Con Dao is one of the most famous travel destinations in Southern Vietnam. Beyond its spiritual significance, Con Dao is also known as a paradise for relaxation, offering stunning attractions and a unique culinary culture. If you’re unsure where to go or what to eat, the travel tips in this article will help you enjoy a meaningful and fulfilling trip to Con Dao.

Geography & Administrative Overview

Con Dao is a remote offshore district under Ba Ria–Vung Tau Province, comprising a group of 16 islands in the South China Sea (East Sea). The archipelago spans approximately 76 square kilometers, with Con Son Island being the largest and the administrative, historical, and tourism center.

Con Dao lies about 185 km from Vung Tau, 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City, and approximately 83 km from Can Tho

Thanks to its expanding infrastructure, including airports, ferry terminals, accommodations, and guided tour services, Con Dao has transformed from an isolated outpost into one of Vietnam’s rising ecotourism and heritage destinations.

A Glimpse into Con Dao’s Historical Past

During the French colonial era, Con Dao served as one of the most notorious prison systems in Indochina—a place of exile and torture for political dissidents and revolutionaries. Known as “Hell on Earth,” Con Dao Prison was infamous for its “tiger cages”—iron-barred cells where prisoners endured horrific conditions and psychological abuse.

Under both French and later American rule, thousands of Vietnamese patriots were imprisoned here. Some of the most revered national heroes—including Vo Thi Sau and Le Hong Phong—left behind powerful legacies in these walls.

Today, the remnants of this painful past remain preserved as solemn historical landmarks, such as the Con Dao Prison Complex, Tiger Cage System, Hang Duong Cemetery, where many revolutionaries are laid to rest

These sites now stand as places of remembrance, national pride, and quiet reflection, drawing both domestic pilgrims and international visitors interested in Vietnam’s resilient history.

Climate & Best Time to Visit

Con Dao enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, with two distinct seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the rainy season (May to October). Despite rainfall, the sea remains calm during the wet season, making it ideal for beach lovers and divers.

The best time to visit is from March to September, when the weather is sunny, the sea is crystal clear, and conditions are perfect for snorkeling, island hopping, and wildlife tours.

One of Con Dao’s most unique highlights is the sea turtle nesting season, which takes place from May to October. During this time, visitors can join guided eco-tours to witness mother turtles laying eggs—a rare and unforgettable experience.

Top Attractions & Natural Wonders

Historical Landmarks—Tracing Vietnam’s Painful but Proud Past

Con Dao Prison Relics

Once known as “Hell on Earth,” the Con Dao Prison complex bears powerful witness to the horrors of colonialism and war. Explore preserved cells, iron shackles, and the infamous “tiger cages” that held thousands of political prisoners. It’s a sobering, essential visit for those seeking to understand Vietnam’s fight for freedom.

Con Dao Museum

Located near the prison grounds, Con Dao Museum offers deeper insight into the island’s history. Through artifacts, documents, and personal stories of former inmates, the museum honors generations of Vietnamese revolutionaries who endured hardship and sacrifice on this remote island.

914 Pier

This quiet harbor was built during the French colonial period by imprisoned laborers—914 of whom died during construction. Today, it serves as both a ferry terminal and a solemn memorial to those lost lives, quietly reminding visitors of the price paid for independence.

Spiritual & Cultural Sites—A Journey of Reflection

Nui Mot Pagoda 

Perched on a hill above Con Son Town, Nui Mot Pagoda is one of the island’s most tranquil spots. Its elevated position offers sweeping views of the sea, lush forests, and nearby settlements. Surrounded by lotus ponds and ancient trees, it’s a peaceful place for prayer, meditation, or simply quiet contemplation.

Hang Duong Cemetery 

This solemn cemetery is the final resting place of thousands of revolutionaries and war martyrs, including the revered heroine Vo Thi Sau. Visitors often come at night to light incense, leave flowers, and pay their respects. More than a burial site, it’s a place of national remembrance and spiritual connection for many Vietnamese.

Nature & Adventure—Where the Island Breathes

Bay Canh Islet 

The second-largest islet in Con Dao, Bay Canh is renowned for its sea turtle conservation efforts. From May to October, visitors can join night tours to witness mother turtles nesting and laying eggs—a rare and moving natural spectacle guided by park rangers.

Ong Dung Forest 

Just a short trek from Con Son town, Ong Dung Forest is a lush escape into one of the island’s last primary rainforests. The trail leads you through towering trees and chirping birds and ends at a quiet beach—perfect for snorkeling or catching your breath in the shade.

Con Dao National Park

Covering both terrestrial and marine areas, Con Dao National Park is a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve. It shelters endangered species, coral reefs, mangroves, and dense jungle trails—offering endless possibilities for eco-tours, hiking, bird-watching, and snorkeling in untouched nature.

Beaches & Coastal Beauty—Let the Island Soothe You

Dam Trau Beach 

Fringed with golden sands and flanked by dramatic cliffs, Dam Trau is often hailed as Con Dao’s most beautiful beach. Calm, clear waters invite swimming and sunbathing, while its proximity to the airport makes it a quirky spot for catching planes soaring low above the waves.

Shark Cape

This rocky outcrop earns its name from its shark-fin shape and offers jaw-dropping views at sunset. Remote and peaceful, Shark Cape is ideal for travelers seeking solitude, stunning seascapes, or a scenic perch to snorkel and soak in the wild island atmosphere.

Con Son Bay 

Stretching along the island’s eastern edge, Con Son Bay features a chain of quiet beaches backed by lush hills. Kayaking, boat rides to nearby islets, or simply strolling along the palm-fringed shore—all promise moments of calm in this picturesque coastal escape.

Marine & Outdoor Adventures – Dive Deeper into Con Dao’s Natural Playground

Night Turtle Watching Tour

Between May and October, join a nighttime eco-tour to Bay Canh or Tre Lon Islet to observe sea turtles laying eggs in their natural habitat. Guided by rangers, this rare opportunity offers deep insight into marine conservation and leaves a lasting impression on those lucky enough to witness it.

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

Con Dao boasts some of Vietnam’s most pristine coral reefs. Dive into underwater worlds teeming with tropical fish, soft and hard corals, and occasional sightings of sea turtles. Popular spots like Cau Island or Tai Island make it a must-do for marine enthusiasts.

Kayaking & Island Hopping

Paddle through the serene waters of Con Son Bay or hop aboard a boat to discover deserted islets. This activity blends peaceful solitude with the thrill of exploration, ideal for travelers seeking hidden beaches, snorkeling stops, or wildlife sightings.

Coastal Trekking Adventures

Con Dao’s trail network reveals both jungle and coastline. Hike through lush terrain in Con Dao National Park or follow dramatic seaside routes like Ong Dung to Dam Tre. Along the way, spot macaques, birds, and enjoy sweeping sea views.

Cuisine & Local Delicacies

Vu nang Shell 

Con Dao’s vu nang shell is a famous local delicacy known for its rich, buttery flavor and sweet, firm meat. This sea creature stands out with its unique shape—featuring a dark gray outer shell and a shimmering, iridescent interior. Each one is impressively large, often nearly the size of a hand.

Red Lobster

Red lobster (also known as fire lobster) is a prized delicacy in Con Dao, celebrated for its firm, fragrant meat that’s high in protein and low in fat. Its distinctive shell has a shiny reddish-brown hue, making it easily recognizable. This premium seafood can be prepared in various ways—steamed, grilled, stir-fried, served in porridge, or made into salad—each highlighting its naturally rich flavor.

Moon Crab

Moon Crab is a rare and prized seafood specialty in Con Dao, known for its tender meat and naturally sweet flavor. The crab earns its name from its moon-like appearance—its back is adorned with distinctive deep pink circular spots. Interestingly, the meat is at its most flavorful during the full moon. To preserve its delicate taste, moon crab is often simply steamed and served fresh in local restaurants.

Oyster Porridge

Con Dao’s Oyster Porridge is a comforting dish made with fresh local oysters, rice, and simple ingredients like cilantro, scallions, and pepper. The result is a warm, savory bowl with a rich, slightly creamy texture. The oysters add a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the aromatic herbs and spices—making this a favorite comfort food among both locals and visitors.

Shark Salad (Nham Fish Salad)

This one is a renowned specialty of Con Dao, featuring tender, fresh shark meat served with a medley of local herbs and vegetables. The dish is typically accompanied by pineapple, starfruit, green banana slices, and aromatic herbs like polygonum and Vietnamese coriander. What truly elevates the dish is its unique dipping sauce—rich with local flavors and a signature touch of Con Dao’s coastal cuisine.

Grilled Sea Urchin

Grilled Sea Urchin is a beloved delicacy in Con Dao. The sea urchins are halved, topped with scallion oil, then grilled over hot charcoal until they sizzle and release an irresistible aroma. Once cooked, the creamy, rich roe inside is scooped out with a spoon and enjoyed hot—offering a perfect blend of smoky flavor, ocean freshness, and buttery texture.

Almond Seed Jam

Almond Seed Jam (Mứt hạt bàng) is one of Con Dao’s most iconic specialties, often chosen by visitors as a souvenir. Tropical almond trees are widely grown on the island, and during harvest season, their seeds are collected and roasted with either salt or sugar. The result is a rich, nutty snack with a distinctive buttery flavor—crunchy, savory, and slightly sweet, perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself.

Festivals in Con Dao

More than just a land of pristine nature and fresh sea breeze, Con Dao is also known for its unique festivals rooted in legendary tales and a heroic past—attracting visitors with rich cultural traditions and meaningful activities.

Memorial Ceremony for Heroine Vo Thi Sau & Fallen Soldiers at Hang Duong Cemetery

Date: January 23 (Gregorian calendar)

This solemn annual event honors Vo Thi Sau, a young national heroine and symbol of resilience from Dat Do, as well as all the revolutionary martyrs buried at Hang Duong Cemetery.

With moving tributes and moments of silence, attendees revisit Vo Thi Sau’s life and sacrifice. Though she passed away over seventy years ago, her story lives on in the hearts of Vietnamese people—especially those in Con Dao.

Traditional Boat Racing Festival

Date: April 30 every year

Held at the historic 914 Pier, this festival is a major cultural and sporting event on the island. It commemorates the daring escapes of political prisoners who once tied rafts together in attempts to flee the infamous prison and rejoin the fight for national reunification.

Locals and tourists alike gather in excitement to watch the colorful boat races, blending patriotism with celebration.

Commemoration of Lady Phi Yen

Date: 17th–18th day of the 10th lunar month

One of Con Dao’s most cherished spiritual events, this festival pays tribute to Lady Phi Yen, a revered historical figure who symbolizes loyalty and maternal love. Held annually at her temple, the ceremony draws worshippers and visitors eager to learn her story and participate in traditional offerings and prayers.

How to get to Con Dao From Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Can Tho

By Air—The Fastest and Most Convenient Option

Hanoi to Con Dao

Bamboo Airways offers direct flights taking approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.

Fare: From 2.7 million VND (one-way).

Ho Chi Minh City / Can Tho to Con Dao

Vietnam Airlines operates daily flights:

Ho Chi Minh City: ~50 minutes, from 1.3 million VND

Can Tho: ~50 minutes, from 1.7 million VND

Con Dao Airport to Town Center

Distance: ~15 km (~20–30 minutes by car).

Transport options: motorbike, taxi, or resort shuttles.

For the quickest route, take the Co Ong Road.

By Sea—A Scenic, Budget-Friendly Adventure

Best time to travel by boat: April to June (calm seas).

Option 1: Vung Tau → Con Dao

Travel time: ~5 hours by ferry

Many travelers opt to drive or bus to Vung Tau, then take the ferry.

Option 2: Tran De Port (Soc Trang) to Con Dao

Direct ferry takes only ~2 hours, cutting travel time by more than half compared to Vung Tau.

Getting Around Con Dao

Taxi from airport to town:  ~300,000–450,000 VND per ride

Some hotels/resorts offer shuttle service: Free or ~50,000 VND/person

On-Island Transportation

Taxi: ~12,000 VND/km

Electric car: ~20,000 VND/km

Private van (12–16 seats): from 1.5 million VND/day

Where  to Stay in Con Dao

Depending on your travel purpose, you can choose to stay at a resort, hotel, or guesthouse—either near or far from the island center. If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation, beachfront or forest-side resorts and high-end hotels with private beaches are the ideal choice. For convenience in exploring the town or catching an early ferry, it’s best to stay at hotels or homestays in the island center.

Accommodation prices in Con Dao vary widely, ranging from around 200,000 VND to over 10 million VND per night. Travelers can also camp overnight in designated areas where it is permitted by site management.

Although Con Dao doesn’t have many large resorts, it is home to the five-star Six Senses resort—where Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie stayed during their vacation in 2011. The resort features 50 villas, an infinity pool, a spa, and more, nestled between lush forests and a pristine white-sand beach. The average room rate is around 15 million VND.

Map of Con Dao—Why Con Dao Deserves a Spot on Your Map

Con Dao is a rare place where history, spirituality, and nature coexist in profound harmony. This island isn’t just a getaway—it’s a journey into memory, meaning, and quiet wonder. Whether you’re drawn by the call of adventure, the pull of heritage, or the need to simply breathe, Con Dao offers something unforgettable for every soul.

Start planning your escape to Con Dao today—and let the island’s untold stories shape your own.

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