Just 10 km from the center of Da Nang City, Son Tra is a beautiful peninsula with long, white sandy beaches, picturesque landscapes and primeval forests – a must-see for any tourist in Vietnam.

A visit to this natural wonderland is sure to impress.

Stretching a total area of 4,000 hectares, Son Tra is home to around 1,000 different plant species, 51 birds, 15 reptiles, and 42 species of coral.

Red cheek gibbons and a species of turtle are among the animals living in the area that are also listed in Vietnam’s Red Book of endangered species.

The peninsula has been named a national park to help protect the delicate balance of life in the area.

Surrounded by the sea and wooded areas, the peninsula has an extensive array of beaches like Bai Bac, Bai Nam and Bai But – heaven for those seeking water activities like swimming, fishing and sightseeing by boat.

One can also take a dive to explore extraordinary coral reefs. With its strong winds and large waves, Bai Bac Beach is perfect for surfers.

Bai But and Bai Nam are more gentle and safe for scuba diving.

Those heading below the surface will be treated to 42 different species of brilliant coral reef as well as scores of marine life like fairy fish, macropodus, and butterfly fish.

The spectacular scenery here feels like entering into a breath-taking underwater palace.

Alternatively, by heading up the peninsula’s mountainside, tourists can explore the forest terrain and all of the many plants and animals in Son Tra National Conservation Park.

Also not to be missed is the huge Mui Nghe stone, which lies to the east of the peninsula.

With its rocky protuberances projecting into the open sea, it is a most impressive sight.

Above the rock, one can become hypnotized by the sparkling blue sea water, and in the distance, a dazzling array of colorful marine creatures and coral reefs can be seen.

From an altitude of 700 m, visitors can take in the panoramic picture of the peninsula and the city of Da Nang, as well as the Marble Mountains and Bach Ma Mountain to the southwest.

Son Tra’s tourism industry continues to grow steadily and many luxury resorts have been established to serve its visitors.

However, the central government, along with the local Da Nang People’s Committee, also has specific methods in place for pre-serving and protecting the area’s charming natural landscapes and fragile ecosystem.

Classifying Son Tra peninsula as a National Park is just one of many policies established to help protect this beautiful hide-away.

By Dieu Hien, Phuong Anh