Son Tra, often called Monkey Mountain, is the forested peninsula that shelters Da Nang Bay, and it is one of the best-loved scenic outings in the city. A local driver takes you up winding coastal roads past quiet beaches, fishing coves and viewpoints that look back over the city and the sea. Temples and pagodas sit among the trees, and the wildlife, including langurs that live in the forest, adds a reason to keep your eyes open. An easy rider tour suits visitors who want a relaxed, flexible day without driving themselves, and who prefer a local to choose the route, the stops and the lunch spot. It pairs naturally with the Lady Buddha at Linh Ung.
How it works
You are collected from your hotel in Da Nang or Hoi An, or meet your driver in the city, and ride as a passenger on the back of a motorbike. The route usually follows the coastal road around the peninsula, with stops at viewpoints, the Linh Ung pagoda with its tall white Lady Buddha, fishing spots and quiet beaches.
Tours are flexible, and drivers adjust to the pace of the group, so you can ask to stop for photos. Many include a local lunch, and some add a visit to a market or a coffee stop. Length varies from a half day to a full day, and itineraries differ, so check what is included.
What to expect
The road climbs through forest and the views are the main reward, with sea on one side and green hills on the other. The peninsula is a nature reserve, and the wildlife, including monkeys, is best left alone, so do not feed or touch animals and keep food out of sight.
Roads are steep and winding in places, and weather can change the character of the day, with fog or mist sometimes hiding the viewpoints and rain making the road slippery. Drivers are experienced locals, but you should still wear the helmet provided and follow their advice.
Why ride
Da Nang is often treated as a gateway to Hoi An, but this outing shows what makes the city more than an airport stop. You can see the Marble Mountains, the beaches and the Lady Buddha in the same day, or spend the day purely on Son Tra.
It is a good option for travellers who find the Ba Na Hills crowds too busy and want a quieter taste of the mountains and the sea. Combined with the Dragon Bridge show or a Han River cruise in the evening, it makes a full day in the city.
Practical tips
Wear long trousers or a light cover-up, closed shoes and sunglasses, and carry water and sunscreen. Bring a rain jacket in the wet season, because showers on the mountain can arrive suddenly. Early morning is the best time for clear views and for spotting wildlife, while late afternoon gives warm light on the coast.
Typhoon warnings and heavy rain can close roads, so check the forecast and keep your dates flexible in the autumn. The drier months from roughly February to May are the most reliable for views. If you prefer a longer, more demanding ride, the Hai Van Pass tour covers a bigger stretch of coast to the north.
What to expect
The experience
A guided motorbike tour as a passenger around Son Tra Peninsula, with viewpoints, a pagoda, beaches and lunch.
Best time
Early morning for clear views and wildlife, in the drier months.
How long
Half a day to a full day depending on the itinerary.
Tips
Wear long light clothing, bring a rain jacket, do not feed wildlife and confirm pickup and inclusions.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want scenery and sea views without driving themselves.
- Families
- Check age limits and child seating before booking; better for older children.
- Couples
- A flexible scenic day with coastal viewpoints and a relaxed lunch.
- Pair with
- Linh Ung pagoda, the Marble Mountains or the Dragon Bridge show.
- Time needed
- Half to full day.
Good questions
Do I drive the motorbike?+
Typically no. A local driver rides and you sit behind. Check the exact format when you book.
Will I see monkeys?+
Wildlife is possible but never guaranteed. Do not feed or touch the animals.
Is lunch included?+
Often yes, but formats differ. Check the inclusions.
Is it safe in wet weather?+
Roads can be slippery in rain and fog. Operators may change or cancel the route.
Can I visit the Lady Buddha?+
Yes, the Linh Ung pagoda is a common stop on the peninsula.
