Con Dao Islands,Vietnam

Côn Đảo is an archipelago off Vietnam's southern coast notable for its deep historical and natural significance. Historically, the islands house the infamous Côn Đảo Prison (also called "Maison Centrale" during the French era), where thousands of Vietnamese political prisoners were held and many perished under French colonial rule and later during wartime. The prison complex, martyr cemeteries such as Hàng Dương Cemetery, and numerous memorials make the islands a powerful site of national memory. Naturally, Côn Đảo is part of Côn Đảo National Park, protecting diverse terrestrial and marine ecosystems — coral reefs, seagrass beds, sea turtle nesting beaches, and tropical forest — and is important for biodiversity conservation in the region.

Places to visit

Côn Sơn Town (main hub with markets, cafes, and access points to historical sites)
Côn Đảo Prison & Historical Museum (Maison Centrale complex and related memorials)
Hàng Dương Cemetery (martyrs' cemetery and memorial area)
Côn Đảo National Park (marine and terrestrial protected areas)
An Hải, Đất Dốc, and Đầm Trầu Beaches (popular sandy beaches for swimming and relaxation)
Bãi Đầm Trầu and Ông Đụng (scenic beaches and snorkeling spots)
Turtle nesting beaches (notably on islands like Cau and some protected shorelines)
Diving and snorkeling sites (healthy coral reefs around the archipelago)

Unique Aspects

Well-preserved colonial prison architecture and poignant memorials
Seasonal sea turtle nesting and monitored conservation programs
Rich coral reef systems and clear waters for diving
Dense tropical forest with endemic and migratory bird species
Relatively undeveloped island landscapes offering quiet beaches and secluded bays

Things to do

Historical and memorial tours (Côn Đảo Prison, Hàng Dương Cemetery, former administrative buildings)
Scuba diving and snorkeling on reef sites to see coral, reef fish and macro life
Turtle-watching and participating in supervised turtle release programs (seasonal and regulated)
Island-hopping by boat to smaller islets and beaches
Hiking forest trails within Côn Đảo National Park and birdwatching
Beach relaxation, swimming and kayaking
Cycling and motorbike exploration around Côn Sơn island
Fishing trips and local seafood dining experiences

Best Time to Visit

December to April — dry season with calmer seas and more predictable weather; May to November is the rainy/monsoon season with higher risk of storms and ferry cancellations (turtle nesting peaks from May–October).

Weather Conditions

Tropical monsoon climate: hot and humid year-round. Dry season (roughly Dec–Apr) is sunnier and drier; wet season (May–Nov) brings heavy rain, higher humidity, and occasional tropical storms.

Accessibility

By air: Côn Đảo Airport (VCS) has regular flights from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) and occasionally from other regional airports — the fastest and most reliable option. By sea: ferries and high-speed boats operate from Vũng Tàu and sometimes Sóc Trăng or other mainland ports (journeys can be 2.5–5 hours depending on vessel and sea conditions). On the islands, transport options include taxis, rented motorbikes, and local buses; many attractions are reachable by short drives or rides from Côn Sơn town.

Recommended Duration

3–5 days to combine historical visits, one or two dives/snorkel trips, and relaxed beach or nature time (longer if you plan multiple dive days).

Clothing & Gear Tips

Light, breathable clothing for hot weather; a lightweight rain jacket (wet season); swimwear and reef-safe sunscreen; snorkel gear if you prefer your own; sturdy walking shoes for trails; insect repellent; a hat and sunglasses.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Fresh seafood is a highlight — grilled fish, squid and local shellfish; seaside eateries and markets in Côn Sơn offer daily catches. Try local specialties and simple Vietnamese dishes at island restaurants. Souvenirs: locally made handicrafts, dried seafood, small pearl or shell jewelry, and turtle-conservation themed items (choose ethical, sustainable souvenirs).