Discover Son Tra Peninsula in Da Nang City, a biodiversity hotspot with pristine beaches and eco-tours. Book sustainable adventures with Legend Travel Group for an unforgettable Vietnam escape!
Da Nang City, a vibrant coastal gem on Vietnam’s South Central Coast, attracts over 7 million visitors annually to its 125 km South China Sea coastline. Just 10 km northeast of the city center in Son Tra Ward, Son Tra Peninsula, known as Monkey Mountain, is a 4,439-hectare natural treasure, rising 693 m above sea level. This eco-paradise, part of a nationally protected nature reserve, boasts pristine forests, rugged cliffs, and unspoiled beaches like Tien Sa and Bai But. Home to over 1,000 plant species and 370 animal species, including the critically endangered red-shanked douc langur, Son Tra is a biodiversity hotspot. Its cultural landmarks, such as Linh Ung Pagoda with Vietnam’s tallest Lady Buddha statue, and historical significance as a Vietnam War lookout, add depth to its allure. From scenic hikes to coral diving, Son Tra offers a perfect blend of adventure and serenity. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, provides eco-friendly tours to explore this peninsula sustainably. Contact +84825862222 or info@legendtravelgroup.com to book your adventure—reserve a tour via the links throughout this guide
Legend Travel Group crafts authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our Son Tra Peninsula tours use low-impact transport—bicycles, electric shuttles, and eco-taxis—guided by local experts who share insights into the region’s ecology and heritage. Supporting communities in Son Tra and Hai Chau Wards, we align with Da Nang’s “Green Heritage” initiative to preserve its natural treasures. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 24 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Book our eco-conscious tours via the links on this page and travel responsibly!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Quang Nam Province into Da Nang City, expanding its footprint to include areas like Hoi An Town. The district level has been eliminated, making Da Nang the nation’s largest city by landmass. Enhanced by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric buses, and a VND600 billion flood mitigation project (2024)—the city ensures seamless access to Son Tra Peninsula.
Located 764 km south of Hanoi and 964 km north of Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang City is bordered by Thua Thien Hue, Quang Ngai, Kon Tum, Laos, and the South China Sea. Covering 1,283.42 km² (241.51 km² urban, 1,041.91 km² rural), it features a tropical monsoon climate with a dry season (February–August, 24–35°C or 75.2–95°F) and a rainy season (September–January, 18–30°C or 64.4–86°F), with peak rainfall in October–November (150–500 mm).
The city’s terrain, from the Truong Son Mountains to its coastline, creates a stunning backdrop for Son Tra Peninsula. The Han River fuels its tourism hub status, while over 50% of the area is forested, enhancing the peninsula’s ecological allure.
Son Tra Peninsula, 10 km northeast of Da Nang city center, spans 60 km² with a 13-km length and 5-km width, accessible via Yet Kieu or Hoang Sa Street. Shaped like a mushroom, its “cap” is Son Tra Mountain (693 m), and its “stalk” features white sandy beaches like Bai Bac, Bai Nam, and Bai But. The peninsula’s 30 km² of primeval forest, part of Son Tra Nature Reserve since 1977, hosts 1,089 plant species and 374 animal species, including 22 rare ones like the red-shanked douc langur. Its coastal roads, such as the scenic Son Tra Loop, offer breathtaking views of Da Nang’s skyline and the East Sea.
Known as Monkey Mountain, Son Tra was a navigational landmark for ancient traders and a military lookout during the Vietnam War, with remnants like the old American radar station at Ban Co Peak. Local folklore names it “Tien Sa” (Fairies’ Landing Place), where deities played chess, inspiring landmarks like the Chessboard Statue. Linh Ung Pagoda, with its 67-meter Lady Buddha statue, is a spiritual beacon, believed to protect fishermen. The peninsula’s conservation efforts, supported by the Red-shanked Douc Langur Protection Project, preserve its biodiversity, making it a model for sustainable tourism.
Son Tra Peninsula offers a rich tapestry of eco-friendly activities. Hike forest trails, dive vibrant coral reefs, or relax on secluded beaches. Visit cultural sites like Linh Ung Pagoda or explore historical relics at Dong Dinh Museum. The peninsula’s cool ocean breezes and lush greenery create a refreshing escape, ideal for motorbike tours, wildlife spotting, or sunset photography. Its protected status ensures minimal environmental impact, aligning with Da Nang’s sustainable tourism goals.
Cost: Free entry to beaches and trails; guided eco-tours $60–$100 (1,500,000–2,500,000 VND); Linh Ung Pagoda free (donations $1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); Dong Dinh Museum $1.20 (30,000 VND).
Hours: Open 24/7; pagoda 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; museum 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; guided tours typically 6:00 AM–3:30 PM.
Sustainable Tip: Use binoculars for wildlife viewing; carry reusable water bottles; follow #savesontra guidelines to protect the ecosystem.
Highlights: “A pristine eco-haven with rare langurs and stunning views” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).
Tip: Visit early morning (6:00 AM) for cooler weather and active wildlife; allow 4–6 hours. Included in our Son Tra Nature Tour ($60–$80).
Son Tra enjoys a mild ocean climate, with temperatures rarely exceeding 35°C (95°F) in summer or dropping below 18°C (64.4°F) in winter. The dry season (March–September) is ideal for outdoor activities, with clear skies and calm seas, especially from April to June when forests bloom with colorful flowers. The rainy season (September–January) brings occasional showers and fog, adding a mystical ambiance but potentially limiting visibility. Check AccuWeather for updates, particularly in November, to avoid flood risks.
Son Tra Peninsula is 10 km from Da Nang city center, a 20–30 minute drive, and 30–40 km from Hoi An Town, a 45–60 minute drive, via Yet Kieu or Hoang Sa Street.
From Da Nang City Center (10 km):
Taxi/Grab: $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND) round-trip, 20 minutes.
Motorbike Rental: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND); scenic coastal route via Vo Nguyen Giap.
Bicycle: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND); 45–60 minutes for fit travelers.
Private Tour: Eco-tours start at $60/person with transfers.
Jeep Tour: $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND) for a rugged experience.
From Hoi An Town (30–40 km):
Taxi/Grab: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) round-trip, 45–60 minutes.
Motorbike Rental: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND), 45 minutes.
Private Tour: Round-trip transfers $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND).
Tip: Motorbikes offer flexibility but require cautious driving on steep, winding roads; large vehicles (over 24 seats) are restricted from the Banyan Tree to Ban Co Peak. Book a Legend Travel Group tour for eco-friendly transfers.
Son Tra beaches, trails: Free.
Linh Ung Pagoda: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Dong Dinh Museum: $1.20 (30,000 VND).
Guided eco-tours: $60–$100 (1,500,000–2,500,000 VND).
Diving tours: $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND).
Kayaking/paddleboarding: $10–$15/hour (250,000–375,000 VND).
Paragliding: $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND).
Camping: $10–$20/night (250,000–500,000 VND).
Dining (e.g., Son Tra Retreat, local seafood): $3.50–$16 (85,000–400,000 VND).
Coffee at beachside cafes: $1.50–$4.50 (37,500–112,500 VND).
Within Da Nang (1–5 km): Bicycle $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND); motorbike $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND); taxi/Grab $3.50–$6.50/trip (85,000–160,000 VND).
To Son Tra (10 km from city center): Taxi/Grab $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND) round-trip.
From Hoi An Town (30–40 km): Taxi/Grab $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) round-trip.
Hanoi to Da Nang (750 km, round-trip): Flight $80–$150; train $40–$65 + $6–$13 taxi; bus $25–$40 + $6–$13 taxi.
Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang (900 km, round-trip): Flight $90–$170; bus $35–$50 + $6–$13 taxi.
Budget: $20–$50 (includes transport, free trails, street food).
Mid-range: $50–$80 (includes guided tour, dining).
Luxury: $80–$130 (includes private tour, diving, upscale dining).
Tip: Carry VND for small vendors; mobile signals may be weak, so download offline maps (Maps.me). Dry season (March–September) offers 15–20% tour discounts.
Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–4 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group, especially for March–September. Early morning visits (6:00 AM) maximize wildlife sightings; diving or camping requires permits.
Weather Prep:
Dry Season (March–September): Sunscreen, hats, light clothing for 24–35°C (75.2–95°F). Ideal for April–June with blooming forests.
Rainy Season (September–November): Raincoats, waterproof shoes; November fog may limit visibility. Check AccuWeather for flood risks.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for Yet Kieu or Hoang Sa Street; mobile signals are weak in jungles. Trails are marked, but guides enhance safety.
Budget Wisely: Carry 50,000–500,000 VND notes; eco-tours bundle activities for value.
Stay Safe: Wear sturdy shoes for trails; avoid feeding wildlife; secure belongings on beaches. Check motorbike brakes for steep slopes.
Sustainability: Follow #savesontra guidelines; avoid plastic waste; support conservation with eco-tours like those from Vietnam Eco-Tours.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at Linh Ung Pagoda (covered shoulders, knees); say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides/vendors ($1–$2).
Our sustainable tours showcase Son Tra’s natural and cultural highlights:
Son Tra Nature Tour ($60–$80/person): Hike Banyan Extension, visit Linh Ung Pagoda, relax at Bai But Beach. Includes eco-transfers, guide, and snacks.
Son Tra Wildlife Tour ($80–$100/person): Langur spotting, Dong Dinh Museum, birdwatching. Includes eco-transfers, museum entry ($1.20), binoculars, and lunch.
Son Tra Diving Adventure ($100–$130/person): Dive Cape Nghe’s coral reefs, kayak Bai Bac. Includes eco-transfers, equipment, and lunch.
Da Nang Explorer ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Son Tra, Marble Mountains, Golden Bridge, homestays ($12–$30/night or 300,000–750,000 VND). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include entrance fees, eco-transfers, and meals/snacks. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 10+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page or contact +84825862222, info@legendtravelgroup.com
Son Tra Peninsula in Da Nang City, a breathtaking eco-destination just 10 km from the city center, captivates with its pristine forests, unspoiled beaches like Bai But, and cultural treasures like Linh Ung Pagoda, featuring Vietnam’s tallest Lady Buddha statue at 67 meters. This 4,400-hectare haven, part of the Son Tra Nature Reserve, is home to over 1,679 species, including the critically endangered red-shanked douc langurs, and is supported by sustainable tourism practices such as eco-friendly trails and community-led conservation. Legend Travel Group’s Da Nang Tours guide you through this biodiverse paradise, ensuring a sustainable Da Nang Travel experience with explorations of Ban Co Peak and nearby cultural sites like the Han River Bridge. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to discover Son Tra Peninsula’s natural splendor? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into Da Nang’s green heart!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources:
Son Tra Peninsula Information: vinpearl.com, danangfantasticity.com, vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, localvietnam.com
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