By aussiematesvietnam G’day! Welcome to Son Tra Peninsula – Vietnam’s Hidden Gem
There’s something special about discovering places that haven’t yet been overrun by tourists. As Tracy and I ventured onto Son Tra Peninsula for the first time, we knew we’d stumbled upon one of those magical spots that still maintains its raw, untouched beauty. After nearly two decades of calling Vietnam home, I’m still finding corners of this amazing country that take my breath away, and Son Tra Peninsula sits right at the top of that list.
Known to locals and expats alike as “Monkey Mountain” (for reasons that’ll become obvious), this stunning peninsula juts out from Da Nang city like a green thumb, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle that’s only a 20-minute drive from the city center. It’s 13,500 hectares of protected natural wonderland that’s quickly becoming one of our favorite spots to take visitors when they pop over from Australia.
Whether you’re a fellow Aussie planning your Vietnam adventure or just curious about this corner of the world, let me share why Son Tra Peninsula deserves a spot on your itinerary. Pack your sunscreen and camera – you’re in for a ripper of a time!
[IMAGE:son-tra-panorama]
The Basics: Getting to Know Son Tra
Before we dive into the experiences, let me get you oriented. Son Tra Peninsula sits just northeast of Da Nang city, forming a natural barrier that protects the city from typhoons and maritime threats. Rising to about 700 meters above sea level at its highest point, this horseshoe-shaped mountain creates its own little microclimate.
The locals call it “Son Tra Mountain” or “Monkey Mountain” – a nickname given by American soldiers during the war due to the abundant population of rare red-shanked douc langurs that call this place home. These aren’t your average monkeys, mind you – they’re among the most beautiful primates in the world, with their distinctive colorful coats making them look like they’re dressed for a fancy party.
Tracy and I were gobsmacked when we first learned that this entire peninsula remained relatively undeveloped until recently. The Vietnamese government has wisely designated it as a protected nature reserve, meaning large-scale development is restricted. That’s good news for us travelers who prefer our nature unspoiled!
[IMAGE:red-shanked-douc]
How to Get There and Get Around
Getting to Son Tra is a piece of cake if you’re already in Da Nang. From the city center, it’s roughly a 20-minute drive. You’ve got several options for transport:
- Motorbike rental (our personal favorite for the freedom it provides)
- Taxi or Grab (Vietnam’s version of Uber)
- Private car hire
- Organized tour (if you prefer everything sorted for you)
If you’re a bit adventurous like Tracy and me, hiring a motorbike gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The roads winding around the peninsula are well-maintained and offer spectacular views around almost every bend. Just take it easy on those curves, especially if you’re not used to riding – some sections can be steep with hairpin turns.
A word to the wise: while you can technically drive all the way around the peninsula in about 2-3 hours, you’ll want to allocate a full day to really appreciate all the spots worth stopping at. And don’t forget to fill up your petrol tank before heading out – service stations are few and far between on the mountain!
[IMAGE:motorbike-rental]
Natural Wonders: The Flora and Fauna
One of the biggest drawcards of Son Tra is its incredible biodiversity. The peninsula is home to over 1,000 plant species and more than 300 animal species. It’s like nature’s own theme park, but without the overpriced snacks and long queues!
The star attractions are unquestionably the red-shanked douc langurs. These critically endangered primates are so striking that they’ve earned the nickname “the kings of primates.” With their bluish-grey face, maroon-red “stockings,” and white beard, they look like they’re dressed for a formal dinner party. Tracy and I spent nearly two hours one morning just watching a family of them swing through the trees – better entertainment than anything on telly, I reckon.
The best spot for douc-spotting is along the road near Ban Co Peak. Come early morning or late afternoon when they’re most active. Bring binoculars if you have them, and remember – no feeding the wildlife! These beautiful creatures have specific dietary needs, and human food can make them seriously ill.
Beyond the langurs, the peninsula is cloaked in ancient primary forests with massive banyans and ficus trees that could tell stories spanning centuries. During our walks, we’ve spotted hornbills, eagles, and even the occasional flying lizard. If you’re into botany, you’ll be chuffed to discover rare orchids and medicinal plants that locals have used for generations.
[IMAGE:forest-canopy]
Must-Visit Spots Around the Peninsula
While the entire peninsula is worth exploring, there are several spots that Tracy and I make sure to show all our visiting mates from Australia. These are the places that’ll have you filling up your camera roll in no time:
1. Lady Buddha (Linh Ung Pagoda)
Standing at a towering 67 meters, the Lady Buddha statue at Linh Ung Pagoda is impossible to miss. This impressive figure of Guanyin (the Goddess of Mercy) faces the sea, blessing fishermen and providing protection. The statue is relatively new, completed in 2010, but it’s already become an iconic symbol of Da Nang.
The pagoda complex surrounding the statue is equally impressive, with beautifully manicured gardens and 21 smaller Buddha statues representing different expressions and incarnations. Tracy and I like to bring a thermos of tea and find a quiet spot in the gardens to soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Even if you’re not religious, there’s something deeply calming about this place.
[IMAGE:lady-buddha]
2. Ban Co Peak (Chess Board Peak)
At nearly 700 meters above sea level, Ban Co Peak offers arguably the most spectacular panoramic views on the peninsula. According to local legend, a fairy used to play chess here (hence the name), and once you see the vista, you’ll understand why even mythical beings would choose this spot for recreation.
The climb to the top involves about 600 steps, but fair dinkum, it’s worth every bit of huffing and puffing. From the summit, you can see the entire coastline of Da Nang, Hai Van Pass to the north, and on clear days, even the Cham Islands in the distance. Tracy and I make it a ritual to watch at least one sunrise here whenever we’re in Da Nang – it’s nothing short of magical watching the city come to life below you.
Pro tip: bring a light jacket even in summer, as it can get windy at the top, and perhaps a small picnic to enjoy while you take in the views.
[IMAGE:ban-co-peak]
3. Man Thai Village & Fishing Harbors
For a taste of local life, swing by Man Thai fishing village on the southern edge of the peninsula. This traditional fishing community has been operating for generations, and if you time your visit for early morning (around 6-7am), you’ll see the colorful boats returning with their overnight catch.
Tracy absolutely loves chatting with the local fishermen’s wives as they sort the morning’s haul. Despite the language barrier, there’s always plenty of laughs and sometimes even invitations to try some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. It’s these authentic interactions that really make travel special, don’t you reckon?
[IMAGE:fishing-harbor]
4. Hidden Beaches
One of Son Tra’s best-kept secrets is its collection of pristine beaches tucked away along the coastline. While My Khe Beach (China Beach) gets all the attention in Da Nang, the beaches of Son Tra offer seclusion and untouched beauty that’s becoming increasingly rare in Southeast Asia.
Our personal favorite is Bai Bac (North Beach), which requires a bit of a trek down from the main road but rewards you with crystal-clear waters and often not another soul in sight. Bai But (Buddha Beach) near the Linh Ung Pagoda is more accessible but still maintains its charm.
If you’re feeling adventurous, Bai Da is a “rock beach” with unique formations that make for great exploration and snorkeling. Tracy and I spent one memorable afternoon here spotting colorful fish among the rocks and coral outcrops – reminded us a bit of the Great Barrier Reef, though on a much smaller scale of course.
[IMAGE:hidden-beach]
Tips for a Fair Dinkum Good Visit
After multiple trips to Son Tra over our years in Vietnam, Tracy and I have picked up a few pearls of wisdom worth sharing:
- Timing is everything: The peninsula is beautiful year-round, but October to March offers the most reliable weather. Avoid the rainy season (September-November) when possible, as landslides can occasionally close roads.
- Early bird gets the worm: Start your exploration early to maximize wildlife sightings and avoid the midday heat. The light is also gorgeous for photos in the early morning.
- Pack smart: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a light raincoat or umbrella (weather can change quickly on the mountain). A good pair of walking shoes is essential if you plan to explore beyond the roadside stops.
- Respect the environment: Son Tra remains pristine because visitors treat it with care. Take all rubbish with you, stick to designated paths, and observe wildlife from a respectful distance.
- Fill up the tank: Whether on motorbike or in a car, make sure you have enough fuel for the round trip, as there are limited services on the peninsula itself.
[IMAGE:hiking-gear]
Where to Fuel Up (You, Not the Bike)
While Son Tra doesn’t have the restaurant scene of downtown Da Nang, there are some cracking spots to grab a feed with a view.
Tracy and I often pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic lookout points. There’s nothing quite like some fresh bánh mì sandwiches and tropical fruit while gazing out over the South China Sea (or East Sea, as the locals call it).
If you prefer proper dining, the Intercontinental Resort on the peninsula has several restaurants with stunning views, though they come with resort prices to match. For something more authentic and budget-friendly, try one of the small seafood joints near Man Thai village – just look for places where the locals are eating, always a good sign!
One hidden gem we discovered on our last visit is a little family-run coffee shop on the road to Ban Co Peak. I can’t even tell you the name as it doesn’t have one, but look for a wooden structure with a stunning view about halfway up the mountain. The Vietnamese coffee there will put a spring in your step for the rest of your exploration!
[IMAGE:seafood-restaurant]
Wrapping Up: Why Son Tra Should Be on Every Aussie’s Vietnam Itinerary
After almost two decades in Vietnam, Tracy and I have watched as once-hidden gems like Hoi An and Ha Long Bay have transformed into major tourist destinations. Son Tra Peninsula still exists in that sweet spot – accessible yet unspoiled, developed enough for comfort but wild enough to feel like a genuine adventure.
For fellow Aussies making the trip to Vietnam, I’d rate Son Tra as a must-see when in the Da Nang area. It offers a perfect counterbalance to the beaches and city attractions, showing you a side of Vietnam that connects you with its natural heritage.
The peninsula packs so much diversity into