Ultimate Travel Guide in Con Dao Vietnam 2025

We visited Con Dao in March 2025 and fell in love with this hidden paradise! This stunning island off Vietnam’s southern coast is packed with pristine beaches, rich history, and breathtaking nature. Whether you're into relaxing by the sea, exploring lush jungles, or diving into vibrant coral reefs, Con Dao always has something for you.

Ultimate Travel Guide in Con Dao Vietnam 2025

If we are a foreign tourists and had to choose between Phu Quoc and Con Dao, we would definitely choose Con Dao. This island though smaller, it is more pristine,

In this guide, we’ll share everything from how to get here and the best spots to visit, to must-try local dishes and essential travel tips. Let’s dive into the beauty of Con Dao and help you plan an unforgettable trip!

CONTENT

1. What you need to do before going to Con Dao

2. How to get there

3. How to travel around

4. What to do in Con Dao

5. Where to eat

6. Homestay, hotel, resort

1. What you need to do before going to Con Dao

1.1. The best time to travel to Con Dao

The best time to visit Côn Đảo is from March to September. Even though this is the rainy season, the rain usually comes in short bursts, and the sea remains calm, making it ideal for swimming, diving, and turtle-watching.

• March to May: The weather is sunny, with little rain, perfect for outdoor activities.

• June to September: Best for turtle nesting season (especially at Bay Canh Island).

• October to February: The sea can be rough due to the northeast monsoon, which may affect boat travel.

For the best experience, plan your trip in April or May when the weather is at its finest!

1.2. Weather

Check the weather. We came to Con Dao on a windy week, which makes our ferry trip quiet wavy and say sóng. After our arrival, the ferry companies immediately halt đón khách for 2 days due to strong wind, not safe. Luckily, we arrived safely and enjoy Con Dao on that 3 days (luckily makes our trip less crowded haha).

The wind here is no joke—especially on the coastal roads. One strong gust can knock you off your motorbike if you’re not careful. Keep it under 50km/h

You can check the weather forecast of Con Dao on google. Checking the wind speed is also important. You can use Windy app, it's very helpful since it allow me to know the wind and storm forecast for the upcoming days.

Before visiting, I thought Con Dao was just a dry, rugged island, mainly known for its war-era prison. I couldn’t have been more wrong. In fact, Con Dao has ...

1.3. The Most Stunning Water I’ve Seen in Vietnam

Seriously, the ocean here is something else—crystal-clear, deep blue, and untouched. And guess what? No plastic bags floating around. That’s a rare sight on Vietnamese beaches.

1.4. Clean, Organized, and Charming

The roads are smooth, the urban planning makes sense, and everything feels well-kept and graceful. It’s a place that feels both peaceful and well thought out.

1.5. Food is a Win, No Matter Your Taste

Traditional Vietnamese, Western dishes, healthy meals, fresh seafood—whatever you’re craving, you’ll find it here. And it’s all good.

1.6. Life Moves Slower Here

No beggars. No street vendors chasing you down. No one sleeping on the sidewalks. Just people going about their days at a relaxed, easy pace.

1.7. Spotless Streets

Unlike many places in Vietnam, you won’t find trash scattered around. The whole island has this tidy, well-maintained feel.

1.8. A Well-Off Community

A large chunk of the population works in the military or government, and they earn 2-3 times more than they would on the mainland. Land prices are high, and long-time islanders are often considered middle class or wealthy. Owning a few hotels here is pretty normal.

1.9. A Tiny But Diverse Community

With only about 10,000 residents, the island is home to people from all over Vietnam—North, Central, and South. The pace of life is slower than most towns, and while some newcomers find it dull at first, many end up never wanting to leave.

1.10. No Petty Corruption

Locals say small-time bribery isn’t a thing here. Officials already have decent salaries, and on such a small island, everyone knows everyone. Nobody wants their family’s name dragged through the mud.

1.11. No Room for Bad Habits

Drunks, gamblers, or troublemakers don’t last long here. If you don’t fit in with the island’s clean-cut, drama-free lifestyle, you’ll eventually leave.

Crime? Practically nonexistent. Motorbike theft? Not a thing. You can walk alone at 2 AM and feel totally at ease. With half the population being military or police, it makes sense—where would a criminal even hide?

2. Getting to Con Dao Made Easy

Reaching Con Dao is simpler than you think! Here are your best options:

2.1. Ferries to Con Dao

• From Ho Chi Minh City: Take an express ferry (⏳ 5h30m)

• From Soc Trang (Mekong Delta): A faster ferry ride (⏳ 2h30m)

Need help booking your tickets? We’ve created an Ultimate Ferry Guide with everything you need to know. Check it out here: [Insert Blog Link].

2.2. Flights to Con Dao

from Can Tho to Con Dao (⏳ 1h, only 1 flight/ day)

Ho Chi Minh city to (⏳ 1h15m, 10-20 flights/ day)

3. How to travel around

3.1. Renting a Scooter

The easiest way to explore Côn Đảo is by renting a scooter, usually a Honda Vision or similar model. However, not all rental companies allow foreign tourists to rent one, so make sure to check in advance. Also, bring your international driving license—it’s required for legal riding.

• Cost: Around 150,000 VND per day

• Fuel: You may need to refuel after driving about 15 km

Côn Đảo is a small and relatively safe island, but always take precautions. Lock your helmet in the seat storage, take your keys with you, and snap a photo of your license plate—many scooters look identical, so this can help you find yours quickly.

3.2. Other Transport Options

• 🚲 Bicycles – Many hotels and homestays offer free bicycles for guests, a great option for short distances.

• 🚖 Taxis – Mai Linh taxis are available, and you can ask your hotel to book one for you. Grab is not widely used on the island, so while it’s possible to book, wait times can be long. It’s easier to catch a taxi at Bến Đầm Pier (the main pier) or in the town center.

Let me know if you need any tweaks! 😊

4. What to do in Con Dao

4.1. Enjoy beaches:

All the beaches we visited in Côn Đảo were stunning, with crystal-clear waters and pristine shores. Our favorites were Lò Vôi Beach, An Hải Beach, and Đầm Trầu Beach—each offering its own unique charm and beauty.

Lò Vôi Beach

Lò Vôi Beach is a hidden gem with crystal-clear, light blue waters and soft white sand. It was the least crowded beach we visited in Côn Đảo, making it a perfect spot for those seeking peace and relaxation. The waves are gentle, and access is easy via a small trail across the street.

An Hải Beach

An Hải Beach is more crowded and lively, as it’s close to several large hotels. Most Vietnamese tourists prefer this beach due to its convenient location. It has a long stretch of sandy shore, making it great for a casual beach day.

Đầm Trầu Beach

If you're not staying at a luxury resort like Poulo Condor Resort or Six Senses, Đầm Trầu Beach is the furthest of the three and requires a scooter or taxi to reach.

• Entrance Fee: 15,000 VND for two people (including scooter parking).

• Scenic Route: The ride there offers breathtaking coastal views with blue waves crashing against rocky cliffs. If you're on a scooter, make sure to stop at some viewpoints along the way. However, it can be very windy, and riding may be unsafe during rainy days. Morning visits are recommended.

• Plane Spotting: Đầm Trầu Beach is famous for its close-up airplane landings. While you can't fly a drone here, many visitors love capturing photos with planes overhead. We saw three planes land around 10 AM, but none after 11:30 AM—you can check flight schedules on Google if you plan to catch this sight.

• Finding a Private Spot: Although the beach has been developed and modified, it’s still possible to find your own quiet area. After passing the entrance and a row of beach chairs, we walked about 100 meters past the airplane runway to a secluded spot. This area, lined with big trees and distant fishing boats, felt peaceful and safe for swimming.

• Food & Drinks: Small food stalls near the main area offer refreshments and snacks, so you can always return for a quick bite.

Each of these beaches has something special to offer, whether you're looking for seclusion, convenience, or a unique experience like plane spotting!

4.2. Visit Con Dao prison, museum, and cementery

Visiting these cultural sites, you'll learn about Con Dao's Dark History and Beautiful Architecture.

Ticket price is 50.000vnd/ person including all Con Dao's prisons and Con Dao museum.

Nha Tu Con Dao - Con Dao Prison. Bao tang Con Dao - Con Dao museum.

The prisons carries a heavy, haunting energy—you can feel it the moment you step inside. The stories of what happened there are horrifying. Yet, there’s also an undeniable elegance in the old French-built structures, from the governor’s mansion to even the prison buildings.

Nghia Trang Hang Duong: A Cemetery That Feels Peaceful, Not Gloomy

Unlike the prison, the cemetery here is serene. The graves lie neatly under towering trees, bathed in golden afternoon light. Vietnamese visitors come with deep respect and gratitude, making the place feel sacred rather than eerie.

A Pilgrimage Destination

Many Vietnamese visit for spiritual reasons—to see the prison, the cemetery, and especially the grave of a young female martyr. She was only 19 when she died, and legend has it she grants wishes to those who pray to her.

4.3. Ancient streets

Many streets are shaded by ancient trees, adding to the island’s quiet charm. The residential area sits in a valley, hugged by mountains, with a stunning ocean view in just one direction.

4.4. Coast lines scooter ride

The island is mostly covered in untouched forests, giving you some of the freshest air you’ll ever breathe. Drive around and you might spot wild monkeys hanging out by the road.

4.5. Book a snorkeling, watching turtle laying eggs, releasing baby turles or visiting National park tour

We didn’t book this tour due to the windy weather (and, honestly, we just wanted a lazy, relaxing trip). But if you're looking for adventure and unique wildlife experiences, this could be a fantastic option!

These tours typically include:

✅ Snorkeling – Explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

✅ Turtle Watching – Witness turtles laying eggs or take part in releasing baby turtles into the ocean.

✅ National Park Tour – Discover Côn Đảo’s lush landscapes and diverse wildlife.

If you have extra time and want to experience the island beyond its beaches, this could be a fun and memorable activity. You can check out this local tour provider:📍 Tour Company in Côn Đảo

Let me know if you’d like any tweaks! 😊

Where to eat

Con Dao may be a small island, but its food scene is surprisingly diverse and delicious! From fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese dishes to cozy cafes serving homemade cakes and Western-style breakfasts, there’s something for every craving. We tried several restaurants during our trip, and here are our top recommendations for where to eat in Con Dao.

5.1. An Ơi Restaurant & cafe

Our rate: 10/10

Our Favorite Restaurant in Côn Đảo – We Couldn’t Stay Away!

You know a restaurant is really good when you find yourself going back every single day—sometimes even twice a day. The food here is just so well-cooked, delicate, and thoughtfully prepared. Plus, the menu is packed with options, so there was always something new to try.

The vibe? Cozy and inviting, with outdoor seating that makes you want to sit there for hours. The little trees and charming decor add to the atmosphere, and the menu itself is adorable, featuring a heartwarming story from the owner.

Surprisingly, while many foreign tourists dined here, we didn’t see many Vietnamese visitors—I guess that made us the rare ones.

Here’s My Dish-by-Dish Rating After 4 Visits:

1. Yogurt Cheesecake

I ordered a second piece immediately after finishing the first—that’s how good it was! Creamy, slightly tangy, and just perfect. A bit pricey, though, and I secretly wished the portion was bigger.

Rating: 9.9/10

2. Carrot Cake

So soft, moist, and delicate! Definitely one of the best I’ve had.

Rating: 9.5/10

3. Nut Milk

Was okay. Ain't gonna rate this one 😉

4. Lime Yogurt Shake

Ordered it twice on my 2nd and 3rd visits—so refreshing and tasty!

Rating: 9.5/10

5. Bread with Pepperoni Omelette

Absolutely perfect. The flavor, the texture—everything was spot on.

Rating: 10/10

6. Smashed Avocado on Toast

Their recipe is unique and so well-balanced. The toast had just the right amount of crunch and softness—really well done.

Rating: 9/10

7. Noodle Bowl with Tofu & Veggies (Peanut Sauce)

Huge portion! The flavors were unique and delicate, though not entirely my thing. Still, I appreciated the effort put into it.

Rating: 7.5/10

8. Egg Coffee

Strong and well-made, but didn’t feel as unique as some of their other dishes.Rating: 7.5/10

9. "An Ơi" Full Breakfast

This one was truly FULL. The bread and sausage were delicious, and their homemade peanut butter was a nice, healthy touch.Rating: 9/10

If you’re in Côn Đảo and looking for delicious, well-made food with a cozy atmosphere, this spot is a must-visit! Just be warned—you might find yourself coming back again and again like we did.

5.2. MAY Bistro / Phien Khuc cafe

Our rate: 8/10

My recommendation: Burrito! It's absolutely delicious. We went there for dinner, and the place was nearly full, with many foreign tourists dining as well.

5.3. Gia Minh restaurant

Our rate: 8/10

The owner is also the chef, and he’s incredibly friendly. The noodles here are homemade, which adds a special touch to every dish. We also tried the beef steak, their best seller, and it was just as delicious as expected.

The restaurant is located in a quiet area on the edge of the central district. The decor is cozy but slightly outdated, though that didn’t bother us at all. And as a bonus—the cats here are absolutely adorable.

5.4. Hu tieu muc Con Dao

Our rate: 9/10

I followed the glowing reviews and have to say—I completely agree! This place serves surprisingly amazing food.

We ordered one beef noodle soup and one squid noodle soup, and both were absolutely delicious. It was my first time trying squid noodle soup, and to my surprise, it was a fantastic experience. The flavors were perfectly balanced, rich yet not overwhelming. Both bowls easily deserve a 10/10.

We had a chat with the owner, who told us she spent a long time perfecting her recipes. She tried several noodle spots in town before crafting her own version—and it truly shows. The chili sauce for the squid noodle is a must-try—so delicate and flavorful! My husband even joked that if he ever opened a restaurant, he’d buy the recipe from her.

The place is clean and well-kept, with friendly staff (10/10 service). It tends to be busier in the morning, though I visited at night, and the experience was just as pleasant. If you come in the morning, they do offer more menu options—something to keep in mind!

5.5. Com nieu Kim Ngan

Our rate: 9.5/10

This place serves authentic Vietnamese home-style food, made for Vietnamese people—so of course, we absolutely loved it!

We ordered a stir-fried pork belly dish (thịt ba chỉ rang cháy cạnh), crab with vegetable soup (canh cua rau mồng tơi), boiled morning glory, fermented white eggplant (cà pháo), and rice. From the first bite, we were hooked—we just kept eating and eating, barely saying a word.

It was a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal, full of rich, comforting flavors. Everything was cooked just right, making us feel like we were enjoying a home-cooked meal. A must-try if you love traditional Vietnamese food!

5.6. Infiniti Cafe & Resto

We didn’t get a chance to visit this restaurant due to limited time, but it looks like a beautifully designed spot for both food and coffee. The atmosphere seems inviting, and it’s definitely on our list for next time!

5.7. Beach house restaurant

We didn’t have time to visit this restaurant, but based on the reviews, the food here is highly rated. While the prices might be a bit higher than other places, the quality seems to make up for it. They also serve homemade pasta, which looks absolutely delicious in the photos. Definitely a spot to check out next time!

5.8. The Den Coffee and Tacos

We didn’t have time to visit this restaurant, but based on the reviews, the food here is highly praised. It seems like a great spot to try, and we’d love to check it out next time!

6. Homestay, hotel, resort

Normally, we’d pick one place to stay for our entire trip, but this time, we decided to switch accommodations each night to experience different styles. Since Côn Đảo is a small island, moving from one place to another was super easy, especially with our rented scooter. It made the whole experience even more fun and effortless!

6.1. Uyen house

This homestay is well-known in town as one of the first ever built in Côn Đảo, making it a popular choice. It’s often fully booked, so checking availability as early as possible is a must. You can easily book through Agoda, Booking.com, or other platforms.

What I Loved About This Homestay:

• Big, comfy bed with lots of pillows

• Plenty of cats (a huge bonus for cat lovers!)

• Cozy decoration that makes you feel at home

• Great central location, making it super convenient

• Beautiful evenings—cool, quiet, and sparkling

If you stay in a room with a window by the stairs, the sunny afternoon light creates an especially warm and cozy atmosphere.

The only downside is that the bathroom is quite small, and the light materials used in construction mean soundproofing isn’t the best. At 700,000 VND per night (without breakfast), I expected a bit more. If the price were slightly lower, it would feel more reasonable—hopefully, they consider that in the future.

One important note: It looks like they’ll be moving to a new location after April 2025. Their new space might be different, so be sure to double-check before booking!

6.2. Kim Ngan hotel & Kim Ngan hotel II

Kim Ngan Hotel started with one location and later expanded to a second one due to high demand—clearly, they’ve been quite successful. And it’s easy to see why!

The service is excellent, with friendly and helpful staff at the reception. The rooms are comfortable, clean, and well-maintained, making it a solid choice for a standard hotel in a convenient location. Plus, the room rates are very reasonable, ranging from 450,000 to 600,000 VND per night. You can easily book through Agoda or Booking.com.

One thing to note: the hotel is close to some restaurants, so it can get a little noisy at times. However, it’s not too bad and shouldn’t be a major issue for most travelers.

6.3. Hotel De Condor

This place has a beautiful boutique design, making it a stylish and cozy stay. However, it's a bit far from the center, so renting a scooter is highly recommended for easy access to restaurants and other spots in town.

One convenient perk is that they offer lunch and dinner, but you’ll need to preorder a day in advance.

The rooms are well-decorated, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. If I remember correctly, the hotel has five floors, but no elevator—so if you're okay with stairs, it won’t be an issue.

At 450,000 VND per night, the price is quite reasonable, and I didn’t expect anything more for the value.

6.4. The Mystery Con Dao

We didn’t stay here, but if we had more time, we would have considered it. The room price is over 1,000,000 VND (~$25) for a double bed, which is on the higher side compared to other options.

Based on reviews, this hotel seems to be new, trendy, and well-designed, with a clean and comfortable environment. The service also appears to be great overall. A nice bonus is that they offer a buffet breakfast, making the stay even more convenient.

6.5. Poulo Condor Boutique Resort & Spa

Poulo Condor Boutique Resort & Spa offers a tranquil, colonial-era charm that feels like stepping into a tropical paradise. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, this resort is perfect for those looking to disconnect from the world and immerse themselves in nature and luxury.

What stands out is the spacious villas with elegant decor, blending French colonial aesthetics with Vietnamese touches. The private beach and lush gardens create a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for those who love serenity. The resort also offers great spa services, which is a highlight for relaxation.

However, it's a bit far from the town center, so if you’re planning to explore more local food spots, renting a scooter or relying on the resort’s transportation is necessary. If you’re after a quiet, exclusive getaway, this is definitely a top choice.

6.6. Six senses Con Dao

Six Senses Con Dao is the epitome of barefoot luxury, offering world-class service and stunning oceanfront villas. It’s arguably the most luxurious resort on the island, with private infinity pools, top-tier spa treatments, and direct beach access.

What I love about Six Senses is its commitment to sustainability—they have their own organic farm, eco-friendly initiatives, and a focus on responsible tourism. The privacy here is unmatched, making it an excellent choice for honeymooners or those looking for a high-end escape.

That said, the price tag is very premium, making it a splurge-worthy experience rather than an everyday stay. But if you’re looking for the best of the best on Con Dao, this resort definitely delivers.

Final Thoughts

Con Dao is truly a hidden gem waiting to be explored. From its untouched beaches and crystal-clear waters to its rich history and peaceful atmosphere, this island offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you're diving into its vibrant marine life, uncovering its past at historic sites, or simply soaking in the island’s serene beauty, Con Dao promises an unforgettable experience.

If you're looking for a destination that feels untouched, clean, and deeply connected to nature, Con Dao is the place to go. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and fall in love with this paradise just as we did. Happy travels!