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Three Days in Ly Son: The Emerald Dream on a Volcanic Belt

Known for its iconic To Vo Gate, Ly Son Island is often described as a natural masterpiece shaped by time and the sea. Beyond its famous arch of volcanic rock, the island is a living “museum of volcanoes” with millions of years of geological history carved into its cliffs, beaches, and mountains. From the vast garlic and shallot fields to traditional coastal festivals, Ly Son offers an authentic charm that feels both humble and captivating.

Hang Cau, located at the foot of Thoi Loi Mountain, is one of Ly Son’s most stunning natural wonders. Formed thousands of years ago by wind and sea erosion, the cliffs display mesmerizing layers of lava rock covered with soft green moss. The view is strikingly serene, with towering cliffs on one side and clear turquoise waters on the other. Visitors often spend time fishing, kayaking, or simply sitting quietly to enjoy the calm rhythm of the ocean.

To the east stands Mu Cu Lighthouse, the smallest yet most scenic lighthouse on the island. It is the first place to greet the sunrise each morning, surrounded by black volcanic rocks that tell the story of ancient eruptions. Its simplicity and isolation make it an ideal spot for travelers seeking solitude and an unspoiled encounter with nature.

Another geological treasure is Gieng Tien Volcano, one of five major craters on Ly Son. Perfectly round like a giant coin, it serves as a natural observatory where visitors can view the vast garlic fields, the nearby Be Island, and the endless sea. At its base lies Duc Pagoda, home to a 27-meter-tall statue of the Goddess of Mercy that represents the spiritual protection of local fishermen. Gieng Tien and its surroundings were recognized as a national relic site by Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in 2020.

Just a 15-minute speedboat ride away, Be Island (An Binh Commune) is often called the “miniature Maldives of Ly Son.” Despite its small size of about one square kilometer, the island remains untouched, with crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a peaceful fishing village atmosphere. Visitors can swim, paddleboard, snorkel, or join fishermen on round bamboo boats. Since 2020, the An Binh Mural Village project, created by volunteer artists and the IUCN organization, has transformed the island’s narrow alleys into an outdoor art gallery. The murals portray marine life, local traditions, and messages of ocean conservation, adding both color and meaning to this tranquil island.

Hidden beneath Thoi Loi Mountain is Hang Pagoda, also known as Thien Khong Thach Tu, one of Vietnam’s most extraordinary temples. Built entirely within a large volcanic cave, the pagoda spans 480 square meters and dates back to the early 17th century. It was originally a Cham sanctuary before becoming a Buddhist temple founded by Tran Cong Thanh, an early settler of An Hai Village. A natural freshwater well in front of the cave once served spiritual rituals and remains a symbol of purity. Inside, the pagoda features altars to Amitabha Buddha, Avalokiteshvara, and the island’s founders, with stone-carved shrines that preserve traces of Cham culture.

The garlic and shallot fields of Ly Son are another defining feature of the island. Spreading across more than 300 hectares—about one-third of the island’s total area—these fertile volcanic soils produce over 3,000 tons of crops each year. From October to December, the fields are blanketed in lush green, creating a vibrant landscape around Thoi Loi’s slopes. By harvest season in February and March, the air is filled with the scent of fresh garlic, symbolizing both prosperity and pride for local farmers. This humble produce has become an agricultural emblem that connects Ly Son’s people with the land and the sea.

Three days in Ly Son offer more than a seaside escape; it is a journey into nature’s artistry and cultural heritage. Between the volcanic cliffs, tranquil beaches, and enduring local traditions, travelers discover a place where the earth’s ancient energy meets the simple rhythm of island life. Ly Son remains a vivid reminder that beauty, like the tides, is timeless.