Son Tra Peninsula

Historic Site and Viewing Point in Da Nang

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christophe95

Son Tra Peninsula, often called “Monkey Mountain,” is one of Da Nang’s most breathtaking natural attractions. Featuring long, white-sand beaches, lush landscapes, and ancient forests, it’s a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city. Extending from Hon Chao to the southern edge of the Hai Van Pass, the peninsula is home to rich marine biodiversity, including 191 species of coral, three types of seagrass, 72 species of seaweed, and a fascinating array of mollusks, echinoderms, and plankton.

Key Attractions on Son Tra Peninsula

Linh Ung Pagoda and the Quan Am Statue: The towering Quan Am (Goddess of Mercy) statue at Linh Ung Pagoda, completed in 2010, has become an iconic symbol of Da Nang, akin to Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer. Standing at 69.7 meters high on a lotus-shaped platform, the statue is an impressive sight and one of Vietnam’s most significant pilgrimage sites. Inside the statue are 17 floors, each with 21 Buddha idols, creating a serene and awe-inspiring space for visitors seeking peace and spiritual connection.
Dong Dinh Museum: Located about 10 kilometers from Da Nang, the Dong Dinh Museum is a unique private museum on the hillside of the main road to the peninsula’s peak. Established by Mr. Doan Huy Giao, this museum is named after the native Caryota mitis lour palm tree and showcases artifacts dating from 100 to 2,500 years ago. The museum displays artifacts from ancient cultures like the Dai Viet, Sa Huynh, and Cham, offering a fascinating look into Vietnam’s historical and cultural heritage.
Giant Banyan Tree and Scenic Trails: One of the standout natural features of Son Tra is its massive banyan tree, estimated by locals to be around 1,000 years old. Towering at 20 meters with nine root clusters that span across the ground, the tree is a natural marvel and popular trekking destination. Located 17 kilometers from downtown Da Nang, this spot offers stunning views of the city, Cham Island, and the surrounding lush landscape on clear days, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Additional Experiences on Son Tra Peninsula

Son Tra View Tower and Army Radar Station: Perched 580 meters above sea level, the Son Tra View Tower provides panoramic views of Da Nang and the surrounding green forests. Nearby, an army radar station from the 1960s, known as “Indochina’s Miraculous Eyes,” offers a historical perspective with stunning views of the distant ocean.
Wildlife Watching: Nicknamed “Monkey Mountain” by American soldiers during the Vietnam War, Son Tra is known for its rich wildlife. The Son Tra Nature Reserve protects rare animals like the brown-legged langur (with only 200 individuals), yellow monkeys, red-faced monkeys, and muntjacs. The reserve also houses a diverse ecosystem, with over 100 bird species, 23 reptile species, and countless insects, making it an incredible destination for eco-tourism and wildlife enthusiasts.
Beach and Diving Adventures: Visitors to Son Tra can enjoy pristine beaches and clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. With stunning coral reefs and rich marine life, the underwater world around Son Tra is perfect for those looking to explore the area’s natural beauty both on land and beneath the waves.

The Son Tra Peninsula appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Da Nang!

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