Ly Son Island, a gem in the East Sea, is a dream destination for travel enthusiasts thanks to its pristine, majestic beauty and rich island culture. Starting from Da Nang, a vibrant tourist city, planning a trip to Ly Son is no longer too difficult. This article from “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) will provide a detailed guide on transportation options, helping you easily choose the most suitable route to reach the island paradise of Ly Son.
1. Distance and Travel Stages from Da Nang to Ly Son
To get to Ly Son Island from Da Nang, you need to go through two main stages:
- Stage 1: Da Nang to Sa Ky Port (Quang Ngai): This is the mainland leg, about 130km long. You can choose to travel by various means such as bus, train, motorbike, or private car.
- Stage 2: Sa Ky Port to Ly Son Island: From Sa Ky Port, you will travel to the island by speedboat. This is the most popular and fastest way to reach Ly Son.
2. Detailed Transportation Options from Da Nang to Ly Son
There are several transportation options for you to travel from Da Nang to Quang Ngai, depending on your preferences, budget, and time:
2.1. Traveling from Da Nang to Quang Ngai
a. Bus
Buses are the most common and cost-effective means of transportation for this route. In Da Nang, you can easily catch a bus to Quang Ngai at the central bus station or reputable bus company offices such as Phuong Trang, Mai Linh, Chin Nghia, Dung Hung, etc. Travel time by bus is about 3 – 4 hours, with ticket prices ranging from 120,000 – 200,000 VND/person depending on the type of bus and company.
Phuong Trang bus traveling from Da Nang to Quang Ngai
Pros:
- Cheap, many trips, easy to book tickets.
- Sleeper buses are comfortable for long journeys.
Cons:
- Longer travel time compared to trains or private cars.
- May experience overcrowding during peak season.
b. Train
Trains are an interesting option to travel from Da Nang to Quang Ngai, especially if you want to enjoy the scenery along the way. Da Nang train station is located right in the city center, very convenient to get to. You can choose North-South Reunification trains that stop at Quang Ngai station. Travel time by train is about 3 – 4 hours, similar to buses, but offers a different experience. Train ticket prices vary depending on seat type and train class, usually from 150,000 – 300,000 VND/person.
Train traveling from Da Nang to Quang Ngai
Pros:
- Safe, comfortable, less prone to motion sickness.
- Can enjoy beautiful scenery along the railway.
Cons:
- Higher ticket price than buses.
- Fixed schedule, need to arrange time accordingly.
c. Motorbike
For tourists who love backpacking and exploring, motorbikes are an ideal means of transportation from Da Nang to Quang Ngai. The coastal road from Da Nang to Quang Ngai is very beautiful, with many majestic and poetic landscapes. You can freely stop anywhere to take photos, admire the scenery, and experience. However, it is important to ensure good health, prepare your vehicle carefully, and comply with traffic laws for a safe journey. Travel time by motorbike is about 4 – 5 hours, depending on speed and number of stops.
Motorbike trip from Da Nang to Quang Ngai
Pros:
- Freedom, proactive about time and schedule.
- Fully explore the beautiful scenery along the way.
Cons:
- Fatigue if traveling long distances.
- Requires good health and long-distance driving experience.
- Affected by weather conditions.
d. Private Car or Taxi
If you are traveling in a large group or want privacy and comfort, renting a private car or taxi is a suitable option. You can easily rent a self-drive tourist car or a car with a driver in Da Nang. Travel time by private car or taxi is about 2.5 – 3.5 hours. The cost of renting a private car or taxi will be higher than other means of transport, but in return, you will have private space and proactive time.
Renting a private car from Da Nang to Quang Ngai
Pros:
- Private, comfortable, proactive time.
- Suitable for large groups or families.
Cons:
- Highest cost among transportation options.
- May encounter difficulties when self-driving if unfamiliar with the route.
2.2. Traveling from Sa Ky Port to Ly Son Island
After arriving in Quang Ngai, you need to travel to Sa Ky Port to take a boat to Ly Son Island. Sa Ky Port is about 20km from the center of Quang Ngai city. You can take a taxi or motorbike taxi from the city center to Sa Ky Port.
From Sa Ky Port, the only means of transport to Ly Son Island is speedboat. Currently, there are many speedboat operators running the Sa Ky – Ly Son route such as An Vinh Express, Chin Nghia, Superdong, etc. Travel time by speedboat is about 30 – 45 minutes. Speedboat ticket prices range from 180,000 – 250,000 VND/person/trip depending on the boat company and seat type.
Speedboat from Sa Ky Port to Ly Son Island
Note:
- Speedboat schedules may change due to weather conditions, especially during the rainy and storm season. Check the boat schedule before you go.
- You should buy boat tickets in advance, especially during peak season or weekends, to ensure you have a seat.
- Boat ticket counters usually open from 6:00 AM daily.
- When buying tickets, you need to present your personal identification (ID card or passport).
2.3. Getting Around Ly Son Island
Once you arrive at Ly Son Island, you have many means of transport to explore this beautiful island:
a. Motorbike
Motorbikes are the most popular and preferred means of transport on Ly Son Island. You can easily rent a motorbike at hotels, guesthouses, or rental points on the island for about 120,000 – 150,000 VND/day. Motorbikes help you freely explore every corner of the island, from pristine beaches to majestic mountains.
Motorbike rental on Ly Son Island
b. Electric Car
Electric cars are also an interesting option to visit Ly Son Island, especially if you are traveling with a family group or do not want to drive a motorbike yourself. Electric cars can carry many people and move slowly, helping you comfortably enjoy the scenery. You can rent electric cars by the hour or by the day at tourist spots or the island center.
Electric car tour on Ly Son Island
c. Motorbike Taxi, Taxi
Motorbike taxis and taxis are also available on Ly Son Island, but not as numerous as on the mainland. You can easily catch a motorbike taxi or taxi in the port area or island center. However, the cost may be higher than renting a motorbike or electric car.
3. Ideal Time to Visit Ly Son from Da Nang
The best time to visit Ly Son from Da Nang is in the summer, from June to September. At this time, the weather is sunny, the sea is calm, very suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the island.
Summer travel to Ly Son Island
In addition, you can also consider visiting Ly Son at other special times:
- Garlic season (December – March lunar calendar): If you want to admire the lush green garlic fields and enjoy Ly Son garlic specialties, come during this season.
- Hoang Sa Soldiers Commemoration Festival (March lunar calendar): This is a unique traditional festival of Ly Son, taking place around March of the lunar calendar. Participating in the festival, you will have the opportunity to learn about the culture and history of the island.
4. Suggested Itinerary for Traveling from Da Nang to Ly Son
Below is a suggested itinerary for traveling from Da Nang to Ly Son in 2 days and 1 night:
Day 1:
- Morning: Travel from Da Nang to Sa Ky Port by bus or train (3-4 hours).
- Noon: Arrive at Sa Ky Port, have lunch at restaurants near the port.
- Afternoon: Take a speedboat to Ly Son Island (30-45 minutes). Check into a hotel or homestay on the island. Rent a motorbike and start exploring Big Island (Ly Son Island): Hang Cau Cave, Hang Pagoda, Fatherland Flagpole, Thoi Loi Peak, etc.
- Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood dinner at restaurants on the island. Stroll along the beach at night and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Ly Son.
Day 2:
- Morning: Take a canoe or wooden boat to Small Island (An Binh Island). Explore Small Island: Tien Beach, Bac Beach, wind power farm, etc. Swim and snorkel at Small Island.
- Noon: Have lunch at Small Island with fresh seafood dishes.
- Afternoon: Return to Big Island, buy Ly Son specialties (garlic, onion, braised squid…) as gifts.
- Evening: Take a speedboat back to Sa Ky Port. Catch a bus or train back to Da Nang.
5. Experiences and Notes When Traveling to Ly Son Island from Da Nang
- Book boat tickets in advance: Especially during peak season, you should book speedboat tickets in advance to ensure you have a seat and avoid sold-out situations.
- Prepare personal identification: When buying boat tickets and boarding, you need to present your personal identification (ID card or passport).
- Bring necessary personal items: Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, swimwear, personal medications, etc.
- Follow the weather forecast: Weather conditions can affect boat schedules. You should follow the weather forecast before and during your trip.
- Ask for prices before using services: When renting vehicles, eating, or shopping, you should ask for prices in advance to avoid being overcharged.
- Maintain environmental hygiene: Ly Son is a beautiful island, let’s work together to maintain environmental hygiene, and not litter indiscriminately.
Ly Son tourism is green, clean, and beautiful
With the detailed information on how to travel to Ly Son Island from Da Nang that “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) has just shared, hopefully you will have a smooth and memorable trip. Don’t forget to explore the attractive destinations, enjoy the unique cuisine, and experience the exciting activities on this beautiful island!