Son Tra Peninsula – The pristine wonder of Da Nang

Known as “the green lungs of Da Nang,” this breathtaking destination blends rugged mountains, lush tropical forests, and panoramic ocean views into a single unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an adventurer, a photographer, or a nature lover, Son Tra is an unmissable gem along Vietnam’s central coast.

Quick introduction of Son Tra Peninsula

Often called the “green lung of Da Nang”, Son Tra Peninsula extends eastward on the northern end of the city, rises with three main peaks, forming an impressive natural backdrop for the town. It's not just a scenic wonder, but also a site of historical and strategic importance.

• Historical significance: Once nicknamed the "Indochina's Divine Eye" during wartime due to its strategic military location.
• Location: Just 10 km north of Da Nang’s center, easily accessible by motorbike or car.
• Best time to visit: From June to August, when the weather is calm and ideal for outdoor activities like swimming, trekking, and snorkeling.

Must-visit attractions on Son Tra Peninsula

From panoramic viewpoints to hidden coves, Son Tra is full of gems waiting to be discovered. Here are the highlights you can't miss:

Ban Co Peak (Chessboard Peak)

As the highest point on Son Tra Peninsula, Ban Co Peak rises to about 700 meters above sea level. Legend has it that two immortals once played chess on this mountaintop, and a statue of one still sits at the summit, gazing into the distance. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Da Nang City, the coastline, and the endless blue horizon. Sunrise and sunset are especially magical moments to visit.

The Ancient banyan tree

Known locally as “Cây đa ngàn năm”, the thousand-year-old banyan tree is a sacred symbol of longevity and resilience. With its sprawling roots and towering trunk, it offers a shaded sanctuary perfect for rest and reflection. It also makes a striking photo backdrop for nature lovers and spiritual travelers alike.

Son Tra Lighthouse

Built during the French colonial era, this charming lighthouse is both a historical site and a scenic lookout. The lighthouse is climbable for visitors seeking a breathtaking view of the vast ocean, which gives a sense of serenity that few other destinations can offer.

Ghenh Bang

A rugged shoreline with crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and rocky outcrops. Notably, one corner of Ghenh Bang features hexagonal basalt columns formed from volcanic activities millions of years ago, offering a magnificent sight perfect for Instagram photoshoots.

This place is perfect for fishing, swimming, or simply soaking up the peace of the wild coast and admiring the wonders of nature. 

Ho Xanh (Green Lake)

As the name suggests, Ho Xanh (Green Lake) is a stunning emerald-colored waterbody framed by cliffs and tropical vegetation. Its still surface mirrors the surrounding landscape, making it a top choice for photography and picnicking. It’s especially popular among young locals and couples looking for a romantic escape.

Tien Sa Ecotourism area

One of the top eco-reserves in Da Nang, Tien Sa Ecotourism area in Son Tra Peninsula offers a mix of natural tranquility and modern comforts, with opportunities for camping, hiking, and discovering local biodiversity.

Linh Ung Pagoda

This spiritual landmark is famous for its 67-meter-tall statue of Lady Buddha, which watches over the sea and city. The temple grounds are serene, adorned with bonsai gardens, ancient trees, and panoramic views of Da Nang Bay. This is a place of both peace and grandeur, drawing in spiritual visitors and curious travelers alike.

Travel tip: Da Nang has two other Linh Ung pagodas, located in Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son) and Ba Na Hills.

Radar Station 29 (Indochina’s Divine Eye)

Once a critical observation post during wartime, thanks to the peninsula’s strategic location. This “Indochina’s Divine Eye" radar station is now a historical site with stunning panoramic views of Da Nang’s coastline and the open ocean.

What to do on Son Tra Peninsula

Get ready for an action-packed day with these top experiences on Son Tra Peninsula:

Go swimming at pristine beaches

Visit Bai But, Bai Tien Sa, Bai Da Den, and Bai Nam – beautiful, peaceful beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the sea breeze. Some are lined with dark volcanic stones, adding a dramatic touch to your photos.

Diving/snorkeling for corals

Don’t miss the chance to dive into Son Tra’s vibrant underwater world. The water around the peninsula is so clear that you can easily spot colorful coral and fish without needing to go deep. Ghenh Bang and Bai But are two of the most popular snorkeling spots in Son Tra. Remember to follow water safety guidelines!

Explore Son Tra’s rich flora and fauna

Son Tra is often described as a living natural museum, home to rare species like the red-shanked douc langur – nicknamed the "queen of primates”. Travelers will find ancient forests, exotic trees, and wide fields of native plants as they wander.

Go paragliding

Paragliding is another activity that visitors shouldn’t miss on their trip to Son Tra, especially for thrill-seekers. Soar above the sea and forest and enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Da Nang. Flying here is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you’ll never forget.

Trek to Mui Nghe

Adventure seekers shouldn’t miss Mui Nghe – a hidden gem in Son Tra that requires a trek through dense jungle and small streams. The reward is a majestic rocky outcrop shaped like a lion’s head, and arguably the best sunrise watching spot in Son Tra.

Taste the flavors of Son Tra

A trip to Son Tra wouldn’t be complete without sampling its local cuisine.

• Fresh seafood: With its coastal location, Son Tra offers super-fresh seafood. Grilled lobster, jumping squid, steamed grouper, or the regionally famous sardine salad and fish grilled in foil are some of the must-try dishes here.
• Forest delicacies: Besides seafood, Son Tra is also blessed with bountiful forests. Don’t miss out on wild vegetables like ferns and betel leaves, served in stir-fries or salads. You’ll also find roasted or steamed mountain animal meats, full of local flavor.
• Coconut wine: Unique to Son Tra, this fermented coconut wine is sweet and slightly boozy – great for sipping with a seafood feast or bringing home as a special gift from Da Nang.

Travel tips for visiting Son Tra Peninsula

• Transportation: Go on personal vehicles, rent a motorbike, or hire a taxi for flexibility. The roads are scenic but relatively winding, so remember to drive carefully.
• Clothing: Wear lightweight, breathable clothes for trekking. Pack swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Respect nature: Avoid littering and stay on marked trails. Keep a respectful distance from animals, especially rare species – do not disturb or attempt to feed them.

Son Tra Peninsula is more than just a scenic getaway – it's a sanctuary of biodiversity, culture, history, and adventure. Whether you’re trekking through forests, diving into coral gardens, or simply watching the sunset from a mountaintop, every moment here feels like a discovery. Plan your trip, pack your camera, and let Son Tra take your breath away.