Vietnam / Central Vietnam / Ly Son IslandLy Son Island
Volcanic Island of Garlic Fields and Sea Arches
A small volcanic island 30 km off Quang Ngai, reached only by speedboat from Sa Ky port (about 2.5 hours' drive from Da Nang or Hoi An). Garlic fields on black volcanic soil, the To Vo sea arch, the Hang pagoda in a cliff, and a crater walk on Thoi Loi; small boats go on to Be Island's clear water. Boats stop when the sea is rough, most often from October to January.
Highlights
- To Vo Gate at sunset
- Hang Pagoda in the cliff
- Thoi Loi crater walk
- Boat to Be Island's clear water
- Garlic fields on volcanic soil
- Grilled squid and garlic salad
Things to do
- Boat to Be Island and swimMorning · 3h
- Thoi Loi crater walkMorning · 2h
- Hang Pagoda and To Vo Gate at sunsetEvening · 2h 30m
- Scooter loop of the garlic fieldsAfternoon · 2h 30m
Tours & tickets
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When to go
Best time: March – September
Worth knowing
Speedboats to Ly Son Stop in Rough Seas
⚠️ From October to January the north-east monsoon and storms often stop the Sa Ky–Ly Son speedboats, sometimes for days, stranding visitors on the island. Go from March to September if you can; otherwise keep two spare days.
Worth knowing
Tet: Closures and a Travel Rush
Tet (Lunar New Year) falls on 6 February in 2027. In the week before, trains, buses and flights sell out and fares rise; for three to five days after, many shops, restaurants and family-run hotels close. Check the date for your year, book transport a month or more ahead, and expect higher prices.
- Tet (Lunar New Year) — Vietnam's biggest holiday. In the week before, trains, buses and flights sell out and prices rise as everyone travels home; for three to five days after New Year's Eve many shops, restaurants and family-run hotels close, while temples and flower markets are at their liveliest. Book transport a month or more ahead, or avoid travelling in the days either side.