Off the Beaten Path: Ly Son Island's Unique Charms
Embark on a journey to explore Ly Son Island – a hidden gem in the middle of the azure ocean. Here, you can savor the slow pace of life, stroll along pristine white sands, and uncover unique experiences.
Discover Ly Son Island
Ly Son Island, also known as Re Island (Cu Lao Re), is situated in Quang Ngai province, Central Vietnam. Located about 30 kilometers from the mainland, it comprises the main island of Re and the smaller An Binh and Mu Cu islands.
Famed for its striking rocky outcrops, remnants of ancient volcanic activity, Ly Son Island is a must-visit destination. Beyond its stunning blue seas, it is renowned for cultivating a unique variety of garlic and holds significant importance in Vietnam's national defense.
1. When is the Best Time to Travel to Ly Son Island?
To determine the best time to visit Ly Son Island, it's essential to understand its weather and climate. The island typically experiences two main seasons: rainy and sunny. Your choice of travel time will depend on your weather preferences.
April to August is the ideal period to enjoy the island's natural beauty. During these months, the weather is generally stable, sunny, and with minimal rainfall. However, be aware that peak tourist season runs from April to June.
September to December brings rough seas and unpredictable weather, including rain and storms. Notably, from late December to April, the green moss that covers the coastal rocks adds a unique charm to the landscape.
2. Ly Son Island Hotels – Where to Stay?
Planning a trip to Ly Son Island? You'll find plenty of accommodation options, ranging from guesthouses and hotels to homestays, with average prices between 200,000 - 400,000 VND per night.
For a lively atmosphere, consider staying at homestays like Bé Ecolodge, Bep's House, or DHT Hang Câu. If you prefer a scenic ocean view, Ly Son Pearl Hotel & Resort is an excellent choice. For a unique experience on Bé Island, try the Ly Son Bungalow Hostel with its colorful wooden houses or the XaLaBin Homestay with sea-facing rooms. For more details, it's best to contact specialist tour operators.
3. How to Get to Ly Son Island, Quang Ngai
From Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City:
Book a flight to Chu Lai Airport (Quang Nam). From the airport, travel to Sa Ky Port (47 kilometers away) by taxi, motorbike, or car.
From Sa Ky Port:
Upon arrival at the port, take a speedboat to the Big Island in Ly Son District. The journey takes about 30 to 45 minutes. Ensure you have all necessary documents to purchase a round-trip ticket. If you are prone to seasickness, it’s advisable to take medication, avoid heavy meals, and steer clear of carbonated drinks before boarding.
4. Means of Transportation on Ly Son Island
After arriving on Ly Son Island, you can easily rent a motorbike for about 120,000 – 160,000 VND per day at various rental points on the island.
For larger groups and families, renting a car is a convenient option. Rates are approximately 700,000 VND per day for a 4-seat car, 800,000 VND per day for a 7-seat car, and 1,100,000 VND per day for a 16-seat car. With these transportation options, you can explore Ly Son Island comfortably and at your own pace.
Related article: Escape to Paradise: Unveiling the Charms of Phu Quy Island
Famous Tourist Attractions in Ly Son District
1. To Vo Gate
To Vo Gate, located on the eastern side of Ly Son Island, was formed by lava eruptions millions of years ago. This striking stone gate, over 2 meters high, resembles a stone curtain opening to the sea when viewed from a distance. The solidified lava interacting with seawater creates a unique and picturesque scene, complemented by the surrounding mysterious and eye-catching black lava rock beaches.
2. Cau Cave
Nestled in Dong village under the shadow of Thoi Loi Mountain, Cau Cave is a stunning natural wonder where mountains and sea converge. The vertical cliffs facing the blue sea, combined with fine sandy Ly Son beaches, create a majestic and breathtaking landscape. Named after the Cau seaweed popular on Ly Son Island, which is often used in desserts, the area around Cau Cave features vibrant coral reefs and scattered rocky outcrops. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, snorkeling, swimming, diving, kayaking, or having a beach party.
3. Am Linh Pagoda
Located about 500 meters west of Ly Son Vietnam port, Am Linh Pagoda is a sacred site honoring the pioneers who expanded the island and the brave Hoang Sa soldiers who sacrificed their lives. The pagoda preserves precious documents and relics marking the historical formation of Ly Son Island. Every year, the pagoda hosts important ceremonies, especially the one in the third lunar month to pay respect to the Hoang Sa soldiers. Adjacent to the pagoda is a large sandy beach where visitors can relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and explore Ly Son's specialties.
4. Hang Pagoda
Situated in a poetic cave at the foot of Thoi Loi volcano, Hang Pagoda boasts over 400 years of history and is a revered site on Ly Son Island. Designated a national historical and cultural relic in 1994, the pagoda exudes a peaceful, ancient charm. The narrow cave entrance is covered with moss, and water from Thoi Loi Mountain flows through small volcanic sediments. The pagoda resembles a hidden stone cellar, with a depth of 24 meters, a width of 20 meters, and a height of 3.2 meters. Inside, Buddhist altars and statues of the ancestors of An Hai village can be found. In front of the pagoda lies a sandy Ly Son beach with ancient trees and a statue of Bodhisattva Guan Yin facing the sea.
5. Duc Pagoda
Perched on the cliff of Gieng Tien Mountain, one of the island’s dormant volcanoes, Duc Pagoda is a solemn and mysterious destination. Built in 2008, the pagoda is set amidst nature, requiring visitors to climb 100 steep steps along the mountainside. At the entrance, a prominent 27-meter-high statue of Bodhisattva Guanyin faces the ocean, symbolizing compassion and tolerance.
6. Thoi Loi Peak
Among the five dormant volcanoes on Ly Son Island, Thoi Loi Peak stands out with its grandeur and panoramic ocean views. At an altitude of about 170 meters above sea level, the mountain's summit features a large freshwater lake that provides water to the locals and symbolizes the resilience of the island's inhabitants. A 27.4-meter-high flagpole, a symbol of the islanders' courage, is also located here.
Attractive Tourist Destinations on Small Island and Mu Cu Island
1. Small Island (An Binh Island Commune)
Small Island, also known as An Binh Island Commune, boasts a charming landscape that rivals Big Island. Located less than 3 nautical miles from Big Island, you can reach it by wooden boat in about 30 minutes or by speedboat in just 10 minutes.
This island remains pristine, with long, expansive Ly Son beaches perfect for leisurely sunset strolls. Visiting Small Island feels like stepping into a new world, where the boundless ocean meets the bright, golden sunlight.\
Related tour: Beach relax tour
2. Mu Cu Island
Mu Cu Island, situated near the An Hai boat anchorage and about 3.2 kilometers from the center of the island district, is a must-see when visiting Ly Son Island. Known for its distinctive black rock shore and a charming lighthouse rising in the middle of the sea, Mu Cu Island offers a picturesque backdrop for photography and relaxation. It's also an ideal spot to watch the sunrise and enjoy peaceful moments with your loved ones.
3. Ngang Beach
Ngang Beach on Ly Son Island is one of the most stunning spots on Small Island, often referred to as the "Maldives of Vietnam" for its crystal-clear turquoise waters. The rocky outcrops and niches near the shore provide a habitat for a variety of colorful fish, making it a paradise for diving enthusiasts.
Additionally, the Love Bridge near the beach is a popular photo spot, offering tourists romantic and serene moments with their loved ones.
4. Mural Village
The Mural Village on Ly Son Island is a vibrant and colorful spot near the Small Island port, adorned with exquisite murals. Although smaller and more modest than other mural villages, it remains a delightful stop to enjoy the artistic ambiance and capture memorable moments.
Ly Son Island Specialties
If you're a foodie, Ly Son Island is a must-visit destination. Here, you can savor a variety of mouthwatering dishes such as seaweed salad, garlic salad, giant snails, king crab, sea urchin porridge, stir-fried oysters, and devil fish. Numerous restaurants on the island offer delicious and flavorful dishes in a relaxing atmosphere.
While you're in Ly Son Vietnam, not only can you enjoy these local delicacies, but you can also take home some specialties as gifts for family and friends. Be sure to visit the Big Island Market, where you can find simple dry food stalls selling garlic, dried seafood, peanut candy, sea urchin sauce, Tra Bong cinnamon, and Tra River goby fish. And don’t miss out on Ly Son Vietnam's most famous specialty: Ly Son Vietnam fish cakes, which are carefully packaged and make perfect gifts.
Some tips for first-time visitors
- You should plan and book tickets for buses, planes, or trains to Ly Son Island as well as hotels in advance, especially during peak season. This will help you avoid the situation of "inflating" ticket prices or sold-out tickets. You can contact the travel and tour agency for specific advice.
- Identify the places you want to visit and plan your travel appropriately to enjoy your time effectively.
- Because Ly Son Vietnam is sunny and windy, prepare personal protective equipment such as hats and sun protection shirts, sunscreen, swimsuits, sunglasses, etc.
- Bring enough cash because there are usually not many ATMs on the island.
- Make sure to bring your ID card, and driver's license to serve the purpose of traveling, renting a car, and staying at a hotel.
Above is all the remarkable information about the Ly Son Island district. Hopefully, with this article, you will find it easier to plan your upcoming trip and have memorable moments at Ly Son Island.
