Con Dao

Written by Lorraine Aust, Minh Nguyen
15/08/2025
Herd of cattle and lone motorcyclist on a scenic coastal road in Vietnam with tropical landscape.
Thắng-Nhật Trần, Pexels

Con Dao offers a serene escape with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush national parks. It is a destination where natural beauty meets a profound historical past.

The social scene in Con Dao is generally quiet, lacking the vibrant nightclubs found in other Vietnamese destinations. Opportunities for socializing with other tourists are primarily limited to a few bars and restaurants in Con Son town, along with a local night market offering food stalls.

Top 5 Things to do in Con Dao

Con Dao offers a range of experiences, from exploring significant historical sites to immersing oneself in the island's pristine natural beauty, particularly its marine life and lush landscapes.

1. Exploring Con Dao Prisons

Stepping into Con Dao's historical prisons provides a profound journey into Vietnam's past. One walks through the austere cell blocks, including the infamous 'Tiger Cages,' and gains insight into the resilience of those who endured harsh conditions during colonial and wartime periods. This experience is deeply moving and offers a sobering perspective on the island's complex history.

Cost: An entrance fee of 20,000 VND to 40,000 VND typically covers access to all prison camps and the Con Dao Museum. For a more in-depth understanding, guided tours are available, costing approximately 150,000 VND to 300,000 VND for a 2-3 hour session.

Transport: The prisons are centrally located in Con Son town. One can easily reach them by renting a motorbike, which costs around 100,000 VND to 150,000 VND per day, or by taking a taxi.

2. Snorkeling or Scuba Diving Trip

The waters around Con Dao are a protected marine ecosystem, revealing vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Embarking on a snorkeling or scuba diving trip allows one to witness colorful fish, graceful sea turtles, and even dolphins in their natural habitat. The underwater visibility is often excellent, providing a truly immersive experience in a pristine environment.

Cost: Snorkeling tours generally cost between 700,000 VND and 800,000 VND per person for a half-day trip, which typically includes equipment and transportation to the dive sites. For those wishing to delve deeper, scuba diving tours start from around 3,600,000 VND to 4,500,000 VND. Group boat trips for snorkeling and island hopping can be found for approximately 850,000 VND to 1,050,000 VND per person. If opting for a private boat, the cost might be around 3,000,000 VND for a small group, allowing for a shared expense.

Transport: Most snorkeling and diving tours include complimentary pick-up from hotels in the center of Con Dao, with boat departures from various piers to the island's many dive sites like Hon Bay Canh or Hon Tai.

3. Trekking in Con Dao National Park

Venturing into Con Dao National Park offers an encounter with the island's rich biodiversity. The dense tropical forests provide various trekking routes, from short walks to more challenging hikes. One can explore unique flora and fauna, discover secluded beaches, or ascend to viewpoints that offer breathtaking panoramic vistas of the archipelago. It is a rewarding way to connect with nature.

Cost: Access to Con Dao National Park generally involves a small fee, which may be included in organized tours. Independent trekking is free beyond the initial entrance fee. Guided treks may incur additional costs, which vary depending on the duration and complexity of the route.

Transport: Con Dao National Park is accessible by renting a motorbike (100,000 VND - 150,000 VND per day) or taking a taxi from Con Son town. Some popular trekking spots like Ong Dung Beach are a short walk from the National Park headquarters.

4. Relaxing at Dam Trau Beach

Dam Trau Beach stands out as one of Con Dao's most beautiful and tranquil coastal havens. Its golden sands and clear turquoise waters provide an idyllic setting for relaxation, swimming, and sunbathing. A unique highlight is the opportunity to witness planes landing at the nearby airport, adding an interesting visual element to the serene beach experience. It is a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the island's untouched beauty.

Cost: Access to Dam Trau Beach is free.

Transport: Located approximately four kilometers from Con Dao Town, near Co Ong Airport, Dam Trau Beach is easily reached. One can hire a motorbike (100,000 VND - 150,000 VND per day) and follow Co Ong Road, or opt for a taxi. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes from the town center.

5. Sea Turtle Nesting and Hatching Tour

For a truly unique wildlife encounter, a sea turtle nesting or hatching tour offers an unforgettable experience. During the nesting season, one might witness majestic green sea turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs, particularly on islands like Hon Bay Canh. Later in the season, observing newly hatched baby turtles make their determined dash towards the ocean is a poignant and inspiring sight. These tours highlight the dedicated conservation efforts on the island.

Cost: Tours combining turtle watching with snorkeling and island visits typically range from 850,000 VND to 1,000,000 VND per person. These tours are often organized in conjunction with Con Dao National Park, ensuring ethical practices.

Transport: These experiences are generally part of organized boat tours to outlying islands like Hon Bay Canh. The tour price typically includes boat transport from the main island. For baby turtle releases, an early morning trip is often required.

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