Son Tra Peninsula
Drive the loop, see wildlife.
π₯ Highly Recommended
Introduction
Son Tra Peninsula (BΓ‘n ΔαΊ£o SΖ‘n TrΓ ) is a protected nature reserve that juts into the sea, acting as a natural shield for the city of Da Nang. This mountainous landscape is a unique intersection of dense jungle and coastal views, offering a network of winding roads for exploration. It is most recognized as a critical habitat for the endangered red-shanked douc langur, making it a significant site for conservation and nature tourism.
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Linh Ung Pagoda
This is the most visited site on the peninsula, known for its serene atmosphere and the 67-meter-tall Lady Buddha statue. Facing the sea, the statue is a prominent feature visible from across Da Nang's coastline and is considered a protector of the local fishermen.
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Ban Co Peak
Reaching the highest point of the peninsula requires navigating some of its steepest roads, but the reward is a complete panoramic view of Da Nang city and the surrounding coastline. A large bronze chess set with a statue of a contemplative sage marks the summit, inspired by a local legend of two deities playing chess.
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Giant Banyan Tree
Estimated to be around 800 years old, this massive banyan tree is a spectacle of nature. Its complex web of roots and sprawling branches creates an immense canopy, offering a quiet and shaded spot for a break from driving.
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Spot the Red-Shanked Douc Langurs
Son Tra is the prime location to see these rare primates, often called the "queen of primates" for their striking colors. They are most active in the early morning or late afternoon. Look for them in the trees along the quieter roads away from the main pagoda entrance.
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Coastal Road Loop
The journey itself is a key highlight. Driving the winding roads that snake along the peninsula's edge provides constantly changing perspectives of the ocean, hidden beaches, and the city in the distance.
Getting there
From Da Nang's My Khe Beach area to the base of the peninsula (approx. 10 km):
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π΅ Motorbike: 20 mins to the base. This is the most popular and flexible way to explore the entire peninsula at your own pace.
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π Taxi: 20 mins | 150,000 - 250,000 VND ~ $6 - $10 USD. It's best to negotiate a round trip or a waiting time with the driver, as finding a return taxi from the mountain can be difficult.
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π Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Xanh SM): 20 mins | 120,000 - 200,000 VND ~ $5 - $8 USD. Similar to taxis, arrange the return trip in advance, as internet service can be spotty in some areas.
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π Public Bus: Not a practical option for exploring the winding roads and multiple stops within the peninsula.
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β οΈ Fill up your gas tank in the city before you start the ascent, as there are no gas stations on the mountain. If driving a motorbike, ensure your brakes are in good condition.
Hours & Admission
π Opening hours:
- The peninsula is accessible 24/7. However, for safety, it is strongly recommended to visit during daylight hours, ideally from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
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π« Ticket prices:
- Free. There is no admission fee to enter the peninsula or visit its main attractions like Linh Ung Pagoda and Ban Co Peak.
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πΆ Best time to visit:
- The dry season, from February to August, offers the clearest skies and safest road conditions. For the best experience, start your trip early in the morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM). This allows you to avoid the midday heat, enjoy clearer views, and increases your chances of spotting the red-shanked douc langurs.
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β Recommended duration:
- Plan for at least 4 to 5 hours. This provides enough time to drive a main loop at a safe pace, stop at several viewpoints, visit Linh Ung Pagoda, and spend some time looking for wildlife.
Tips from locals
Local tips
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π΅ Choose your transport carefully. A semi-automatic or "future" bike is highly recommended over an automatic scooter for better control on the steep descents. The mountain's inclines can be challenging for weaker scooter engines and can cause brakes to overheat on the way down.
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β½ There are no gas stations on the peninsula. Make sure you start with a full tank of fuel from Da Nang city, as you will use more gas than expected climbing the steep roads.
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π Keep a safe distance from the monkeys. They are wild animals and can be aggressive, often congregating near tourist spots hoping for food. Do not feed them, and keep your bags and any snacks securely stored.
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π‘ Pack binoculars for wildlife spotting. The red-shanked douc langurs are shy and usually stay high in the canopy. Binoculars will give you a much better and more respectful viewing experience without disturbing them.
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Be aware
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β οΈ The roads are challenging, with many blind corners, hairpin turns, and steep gradients. Drive slowly and cautiously, especially on the descent. If you are not a confident motorbike driver, hiring a private car with an experienced local driver is a much safer alternative.
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π«οΈ The weather can change very quickly on the mountain. Fog can roll in and reduce visibility to almost zero in a matter of minutes, making navigation difficult and dangerous. Check the weather forecast before you go and consider postponing your trip if it looks uncertain.
FAQs
Is it free to enter Son Tra Peninsula?
Yes, there is no entrance fee for the peninsula or its main attractions, including Linh Ung Pagoda.
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Can I drive an automatic scooter to the top of Son Tra?
While it is technically possible on some of the main routes, it is strongly discouraged. The steep roads are safer to navigate with a semi-automatic or manual motorbike which offers better engine braking and control.
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What is the best way to explore the peninsula?
A motorbike offers the most freedom. For those not confident in their driving skills on steep terrain, hiring a private car or a motorbike with a driver (a Grab driver for a multi-hour trip) is the best option.
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What are the must-see sights on Son Tra?
The three main highlights are the Linh Ung Pagoda with its giant Lady Buddha statue, the panoramic views from Ban Co Peak, and the ancient Giant Banyan Tree. Spotting the red-shanked douc langurs is also a key experience.
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How much time do I need for Son Tra Peninsula?
You should budget at least a half-day (4-5 hours) to explore properly without rushing. A full day allows for a more relaxed pace and exploring more of the smaller roads and beaches.
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Is it guaranteed that I will see the red-shanked douc langurs?
No, it's not guaranteed as they are wild animals. However, your chances are best if you go early in the morning or late afternoon and explore the quieter, densely forested areas away from the main tourist crowds.
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Are there restaurants or cafes on the peninsula?
There are very few food and drink options available, and they are sparsely located. It is best to bring your own water and snacks and plan to have meals in Da Nang before or after your visit.
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What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking. If you plan to visit Linh Ung Pagoda, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect.
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Can I swim at the beaches on Son Tra?
Yes, there are several beaches like Bai But and Tien Sa. Some are part of resorts and may require a fee or patronage, while others are more secluded. Always check local conditions before swimming.
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Is it safe to drive on Son Tra Peninsula at night?
It is not recommended. The roads are not well-lit, have many sharp turns, and the risk of encountering wildlife on the road increases after dark, making it significantly more dangerous.
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