Da Nang City: Top Things to Do on Son Tra Peninsula

Da Nang City, a vibrant coastal hub on Vietnam’s South Central Coast, attracts over 7 million visitors annually to its 125 km South China Sea coastline. Located just 10 km northeast of the city center in Son Tra Ward, Son Tra Peninsula, often called the “Green Lung of Da Nang,” is a 4,439-hectare eco-paradise, rising 693 m above sea level. Known as Monkey Mountain, this peninsula blends pristine forests, rugged cliffs, and secluded beaches like Tien Sa and Bai But, offering a serene escape from urban life. 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 within a nationally protected nature reserve. From hiking scenic trails to diving vibrant coral reefs, the peninsula offers diverse eco-friendly activities. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, provides sustainable tours to immerse you in this natural wonder. 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 easy access to Son Tra Peninsula and other attractions.

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.

1. Hike Scenic Forest Trails

Explore 30 km of trails, from the moderate Banyan Extension to the challenging Inland Route, winding through dense jungles. Spot rare wildlife like red-shanked douc langurs and over 300 bird species with guided eco-tours, such as those offered by Vietnam Eco-Tours. Ban Co Peak (693 m) offers panoramic views of Da Nang’s skyline and coastline.

• Cost: Guided trekking tours $60–$80 (1,500,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Tip: Wear sturdy shoes; book early morning tours (6:00 AM) for wildlife sightings. Included in our Son Tra Wildlife Tour ($80–$100).

2. Dive Vibrant Coral Reefs

Dive at Cape Nghe, home to 42 rare coral reefs, for an underwater adventure with colorful marine life. Certified operators offer eco-friendly scuba and snorkeling tours, preserving Son Tra’s marine ecosystem. Hon Chao (Dao Ngoc) is a pristine dive site with untouched corals.

• Cost: Diving tours $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND), includes equipment.

• Tip: Book May–August for clear waters; use eco-certified operators. Included in our Son Tra Diving Adventure ($100–$130).

3. Visit Linh Ung Pagoda

Admire Vietnam’s tallest Lady Buddha statue (67 m) at Linh Ung Pagoda, a spiritual landmark facing the East Sea. This 20-hectare temple blends modern and traditional Vietnamese architecture, offering serene views and cultural insights.

• Cost: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) appreciated.

• Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.

• Tip: Dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees); visit at sunset for city lights. Included in our Son Tra Nature Tour ($60–$80).

4. Explore Dong Dinh Museum

Discover Sa Huynh and Cham Pa artifacts at this private museum, 10 km from the city center, set amidst a 1,000-year-old banyan tree with 26 aerial roots. Founded by Doan Huy Giao, it showcases relics dating back 100–2,500 years.

• Cost: $1.20 (30,000 VND) entry.

• Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Tip: Combine with a banyan tree trek; photography encouraged. Included in our Son Tra Cultural Tour ($80–$100).

5. Enjoy Beach Activities

Relax on secluded beaches like Bai But or Bai Rang, perfect for swimming, fishing, or kayaking. Join local fishermen at dawn for a cultural experience or try paragliding for aerial views of the peninsula.

• Cost: Beach access free; kayaking $10–$15/hour (250,000–375,000 VND); paragliding $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Tip: Visit early to see fishing villages; book water activities in advance. Included in our Son Tra Nature Tour ($60–$80).

The ideal time to visit Son Tra Peninsula is from March to September, during the dry season, when sunny weather (24–35°C or 75.2–95°F) supports outdoor activities like hiking, diving, and beach visits. April to June is particularly vibrant, with blooming flowers and clear skies. The rainy season (September–January) brings showers and fog, which may limit visibility but enhance the peninsula’s mystical ambiance. Check AccuWeather for updates, especially in November, to avoid flood risks.

Son Tra Peninsula is 10 km northeast of 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 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 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.

Entrance Fees

• Son Tra trails, beaches: 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).

Activities

• 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, Madame Hanh): $3.50–$16 (85,000–400,000 VND).

• Coffee at beachside cafes: $1.50–$4.50 (37,500–112,500 VND).

Transport

• 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.

Total Daily Cost

• 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 15–25% tour discounts.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–4 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group, especially for March–September. Early morning tours (6:00 AM) maximize wildlife sightings; diving and camping require pre-booking.

• Weather Prep:

  • Dry Season (March–September): Sunscreen, hats, light clothing for 24–35°C (75.2–95°F). Ideal for hiking, diving, and beach activities.

  • Rainy Season (September–January): Raincoats, waterproof shoes; November fog may reduce visibility but adds mystique. 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 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 trails, 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 Tien Sa Lake. 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 is a breathtaking eco-destination, offering diverse activities from hiking and diving to exploring cultural landmarks like Linh Ung Pagoda. Its pristine forests, vibrant coral reefs, and rare wildlife, including red-shanked douc langurs, make it a must-visit for nature lovers. Supported by Da Nang’s sustainable tourism initiatives, a visit here is both thrilling and responsible. Legend Travel Group’s Da Nang Tours guide you through Son Tra’s wonders, ensuring a sustainable Da Nang Travel experience that supports local communities. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Son Tra Peninsula adventure today!
Ready to explore Son Tra Peninsula’s natural splendor? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in 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: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group