10 Jul

Travel Guide An Binh Island, Be Island, best things to do in Ly Son, Cau Cave Ly Son, Duc Pagoda, Hang Cau, Hang Pagoda, Hon Mu Cu, Ly Son 2 day itinerary, Ly Son attractions, Ly Son beaches, Ly Son fishing village, Ly Son garlic fields, Ly Son Island attractions, Ly Son Island travel guide, Ly Son Island Vietnam, Ly Son itinerary, Ly Son lighthouse, Ly Son market, Ly Son seafood, Ly Son snorkeling, Ly Son travel guide, things to do in Ly Son, Thoi Loi Peak, To Vo Gate, Top things to do in Ly Son Island, what to do in Ly Son Island

Review about us

Located about 30 km off the coast of Quang Ngai Province, Ly Son Island is one of Vietnam’s most spectacular island destinations. Formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, the island is famous for its dramatic lava cliffs, crystal-clear beaches, fresh seafood, garlic farms, and peaceful fishing villages.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer island holiday, Ly Son offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, local culture, and authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

This guide introduces the Top 20 Things to Do in Ly Son Island, helping first-time visitors discover the island’s must-see attractions and hidden gems.

Why Visit Ly Son Island?

Ly Son is often called Vietnam’s Volcanic Island because of its unique geological landscape created by ancient volcanic eruptions.

Unlike many crowded beach destinations, Ly Son offers a quieter and more authentic travel experience.

Visitors come here to enjoy:

Dramatic volcanic cliffs
Crystal-clear turquoise water
White coral beaches
Fresh seafood
Beautiful sunrises and sunsets
Friendly local communities
Rich maritime history
The island’s famous garlic farms

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, Ly Son has something for everyone.

Best Time to Visit Ly Son Island

The best season to visit is from March to August.

During these months you’ll enjoy:

Sunny weather
Calm seas
Clear water
Excellent snorkeling conditions
Reliable ferry services
Beautiful sunrise and sunset views

If you’re visiting between September and December, be aware that storms and rough seas may occasionally affect ferry schedules.

Top 20 Things to Do in Ly Son Island

1. Watch Sunrise at To Vo Gate

No visit to Ly Son Island is complete without seeing the sunrise at To Vo Gate (Cổng Tò Vò).

Created by ancient volcanic lava, this natural basalt arch has become the symbol of Ly Son Island and one of the most photographed landmarks in Central Vietnam.

The best time to visit is just before sunrise, when the golden morning light shines through the volcanic rock arch and reflects across the sea.

Highlights:

Spectacular sunrise
Volcanic rock formations
Ocean photography
Peaceful morning atmosphere

Recommended visit:

5:30–6:30 AM

2. Visit Thoi Loi Peak

Standing approximately 170 meters above sea level, Thoi Loi Peak is the highest point on Ly Son Island.

From the summit you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of:

The volcanic crater lake
Garlic fields
Fishing villages
Ly Son Harbor
Be Island (An Binh Island)
The East Sea

It’s one of the best places on the island for landscape photography.

Recommended visit:

Early morning or late afternoon.

3. Explore Hang Pagoda

Hang Pagoda (Chùa Hang) is one of Ly Son’s oldest and most unique Buddhist temples.

Built inside a natural volcanic cave, the pagoda combines spiritual significance with stunning natural scenery.

Visitors can explore:

Ancient cave temple
Giant Bodhi tree
Coastal viewpoints
Historic Buddhist architecture

The peaceful atmosphere makes it one of the island’s most relaxing attractions.

4. Visit Duc Pagoda

Located on the southern side of Ly Son Island, Duc Pagoda (Chùa Đục) sits halfway up a volcanic mountain.

After climbing the stone staircase, visitors are rewarded with magnificent views of:

To Vo Gate
Volcanic cliffs
Fishing villages
The surrounding coastline

The impressive 27-meter Quan Am Statue overlooking the sea has become one of Ly Son’s most recognizable landmarks.

5. Explore Hang Cau (Cau Cave)

One of Ly Son’s most impressive natural attractions is Hang Cau, also known as Cau Cave.

Over thousands of years, waves and volcanic activity have created dramatic cliffs, caves, and fascinating rock formations.

Visitors come here to:

Walk along volcanic cliffs
Photograph lava formations
Enjoy ocean views
Relax beside the sea

It’s also one of the island’s best locations for drone photography.

6. Visit Be Island (An Binh Island)

If there’s one place you absolutely shouldn’t miss, it’s Be Island (Đảo Bé or An Binh Island).

Located just a short speedboat ride from the main island, Be Island is famous for its powdery white coral sand, turquoise water, and peaceful atmosphere.

The island is much smaller than Ly Son but offers some of the clearest seawater in Vietnam.

Popular activities include:

Swimming
Relaxing on the beach
Photography
Walking around the island
Visiting local fishing villages

The speedboat journey takes only 10–15 minutes, making it an easy half-day or full-day excursion.

Many travelers consider Be Island the highlight of their trip to Ly Son.

7. Go Snorkeling & Discover Coral Reefs

The crystal-clear water surrounding Ly Son makes it one of the best snorkeling destinations in Central Vietnam.

Around Be Island, you’ll find colorful coral reefs and a wide variety of tropical marine life.

Snorkeling tours usually include:

Boat transportation
Snorkeling equipment
Safety jackets
Local guide

The best snorkeling season is from April to August, when visibility is at its highest and the sea is generally calm.

For the best experience, choose a morning tour when the water is clearest.

8. Walk Through the Famous Garlic Fields

Ly Son is known throughout Vietnam as the “Kingdom of Garlic.”

The island’s fertile volcanic soil produces garlic with a unique flavor and aroma that has made it famous across the country.

Walking through the garlic fields is one of the best ways to experience local life.

Depending on the season, you’ll see:

Green garlic fields
Farmers harvesting garlic
Traditional cultivation methods
Volcanic soil landscapes

You can also purchase fresh garlic, black garlic, garlic salt, and other locally made products directly from farmers.

9. Visit Hon Mu Cu

Located on the eastern coast of Ly Son Island, Hon Mu Cu is one of the island’s most scenic coastal attractions.

This small rocky peninsula is famous for:

Historic lighthouse
Volcanic lava rocks
Crystal-clear seawater
Spectacular coastal scenery

Hon Mu Cu is also considered one of the best places on the island to watch the sunrise.

The peaceful atmosphere makes it an excellent location for photography and relaxation.

Don’t forget to bring your camera, as this is one of Ly Son’s most photogenic spots.

10. Explore the Island by Motorbike

One of the best ways to discover Ly Son Island is by renting a motorbike.

Since the island is relatively small, you can easily explore most attractions within a single day.

A motorbike gives you the freedom to stop whenever you like and discover hidden beaches, fishing villages, scenic viewpoints, and local cafés.

Popular routes include:

Ly Son Harbor
To Vo Gate
Hang Pagoda
Duc Pagoda
Thoi Loi Peak
Garlic Fields
Hon Mu Cu
Cau Cave

Road conditions are generally good, and traffic is very light compared to Vietnam’s larger cities.

If you’re not comfortable riding a motorbike, electric vehicles and local taxis are also available.

11. Visit Ly Son Lighthouse

Located near Hon Mu Cu, Ly Son Lighthouse is one of the island’s most recognizable landmarks.

From the surrounding area, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of:

The East Sea
Hon Mu Cu
Fishing boats
Volcanic coastline
Be Island

The lighthouse area is especially beautiful during sunrise and early morning.

Photography lovers shouldn’t miss this location.

12. Visit the Hoang Sa Flotilla Exhibition House

To better understand Ly Son’s unique history, spend some time at the Hoang Sa Flotilla Exhibition House.

The museum tells the story of generations of island fishermen who served in the historic Hoang Sa flotilla.

Highlights include:

Historical maps
Maritime artifacts
Ancient documents
Traditional fishing tools
Exhibitions about Vietnam’s maritime heritage

This attraction offers valuable cultural insight beyond the island’s natural beauty.

13. Explore Ly Son Market

One of the best places to experience everyday island life is Ly Son Market.

Here you’ll find:

Fresh seafood
Local vegetables
Tropical fruits
Garlic products
Handmade souvenirs

Morning is the best time to visit, when local fishermen bring in their daily catch.

It’s also a great place to purchase authentic gifts before returning to the mainland.

14. Enjoy Fresh Seafood

Ly Son Island is famous throughout Vietnam for its incredibly fresh seafood.

Popular local specialties include:

Grilled lobster (seasonal)
Sea urchin
Garlic oysters
Steamed squid
Fresh grouper
Grilled scallops
Seafood hotpot

Many restaurants source their seafood directly from local fishermen every morning.

Dining beside the sea while watching the sunset is one of the island’s most memorable experiences.

15. Experience a Traditional Fishing Village

Walking through one of Ly Son’s fishing villages offers a glimpse into the island’s authentic way of life.

You’ll see:

Colorful fishing boats
Fishermen repairing nets
Seafood drying in the sun
Local families preparing their daily catch

Visitors are often welcomed with warm smiles and genuine hospitality.

16. Watch the Sunset Along the Coast

Although To Vo Gate is famous for sunrise, Ly Son also offers spectacular sunset locations.

Recommended sunset viewpoints include:

Thoi Loi Peak
Coastal Road
Ly Son Harbor
Seaside cafés
Beaches near Hang Cau

Watching the fishing boats return while the sun disappears into the sea creates an unforgettable island atmosphere.

17. Relax at a Seaside Café

Ly Son has several charming cafés overlooking the ocean.

Order a traditional Vietnamese coffee or a refreshing coconut drink while enjoying the peaceful scenery.

Popular choices include:

Vietnamese Egg Coffee
Coconut Coffee
Fresh Fruit Smoothies
Passion Fruit Juice
Salt Coffee

It’s the perfect way to slow down and appreciate the relaxed island lifestyle.

18. Buy Ly Son Garlic

No trip to Ly Son is complete without taking home its world-famous garlic.

19. Capture Amazing Drone & Photography Spots

Ly Son Island is one of Vietnam’s best destinations for photographers.

Some of the island’s most photogenic locations include:

To Vo Gate
Thoi Loi Peak
Hon Mu Cu
Be Island
Garlic Fields
Hang Cau
Ly Son Harbor

Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting conditions.

Drone photography is especially impressive thanks to the island’s volcanic coastline and turquoise waters.

20. Enjoy Ly Son’s Peaceful Nightlife

Unlike larger tourist destinations, Ly Son offers a calm and relaxing evening atmosphere.

Spend your final night:

Walking along the harbor
Enjoying seafood by the sea
Visiting local cafés
Shopping for souvenirs
Watching fishing boats return

Rather than busy nightlife, Ly Son offers something much more valuable—peace, fresh ocean air, and unforgettable island scenery.

Make the Most of Your Visit

To experience all of these attractions without rushing, we recommend staying at least 2 or 3 days.

Helpful itinerary guides:

Ly Son 2-Day Itinerary

https://test.danangtransfer.vn/en/ly-son-2-day-itinerary-best-travel-plan-for-first-time-visitors/

Ly Son 3-Day Itinerary

https://test.danangtransfer.vn/en/ly-son-3-day-itinerary-complete-travel-plan-for-first-time-visitors/

These detailed guides include daily schedules, hotel recommendations, transportation advice, and suggested restaurants.

Where to Stay on Ly Son Island

Ly Son offers accommodation for every budget.

Luxury Hotels

Recommended for travelers seeking premium facilities:

Muong Thanh Holiday Ly Son
Ly Son Pearl Island Hotel & Resort

These hotels feature spacious rooms, sea views, swimming pools, restaurants, and modern amenities.

Mid-Range Hotels

Excellent value for money:

Central Ly Son Resort
Central Ly Son Hotel

Perfect for families, couples, and first-time visitors.

Homestays

For a more authentic local experience:

Bien Ngoc Hotel
Mom’s House
Homestays on Be Island

These accommodations provide warm hospitality and a closer connection to local island life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ly Son Island worth visiting?

Absolutely.

Ly Son is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful island destinations, offering volcanic landscapes, crystal-clear beaches, rich history, and fresh seafood in a peaceful setting.

How many days should I stay?

We recommend:

2 days for a short getaway.
3 days for a complete island experience.

What is the best time to visit?

The best months are from March to August, when the weather is sunny and the sea is generally calm.

Can I visit Be Island?

Yes.

Be Island is only 10–15 minutes away by speedboat and is considered one of the highlights of any Ly Son trip.

Is Ly Son suitable for families?

Yes.

Ly Son is an excellent destination for families thanks to its safe environment, friendly locals, beautiful beaches, and short travel distances.

What is the best way to reach Ly Son?

The easiest option is:

Hotel or Airport

↓

Private Car

↓

Sa Ky Port

↓

High-Speed Ferry

↓

Ly Son Island

This combination is comfortable, convenient, and ideal for travelers with luggage or children.

Need assistance planning your Ly Son adventure?

Hotline / WhatsApp / Zalo

📞 +84 0905442279

We’re always happy to help you choose the best transportation, ferry schedule, and itinerary for your trip.

Final Thoughts

Ly Son Island is a destination unlike anywhere else in Vietnam. From ancient volcanic landscapes and spectacular coastal scenery to crystal-clear waters, peaceful fishing villages, and some of the freshest seafood in the country, every moment on the island offers a memorable experience.

Whether you’re watching the sunrise at To Vo Gate, snorkeling around Be Island, hiking to Thoi Loi Peak, or enjoying fresh seafood by the harbor, these Top 20 Things to Do in Ly Son Island will help you experience the very best the island has to offer.

To make your journey as smooth as possible, plan your transportation and ferry tickets in advance. A private transfer from Da Nang or Hoi An to Sa Ky Port, combined with a pre-booked high-speed ferry, allows you to travel comfortably and maximize your time on the island.

Before your trip, explore these helpful guides from Danang Transfer: