Ly Son Island Travel Guide: Discover Vietnam’s Volcanic Paradise

Off the coast of Quang Ngai Province lies Ly Son Island—a small yet stunning volcanic island surrounded by clear turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and white sand beaches. As a tour guide, I often describe Ly Son as one of Vietnam’s most underrated island escapes, where geology, seafood, and history blend seamlessly.
 

Whether you're chasing adventure, relaxation, or cultural heritage, this comprehensive guide to Ly Son will help you plan the perfect trip.

📍 Where is Ly Son?

Province: Quang Ngai, Central Vietnam

Distance from Da Nang: ~180 km

Access: Ferry from Sa Ky Port (Quang Ngai city)

Ly Son is composed of two islands:

Dao Lon (Big Island): Main area with accommodation, restaurants, and attractions

Dao Be (Small Island): Also known as An Binh Island, famous for snorkeling and natural beauty

🌟 Why Visit Ly Son Island?

✅ Volcanic landscapes and unique rock formations
✅ Uncrowded white sand beaches
✅ Fresh, cheap seafood from local fishermen
✅ Incredible sunrise and sunset views
✅ Cultural sites and temples with Cham and Vietnamese heritage

🚗 How to Get to Ly Son

Step 1: Get to Quang Ngai City

By Train: Reunification Express stops at Quang Ngai Station

By Plane: Nearest airport is Chu Lai Airport (~45 km away)

By Bus: Several routes from Da Nang, Hue, or Hoi An

Step 2: Travel to Sa Ky Port

Taxi or local bus (~20 km from Quang Ngai)

Step 3: Take a Ferry to Ly Son

Duration: 30–45 minutes

Tickets: Book in advance during peak season

Fast boats available from Sa Ky Port daily

🏝️ Top Attractions in Ly Son Island

1. To Vo Gate (Cổng Tò Vò)

A naturally formed lava arch by the sea

Iconic photography spot, especially at sunset

Legend says it was created by a volcanic explosion millions of years ago

2. Thoi Loi Volcano

Hike or ride up to Ly Son’s highest peak

See the island’s volcanic crater, now a green field

Panoramic views of both Dao Lon and Dao Be

A giant Vietnamese flagpole stands at the summit

3. Hang Pagoda (Chùa Hang)

Built directly into a volcanic cave on the cliffside

Dedicated to the worship of sea gods and spirits

Peaceful ambiance and amazing sea views

Surrounded by ancient banyan trees and incense smoke

4. Garlic Fields

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

Explore vast fields of garlic planted in sandy soil

The garlic here is small but fragrant and sweet

Visit between February–April during the harvest

5. An Binh Island (Dao Be)

Reachable by speedboat (15 minutes)

White beaches, crystal waters, and coral reefs

Great for snorkeling, kayaking, and beach camping

No motor vehicles – explore by electric bike or foot

🚲 Activities and Experiences in Ly Son

✅ Snorkeling and Swimming

Clear waters and coral reefs at Dao Be

Snorkeling gear can be rented locally

Best conditions between March–August

✅ Hiking and Biking

Rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island

Ride through garlic fields, volcanoes, and cliffs

Climb Thoi Loi and Cave Pagoda trails

✅ Sunrise and Sunset Views

Sunrise: Best seen from Hang Cau Beach

Sunset: Magical at To Vo Gate or Mu Cu Islet

✅ Visit Local Markets

Early morning seafood market by the port

Try fresh squid, scallops, sea urchins, and grilled fish

Great spot for photography and souvenirs

🍲 What to Eat in Ly Son

Fresh seafood dominates Ly Son’s cuisine, with unique local flavors.

Must-Try Dishes:

Gỏi Tỏi (Garlic Salad): Made with local baby garlic and shrimp

Ốc Mặt Trăng (Moon Snail): Cooked with lemongrass and chili

Cua Huỳnh Đế (Imperial Crab): A prized specialty, rare but rich in flavor

Cháo Nhum (Sea Urchin Porridge): Creamy, nutritious, and umami-rich

Bánh Ít Lá Gai: Sticky rice cake filled with mung bean and wrapped in leaves

🏨 Where to Stay in Ly Son

Budget & Homestays:

Central Ly Son Homestay, Bep’s House, Ly Son Pearl

Clean, affordable, and welcoming family-run stays

Many offer homemade meals and tours

Mid-Range Hotels:

Motel Hoa Bien, Ly Son Central Hotel

Comfortable rooms with AC, sea views, and central location

Beachfront or Luxury:

Mola Hotel Ly Son – Best sea view on the island

Ly Son Pearl Island Hotel & Resort – Highest-end option, modern and well-equipped

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Ly Son

The garlic harvest season in February–April adds a unique charm.

🎉 Festivals in Ly Son

1. Cau Ngu Festival (Whale Worship) – March/April

Held by local fishermen to pray for safe seas

Includes boat racing, traditional music, and rituals

2. Hoang Sa Soldiers Memorial Festival – March (lunar calendar)

Honors the brave soldiers who protected the Hoang Sa (Paracel) Islands

Deeply meaningful for Ly Son locals with historic roots

🧭 Suggested 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning: Arrive from Sa Ky Port, check in

Afternoon: Explore Thoi Loi Volcano and garlic fields

Sunset: Visit To Vo Gate

Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local eatery

Day 2:

Morning: Take a speedboat to An Binh Island

Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing on the beach

Afternoon: Visit Hang Pagoda

Return to main island, then ferry back to mainland

📸 Best Instagram Spots

To Vo Gate during sunset

An Binh beaches with turquoise water

Volcanic crater view from Thoi Loi

Garlic fields with farmers in traditional hats

Colorful fishing boats at the harbor

🧳 Travel Tips for Ly Son

Bring sunscreen and hats – strong tropical sun

Cash only – few ATMs, so withdraw in Quang Ngai

Avoid travel during storm season (Sep–Oct)

Wear water shoes for rocky beach areas

Respect local culture and temples (modest dress)

🏁 Final Thoughts

Ly Son Island is more than a beach escape—it's a journey into Vietnam’s volcanic past, fishing traditions, and island resilience. Untouched by mass tourism, it offers a raw, authentic, and breathtaking experience for those who seek off-the-beaten-path adventures.

If you want peaceful sunsets, warm locals, and salty sea breezes, Ly Son should be on your Vietnam travel list.