Da Nang's Son Tra Peninsula & Linh Ung Pagoda

【Introduction】
Located about 13 km northeast of Da Nang city, Son Tra Peninsula is a natural landmass extending into the South China Sea, renowned for its pristine landscapes and rich biodiversity. Featuring dense forests, crystal-clear waters, and fine sandy beaches, the peninsula is crowned by the iconic Linh Ung Pagoda, home to a towering 67-meter white Goddess of Mercy statue overlooking the sea as a guardian of fishermen. Additionally, Son Tra is a vital nature reserve in Vietnam, sheltering rare flora and fauna, earning its title as Da Nang’s "green lung."

🕘【Opening Hours】
Linh Ung Pagoda: Open 24/7; recommended visit during daytime (6:00 AM–6:00 PM), with unique nighttime lighting.
Nature Reserve: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; some hiking trails require prior permits.
Suggested duration: Half-day (3–4 hours); full-day if exploring forests/beaches.
Notes:
Dress modestly at the pagoda (no shorts/sleeveless tops).
Rainy season (Oct–Dec) may make trails slippery—exercise caution.

💴【Admission】
Linh Ung Pagoda: Free entry; voluntary incense offerings.
Nature Reserve: ~50,000 VND (~¥15); no price changes in 2024.
Other costs: Motorbike/bicycle rental ~100,000–150,000 VND/day.

⛺【Activities】
1. Linh Ung Pagoda:
Visit the 67-meter Goddess of Mercy statue; enjoy panoramic coastal views.
Highlights: Sino-Vietnamese architecture; serene ambiance with morning bells/evening drums.
2. Son Tra Viewpoint:
Capture Da Nang’s skyline and bay vistas.
3. Hiking:
Recommended route: Ban Co Peak → Tien Sa Beach—spot monkeys and wild orchids en route.
4. Beach Relaxation:
Bai But Beach: Secluded; ideal for swimming/sunbathing.
Caution: Some areas have strong currents—heed safety signs.

🚌【Transport】
From Da Nang city:
Motorbike/E-bike: Rent and ride along Hoàng Sa-Trường Sa coastal road (~30 mins; scenic).
Taxi/Grab: ~200,000 VND (one-way; 20 mins).
Bus: Take Route 03 to Son Tra entrance; transfer via motorbike taxi (time-consuming).

👉【Itinerary】
Nearby combo:
Morning: Hike Son Tra + Linh Ung Pagoda.
Afternoon: Visit Marble Mountains or My Khe Beach.
Accommodation:
Luxury: InterContinental Da Nang Sun Peninsula Resort (secluded).
Budget: City hotels (e.g., near My Khe Beach for convenience).

🧡【Essentials】
Packing list:
Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses (intense sun).
Non-slip shoes (for hiking).
Insect repellent (forest areas).
Tips:
Carry cash (donations/souvenirs).
Download offline maps (spotty signal).

Summary: Son Tra Peninsula blends nature and culture, perfect for slow travel, photography, and eco-adventures. Avoid midday heat—visit at dawn/dusk for the best experience! 🌿🌊