Formed by volcanic activity, Ly Son Island (Quang Ngai) is home to basalt cliffs, crystal-clear beaches, and lush green garlic fields set against white sand. Just 30–40 minutes by speedboat from the mainland, Ly Son is a highly worthwhile coastal island destination in Central Vietnam. This article covers how to get there, top attractions, and practical tips.
How to Get to Ly Son?
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Getting to Sa Ky Port: the port is approximately 20 km from Quang Ngai city centre. From Chu Lai Airport or Quang Ngai train station, take a taxi or Airport Shuttle to the port.
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Sa Ky – Ly Son Speedboat: the route covers approximately 30 km and takes around 30–40 minutes. Reference ticket prices are approximately VND 205,000 per tourist one way; boats run from around 7:30 AM until the afternoon.
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Documents: bring your ID card or passport to purchase tickets; arrive at the port 30–45 minutes early.
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From the Main Island to An Binh Island: take a canoe or small boat from the port on the main island.
Places Worth Visiting
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To Vo Arch: a natural stone arch along the coast, most stunning at sunset.
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Thoi Loi Peak: an old volcanic crater offering a panoramic view of the island.
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Hang Pagoda: a pagoda nestled inside a natural sea-facing cave.
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Hang Cau: dramatic cliff faces with a small beach below.
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An Binh Island (Dao Be): clear turquoise waters, plenty of basket boats, ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
The natural stone arch on the coast of Ly Son. Photo: minhphuc_99kdd / Wikimedia Commons, public domain.
The beach on An Binh Island with crystal-clear seawater and basket boats. Photo: Doi Ta Di / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Ly Son Garlic Fields
Ly Son garlic is renowned, grown on a layer of white sand over basalt soil. Strolling through the lush green garlic fields is a delightful experience, and garlic is also the most popular souvenir to bring home from the island.
Rows of green garlic on white sand in Ly Son. Photo: minhphuc_99kdd / Wikimedia Commons, public domain.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
From around March to August the sea is generally calm with sunny weather. From approximately September to December is the rainy and stormy season in Central Vietnam, and boat services may be temporarily suspended during rough seas.
What to Eat on Ly Son?
Garlic salad, snails, Huynh De crab, seaweed, and fresh seafood. Always ask for prices before ordering.
Handy Tips
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Take seasickness medication before boarding if you are prone to motion sickness.
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Rent a motorbike to get around the main island; the roads are hilly, so ride with caution.
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Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses as the sun on the island is very intense.
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Do not climb the cliffs when the waves are rough.
Ticket prices and boat schedules are subject to change. Please check before your trip.
Photo Credits
Cover photo: "Ly Son Islands (14817868968)" – minhphuc_99kdd / Wikimedia Commons, public domain. Photos within the article are credited directly beneath each image.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the speedboat from Sa Ky to Ly Son take?
Approximately 30–40 minutes for a distance of around 30 km.
How much is the boat ticket to Ly Son?
The reference price is approximately VND 205,000 per tourist one way. Prices are subject to change; please check before your trip.
What documents do I need to travel to Ly Son?
Bring your national ID card or passport to purchase a boat ticket.
What are the top attractions on Ly Son?
To Vo Arch, Thoi Loi Peak, Hang Pagoda, Hang Cau, the garlic fields, and the beach on An Binh Island.
What is the best season to visit Ly Son?
Around March to August offers calm seas and sunny weather. September to December is the rainy and stormy season, and boat services may be temporarily suspended.
