Let's together with Saigon Local Tour discover the beauty of Con Dao Island with our 2025 travel guide, explore the best things to do in Con Dao, snorkeling adventures, top luxury resorts & more for your unforgettable Vietnam journey!
Con Dao Island - Vietnam’s Hidden Paradise for Snorkeling & Serenity
Nestled in the southern waters of Vietnam, Con Dao Island is a breathtaking archipelago where nature meets history. Often overshadowed by other Vietnamese beach destinations like Phu Quoc or Nha Trang, Con Dao offers a raw, untouched charm that appeals to both adventurers and serenity seekers. From vibrant coral reefs ideal for Con Dao snorkeling, to pristine beaches, historical prisons, and world-class resorts, there is a surprising range of things to do in Con Dao Island for every traveler.
Whether you're planning a luxurious retreat or a backpacking escape, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know — including transportation, local culture, activities, snorkeling spots, and the best resorts in Con Dao Islands.
Where is Con Dao Island?
Con Dao is an archipelago of 16 islands located about 230 kilometers off the southern coast of Vietnam, under the administration of Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province. The largest and only inhabited island is Con Son, often referred to as Con Dao Island by tourists. This is the island where you’ll find most services, accommodations, and attractions.
What sets Con Dao apart from other beach destinations is its unique combination of marine biodiversity, tragic colonial-era history, and luxury hideaways surrounded by unspoiled nature. Once a place of imprisonment, it’s now a sanctuary of freedom.
How to Get to Con Dao Island from Ho Chi Minh City?
The fastest way is a direct flight from Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat Airport) to Con Dao Airport (VCS), operated by Bamboo Airways or Vietnam Airlines. The flight takes approximately 50 minutes. If you want to avoid stress in airport, you should use Ho Chi Minh Departure Fast Track Service https://www.saigonlocaltour.com/product/vip-fast-track-service-premium-departure-assistance/ to Skip the Lines and Save Your Time
You can also take a speedboat from Vung Tau, Soc Trang, or Can Tho. The high-speed ferry from Soc Trang is the most reliable and takes about 2.5 hours. Note: Sea travel is seasonal and affected by weather.
Top Things to Do in Con Dao Island
Snorkeling in Con Dao Island – Explore the Underwater Paradise
Snorkeling is one of the most rewarding activities you can enjoy on Con Dao Island. With clear turquoise water, abundant marine life, and coral reefs teeming with color, Con Dao offers some of the finest snorkeling experiences in Southeast Asia. The calm sea between March and September provides the perfect window for underwater exploration.
Bay Canh Island is among the most popular snorkeling spots, where visitors can observe vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish. Tai Island is ideal for beginners due to its shallow depths, while Dam Tre Bay offers more advanced opportunities including kayaking and boat trips. With proper guidance, you may even encounter sea turtles or baby reef sharks in their natural habitat.
Don’t miss the opportunity to book a Con Dao snorkeling tour with eco-conscious local operators or luxury resorts, many of which include gear, boat transfer, and refreshments.
Visit the Historic Con Dao Prison Complex
Con Dao’s haunting yet significant history as a French and American-era prison island adds a powerful depth to your visit. The Con Dao Prison Complex, also known as “Hell on Earth,” consists of several prison sites, including the notorious “Tiger Cages,” where many Vietnamese revolutionaries were tortured and imprisoned.
Visitors can tour the Phu Hai Prison, French Tiger Cages, and the American Tiger Cages, learning about the colonial atrocities and the unyielding spirit of Vietnam’s independence fighters. The Con Dao Museum, located nearby, provides historical documents, photographs, and interactive exhibits that paint a vivid picture of the island’s past.
Walking through these solemn memorials fosters deep respect and understanding of Vietnam’s road to freedom.
Relax on Unspoiled Beaches in Con Dao
If you’re seeking tranquility, Con Dao Island will not disappoint. The island boasts some of the most pristine beaches in the country, completely free of tourist crowds and overdevelopment. Instead of beach clubs and water parks, you’ll find long stretches of soft sand, lapping waves, and endless skies.
- Dam Trau Beach, located near the airport, is one of the most scenic beaches with gentle waves and lush surroundings.
- An Hai Beach, close to town, is ideal for evening strolls and sunset views.
- Nhat Beach reveals its full beauty only during low tide and offers incredible photo opportunities.
- Lo Voi Beach is quiet and shallow, suitable for swimming or a family picnic.
Bring your sunscreen, a good book, and let nature work its magic.
Pay Tribute at Hang Duong Cemetery
The Hang Duong Cemetery is more than a place of rest — it’s a sacred pilgrimage site for many Vietnamese. This is where national heroes such as Vo Thi Sau, a young revolutionary martyr, are buried. The cemetery is especially poignant at night when locals and tourists alike light incense and pray for peace and remembrance.
Visiting this site offers a reflective and emotional connection to Vietnam’s history and spiritual traditions.
Hike the Trails of Con Dao National Park
Nature lovers and eco-tourists will be thrilled to explore the Con Dao National Park, a protected reserve covering forested mountains, mangroves, and marine ecosystems. The park is home to rare and endangered species such as the Con Dao black squirrel, long-tailed macaque, and even nesting sea turtles.
You can choose between several hiking routes, from easy walks through mangrove forests to more demanding treks up to Thanh Gia Mountain, offering panoramic views over the island. Guided eco-tours are available and highly recommended for those who want to learn about local biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Permits are required for entry into some zones and island-hopping trails, which can be arranged through the National Park HQ or via licensed tour operators.
Best Resorts in Con Dao Islands
Despite being a remote destination, Con Dao Island offers a wide variety of accommodations, from ultra-luxury beach resorts to charming boutique hotels and affordable homestays. Here are some of the best options categorized by traveler type and budget:
Six Senses Con Dao – Ultimate Luxury Meets Sustainability
This internationally renowned resort is synonymous with exclusivity and eco-luxury. Located on a private bay, Six Senses Con Dao offers ocean-facing villas with private pools, organic dining, and a world-class spa. The resort is also deeply committed to conservation, running programs for turtle protection and environmental education.
Perfect for honeymooners, celebrities, or those seeking seclusion with five-star service.
Poulo Condor Boutique Resort & Spa – Colonial Elegance by the Sea
Nestled between a forest and beach, Poulo Condor provides a unique blend of historical charm and modern comfort. Its colonial architecture, spacious suites, and serene ambiance make it a favorite among couples and wellness seekers. The spa treatments and garden walks offer an idyllic retreat from the outside world.
The Secret Con Dao – Stylish Comfort in Town
Located in Con Son town, this mid-range resort provides convenience, style, and modern amenities. With ocean-view rooms, a rooftop infinity pool, and easy access to dining and tours, The Secret Con Dao is a popular choice among international travelers who want both comfort and affordability.
Local Guesthouses and Homestays
For budget travelers or backpackers, Con Son offers numerous guesthouses and homestays that deliver authentic hospitality at a fraction of the price. Expect clean rooms, local insights, and often, home-cooked meals.
Best Time to Visit Con Dao Island
Dry Season (March to September)
This is the most popular and ideal time to visit Con Dao Island, especially for snorkeling, swimming, and outdoor exploration. The sea is calm, visibility is excellent for diving, and temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C. From May to August, you can also witness turtle nesting season at Bay Canh Island — a rare and magical experience.
Rainy Season (October to February)
During this period, the island receives occasional heavy rain and rougher seas. However, Con Dao remains open and verdant. While boat trips may be limited, travelers who prefer quiet escapes and lower prices will find this season charming and peaceful.
Tip: Always check weather forecasts if traveling between October and January, especially if you plan to use sea transport.
Food and Local Cuisine in Con Dao Island
While Con Dao Island is not a gastronomic capital like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, it boasts incredible seafood caught fresh daily and cooked with love and simplicity. Dining in Con Dao is more about authenticity and freshness than fine dining.
- Grilled sea urchins (Nhum nướng mỡ hành): Topped with scallion oil and peanuts, often served right by the beach.
- Red grouper (Cá mú đỏ): A local delicacy found in both steamed and grilled variations.
Lobster (Tôm hùm): Especially abundant during spring and early summer. - Sea snails (Ốc các loại): Try the spicy lemongrass broth variation.
Con Dao fish hotpot: A warming, flavorful communal dish great for cooler evenings.
Local restaurants and seafood stalls are concentrated near the Con Son market and harbor area. Several resorts also offer gourmet interpretations of Vietnamese classics with ocean views.
Responsible Travel in Con Dao Island
Con Dao’s fragile ecosystems and sacred landmarks require thoughtful and respectful tourism. Here are several ways to be a responsible traveler on the island:
Respect Nature and Marine Life
- Avoid stepping on or touching coral while snorkeling or diving.
- Do not feed wild animals, especially monkeys or squirrels.
- Choose reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine ecosystems.
Support Local Communities
- Book tours with local guides and operators who follow conservation practices.
- Eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at the market for handmade souvenirs.
Minimize Plastic Use
- Bring a refillable water bottle.
- Refuse plastic straws and bags whenever possible.
Participate in Eco-Conservation
- Join beach cleanup events or turtle conservation tours run by Six Senses and the Con Dao National Park authority.
- Educate yourself and others about the importance of preserving this ecological gem.
By traveling mindfully, you contribute to the long-term sustainability of Con Dao and ensure it remains a sanctuary for generations to come.
For travelers seeking more than just a touristy beach destination, Con Dao Island is a soulful escape. It invites you to explore rich history, embrace untouched nature, dive into turquoise waters, and unwind at some of the most luxurious resorts in Con Dao Islands.
Whether you're snorkeling with sea turtles, hiking forested trails, or meditating on a quiet beach, Con Dao touches every sense — making it one of Vietnam’s best-kept secrets.
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