Son Tra Peninsula and the Lady Buddha: A Scenic Ride from Hoi An

Rising green and wild above Da Nang, the Son Tra Peninsula — nicknamed Monkey Mountain — is one of central Vietnam’s most beautiful rides. Towering sea views, a giant white Lady Buddha and rare wildlife make it an unforgettable half-day out from Hoi An.

What to see on the Son Tra Peninsula

The peninsula’s star is the Linh Ung Pagoda at Bai But, home to the Lady Buddha — at around 67 metres, the tallest statue of its kind in Vietnam, gazing serenely out to sea. Beyond it, winding coastal roads open up to sweeping viewpoints, quiet beaches and forest where lucky visitors spot the rare red-shanked douc langur. Sunset from the headland is magic.

How far is it from Hoi An?

Son Tra sits northeast of Da Nang, roughly 40 kilometres from Hoi An — about an hour’s ride along the coast. It’s an easy, scenic run, though some roads up the peninsula are steep and winding, so a confident hand and a well-checked bike are a good idea.

Riding there from Hoi An

This is a ride best done independently, stopping wherever the view demands. A motorbike rental in Hoi An lets you leave early, follow the coast up through Da Nang and loop the peninsula at your own pace. Pair it with our Hoi An to Da Nang ride guide for the coastal leg, and read our safety guide before the steeper sections.

Prefer to keep the city stretch easy? An electric scooter or motorbike from hoianit.com can be delivered to your hotel, ready for a sunrise start.

Make a Da Nang day of it

Son Tra combines beautifully with Da Nang’s other highlights — the Marble Mountains are on the way, and the city beaches are right below the peninsula. Check the best time to visit for the clearest coastal views.

The Son Tra Peninsula stays cool and green even in midsummer, making it a refreshing half-day escape from the coast. The 67-metre Lady Buddha statue at Linh Ung Pagoda is the tallest in Vietnam and free to visit, with sweeping views back over the city. If you want to map out the wider area first, the Vietnam national tourism guide for Da Nang is a handy starting point before you ride out to the Son Tra Peninsula.

FAQ

How far is Son Tra Peninsula from Hoi An?

About 40 kilometres, or roughly an hour’s ride along the coast through Da Nang. The Lady Buddha at Linh Ung Pagoda is the main highlight.

Can you ride a motorbike around Son Tra?

Yes, and it’s one of the area’s best rides, but some roads are steep and winding — go carefully on a well-maintained bike and take the viewpoints slowly.

Explore Hoi An your way

Ready to explore Hoi An on your own terms? Rent a motorbike, electric scooter, electric bike or bicycle at hoianit.com — free delivery to your hotel and 24/7 support!

Part of our complete guide: Motorbike Rental in Hoi An — The Complete 2026 Guide.