mainly focus on spiritual, cultural and handicraft products. Right at Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda, visitors can find peace items such as bracelets, chanted beads, small Buddha statues, or Buddhist publications as souvenirs. In addition, small coastal stalls (such as Bai But and Bai Tien Sa areas) also sell handicrafts made from snail shells, seashells and paintings of Son Tra seascapes, very suitable as souvenirs of the trip.

For local specialties, seafood is an indispensable gift. Visitors can buy seafood that has been processed into dried foods such as dried squid and dried shrimp at establishments near Tho Quang fishing port (Nai Hien Dong Ward, Son Tra neighborhood) or shops along Hoang Sa road. In addition, visitors should visit Da Nang's large traditional markets such as Han Market (Hai Chau Ward) to buy packaged specialties such as Braised Squid, Nam O Fish Sauce, Sesame Dried Cake, and Beef Grilled Rice to ensure quality and variety.

Da Nang specialties

Support information and other information

If you encounter problems needing assistance regarding security, health or service quality when visiting Son Tra Peninsula, visitors can contact the authorities concentrated in the central area of Da Nang or the national emergency phone numbers:

• Da Nang City Police Da Nang: 0236 3822 300 - 80 Le Loi, Hai Chau Ward, City. Da Nang.

• Da Nang Tourist Support Center: 0236 3550 111 - 108 Bach Dang, Hai Chau Ward, City. Da Nang.

• Da Nang City Market Management Department (Market Management): 0236 3624 190 - 327 Le Thanh Nghi, Hoa Cuong Ward, City. Da Nang.

• Son Tra Ward Police (contact office directly): (Search for nearest local information in Son Tra Ward area).

• National emergency hotline: 113 (Police), 114 (Fire), 115 (Emergency).

>Support information at Son Tra Peninsula

Right in the Son Tra Peninsula area, visitors can find the following services and support, concentrated at major attractions and resorts:

• Son Tra Nature Reserve Management Board:

  • Function: Responsible for managing and protecting the forest ecosystem, controlling traffic to the top of the mountain, and solving problems related to wildlife (such as the Red-shanked Douc Langur).

  • Note: Visitors need to comply with signs and regulations of the Management Board when visiting.

• Medical/First Aid Station:

  • Location: Basic medical stations are scattered in coastal wards at the foot of Son Tra mountain (such as An Hai Ward, Tho Quang Ward). Large resorts also have internal medical services.

  • Function: Providing first aid and basic health care services.

Ending the journey to explore Son Tra Peninsula, where forests, mountains and sea blend together to create a majestic natural picture, we hope visitors have had a good experience. memorable. Wishing you keep wonderful memories of Da Nang's "green lungs".