Dive and see nesting turtles (seasonal)
Seasonal scuba/snorkel trips and guided beach watches to see nesting sea turtles (mainly Green turtles and Hawksbills) around Con Dao National Park. Activities combine daytime reef dives where turtles often feed and rest, with supervised nighttime beach visits to observe nesting females or hatchling releases under strict conservation rules.
Location
Con Dao Archipelago / Con Son Island (Con Dao National Park), Con Dao (Bà Rịa–Vũng Tàu province), Vietnam
Duration
Typical options: single evening beach watch (2–3 hours); half-day dive (3–5 hours including boat transfers); combined 1–2 day program (dive(s) + night beach visit). Multi-day dive packages 2–4 days for best chances.
Best Time to Visit
Nesting season: generally May to October (peak activity June–August). Hatchling emergence may continue into later months depending on nesting dates. Calm water for diving is more reliable during the dry months (May–September).
Pricing
Approximate ranges (per person):
- Guided beach turtle watch: 150,000–400,000 VND (≈ $6–$17 USD)
- 1-tank dive trip: 700,000–1,200,000 VND (≈ $30–$50 USD)
- 2-tank dive trip: 1,400,000–2,400,000 VND (≈ $60–$100 USD)
- Package (2 dives + night turtle watch): 1,600,000–2,800,000 VND (≈ $70–$120 USD) Prices vary by operator, season and whether transfers/park fees are included. Con Dao National Park conservation fees may apply separately.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
See nesting female Green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and Hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) coming ashore to lay eggs
Night-time guided beach watches and, when permitted, supervised hatchling releases
Daytime reef dives to observe turtles feeding/resting on coral bommies
Conservation-focused experiences run with local park rangers and responsible dive operators
Chance to combine diving, snorkeling, and cultural exploration of Con Dao
Itinerary
Arrive Con Dao (flight from Ho Chi Minh City or ferry), check in to accommodation, meet your dive guide/park ranger for briefing.
Get permits/park fees sorted if required. Ensure you have local emergency contacts and briefing on beach rules for turtle watches.
Morning dive/snorkel at nearby reef sites to look for turtles feeding and resting.
Dives usually run 2–3 hours including boat transfers. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and underwater camera. Suitable for certified divers; guided intro dives available for beginners.
Rest and conservation talk with park staff or operator; optional second dive or snorkeling trip.
Avoid diving late in the day if you plan to fly the next day (24-hour no-fly recommended).
Guided beach turtle watch at designated beaches with park rangers (observe nesting females or hatchling releases when available).
Strict rules: no flash photography, keep distance, follow ranger instructions, no lights except red-filtered torches if allowed. Duration 1.5–3 hours.
Additional dives, visit other islands in the archipelago, or join community conservation activities (beach patrols, nest monitoring).
Multi-day stays increase chance of witnessing nesting/hatchling events.
Safety Requirements
For scuba dives: minimum Open Water certification for standard dives; some operators accept guided introductory dives for novices under direct supervision.
Medical fitness to dive; disclose any pre-existing conditions. Follow dive operator medical questionnaire and local regulations.
No diving within 24 hours prior to flying (surface interval recommended by operator).
During beach watches: follow park ranger instructions — do not touch turtles, nests or hatchlings; do not use white light or flash photography.
Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid littering; maintain buoyancy control to avoid damaging coral.
Be prepared for variable sea conditions and boat transfers; wear non-slip shoes for beach landings.
Tips
Book early for May–August peak nesting season; permits and guide slots can fill up.
Choose licensed, conservation-minded operators that collaborate with Con Dao National Park — a portion of fees often supports turtle protection.
Bring cash (VND) for park fees, local charges and tips; card facilities can be limited on Con Dao.
Use biodegradable (reef-safe) sunscreen and wear a long-sleeve UV top to protect reefs and skin.
For underwater photos of turtles, use a wide-angle lens and respect distance; avoid chasing or cornering animals.
On beach watches: wear dark clothing, keep noise to a minimum, and follow the ranger’s lead — sudden movements or lights can abort a nesting attempt.
Allow extra days in your itinerary — wildlife sightings are never guaranteed on a single night.
Check weather and sea conditions in advance; some dive sites may be closed in rough weather.
