Son Tra Radar Station is a lesser-known tourist location in Da Nang, yet it nevertheless offers many fascinating activities. It is a major military facility on Da Nang’s Son Tra Peninsula. And it is renowned as Indochina God’s Eye due to its ideal geographical location at a height of 621 meters. If you are passionate about the experience, you will be really excited to explore it.
- – Danang to Monkey Mountain by car: 69 USD/sedan
Table of Contents
1. Overall information of Son Tra Radar Station
The US military established the Radar Station in 1965, right atop Son Tra Mountain. Prior to 1975, the Americans utilized it to control and monitor a broad area stretching from Guam to Hainan Island, Thailand, and Indochina. At the time, the station’s mission was to patrol and protect the skies over the entire East Sea, detecting and responding to incidents of airspace violation. Furthermore, the Radar Station directed American pilots to depart from Thailand Airport to Guam to bomb North Vietnam.
After 1975, this radar station continued to be used as an observatory in a variety of fields, including aviation, air force, and navy. It is managed by the H90 and 375 divisions and was renamed Rada 29 station to monitor the airspace between Dong Hoi and Buon Ma Thuot cities. The radar has a visibility radius of up to 300 kilometers, and the wave scan range extends from Indochina to Hong Kong and Hainan.
2. Geographic location and how to get Son Tra Radar Station
Son Tra Radar Station is located atop Son Tra Peak, which stands 621 meters above sea level. It is around 14 kilometers from Danang’s city center, therefore it takes about 40 minutes to reach there by motorbike. And, driving there takes roughly 30 minutes.
There are numerous routes available to you, depending on where you start. However, to ensure your safety, we strongly advise you to choose one of the following routes:
- Let’s proceed from Danang’s city center to Dragon Bridge or Thuan Phuoc Bridge and then Tran Hung Dao Street! When you reach the end of Tran Hung Dao Street, turn right and drive directly to Son Tra Peninsular.
- Vo Nguyen Giap – Hoang Sa Street will be an additional route. Simply drive along the seacoast road till you reach Son Tra Peninsular. This is an lovely path since you can enjoy the beauty of the coastline while feeling the salty breeze from the ocean.
So, once you are on the Son Tra Peninsular, you can go to Son Tra Radar Station.
As previously stated, this station is located at a relatively high and steep elevation; hence, motorcycles are an appropriate mode of transportation for you to reach it. Motorcycles can climb hills and avoid obstructions that cars cannot. Riding a motorcycle, in particular, can provide a cool and comfortable atmosphere.
3. What to see at the Son Tra Radar Station?
Admire Danang City’s Beautiful Panorama
With its ideal location and height of 621m above sea level, you will have a spectacular view of Da Nang’s beautiful natural beauty. You can see not just Da Nang, but also the East Sea and the surrounding mountains. Standing here, you may take in the stunning environment that surrounds you, including large lush green forests. Seeing the vast sea and breathing in the fresh air will undoubtedly be enjoyable. So if you enjoy nature, this is a must-see destination.
Visit Vong Canh House
Vong Canh House is one of the most well-known attractions for travelers visiting Son Tra Radar Station. The house is 600 meters above sea level on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea. When you visit come here, you will be able to enjoy the beauty of Lang Co Beach and Hai Van Pass. Additionally, there is a lovely stone-carved monkey statue in front of the house. This statue is regarded as a symbolic representation of Son Tra Mountain, as well as a custodian and protector of the mountain space.
Enjoy sunrise and sunset moments from the highest mountain
We should never pass up the opportunity to enjoy the sunrise and sunset from a high point like Son Tra Radar Station. Those are the best times to capture Mother Nature’s most stunning moments with the sun, sea, and forest.
Take the most beautiful photographs
The picturesque natural landscapes from Son Tra Radar Station is breathtaking, making it a great location for photography to shoot spectacular photographs.
There is stunning view featuring floating clouds, rich green forests, and several stunning beaches. Furthermore, clouds cover the peak year-round, creating a magical wonderland. As a result, let’s shoot as many shots as possible to capture unforgettable moments and memories from your trip!
4. Best time to explore Son Tra Radar Station
Son Tra Radar Station is situated at a rather high elevation, and the path to there is considerably more complicated than other places. To ensure the safest and most flawless journey, consult and select a day with good weather, no rain, and clear visibility. The greatest time to explore the radar station is during the summer, which runs from March to August each year. It is cooler and less rainy, allowing you to drive to the mountain peak more safely. Of course, there will be bright days in other months, but you should check the weather ahead of time to avoid heavy fog and missing out on the beautiful view.
Furthermore, you should avoid going to the radar station between November and January because it is rainy season. The route is rather soggy, and you may encounter rain or possibly a storm. Driving to a high point on the peak summit is quite dangerous.
5. Nearby tourist attractions
Son Tra peninsula is home to a variety of remarkable locations, including landscapes and beaches. As a result, if you’ve traveled a great distance to visit this location, don’t only stop at the radar station. Instead, use it to explore other interesting places nearby.
Dong Dinh Museum
Dong Dinh Museum is suitable for individuals who enjoy calm and history while avoiding the rush and bustle of the metropolis. It resembles an ecological paradise surrounded by green trees. Along with it, there are antique houses, which create a sense of lightness and intimacy.
Ticket price: 20,000 VND each person.
Son Tra Light House
Son Tra Light House, designed in the style of French architecture, is an excellent site to enjoy the sea view. It is also regarded as Vietnam’s oldest lighthouse with a wide outlook. You can see the entire city from here, including the Han River.
Ticket price: Free
Linh Ung Pagoda
Linh Ung Pagoda is a must-see for everyone who has visited Son Tra Peninsula or Son Tra Radar Station. This is the largest and most magnificent of Danang’s three famed Ling Ung Pagodas. Linh Ung Pagoda is a holy and precious site where people can worship and hope for the best in their lives. The pagoda, in particular, boasts Southeast Asia’s tallest Buddha Guan Yin statue, standing 67 meters tall.
Ticket price: Free