You know that feeling when you find a $20 bill in a coat you haven’t worn in years? That’s what discovering the Con Dao Islands feels like, only better. Way better. These islands are Vietnam’s best-kept secret, quietly lounging off the southern coast, far from the tourist stampede.
And before you ask: yes, there’s Wi-Fi (sometimes), and yes, it’s drop-dead gorgeous.
Let’s dive into the coconut-scented breeze and uncover what makes Con Dao your next travel love story.
Where Are the Con Dao Islands?
Floating in the South China Sea, about 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City, the Con Dao archipelago is made up of 16 islands. The main one, Con Son, is where most of the action (and the chill) happens.
Think of it as the remote cousin of Phu Quoc, quieter, wilder, and with more personality.
Getting There: Plane, Boat, or Magical Portal?
- By Plane: The easiest way. Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways fly from Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho to Con Dao in about an hour.
- By Ferry: If you’re into slow travel (or just want to feel like a pirate), catch a ferry from Vung Tau. It takes 3-4 hours, depending on sea conditions and Neptune’s mood.
Estimated Travel Costs:
| Mode | Cost (USD) |
| Flight | $40 – $80 |
| Ferry | $12 – $24 |
Where to Stay: Sleep With Ocean Views (Not Creepy At All)
You’ve got options, from luxury resorts with infinity pools to family-run guesthouses that serve breakfast with a side of local gossip.
- Splurge: Six Senses Con Dao (eco-luxury dreams)
- Mid-range: Con Dao Camping (yes, there are AC tents!)
- Budget: Homestays with hammocks and million-dollar views
Beaches: Yes, They’re That Good
- Dam Trau Beach: The showstopper. White sand, airplane flyovers, and zero crowds.
- An Hai Beach: Close to town, but far from your problems. Also, sunsets are so pretty that they make your camera cry.
- Ong Dung Beach: Where you can snorkel, nap under a tree, and question your life choices all before lunch.
Historical Side: The Dark Past of a Bright Place
This paradise has scars. Con Dao was once a brutal prison island used by the French and later by the South Vietnamese regimes.
- Con Dao Prison: Learn about the island’s haunting history.
- Tiger Cages: A sobering must-see.
- Hang Duong Cemetery: A place of remembrance and quiet respect.
Nature Time: Because This Island is a Wildlife Channel
- National Park hikes: Lush, green, and full of birds you can’t name but will try to photograph.
- Turtle nesting: Visit during nesting season (May–October) for baby turtle cuteness overload.
- Snorkeling/Diving: Coral gardens, sea turtles, and if you’re lucky, dugongs (yep, sea cows!)
What to Eat: Fresh, Local, and Possibly Swimming This Morning
- Seafood hotpot
- Grilled squid and octopus
- Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancake)
- Fresh coconuts for days
Try the market stalls near the pier if you’re hungry, adventurous, and OK with pointing at things to order.
Getting Around: Scooters Rule the Island
Renting a scooter is how you turn a simple trip into a legendary detour. Traffic is non-existent, unless you count the occasional chicken crossing the road (no one knows why).
Estimated Scooter Rental:
| Mode | Cost (USD) |
| Motorbike Rental | $6 – $8 per day |
Best Time to Visit
- Dry Season: Sun’s out, tourists out. Time to become one with your flip-flops.
- Rainy Season (October – February): Greener, quieter, but pack a poncho.
Avoid the stormy periods unless you like wet socks and moody skies.
Responsible Travel: Don’t Be That Tourist
- No littering. This isn’t your room.
- Don’t touch the coral.
- Respect local customs. Shorts are fine, but maybe don’t wear swimwear to dinner.
Why Con Dao Is the Island You’ve Been Looking For
It’s not just another beach destination. It’s a mix of untouched nature, poignant history, and small-town charm. And the sunsets? Chef’s kiss.
Conclusion: Con Dao Islands Are a Whole Mood
If you want a vacation that combines serene beaches, rich history, marine wildlife, and zero stress about restaurant queues, Con Dao is your soulmate. It’s like the island version of a handwritten letter in a world of text messages, genuine, soulful, and worth your time.
Fly in, tune out, and get ready to tell everyone you found a slice of Vietnam they’ve probably never heard of.
FAQ About Con Dao Islands
- Are the Con Dao Islands safe for solo travelers?
Yes! It’s safe, chill, and the locals are helpful (if a little surprised). - Can I visit all the islands?
Some are protected or restricted. Con Son is the main one for visitors. - Is it family-friendly?
Totally. Beaches, nature walks, and chill vibes work for all ages. - How many days should I spend here?
Three to five days gives you enough time to unwind and explore. - Any need for cash?
Yes. Card acceptance is limited. Bring enough cash for scooters, snacks, and spontaneous purchases.
Craving more natural wonders in Vietnam? Don’t miss our full guide to Ban Gioc Waterfall, it’s where nature shows off big time.