Son Tra Peninsula in Vietnam is one of the coolest places you can visit near Da Nang. It’s not just a beautiful spot—it’s a wild adventure full of forests, amazing views, and colorful monkeys! That’s why it’s also called Monkey Mountain or Monkey Mountain Da Nang. The rare red-shanked douc langur lives here, and spotting them is like finding treasure!
You can explore hiking trails, visit the famous Linh Ung Pagoda with its huge Lady Buddha statue, and enjoy the view from the Son Tra peninsula viewpoint. Whether you love nature, wildlife, or just chilling with amazing scenery, this place has it all. If you’re wondering what is Son Tra Peninsula or why it’s called Monkey Mountain, it’s because of the monkeys that call it home! With VietnamTour Packages from WanderOn, you can easily plan your trip and discover why Son Tra Mountain is worth visiting!
Location: Thọ Quang, Sơn Trà, Da Nang, Vietnam
What is Son Tra Peninsula?
One of the top things to do in Da Nang if you love nature and wildlife.The Son Tra Mountain in Vietnam is a green paradise just a short drive from Da Nang city. Stretching out into the sea, it’s covered with lush forests, hidden beaches, and winding roads that offer stunning coastal views. Locals often call it Monkey Mountain Da Nang because of the playful monkeys living here. Beyond the wildlife, the Son Tra Mountain is also home to temples, viewpoints, and ancient trees, making it the perfect mix of adventure, nature, and peaceful escapes—all in one magical destination.
best selling vietnam tour packages
Why is Son Tra Peninsula called Monkey Mountain?
Long ago, travellers climbing the green slopes of Son Tra noticed playful monkeys leaping from tree to tree. Over time, the name Monkey Mountain stuck—and today, it’s one of the most exciting spots in Da Nang for wildlife lovers. The real stars here are the rare red-shanked douc langurs, often called the “Queen of Primates” for their colourful looks.
Spotting one feels like meeting a character from a fairytale! Add in dense forests, birdsong, and hidden trails, and it’s easy to see why Monkey Mountain Da Nang is a paradise for animal lovers and nature explorers alike.
History of Son Tra Peninsula
The History of Son Tra Peninsula Da Nang is just as fascinating as its natural beauty. In the past, it played an important role as a strategic military base during the Vietnam War, guarding Da Nang’s coastline. But its story goes back even further.
The French built the Son Tra Lighthouse in the 19th century, guiding ships across the sparkling sea, and that very lighthouse still stands tall today. Over time, the peninsula has grown from a place of defence into a destination of peace, where travellers come not for battles, but for breathtaking views, sacred temples, and magical encounters with nature.
Top Attractions in Son Tra Peninsula
1. Linh Ung Pagoda & Lady Buddha
Among the top attractions in Son Tra Peninsula, Linh Ung Pagoda is a must-visit. It’s home to the majestic Lady Buddha statue, the tallest in Vietnam, standing 67 meters high. With the sea on one side and green hills on the other, this spot offers both spiritual calm and postcard-perfect views that travellers never forget. It’s no surprise that Son Tra ranks among the best places to visit in Da Nang.
2. Son Tra Lighthouse
Built by the French in the 19th century, Son Tra Lighthouse is a slice of history mixed with breathtaking views. Once guiding ships safely, today it guides travellers into Da Nang’s past. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the sea, it’s one of the top attractions in Son Tra Peninsula, Da Nang, for history and photography lovers.
3. Man Thai Fishing Village
If you want a glimpse of local life, Man Thai Fishing Village is the place. Here, fishermen set out at dawn with traditional basket boats, bringing in the freshest catch. And if you’re hungry for more, trying the famous street food in Da Nang is a must.. This village makes the top attractions in Son Tra Peninsula list for its culture and authenticity.
4. Son Tra peninsula viewpoint
For jaw-dropping scenery, nothing beats a Son Tra peninsula viewpoint. The winding roads lead to cliffside spots where you can see Da Nang city, the endless ocean, and the mountains all in one frame. Whether you’re into selfies or wide-angle shots, these viewpoints are easily among the top attractions in Son Tra Peninsula, Da Nang for photo lovers.
5. Giant Banyan Tree
Standing tall for centuries, the Giant Banyan Tree is a living witness to time. Its massive roots and branches create a natural wonderland perfect for exploring or simply standing in awe. This green giant isn’t just a tree—it’s a symbol of the peninsula’s rich nature, making it one of the most unique Top attractions in Son Tra Peninsula.
6. Wildlife spotting
One of the biggest highlights of the peninsula is spotting the rare red-shanked douc langur, often called the “Queen of Primates.” With their colourful coats, they look like they’ve stepped out of a painting. Wildlife lovers count this as one of the ultimate Top attractions in Son Tra Peninsula, and spotting them makes any trip unforgettable.
Things to Do in Son Tra Peninsula
1. Hiking Trails
One of the most exciting things to do in Son Tra Peninsula is hiking through its lush green trails. The winding paths take you past ancient trees, quiet streams, and hidden corners of the forest. Some trails even lead to viewpoints where the ocean sparkles below—perfect for adventurers who love a mix of exercise and scenery. It’s a hidden gem for travellers who enjoy trekking in Vietnam.
2. Sightseeing
Sightseeing is at the heart of the things to do in Son Tra Peninsula. From the towering Lady Buddha statue to the historic lighthouse and local fishing villages, there’s always something new to discover. Every stop comes with incredible views, a touch of culture, and a chance to connect with the peaceful charm of Da Nang.
3. Wildlife Watching
If you love animals, wildlife watching is one of the must-do things to do in Son Tra Peninsula. Keep an eye out for the rare red-shanked douc langur swinging through the treetops, along with other monkeys and colorful birds. It feels like stepping into a living jungle documentary, with nature buzzing all around you.
4. Exploring Hidden Spots
For curious travellers, exploring hidden spots is a super fun addition to the things to do in Son Tra Peninsula. Venture off the beaten path to discover secret beaches, shaded jungle nooks, and tiny local shrines tucked away in the greenery. These little treasures make the adventure feel personal and extra memorable.
5. Photography
Calling all shutterbugs! Photography is one of the most rewarding things to do in Son Tra Peninsula. Whether it’s a sunrise at a cliffside viewpoint, a cheeky monkey on the road, or the dramatic coastline meeting the sea, every corner is picture-perfect. Even casual phone clicks here end up looking like postcards. It’s also one of the coolest spots for adventure activities in Vietnam.
6. Chilling by the Sea
Sometimes, the best things to do in Son Tra Peninsula is doing nothing at all! Find a quiet beach, kick off your shoes, and simply relax as the waves crash gently on the shore. With fresh sea breeze, soft sand, and endless blue views, chilling by the sea is pure magic.
Best Time to Visit Son Tra Peninsula
The best time to visit Son Tra Peninsula is during the dry season, from March to September, when the skies are clear and the sea sparkles bright blue. Mornings and evenings are perfect for sightseeing, hiking, or spotting wildlife since the weather is cooler and softer. If you love photography, sunrise and sunset give you the dreamiest light. Avoid the rainy season (October to January), as heavy showers can make roads slippery and limit outdoor fun.
How to Reach Son Tra Peninsula from Da Nang
By Car: Hiring a private car or taking a taxi is the most comfortable way. It takes around 20–30 minutes from Da Nang city center, and you can stop at scenic spots along the way.
By Scooter: Renting a scooter is the most popular option for adventurers. The coastal roads are smooth, and the ride gives you the freedom to explore viewpoints and hidden corners at your own pace.
By Walk: Technically, you can walk, but it’s not recommended. The peninsula is large, with steep roads and long distances between attractions. Walking might be tiring and time-consuming.
By Bus: Public buses don’t run directly to Son Tra Peninsula. However, you can take a bus to nearby areas and then grab a taxi or motorbike to reach the peninsula. Guided tours with buses or vans are also a good choice.
Is Son Tra Peninsula worth visiting?
Absolutely yes! The Son Tra Peninsula is like Da Nang’s natural playground—full of surprises at every turn. From the towering Lady Buddha at Linh Ung Pagoda to the historic lighthouse and giant banyan tree, the attractions here are unforgettable. Add to that the magical chance to spot the rare red-shanked douc langur, and you’ve got a mix of nature, culture, and wildlife all in one place. Whether you’re hiking, snapping photos, or just relaxing by the sea, Monkey Mountain is the perfect escape. So if you’re wondering whether it’s worth visiting—the answer is a big, happy YES!
Quick Travel Tips for Son Tra Peninsula
- Pack smart: Carry water, sunscreen, and comfy shoes for walking.
- Wildlife respect: Don’t feed or disturb the monkeys—they’re cute but cheeky!
- Stay safe: Roads can be steep, so drive scooters carefully.
- Best light: Visit in the morning or evening for cooler weather and gorgeous photos.
- Eco-friendly: Keep the peninsula clean and take your trash back with you.
