Ever wondered what paradise looks like with a haunting past? Con Dao Island might just be the answer.
Just 230 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City lies an island that most travelers to Vietnam have never heard of. Yet those who visit often call it the highlight of their entire trip.
Con Dao Island offers you pristine beaches without crowds, forests untouched by development, and a deep history that will move you. It’s where sea turtles nest on empty shores and coral reefs thrive just offshore.
But here’s the thing – this paradise won’t stay hidden forever. As more travelers discover its beauty, Con Dao is changing. This guide gives you everything you need to experience the authentic Con Dao before mass tourism arrives.
Why Visit Con Dao Island?
Picture this: You’re walking alone on a perfect white-sand beach. The only footprints are yours and maybe a few sea turtles from the night before. The water is crystal clear, and there’s not a tour group in sight.
That’s Con Dao.
But Con Dao offers something few island paradises can – a deeply moving historical experience alongside natural beauty.
Once known as “Devil’s Island” of Vietnam, Con Dao housed political prisoners for over 100 years. The French built the first prisons here in 1862. Later, the South Vietnamese government and American forces expanded them. Many of Vietnam’s revolutionary leaders were imprisoned here under brutal conditions.
Today, Con Dao has transformed into a place of natural protection and healing. The waters surrounding the islands became Vietnam’s first marine protected area in 1993. The nation has worked to preserve both the natural environment and the historical sites as places of remembrance.
What makes Con Dao truly special is this rare combination:
- Pristine nature – empty beaches, healthy coral reefs, protected forests
- Rich history – well-preserved prison complexes and memorials
- Authentic local life – fishing villages untouched by mass tourism
- Wildlife encounters – endangered sea turtles, dugongs, and rare birds
You won’t find shopping malls, nightclubs, or chain restaurants here. And that’s exactly the point.
Essential Travel Information
When to Visit Con Dao
Con Dao’s weather follows two main seasons:
Dry Season (November to February)
- Less rainfall
- Cooler temperatures (77-86°F / 25-30°C)
- Calmer seas
- Best for: Historical site visits, hiking, general exploration
Summer Season (March to June)
- Hotter temperatures (82-95°F / 28-35°C)
- Still relatively dry
- Excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling
- Best for: Beach activities, underwater exploration
Rainy Season (July to October)
- Heavy rainfall and occasional storms
- Rougher seas
- Limited boat activities
- Some ferries don’t operate
- Lower prices and fewer visitors
Best time for specific activities:
🐢 Sea turtle nesting season: May to October (peak in June-September)
Want to witness something truly special? The sight of a giant sea turtle laying eggs under moonlight is unforgettable. Bay Canh Island is the best place to see this natural wonder, but you’ll need to book a guided tour with the national park rangers.
🤿 Diving and snorkeling: February to July (best visibility in April-June)
The waters around Con Dao host some of Vietnam’s healthiest coral reefs. During these months, underwater visibility can reach 20-30 meters (65-100 feet).
🏊♂️ Beach weather: March to August
This is when you’ll find the perfect combination of sunshine and calm seas for swimming and sunbathing.
Getting to Con Dao Island
Con Dao sits isolated in the South China Sea, which is part of its charm. Getting there takes some planning, but the journey is worth it.
By Air:
- From Ho Chi Minh City: Vietnam Airlines operates 2-3 daily flights (45 minutes)
- From Can Tho: Vietnam Airlines offers 3-4 weekly flights (45 minutes)
- Average cost: $100-180 round trip (varies by season)
- Aircraft: ATR-72 turboprop planes (small aircraft that make for a scenic journey)
Pro tip: Book flights at least 1-2 months in advance, especially during high season (March-August) when they fill quickly.
By Sea:
- From Vung Tau: Speedboats operate daily (3-4 hours)
- From Soc Trang: Car/passenger ferry operates 3 times weekly (low season) to daily (high season)
- Average cost: $20-40 one way
- Note: Sea journeys can be rough during rainy season (July-October)
Pro tip: If you’re prone to seasickness, opt for the flight. The sea around Con Dao can be choppy, especially from July to October.
Getting Around Con Dao
The main island (Con Son) is relatively small – about 20 km (12 miles) long and 8 km (5 miles) at its widest point. This makes it perfect for exploration.
Motorbike Rental:
- The most popular and flexible option
- Cost: $8-12 per day
- Requirements: International driving permit technically required
- Available from hotels and rental shops in the main town
Bicycle:
- Perfect for shorter trips around the main town
- Cost: $2-4 per day
- Great for exploring the coastal road at a leisurely pace
Taxi:
- Limited but available
- Cost: Around $2-3 per km
- Useful for airport transfers or one-way trips
Walking:
- The main town is small and walkable
- Many historical sites are clustered together
Pro tip: Rent a motorbike for at least one day to circumnavigate the island. The coastal road offers stunning views you won’t want to miss.
Budget & Costs
Con Dao is generally more expensive than mainland Vietnam due to its isolated location and limited supply. Here’s what you can expect:
Budget traveler: $50-80 per day
- Guesthouse: $15-25
- Local meals: $3-6 per meal
- Motorbike rental: $8-12 per day
- Activities: Free beaches, $2-5 for historical sites
Mid-range traveler: $100-180 per day
- Mid-range hotel: $40-80
- Better restaurants: $8-15 per meal
- Tours: $15-30 per tour
- Transport: Mix of taxis and rental
Luxury traveler: $250+ per day
- Six Senses resort: Starting from $500
- Fine dining: $20-40 per meal
- Private tours: $50-100
Money matters:
- ATMs are available in the main town (bring backup cash)
- Many smaller places accept cash only
- High-end hotels accept credit cards
- Bring extra cash if visiting during Vietnamese holidays
Pro tip: Prices increase 20-30% during Vietnamese holidays like Tet (January/February) and summer peak season (June-August).
Where to Stay on Con Dao
The good news? Con Dao offers everything from world-class luxury to simple guesthouses. The challenge? Accommodations fill quickly during high season.
Luxury Accommodations
Six Senses Con Dao
The crown jewel of Con Dao accommodations sits on Dat Doc Beach, offering:
- Private villas with pools
- Sustainable design using natural materials
- World-class dining and spa services
- Sea turtle conservation program
- Starting price: $500-1000+ per night
- Website: sixsenses.com/condao
Con Dao Resort
- Beachfront location near town
- Swimming pool and decent restaurant
- Colonial-style architecture
- $120-200 per night
Mid-Range Options
Sai Gon Con Dao Resort
- Central location near the promenade
- Large pool and garden setting
- Comfortable rooms with balconies
- $70-110 per night
Con Dao Camping Hotel (despite the name, not a camping site)
- Walking distance to the market
- Clean, modern rooms
- Helpful English-speaking staff
- $50-80 per night
Budget-Friendly Stays
Con Dao Guesthouse
- Simple but clean rooms
- Central location
- Helpful local owners
- $15-30 per night
Island House Homestay
- Family-run operation
- Home-cooked breakfast
- Local expertise
- $20-35 per night
Pro tip: Book accommodations at least 2-3 months in advance for high season (March-August) as options are limited and fill quickly.
Top Experiences & Activities on Con Dao
Con Dao offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Here’s how to experience the best of both worlds.
Historical Sites & Prison System
The prison complexes on Con Dao tell the story of Vietnam’s struggle for independence. Over 20,000 prisoners died here during its 113 years of operation.
Phu Hai Prison
- The first and largest prison on the island
- Built by the French in 1862
- Features “tiger cages” where prisoners were kept
- Entrance fee: 40,000 VND ($1.70)
- Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 11:00 AM, 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Phu Son Prison
- Known for its brutal solitary confinement cells
- Houses the coconut tree grinder where prisoners were forced to labor
- Often less crowded than Phu Hai
- Same ticket as Phu Hai
American Tiger Cages
- Constructed in 1971
- Designed to prevent prisoners from standing
- Among the most disturbing sites on the island
- Included in the prison complex ticket
Hang Duong Cemetery
- Final resting place for thousands of prisoners
- Site of nightly vigils at Vo Thi Sau’s tomb
- Vo Thi Sau was executed at age 19 for resistance activities
- Free to visit, but respectful dress required
Con Dao Museum
- Provides historical context for the island
- Displays prisoner artifacts and photographs
- Entrance fee: 15,000 VND ($0.65)
Pro tip: Visit the prison sites with a local guide who can share deeper insights about their historical significance. The experience becomes much more meaningful with proper context.
Beaches & Natural Attractions
After the emotional experience of the historical sites, Con Dao’s beaches offer perfect places for reflection and natural beauty.
Dam Trau Beach
- Located near the airport
- Fine white sand and clear blue water
- Several small cafes serving fresh seafood
- Watch planes land against the mountain backdrop
- Best time to visit: Morning to early afternoon
An Hai Beach
- Closest beach to the main town
- Long stretch of sand perfect for morning walks
- Calm waters suitable for swimming
- Beautiful sunset views
- Best time to visit: Late afternoon and sunset
Dat Doc Beach
- Home to the Six Senses resort
- Pristine beach with few visitors
- Public access at the northern end
- Good snorkeling near the rocks
- Best time to visit: Midday when the water is clearest
Bang Beach
- Local favorite with excellent seafood shacks
- Rocky in parts but beautiful views
- Great for authentic local interaction
- Best time to visit: Lunch or early dinner for fresh seafood
Pro tip: Rent a motorbike to beach-hop around the island. The coastal road is stunning, and you’ll find empty stretches of sand all to yourself if you explore a bit.
Wildlife & Conservation
Con Dao National Park protects both marine and forest ecosystems, creating a haven for wildlife.
Sea Turtle Watching
- Bay Canh Island hosts one of Vietnam’s most important turtle nesting sites
- Species include green turtles and hawksbill turtles
- Season: May to October (peak June-September)
- Night tours through Con Dao National Park office
- Cost: $20-30 per person
- Booking: At least 1-2 days in advance at the National Park headquarters
Snorkeling & Diving
- Con Dao boasts Vietnam’s healthiest coral reefs
- Over 1,300 marine species
- Popular sites: Bay Canh Island, Tai Island, Trac Island
- Diving operators: Con Dao Dive Center, Dive!Dive!Dive!
- Cost: $60-100 for two-tank dives, $25-40 for snorkeling trips
- Best season: February to July
Forest Hiking
- Several trails through Con Dao National Park
- Opportunities to see black squirrels, macaques, and rare birds
- So Ray Plantation trail: Moderate 2-hour hike
- Ong Dung Beach trail: Easy 45-minute walk
- Guide required for most trails; arrange at National Park office
- Cost: $10-20 plus guide fee
Pro tip: The early morning (5-7 AM) is the best time for wildlife spotting on forest trails. Animals are most active, and the heat is manageable.
Cultural Experiences
Beyond nature and history, Con Dao offers glimpses into authentic island life.
Con Dao Market
- Small but lively local market
- Fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local specialties
- Best visited early morning (6-8 AM)
- Great for photography and local interaction
Fishing Village Visit
- Ben Dam fishing village shows traditional island life
- Watch fishermen return with their catch
- Best time: Early morning or late afternoon
- Respectful photos welcome
Van Son Temple
- Small temple with impressive ocean views
- Built to honor local sailors
- Peaceful spot for sunset
- Located on the northern coastal road
Pro tip: Smile, be respectful, and try a few Vietnamese phrases. The locals on Con Dao are less accustomed to tourists than in other parts of Vietnam and genuinely appreciate visitors who show interest in their culture.
Food & Dining on Con Dao
Island cuisine on Con Dao features the freshest seafood prepared with traditional Vietnamese flavors.
Local Specialties
Yen Sao (Swiftlet Nest Soup)
- Con Dao is famous for this delicacy
- Believed to have health benefits
- Available at higher-end restaurants
- Price: $15-30 per bowl
Sea Urchin Porridge
- Creamy rice porridge with fresh sea urchin
- Local specialty found at seafood restaurants
- Best at Thu Ba and Que Huong restaurants
- Price: $4-7
Grilled Rock Lobster
- Locally caught and simply prepared
- Often sold by weight
- Try at Bang Beach seafood shacks
- Price: $15-25 depending on size
Oc Voi (Elephant Snail)
- Giant sea snail unique to the area
- Prepared grilled or in porridge
- Chewy texture with rich flavor
- Price: $8-12 per dish
Best Restaurants
Que Huong Restaurant
- Local institution
- Extensive seafood menu
- Mid-range prices
- Central location
- Try: seafood hot pot, grilled squid
Thu Ba Restaurant
- Fresh seafood displayed in tanks
- Choose your fish and preparation style
- Popular with Vietnamese visitors
- Try: steamed fish with ginger
Infiniti Cafe & Restaurant
- Western and Vietnamese options
- Good coffee and breakfast
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Try: breakfast banh mi, fresh fruit smoothies
Tri Ky Restaurant
- Budget-friendly option
- Quick, simple meals
- Popular with locals
- Try: com tam (broken rice) with grilled pork
Pro tip: Ask your accommodation host for current seafood recommendations. Prices and quality vary seasonally, and locals always know where the best catches are being served.
Practical Information
Health & Safety
Con Dao is generally very safe, but its remote location means limited medical facilities.
Medical Services:
- Con Dao Hospital: Basic care only
- Serious issues require evacuation to Ho Chi Minh City
- Bring all necessary medications
Common Concerns:
- Dehydration: Island sun is intense; drink plenty of water
- Sunburn: UV index is high; use strong sunscreen
- Motorbike safety: Roads are good but wear helmets
Emergency Contacts:
- Tourist Police: +84 64 3830 111
- Con Dao Hospital: +84 64 3830 115
- National Park Rangers: +84 64 3830 669
Communication & Connectivity
Internet Access:
- Most hotels and guesthouses offer Wi-Fi
- Speed is generally decent but can be unreliable
- Mobile data works in the main town but has blind spots elsewhere
Mobile Service:
- Viettel and Vinaphone have the best coverage
- Tourist SIM cards available at Ho Chi Minh City airport
- Limited service in remote beaches and hiking areas
Pro tip: Download maps, translation apps, and any necessary information before arrival. While connectivity is improving, it’s still best to be prepared for offline moments.
Cultural Etiquette
Con Dao’s history demands particular respect in certain areas:
At Prison Sites and Cemeteries:
- Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
- Speak quietly
- Ask permission before photographing people paying respects
- Absolutely no selfies or posed photos at places of suffering
Environmental Respect:
- No collecting shells, coral, or marine life
- Stay on marked trails in the national park
- No touching wildlife, especially turtles
- Proper disposal of all waste
Local Interactions:
- Basic Vietnamese phrases are greatly appreciated
- Ask permission before photographing locals
- Respect fishing equipment and boats
Suggested Itineraries
3-Day Essential Con Dao
Day 1: History & Town
- Morning: Arrive and settle in
- Afternoon: Visit Phu Hai Prison and Con Dao Museum
- Evening: Sunset walk along An Hai Beach, dinner in town
Day 2: Island Exploration
- Morning: Motorbike rental, coastal road to Dam Trau Beach
- Afternoon: Bang Beach for seafood lunch, continue island loop
- Evening: Visit Hang Duong Cemetery
Day 3: Natural Beauty
- Morning: Short hike on Ong Dung trail
- Afternoon: Snorkeling trip or beach relaxation
- Evening: Final dinner in town before departure
5-Day Comprehensive Experience
Days 1-3: Follow the 3-day itinerary
Day 4: Bay Canh Island
- Full-day boat trip to Bay Canh Island
- Snorkeling the coral reefs
- Beach time on remote shores
- Option for turtle watching if in season (May-Oct)
Day 5: Off-the-Beaten Path
- Morning: So Ray Plantation hike
- Afternoon: Visit Ben Dam fishing village
- Evening: Seafood dinner at a local favorite
7-Day In-Depth Exploration
Days 1-5: Follow the 5-day itinerary
Day 6: Dive Day
- Two-tank dive trip to best sites (Feb-July)
- Or alternate activity: fishing trip with locals
Day 7: Relaxation & Reflection
- Return to favorite spots
- Souvenir shopping in town
- Final island sunset
Pro tip: Always buffer an extra day into your schedule if possible. Weather can delay flights and boats, and having flexibility reduces stress.
Traveling to Con Dao with Special Considerations
Families
Con Dao can be wonderful for families seeking natural experiences away from screens.
Family-Friendly Activities:
- Dam Trau Beach has shallow, calm water perfect for children
- Short, easy hikes like Ong Dung trail
- Snorkeling in protected bays
- Con Dao Museum (for older children)
Considerations:
- Limited children’s facilities or entertainment
- Bring all necessary supplies (diapers, formula, etc.)
- Prison sites may be disturbing for younger children
- Heat can be challenging; plan activities for morning/late afternoon
Solo Travelers
Con Dao is exceptionally safe for solo travelers and offers peaceful reflection.
Solo-Friendly Tips:
- Stay in town for more social opportunities
- Join group snorkeling or diving trips to meet others
- Historical sites are comfortable to visit alone
- Local restaurants are welcoming to solo diners
Pro tip: If you’re a solo traveler interested in history, consider hiring an English-speaking guide for the prison sites. The context they provide transforms the experience, and the cost ($15-20) is reasonable.
Beyond Con Dao: Extensions to Your Trip
Con Dao pairs well with other destinations in Southern Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City Connection:
- Direct flights make this an easy combination
- Contrast the island peace with city energy
- Recommended: 2-3 days in HCMC before or after Con Dao
- Don’t miss our Saigon Street Food Tour to experience the best of southern Vietnamese cuisine
Mekong Delta:
- Another side of Vietnam’s waterways
- Can Tho has direct flights to Con Dao
- Recommended: 2 days in the Mekong Delta
- See our Vietnam guides for detailed Mekong Delta information
Phu Quoc Island:
- If you want more beach time but with more development
- More dining and accommodation options
- Recommended: Flight connection via Ho Chi Minh City
- Check our detailed Phu Quoc Island guide for comparison
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Con Dao worth visiting compared to other Vietnamese islands?
Absolutely, if you value untouched nature, meaningful history, and fewer tourists. Con Dao offers a more authentic experience than Phu Quoc and a deeper historical significance than most other Vietnamese destinations. It’s not for those seeking nightlife or luxury shopping.
How many days do I need on Con Dao Island?
Minimum 3 days, ideally 4-5. The journey to reach Con Dao takes effort, so staying less than 3 days doesn’t justify the trip. With 5 days, you can experience both the historical aspects and natural beauty without rushing.
Can I visit Con Dao on a budget?
Yes, but it’s more expensive than mainland Vietnam. Budget travelers can expect to spend $50-80 per day including accommodation, food, and activities. Guesthouses start around $15-25 per night, and local meals cost $3-6.
Is Con Dao suitable for children?
For nature-loving families, yes. Children will enjoy the beaches, wildlife, and outdoor activities. However, there are few child-specific facilities, and the prison sites may be disturbing for young children. Ideal for families who enjoy nature and history over entertainment.
What should I pack for Con Dao?
Essentials include:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (difficult to find locally)
- Insect repellent
- Modest clothing for historical sites
- Light rain jacket (even in dry season)
- Hiking shoes for trails
- Swimwear and beach gear
- Motion sickness medication if taking the ferry
Are credit cards widely accepted on Con Dao?
No. High-end hotels and some tours accept cards, but most restaurants, shops, and guesthouses are cash-only. Bring enough Vietnamese Dong, although there are ATMs in the main town.
Expert Tips for an Unforgettable Trip
1. Respect the dual nature of the island
Con Dao is both a place of natural beauty and profound suffering. Balance your beach time with thoughtful visits to the historical sites.
2. Wake up early
The island is at its most beautiful in the early morning (5-8 AM) when the light is golden, temperatures are manageable, and wildlife is active.
3. Book turtle watching in advance
If visiting during turtle season (May-October), arrange your turtle watching tour immediately upon arrival through the National Park office, as spaces fill quickly.
4. Try the local seafood soup for breakfast
Vietnamese eat soup for breakfast, and Con Dao’s seafood breakfast soup is exceptional. Try “bun cha ca” (fish cake noodle soup) at the market in the morning.
5. Bring cash and essentials
ATMs occasionally run out of cash, and specific items (particular medications, sunscreen, tech accessories) are limited or expensive.
Conclusion
Con Dao Island offers that increasingly rare travel experience – a destination of extraordinary beauty that still feels discovered rather than developed. The combination of pristine beaches, moving historical sites, and protected natural environments creates a place unlike anywhere else in Vietnam.
The island’s remote location has preserved it so far, but change is coming. New hotels are planned, and flight connections are increasing. The Con Dao of 2025 still provides an authentic experience, but five years from now may tell a different story.
For travelers willing to make the journey, Con Dao rewards with empty beaches, meaningful history, and natural encounters that have disappeared from more famous islands. It’s a place that stays with you long after you leave – both for its beauty and its profound historical significance.
Want to explore more of Vietnam’s hidden gems? Check out our guides to Ha Giang, Ninh Binh, and Hoi An for more off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Have you visited Con Dao Island? Share your experiences in the comments below!
This guide was last updated in March 2025. While we strive for accuracy, prices and schedules may change. Please verify critical information before your trip.