Con Son Island: Travel Guide, Things to Do & How to Get There
Con Son Island is a destination that captivates the soul, a Vietnamese jewel where breathtaking natural beauty meets a deep, poignant history. Once known as a brutal prison island, it has transformed into a tranquil paradise of pristine beaches, lush national parks, and protected marine ecosystems. This all-in-one guide is designed to be your ultimate resource, answering every question you might have about planning your visit. As your trusted travel partner, GTrip is here to ensure your journey to this remarkable island is as seamless and enriching as possible.
Overview of Con Son Island in Ho Chi Minh City
Con Son is the heart of the Con Dao Archipelago, representing the largest and most inhabited island in the group. It is a place of immense natural splendor and profound historical significance, offering a travel experience unlike any other in Southeast Asia.
Where is Con Son Island?
Location: the largest island in the Con Dao Archipelago, Con Dao Special Administrative Zone, south of Ho Chi Minh City
Con Son Island is the largest landmass within the remote Con Dao Archipelago, a group of 16 islands located off the southeastern coast of Vietnam. While often linked to travel from Ho Chi Minh City due to its accessibility, the island sits in the South East Sea, about 185 km from the coastal of Vung Tau. It is roughly 230 km from the center of Ho Chi Minh City, which gives it a sense of beautiful isolation.
Best time to visit Con Son Island
While the island is a stunning year-round destination, the ideal time to visit depends on your priorities. The dry season, from November to April, offers the best weather for classic island activities. During these months, you’ll enjoy calm seas, abundant sunshine, and lower humidity, making it perfect for swimming, diving, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The rainy season, from May to October, brings lush landscapes and a unique opportunity: it's the peak season for sea turtles to nest on the surrounding islands. Though you can expect brief afternoon showers, they rarely disrupt travel plans, offering a different, quieter side of the island. For perfect beach weather, the best time to visit Con Son Island is from November to April.
What makes Con Son Island unique?
The unparalleled uniqueness of Con Son Island lies in its dramatic dual identity. For over a century, it was infamous as "hell on earth", a French and later American-backed penal colony where thousands of political prisoners were tortured and perished. This dark past is preserved in the island's prisons and cemeteries, which now serve as solemn sites of pilgrimage and historical remembrance. In powerful contrast, today’s Con Son is an undisputed paradise. It is protected as a national park, boasting some of Vietnam's most pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and dense tropical forests. This juxtaposition of a harrowing past and a serene present creates a deeply moving and unforgettable travel experience.
Con Son Island is a protected paradise of pristine beaches, coral reefs, and lush forests that offers a deeply moving blend of history and natural beauty
How to get to Con Son Island in Ho Chi Minh City?
Reaching the remote Con Son Island is part of the adventure, adding to its exclusive and untouched feel. Travelers have several options to get to this island paradise, with choices available by sea, air, and even a unique helicopter service.
Sea ferry
Taking a ferry is a scenic and popular option. To do so, you must first travel from Ho Chi Minh City to one of two port cities. From there, modern high-speed ferries complete the journey to Con Son Island.
- Vung Tau Ward, Ho Chi Minh City - Con Son Island: Approximately 3 hours.
- Tran De Commune, Can Tho City - Con Son Island: Approximately 2.5 hours.
Plane
Flying is by far the fastest and most convenient way to reach Con Son Island. The island is served by the small Con Dao Airport (VCS), which receives flights from major southern Vietnamese cities. The short flight offers spectacular aerial views of the archipelago as you descend.
- Flights are available from Tan Son Nhat Airport (HCMC) to Con Dao Airport: about 45 minutes.
- Flights are also available from Can Tho Airport to Con Dao Airport: about 1 hour.
Helicopter
For a truly unique and breathtaking travel experience, you can take a helicopter to the island. This premium service offers unparalleled panoramic views of the coastline, ocean, and the Con Dao archipelago from above, making the journey itself a memorable part of your trip.
- Route: Vung Tau - Con Dao
- Frequency: Operates twice weekly on Fridays and Sundays
- Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
- Booking: Tickets can be booked directly via the provided website dulichxanh.com.vn
You can reach Con Son Island by 3 means of transportation
Top 11 things to do on Con Son Island in Ho Chi Minh City
Con Son Island offers a diverse range of experiences. This stunning destination caters to every type of traveler. You can spend your days trekking through lush forests, diving into turquoise waters, or quietly reflecting on the island's powerful history. Below are the must-do activities that make a trip to Con Son truly unforgettable.
1. Snorkeling and coral watching around Con Son Island
Exploring the underwater world is a must-do activity on Con Son Island, which is renowned for its protected and vibrant marine ecosystems. The waters surrounding the island are teeming with colorful coral reefs and diverse sea life.
- Lo Voi Beach: Located close to Con Son town center, some nearshore areas feature small coral patches and marine life. Ideal for light snorkeling without traveling far.
- Dam Trau Beach (rocky edges on both sides): Best known for swimming and scenic views, but on calm days, scattered corals can be spotted near the rocky ends of the beach.
- Nhat Beach (during low tide): Not a dedicated snorkeling site, yet when the tide recedes, shallow rocky areas allow visitors to observe small corals and sea creatures with basic snorkeling gear.
- Ong Dung Beach: Situated within Con Dao National Park on Con Son Island, this is the island’s most popular snorkeling spot. Coral reefs lie close to shore, with clear water and the option to combine jungle trekking, swimming, and snorkeling in one trip.
2. Swim and sunbathe at Con Son Island’s most beautiful beaches
Con Son Island is a paradise for beach lovers, featuring a stunning coastline with crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. These beaches offer the perfect environment for swimming in calm waves or sunbathing under the gentle tropical sun. The island provides a peaceful escape for every traveler. These pristine shores represent the natural beauty of the Con Dao archipelago at its finest.
- Dam Trau Beach: Famous for its golden sands and the unique experience of watching planes land just above the shore.
- An Hai Beach: A convenient spot near the town center with calm waters and a picturesque mountain backdrop.
- Nhat Beach: A scenic stretch of coast featuring smooth pebbles and white sand that only emerges during low tide.
- Ong Dung Beach: A tranquil, rocky retreat accessible via a short forest trek, ideal for nature lovers and snorkeling.
- Lo Voi Beach: Known for its wide, clean shoreline and shallow crystalline water, perfect for long walks and morning swims.
Con Son Island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches with crystal-clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and a peaceful atmosphere
3. Experience local life in traditional fishing villages
To get a true sense of the island's soul, take some time to visit one of its small, traditional fishing villages. Stroll along the harbor and observe the unhurried rhythm of daily life as fishermen mend their nets and prepare their colorful wooden boats for the next journey out to sea. The air is filled with the scent of the ocean and the friendly chatter of the local community. It's a fantastic opportunity for photography and to appreciate the island's deep-rooted connection to the ocean. You can often buy incredibly fresh seafood directly from the fishermen or enjoy a meal at a simple, family-run seaside eatery.
4. Watch sea turtles laying eggs in their natural habitat
Con Dao is one of the most important places in Vietnam for sea turtle conservation, and witnessing this natural wonder is a rare and humbling experience. The peak nesting season runs from May to October. To protect the endangered Green and Hawksbill turtles, these activities are strictly managed by the Con Dao National Park rangers. The primary location for nesting is Hon Bay Canh (Bay Canh Island), a nearby islet. You must join an official overnight tour, where rangers will guide you to the beach at night to silently watch a mother turtle dig her nest and lay her eggs, a truly magical and unforgettable moment.
Con Dao offers a rare and humbling chance to witness sea turtle nesting from May to October on Hon Bay Canh
5. Admire the serene An Hai Lotus Lake
Nestled right in the heart of Con Son town, An Hai Lotus Lake is a beautiful and tranquil oasis. This picturesque lake is covered in vibrant lotus flowers, which are typically in full bloom during the summer months, creating a stunning pink and green spectacle. A walking path encircles the lake, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful morning or evening stroll. It’s a favorite location for both locals and visitors to relax, take photos, and simply enjoy a moment of calm amidst the island's natural beauty, with the lush green mountains providing a stunning backdrop.
6. Explore Con Dao National Park on Con Son Island
Covering approximately 80% of the archipelago's land area and the surrounding sea, Con Dao National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity. The park offers fantastic opportunities for trekking through dense, evergreen tropical forests. Maintained trails lead you past ancient trees, where you might spot unique wildlife like the endemic black squirrel and various species of monkeys and birds. Many treks culminate at a secluded, pristine beach, such as Ong Dung or Bang Beach, rewarding your efforts with a refreshing swim in a private paradise. It's an essential activity for nature lovers and adventurers.
Con Dao National Park, covering most of the archipelago, is a biodiversity-rich haven where travelers can trek through dense tropical forests, spot rare wildlife
7. Visit sacred and spiritual sites on Con Son Island
Con Son Island is a revered destination for spiritual tourism, home to numerous sacred landmarks that hold deep historical and cultural significance. Visitors flock to these sites to offer incense, seek peace of mind, and immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere that defines the island’s spiritual identity.
- An Son Shrine: Dedicated to Lady Phi Yen, this sacred shrine is where locals and tourists come to pray for peace and happiness in their lives.
- Van Son Tu Pagoda: Also known as Nui Mot Pagoda, it is the most beautiful pagoda on the island, offering majestic mountain views and a tranquil space for worship.
- Thieu Gia Mieu (Prince Cai Temple): A small, sacred temple honoring the young prince, tied to a poignant historical legend that is deeply respected by the islanders.
- Hang Duong Cemetery: A highly significant spiritual site where thousands of martyrs, including Heroine Vo Thi Sau, are laid to rest.
8. Pay respects at Hang Duong Cemetery
A visit to Hang Duong Cemetery is a somber, deeply moving, and essential part of understanding Con Son's history. This is the final resting place for an estimated 20,000 Vietnamese revolutionary soldiers and political prisoners who died in the Con Dao prisons. The rows of simple gravestones create a powerful visual testament to their sacrifice. The most famous tomb belongs to heroine Vo Thi Sau, a young schoolgirl executed by the French. It is a major pilgrimage site, and it's a common local tradition to visit her tomb at night to pay respects and make offerings, creating a unique and spiritual atmosphere.
A visit to Hang Duong Cemetery is a profoundly moving experience, honoring around 20,000 revolutionary soldiers and political prisoners
9. Discover the historic Con Dao prison system
To truly grasp the island's haunting past, you must explore the remnants of the Con Dao Prison system. This powerful and sobering experience involves visiting several prison camps, including the infamous "tiger cages" (chuong cop), where political prisoners were held in unimaginably harsh conditions. The complexes now operate as a historical museum, with preserved cells, chilling reenactments, and detailed exhibits that illustrate the brutality of the colonial and wartime eras. It is a stark reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the price paid for Vietnam's independence.
10. Learn local history at Con Dao Museum
The Con Dao Museum is the perfect starting point for your journey into the island's complex past. This modern and well-organized museum provides a comprehensive overview of Con Dao's history, nature, and culture. The exhibits chronologically detail the islands' story, such as their early settlement through the brutal prison era and up to their present-day status as a protected national park and peaceful tourist destination. Spending an hour here will give you the context needed to more deeply appreciate the historical sites and the island's incredible transformation.
Con Dao Museum is where you can learn about the overview of Con Dao's history, nature, and culture
11. Must-try local dishes when traveling to Con Son Island
The cuisine of Con Son Island is a celebration of the sea's bounty. The seafood here is exceptionally fresh and prepared in simple, delicious ways. Don't leave without trying these local specialties:
- Oyster porridge (Chao hau): A creamy, nourishing rice porridge made with fresh oysters plucked from the local shores, seasoned with pepper and herbs. It's a comforting and classic Con Dao breakfast.
- Moon crab (Cua mat trang): A prized local delicacy, this crab is named for the distinctive circular patterns on its shell. It's known for its firm, sweet meat and is usually steamed or grilled.
- Sea worms (Sa sung): Though they may look unusual, these marine worms are considered a delicacy. They are often dried and then grilled or added to soup stocks to impart a deep, savory umami flavor.
- Lady Nipple Snails (Oc vu nang): A uniquely shaped snail found clinging to rocks. When grilled over charcoal and served with a simple salt, pepper, and lime dip, their sweet, chewy texture is a true island treat.
- Red Grouper (Ca mu do): A high-value fish known for its tender, flavorful white flesh. It’s often served in a hotpot, steamed with ginger and scallions, or made into a refreshing salad.
You should try oyster porridge when visiting Con Son Island
Accommodation on Con Son Island
Con Son Island offers a good range of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets, from ultra-luxury resorts to comfortable mid-range hotels. Many are located along the main town's scenic coastline, providing easy access to beaches and restaurants. Here are a few excellent options:
- The Secret Con Dao: A chic, boutique-style luxury hotel with a blend of heritage architecture and modern design.
- Con Dao Resort: A classic beachfront resort offering spacious rooms and direct access to a private stretch of sand.
- Orson Hotel & Resort Con Dao: A modern resort with a large swimming pool and contemporary comforts.
Explore nearby islands around Con Son Island
While Con Son is the main island, the archipelago is made up of 15 other islets, many of which are pristine, uninhabited, and accessible via day trips by boat. Exploring these smaller islands is a fantastic way to experience the region's untouched natural beauty, discover hidden coves, and enjoy world-class snorkeling. Arrange a tour with a local operator to visit these gems:
- Hon Bay Canh (Seven Sides Island): The most popular destination for sea turtle nesting and release programs.
- Hon Ba: A great location for trekking and exploring a large, diverse ecosystem.
- Hon Tai & Hon Trac: Known for having the highest density of beautiful coral reefs in the area, perfect for diving.
- Hon Cau: A former prison island, now a popular spot for snorkeling and exploring its history.
- Hon Tre Lon (Big Bamboo Island): A beautiful, remote island ideal for finding secluded beaches.
There are many nearby islands that you can explore
Travel tips & useful information
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Con Son Island, keep these practical tips in mind. A little planning goes a long way on this remote paradise.
- Book flights and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak season (December-April) and on public holidays, as a limited supply can sell out quickly.
- Rent a motorbike to explore the island at your own pace. The roads are well-maintained and traffic is light, making it the best way to get around.
- Bring cash, as ATM access can be limited outside of the main town, and some smaller vendors or boat operators may not accept cards.
- Pack essentials like high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, potent insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
- Dress respectfully when visiting spiritual and historical sites. This means covering your shoulders and knees when entering temples, pagodas, and especially Hang Duong Cemetery.
Remember travel tips to have an enjoyable trip to Con Son Island
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Con Son Island is a destination of profound contrasts. It offers a journey that is simultaneously a peaceful escape into nature and a deeply moving exploration of Vietnam's history. It’s a place where you can spend your morning trekking through a primeval forest and your afternoon reflecting on the resilience of the human spirit at a former prison. It offers adventure, reflection, and pure relaxation in equal measure. Con Son Island delivers an experience you'll never forget. Let GTrip help you craft your perfect island itinerary today.
