1. Overview of the route from Da Nang to Ly Son
1.1. Why choose Ly Son for an island getaway?
Ly Son is a convergence of natural island beauty with its azure waters, long white sandy beaches, and characteristic garlic fields. When traveling from Da Nang to Ly Son , you will have the opportunity to learn about the vibrant culture of the coastal residents and enjoy a variety of fresh seafood. Additionally, Ly Son is famous for its garlic, onions, garlic salad, and fish cakes.
Moreover, the natural scenery on Ly Son island retains its pristine charm. Its convenient location, only about 130 km by road and 30 km by sea from Da Nang, makes it ideal for a trip combining visits to famous Central Vietnam destinations. The peaceful atmosphere on the island will allow you to fully enjoy your vacation with loved ones amidst refreshing nature.
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Ly Son is where the natural beauty of the islands converges with clear blue waters, long white sandy beaches, and garlic fields. (Source: VnExpress)
1.2. Overview of the route and travel stages
The route from Da Nang to Ly Son consists of two main segments: by road and by sea. First, visitors depart from Da Nang city center, travel along the national highway through Quang Ngai, heading towards Sa Ky port (Quang Ngai). Next, from Sa Ky port, you board a high-speed ferry or speedboat to Ly Son island, with two destinations: Big Island and Small Island.
The road distance is about 130 km along National Highway 24B. Travel time depends on the type of vehicle and traffic conditions, usually taking 3 to 3.5 hours. The sea route from Sa Ky to Ly Son is 30 km long; traveling by high-speed ferry takes only about 30 to 60 minutes, while traveling by traditional wooden boat requires 2 hours. The total travel time from Da Nang to Ly Son is typically between 3.5 to 5 hours, including waiting time for the ferry, purchasing tickets, and boarding/disembarking.
2. Ways to travel from Da Nang to Sa Ky Port
2.1. By motorbike
The motorbike journey to explore from Da Nang to Ly Son is an option for those who love freedom and discovering scenic beauty along the way. The 130 km route along National Highway 24B will take you through Quang Ngai and continue to Sa Ky port, with an average travel time of 3 to 3.5 hours depending on speed and rest stops.
This option is particularly suitable for those who prefer flexibility, wanting to stop at any favorite spot along the way to admire the scenery, take photos, or enjoy local cuisine. The cost of renting a motorbike is quite reasonable, only about 150,000 VND for a day, suitable for small groups or couples.
However, the long distance and some narrow sections require the motorbike rider to concentrate highly to ensure safety.
The weather in the Central region is often unpredictable, with intense heat or sudden rain. Therefore, you should prepare suitable clothing, raincoats, windshields, gloves, and other protective gear.
Before departing, check the vehicle's condition thoroughly, fill up the gas tank, and carry a first-aid kit.
When traveling, ensure you adhere to speed limits, maintain safety, especially when approaching Sa Ky port, where traffic is heavy.
Some ideal resting spots on the journey include roadside drink stalls in Quang Ngai or small eateries near Sa Ky port.
Motorcycle exploration journey from Da Nang to Ly Son is an option for those who love experiences. (Source: Collected)
2.2. By self-driving car/private car rental/taxi
Using a private car or taxi from Da Nang to Ly Son is very suitable for large groups, families with young children, or the elderly. This method offers comfort, easy luggage carrying, and more time flexibility, without being affected by unpredictable weather or the fatigue of long journeys.
Car rental costs vary quite a bit: 4-seater cars range from 2 to 2.5 million VND per day depending on whether it's self-drive or with a driver; 7-seater or 16-seater cars range from 2.5 to 4 million VND per day, depending on the car type and service quality. If you choose a package taxi for the round trip from Da Nang to Sa Ky, you can negotiate with companies for a price ranging from 1.8 to 2.3 million VND.
In Da Nang, reputable taxi companies such as Vinasun, Mai Linh, and Tien Sa offer pick-up and drop-off services. Additionally, major travel agencies also assist with booking cars directly. Ride-hailing apps like Grab can also serve long-distance routes if booked in advance.
The biggest advantages are convenience and time-saving, allowing for early departures to avoid traffic jams. Tourists can still stop at attractions along the way. However, the cost for a private car is higher than public transport, and you need to book in advance, especially during holidays…
2.3. By coach, bus
Currently, there are no direct sleeper bus or regular bus routes from Da Nang to Ly Son . Therefore, travelers will need to take a coach from Da Nang bus station to Quang Ngai, then continue by taxi, motorbike taxi, or local bus to Sa Ky port. The bus journey from Da Nang to Quang Ngai takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, followed by an additional 30 to 45 minutes to reach Sa Ky port.
You can buy tickets directly at Da Nang bus station from major companies, or book tickets online through platforms like Vexere and Baolau. Ticket prices for the Da Nang to Quang Ngai route range from 100,000 to 200,000 VND per person per way. The journey from Quang Ngai to Sa Ky by taxi, Grab, or motorbike taxi will cost an additional 50,000 to 100,000 VND.
2.4. By train
Traveling by train from Da Nang to Ly Son via Quang Ngai station is a relatively safe and affordable option, suitable for those who do not want to drive themselves. The train journey takes from 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the train type. Ticket prices for this route range from 140,000 VND per person per way.
After arriving at Quang Ngai station, you can take a taxi, motorbike taxi, or local bus to Sa Ky port. You need to plan your time carefully to catch the high-speed ferry to the island, so check the ferry schedule in advance and arrange your connections.
The advantages of this option are its reasonable price, safety, and the opportunity to enjoy beautiful scenery along the Central coast. However, the number of daily train services is limited, and you are not in control of your schedule, so it is advisable to book tickets early to ensure availability.
2.5. Notes on departure times and connecting routes
To ensure a smooth trip from Da Nang to Ly Son , you should depart early from Da Nang, ideally before 7 AM, to catch the high-speed ferry from Sa Ky between 10 AM and 11 AM. This will give you enough time to rest, check into your accommodation, and start exploring the island during the best part of the day.
For large groups, renting a private car or taking a taxi will provide more flexibility in terms of time. For those choosing motorcycles, coaches, or trains, it is recommended to plan to arrive in Quang Ngai before 9:30 AM to catch the connection to Sa Ky. In particular, you should book high-speed ferry tickets online or reserve them by phone early, especially on weekends or during peak tourist seasons.
During the storm season from October to December, regularly check ferry schedules and book tickets one day in advance to avoid travel disruptions. It is advisable to prepare a backup plan in case weather conditions affect your travel itinerary.
3. Guide from Sa Ky Port to Ly Son Island
3.1. Is booking a high-speed ferry ticket from Sa Ky to Ly Son difficult?
Booking ferry tickets for the Sa Ky to Ly Son route is quite convenient due to the numerous high-speed ferry companies operating continuously. The common ticket price is around 205,000 - 218,000 VND per person per way, varying by company and time of year. Super-fast ferries shorten the travel time to about 30 minutes, high-speed ferries usually take 45 to 60 minutes, while traditional wooden boats take about 2 hours.
Ferries operate regularly from 7 AM to 3 PM or 4 PM with a frequency of 4 to 5 trips per day. Specific schedules should be rechecked before your trip as they may change depending on the season. You can easily buy tickets at the ticket counter at Sa Ky port, book online through travel websites or apps, or contact them in advance by phone.
During peak periods, you should book tickets 3 to 5 days in advance to ensure availability, especially during holidays, summer, and Tet Nguyen Dan when the number of passengers increases significantly. Booking in advance allows you to be more proactive with your trip, avoiding waiting and missed plans.
Booking ferry tickets for the Sa Ky to Ly Son route is quite convenient thanks to many high-speed ferry companies operating continuously. (Source: Collected)
3.2. Preparation experience before boarding the ferry to the island
The preparation process for going from Da Nang to Ly Son via Sa Ky port is quite simple, but you need to follow the regulations. When checking in, prepare personal identification documents such as your citizen identification card, receive your ticket, and be present on time for boarding. You should arrive at the pier 30 minutes in advance to complete procedures and avoid missing the boarding list cutoff time.
You can book tickets through the websites, travel apps, or fan pages of the ferry companies, which is very convenient and proactive. During peak season, check the schedule carefully and reconfirm information with the carrier to avoid last-minute unexpected changes.
Bring drinking water, a hat, a windbreaker, and motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness. Additionally, you should prepare cash as services on the island are still limited in modern payment methods. These small notes will help make your trip more comfortable and reassuring.
3.3. Things to note when bringing luggage and motorbikes to the island
When bringing personal luggage, all types of suitcases, backpacks, or travel bags are allowed on the ferry, but they should be neatly arranged, and avoid bringing unnecessary items due to the limited space in the ferry cabin. This also helps you control your belongings easily when moving.
Some high-speed ferry companies allow motorbikes to be sent to the island; you should inquire in advance for specific instructions on procedures and fees. The cost of sending a motorbike may vary depending on the type of ferry and the policy of each company. When sending a motorbike, you need to present all vehicle documents, complete the procedures at the reception counter, and retrieve your motorbike upon arrival at the island.
Depending on the ferry company and the time of year, sending motorbikes may change. Therefore, check the regulations carefully before planning your trip to avoid being caught off guard when you arrive at the port.
4. Suggested itinerary for going from Da Nang to Ly Son
4.1. Suggested 2-day, 1-night itinerary
The first day of the journey from Da Nang to Ly Son should start early to ensure you catch the ferry at Sa Ky. Upon arrival, you can have lunch at restaurants near the port or on the island, depending on the time. In the afternoon, after checking into your accommodation in Ly Son, start visiting attractions such as Hang Cau, Chua Hang, Cong To Vao, the Sovereignty Flagpole... The evening is a suitable time to enjoy fresh seafood, visit the night market, and rest at a hotel or homestay on the island.
On the second morning, you can take a speedboat to Be Island to enjoy the clear blue beaches and dive to admire the vibrant coral reefs. After swimming, have lunch and buy specialties like garlic, onions, and dried seafood as souvenirs. In the afternoon, you will take the ferry back to the mainland, and a car will take you back to your original pickup point in Da Nang or Hoi An.
The 2-day, 1-night itinerary is suitable for those with limited time but who still want to fully explore the most beautiful spots of Ly Son. Proper planning will help you fully experience the island's scenery, cuisine, and culture.
After checking into your accommodation on Ly Son, begin your tour of the attractions. (Source: VnExpress)
4.2. Unmissable Experiences in Ly Son
On Ly Son, don't miss experiences like swimming in crystal-clear waters with fine white sand, creating an ideal space for beach activities and capturing beautiful souvenir photos. Notable attractions such as Hang Cau, Chua Hang, and Cot Co To Quoc (National Flagpole) are places that deeply embody the island's culture and history, and are popular 
One of the most outstanding places is Sun World Ba Na Hills, a tourist area located amidst majestic mountains and forests with beautiful scenery.
The journey from Da Nang to Ly Son is not just a simple travel distance but also an experiential journey through the sunny and windy Central region of Vietnam. Whether you choose a boat, bus, or package tour, you can easily reach the peaceful land of endless green garlic fields. Take the time to personally feel the charm of Ly Son Island and create precious memories of your own.
