Located amidst Da Nang City, the Son Tra Peninsula emerges as a natural and cultural wonder in the community, accommodating both hikers and solitude-seekers. Among the Da Nang tourist attractions, this scenic peninsula with luxuriant landscapes and panoramic views of the sea is one of the high-ranking places. It is unique in combining breathtaking beaches with dense rainforests and historical places, which all offer universal experiences for a truly diversified scope of interests and activities. From hiking and wildlife observation to spiritual exploration and relaxation, the Son Tra Peninsula offers a fusion of retreats. Let us explore this marvelous destination and dive into the geographical wonders, historical importance, and enriched forms of life, contributing and enhancing the character of a journey, just as it is rich with Vietnamese culture and nature.
Geographic Location and Historical Significance
Geographical location
Geography
Son Tra Peninsula is located in the east of the busy city center of Da Nang by about 10 kilometers. Therefore, here is the ideal destination to enjoy nature without getting far away from the urban atmosphere. The elevation above sea level is about 693 meters, with a total area of 60 square kilometers. On the 693-meter hill stand rather rugged mountains and soft sandy beaches curving along the coast, providing great views over the East Sea. Not only is the scenery diversified, but it is also functional for many activities to take place, making this peninsula an all-rounder for those visiting Danang.
History
History has it that Son Tra Peninsula is as rich and varied in history as its landscapes. Historically known as Monkey Mountain, the area was a crucial military lookout during the Vietnam War and a navigational landmark over centuries. Over the years, it transformed from a purely military area, a center of fishing to a valued preserve of nature and now makes an integral part of any tour of Danang. The changes represent an embodiment of a country’s effort to save its cultural heritage amid the development of responsible tourism. The history of the peninsula is closely associated with ancient legends about spirits and modern efforts of conservation. It’s a singular ecosystem that safeguards and enhances the visitor’s experience with a deep sense of place and history.
Flora and Fauna
Chess Board Peak
The Son Tra Peninsula is rich in a diversified ecological tapestry that boasts a wealthy array of flora and fauna, turning it into an ecological treasure trove. Over 1,000 plant species have been detected in the lush tropical rainforest covering over 80% of its area. Meanwhile, the present animal species include the iconic red-shanked douc langur, which is also an endangered species. This is also a representation of the wildlife of Son Tra Peninsula and one major reason to raise the issue of the need for protection.
The conservation of Son Tra follows from encouraging the continuation of biodiversity and the preservation of natural habitats that would be of ecological richness to the area. This will maintain the area as a habitat for wildlife and ensure a living laboratory of environmental education and research. Commitment to the protection of the natural habitats of the Son Tra Peninsula not only ensures safety for the inhabitants but also heightens the quality of visits in Danang, giving tourists a truly rewarding and authentic experience with the wildlife of Vietnam.
Cultural and Religious Sites
Cultural and religious sites here
Linh Ung Pagoda
One of the great spiritual gems of Son Tra Peninsula is Linh Ung Pagoda, majestically located with panoramic views of the sea. The place interweaves spiritual reverence and architectural grandeur, featuring the tallest statue of the Goddess of Mercy in Southeast Asia, standing on a lotus-shaped platform 67 meters tall. People say this pagoda is not just a place of worship but a place of peace and spirituality that attracts pilgrims and tourists from all over. Its architecture and religious importance are central to cultural pride and are composed as part of the spiritual and cultural tours in the region.
Other Cultural Sites
Other than the Linh Ung Pagoda, the Son Tra Peninsula is full of many other small, cultural, and religious sites that maybe not so known, but add to the thick vibrancy of the place. These include smaller shrines and historical landmarks that offer a glimpse of the local traditions and spiritual practices. Each of these sites is a thread in the vibrant cultural fabric of Son Tra, making it an all-encompassing destination for those looking to explore through Danang tours the historical and spiritual depth of the region.
Best Time to Visit and How to Get There
The best time to visit
The Son Tra Peninsula has its appeal throughout the year, though the best time to visit this region of scenic beauty is greatly dependent on the state of weather and your taste for exploration. The best months for the Son Tra Peninsula are from March through September, which is a dry season, so the temperature is warm with adequate sunshine for one to spend time outdoors and on the beach. This time avoids the rainy season from October to February when there are heavy showers that might hinder some activities, especially hiking, and biking.
Transportation to Son Tra Peninsula is easy and is, therefore, one more factor that makes it of interest to Danang Tours. From Da Nang City Center, one just needs to drive to the location. It is only 10 kilometers, a distance that takes about 20 minutes, so one has an option of either taking a taxi, a motorbike, or even a bicycle if one so pleases. The journey from Hoi An to Son Tra can take about an hour by car; passengers travel on this beautiful coastal road by Vo Nguyen Giap Street, which becomes Hoang Sa Street and leads directly to Son Tra, with fantastic sea views along the way.
Things to Do and Attractions
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Outdoor Activities
The most popular activities are hiking, and the peninsula provides trails such as the moderate, very scenic walk to Ban Co Peak, with panoramic views over Da Nang and the surrounding waters. Biking is another activity that’s increasingly popular here, with well-maintained roads circling around the peninsula, offering the challenge of a ride through extremely enjoyable and diverse landscapes. It offers very rewarding wildlife viewing, with animals like the red-shanked douc langur being a very visible presence among the thick foliage of Son Tra.
Beaches
The beaches on Son Tra Peninsula are less crowded compared to other places in Da Nang, so a more secluded and tranquil beach experience can be assured. Bai Bac Beach and Tien Sa Beach are in clean condition and with beautiful settings. Here, bathers can sun, swim, or simply laze around on the beach with a family picnic while listening to the waves lapping. Each beach has its own attractions and is quite accessible by the main roads crossing the peninsula.
Viewpoints and Landmarks
The Son Tra Peninsula features a few points of interest and landmarks worth visiting. Ban Co Peak is the highest part of the peninsula, from which people can survey the whole surrounding area in 360 degrees, while in front, the city skyline is set against a mountainous background. The Radar Station gives a historical view of the past military life of the area, although this may be restricted to access. The other striking monument is the one-thousand-year-old banyan tree, an amazing natural attraction that will bring one into the historical and spiritual world of the peninsula. The ancient tree is not only a breathtaking sight but also a symbol of that eternal natural beauty that Son Tra offers.
Its culinary landscape is as vibrant and diversified as its natural environment. Fresh seafood constitutes the staple of the local cuisine, which the region is famous for. Its visitors can treat their palates to such famous locally made dishes as grilled squid, shrimp, and cha ca, that is, grilled fish with turmeric and dill, all sourced from the surrounding waters to achieve the peak in their freshness. Seafood restaurants dot the beaches of Son Tra, allowing diners to eat with a view of the ocean.
For a more involving trip, one should visit the seafood market near Tien Sa Beach. At this place, one will make their personal choice and then have it cooked at one of the stalls nearer the market, which perfectly blends with the local life. Throughout the peninsula, there are also local restaurants for you to try typical Vietnamese food, such as ‘banh xeo’ (sizzling pancake) and ‘mi Quang’ (Quang noodles).
Visiting Son Tra Peninsula is incomplete without getting a chance to eat that food, which is as much a part of the cultural journey as sightseeing. The fresh, locally sourced ingredients cooked by traditional methods make eating here feel special and, hence, add another thick layer of goodness to a Danang tour.
Conclusion
A visit to the Son Tra Peninsula is not just a scenic escape but one that leads to the very core of Vietnamese natural and cultural magnificence. From the lushness of trails in the mountainous landscape to the tranquility of beach shores, spiritual serenity at Linh Ung Pagoda, Son Tra is truly a symphony of experiences that creates an amazing concoction for the senses. The richness in the flora and fauna of the biodiversity of the peninsula and its historic sites meet up with culinary heritage for a total experience in travel.
We cordially invite tourists to visit Son Tra Peninsula for a vibrant combination of activities, sights, and tastes. Whether it’s adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Son Tra provides an all-encompassing background for an unforgettable visit. Don’t miss this great opportunity to include a stunning destination in your Danang tours. Plan your trip with us today and learn all about the magic of Son Tra. Don’t forget to regularly follow our Fanpage for more interesting information about traveling to Danang and to book Danang toursat the best prices.
This tour takes in all of these for central of Vietnam just with 5 days, the perfect way to experience central Vietnam at its best. Impress Travel Team will welcome you in Danang international airport, then transferring to Hoi An for sightseeing of city by visiting Japanese Covered Bridge Pagoda, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall and take experience of lantern making workshop, transferring to Hue crossing Danang city, visiting marble mountain, Lang Co beach. The next destination of this trip is Hue imperial city, we will get stared to visit Thien Mu pagoda by the impression of cruising dragon boat then keeping on discovering Hue city by sightseeing in the Old Imperial City and Tu Duc Tomb. The last day of this tour return Danang city for shopping and Danang airport to home or next destinations.
Tours Itinerary
Day 01
DA NANG ARRIVAL & HOI AN HALF DAY SIGHT SEEING (L)
Upon arrival Danang international airport, greeting by Impress Travel’s guide & transfer to the Hoi An(approximately 35 minutes drive). Check in hotel and enjoy lunch in local restaurant.
Afternoon we will visit Hoi An, Hoi An is a picturesque riverside town south of Danang City. Known as Faifo to early western traders, it was one of South East Asia’s major international ports during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Now, this beautifully preserved historic city is best seen on foot.
First visit Japanese Covered Bridge: the first bridge on this site was constructed in 1593 by the Japanese community of Hoi An to link the town with the Chinese quarters across the stream. The bridge was provided with a roof so it could be used as a shelter from rain and sun.
Phuc Kien Assembly Hall: Chinese pagoda built around 1690 and then restored and enlarged in 1900. It is typical of the Chinese clans that were established in the Hoi An area. The temple is dedicated to Thien Hau Thanh Mau (Goddess of the Sea and Protector of Sailors and Fishermen).
Lantern making workshop: Visit one of the lantern workshops in Hoi An. The framework of lantern will be made by the industry itself and clients can observe locals making silk cloth on the lantern.
What is included today: Transfer, tour guide, lunch, hotel in Hoi An, entrance fee
Day 02
HOI AN – DA NANG – HUE (B, L)
Breakfast and morning free at leisure.
Depart at 13.00 PM to Hue. Journey from Hoi An over scenic mountainous roads with spectacular views over the coastline. We will visit Marble Mountains, it is a cluster of five marble and limestone hills located in Ngu Hanh Son ward, south of Da Nang city in Vietnam. Halfway between Danang and Hue lies the dramatic Hai Van Pass, the high dividing line between the climate zones of north and south Vietnam. Continue southwards passing Lang Co beach, a lovely stretch of beach curving outwards between a clear blue lagoon and East Sea.
What is included today: Transfer, tour guide, breakfast, lunch, entrance fee, hotel in Hue
Day 03
PERFUME RIVER BOAT TRIP - HUE CITY SIGHT SEEING (B,L)
Enjoy breakfast in hotel, depart at 8 am, embark on a local boat and cruise down the Perfume River to the iconic Thien Mu Pagoda, an elegant seven-tiered octagonal tower which has become Hue’s most widely recognizable monument. During the early 1960s, this became a center of anti-government protest, and the site of the famous self-immolation of the monk Thich Quang Duc.
Sightseeing in the Old Imperial City, this former site of the old capitol has a moat and ten ornate gates guarding a palace, temples, gardens and tombs. Its most prominent feature is a tall flag tower.
Then Visit the Imperial Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, The final resting-place of this Nguyen Dynasty emperor and scholar was built before his death. A lake, pavilion and theatre still exist on the grounds
What is included today: Transfer, tour guide, entrance fee, breakfast, lunch, boat trip in Hue, hotel in Hue
Day 04
HUE - DA NANG (B, L)
After breakfast, return to Da Nang City.
Visit Marble Mountain – Marble Mountains is a natural masterpiece bestowed to the land of Da Nang, Vietnam. With the harmonious beauty of the ecological area and the spiritual and cultural life, this destination attracts a lot of visitors from all over the world.
Visit Cham museum. It’s home to several cultural artifacts in the Central and Central Highlands of Vietnam, preserving the spirit of the ancient Champa Kingdom
All day free at leisure or shopping at Han Market. This is a paradise for shopaholics. Not only can you find Da Nang specialties here, it is also an ideal place to shop for souvenirs.
Overnight in Danang.
What is included today: Transfer, tour guide, breakfast, lunch, hotel in Da Nang
Day 05
DA NANG DEPART (B)
Breakfast in hotel before leaving to airport for flight return home or excursion to the other part.
Finish a memorable trip of Central Vietnam. We wish you enjoyed your trip and hope to see you again!
What is included today: Transfer, breakfast
What’s included in this trip
Private car as tour program indicated.
Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
English- speaking guide
Entrance fees.
Boat Trip to visit Tra Que village, ticket for activities in Farm
Bicycle
Cooking class in Hoi An
Twin-share accommodation with daily breakfast; ( AC room).
What’s excluded in this trip
Airport taxes
Personal insurance
Expenditure of a personal nature, tips, such as drinks, souvenirs, laundry, emergency transfers & etc
Visa to Vietnam
Homestays in Hue
Hotels in Hue
Homestay in Hoi An
Hotels in Hoi An
Resorts in Danang
Hotels in Danang
Ranana
You feel like organized tour, but you are in a privet tour. Impress Travel make the different.
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Ebrahim
Tour of Vietnam
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
Solly Pochee
The tour was fantastic
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating! We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC. The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T". I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all. Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team. Sulaiman Pochee
Bernard Lim
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
Derek.Schooling
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress. Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide). Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
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Central Vietnam Tours offers a great way to discover Central Vietnam ( Quang Tri, Quang Nam, Quang Binh, Thua Thien Hue, Quang Ngai) where is famous for the most beautiful landscapes in the world & the friendly people they are. Visit a country with ancient villages, peaceful countryside, and vibrant cities, admire dazzling white beaches, natural wonders, cultural heritages, natural heritages, and emerald-green paddy fields. Impress Vietnam Travel Team to work as a friendly, helpful local operator in Vietnam & Asia. We guarantee to provide you with the new experiences relating to the new lands & hidden charm that needing to be discovered. Why not, give us a chance to serve you then a great Vietnam Holiday is waiting for you. Email: info@impresstravel.com & call to Mr. Alex Impress Travel Manager at his cell phone (+84) 9123 79 189
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