Overview

Con Dao is a breathtaking archipelago of 16 islands off the coast of Ba Ria – Vung Tau, with Con Son Island as its largest and most developed.

Once known as “hell on earth” for its brutal prison system during the French colonial and American war eras, Con Dao has transformed into a premier destination for eco-tourism, historical reflection, and natural beauty.

Designated as a national park and special administrative zone, it offers pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and vital sea turtle nesting grounds alongside deeply moving historical sites.

Quick Facts

• Location: Off the coast of Ba Ria – Vung Tau, ~230 km from Ho Chi Minh City
• Getting there: Flight from Ho Chi Minh City (~55 min) or ferry from Vung Tau (~4 hours)
• Ideal stay: 4–5 days
• Travel style: History, beaches, diving, conservation
• Best time: March–September for calm seas and diving

Why Visit Con Dao?

Con Dao offers a deeply meaningful travel experience that goes beyond a typical beach getaway.

Here, travel becomes reflective and immersive.

You may find yourself:

• Swimming in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life
• Walking the somber halls of a historic prison turned museum
• Watching endangered sea turtles lay their eggs on a protected beach
• Snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs and hiking through primary forest

👉 These are not just activities, but moments that create a deeper connection with the place.

👉 Con Dao is where travel becomes reflective, slower and more meaningful.

Top Experiences in Con Dao

Con Dao Prison

Explore this haunting historical site, once known as the “hell on earth” prison system. Walk through the original cells and tiger cages that tell the stories of Vietnamese revolutionaries imprisoned here.

Hang Duong Cemetery

Pay your respects at this solemn cemetery, the resting place of nearly 2,000 identified graves of Vietnamese revolutionaries who died during Con Dao’s 113 years as a prison colony. Many locals visit late at night, especially between 11pm and 2am, to light incense at the grave of national heroine Vo Thi Sau.

Bai Dam Trau Beach

Relax on what is often considered Con Dao’s most beautiful beach, with white sand, calm waters, and the surreal sight of planes landing at the nearby airport.

Snorkeling and Diving

Discover vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life at spots like Hon Bay Canh and Hon Cau, where you can also join sea turtle conservation activities.

👉 Witness mother turtles laying eggs (May–September) or join a baby turtle release.

Mui Tau Be

Experience breathtaking views from this rocky promontory, where dramatic cliffs meet the sea for surreal photographs and stunning sunrises.

Van Son Tu (Chua Nui Mot)

Find peace at this mountainside temple surrounded by lush greenery, offering a tranquil space for reflection.

👉 A quiet detour to slow down between beach and history stops.

Primary Forest Trekking

Venture into Con Dao’s national park to explore its rich biodiversity and ancient rainforest ecosystems.

How to Get There

Reaching Con Dao is relatively straightforward:

• Flight from Ho Chi Minh City (~55 minutes) or Hanoi (~3.5 hours)
• High-speed ferry from Vung Tau (~4 hours)
• High-speed ferry from Tran De port, Soc Trang (~2 hours)

Flights land at Con Dao Airport (Co Ong Airport), about 15 km from the town center.

👉 See more in Transportation in Vietnam.

Getting Around Con Dao

Once on Con Son Island, you have several options for exploration.

You can get around by:

• Motorbike rental (100,000–150,000 VND/day, bring your license)
• Taxi (~12,000 VND/km)
• Electric vehicles (~20,000 VND/km)
• Boat or canoe rental for outer islands like Hon Bay Canh and Hon Cau

👉 Boat trips to the outer islands are essential for snorkeling, diving, or turtle watching.

What to Eat in Con Dao

Con Dao’s cuisine centers around fresh seafood and local specialties.

You can try:

• Bún riêu cua (crab noodle soup)
• Hủ tiếu mực (noodle soup with fresh squid)
• Bánh xèo (savory pancake)
• Cháo vịt (duck rice porridge)
• Kem dừa (coconut ice cream)

👉 Tip:
Seafood here is as fresh as it gets — take your time and enjoy dishes straight off the boat.

Con Dao Souvenirs & Local Products

You can find local products that reflect the island’s conservation-minded lifestyle.

Popular items include:

• Sea turtle conservation items (officially sanctioned by Con Dao National Park)
• Local handicrafts woven from pandan leaves
• Dried seafood
• Tropical almond cookies / jam

👉 Tip:
Look for turtle conservation merchandise — proceeds support protection efforts on the island.

👉 If needed, Vietnam Travel Help can assist with shopping or delivery. Message us for more details.

Wellness & Nature Experience

Con Dao offers numerous opportunities for wellness and connection with nature.

You can enjoy:

• Beach therapy at Bai Dam Trau, Bai An Hai, or Bai Lo Voi
• Marine exploration through snorkeling or diving
• Forest bathing through the island’s primary forest trails
• Mindful reflection at the prison and cemetery
• Turtle conservation participation

👉 The island’s blend of nature and history helps you feel grounded and reflective.

👉 Explore more in Healthy Travel Tips.

Best Time to Visit

• March–September: calm seas, best for swimming, snorkeling, and diving
• May–September: sea turtle nesting season
• October–March: northeast monsoon, rougher seas but calmer western/southern shores and fewer crowds

👉 The island stays lush and green year-round thanks to its tropical climate.

👉 See more in Weather & Best Time to Visit Vietnam.

Where to Stay

A More Mindful Way to Experience Con Dao

Con Dao invites travelers to engage thoughtfully and respectfully.

Instead of rushing:

• Choose local guesthouses and family-run restaurants
• Respect historical sites — speak softly and follow guidelines
• Protect marine life by avoiding coral contact and using reef-safe sunscreen

👉 The beauty here is in its history and stillness. Explore Wellness Travel.