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What To Do In Con Dao ? Top 6 Best Things To Do And See In Con Dao

Con Dao is a true hidden gem off Vietnam’s southern coast, offering visitors a perfect mix of natural beauty and fascinating history. Famous for its white-sand beaches, clear waters, and lush forests, it also holds a powerful wartime legacy with historic prisons to explore.Planning a trip to Con Dao means exploring quiet shores, historic prisons, and pristine nature. Wondering what to do in Con Dao ? This tropical paradise has something for everyone, from adventure seekers to those who just want to unwind. If you're ready to visit Con Dao, this guide highlights the top 6 things to do and see in Con Dao, helping you make the most of your journey and enjoy every moment of your stay.

I. Why choose Con Dao for your Vietnam trip ?

Con Dao stands out as one of Vietnam’s most captivating island destinations, offering an unforgettable mix of history, stunning scenery, and relaxed island life. Located over 180 kilometers from the mainland, it boasts clear turquoise waters, soft sandy beaches, and lush forests rich in wildlife. The weather in Con Dao is tropical, with November to April being ideal for calm seas and sunny skies . A trip to Con Dao isn’t complete without visiting the haunting prison complex — one of the most important Con Dao attractions.

For those wondering what to do in Con Dao, there’s plenty: relax on quiet beaches, trek through untouched nature, or dive into the island’s moving history. When you visit Con Dao, you’ll discover it’s more than a beach destination — it’s a place for reflection, adventure, and the best things to do and see in Con Dao all in one remarkable island.

II. Top 6 best things to do and see in Con Dao

1. Explore Con Dao Prison ( Poulo Condor )

• Address : Nguyen Chi Thanh Street, Con Dao District, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province

• Opening Hours : 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily

• Ticket Price : 40,000 VND per person ( covers entry to all main prison sites )

One of the most important things to do and see in Con Dao is a visit to Con Dao Prison ( Poulo Condor ). This site shows visitors Vietnam’s tough past, once known as "hell on earth", where many revolutionaries were held and tortured. When you visit Con Dao, take time to walk through Phu Hai Prison’s dark cells and see the French and American tiger cages used for punishment. It’s not just another stop on your trip to Con Dao but a chance to understand history and honor those who fought for freedom. Among Con Dao attractions, this visit adds depth to the island’s natural beauty, from quiet beaches to the warm weather in Con Dao. If you wonder what to do in Con Dao, this meaningful stop is well worth your time.

2. Pay tribute at Hang Duong Cemetery

• Address: Nguyen Chi Thanh Street, Con Dao District, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province

• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily

• Ticket Price : Free

For anyone planning a trip to Con Dao, Hang Duong Cemetery is one of the most meaningful things to do and see in Con Dao. This place is the resting ground for thousands of revolutionaries who fought for Vietnam’s freedom. When you visit Con Dao, take a slow walk among the quiet graves, many without names, and think about the island’s hard but proud past. Vo Thi Sau’s grave is the most known, honoring a young woman whose courage inspires people even today. Locals often come in the evening to light incense and pray , giving the cemetery a calm, respectful feeling. If you’re asking what to do in Con Dao, this visit is a thoughtful stop that balances the island’s natural beauty, warm weather in Con Dao, and rich Con Dao attractions.

3. Trek through Con Dao National Park

• Address : Con Dao District, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province

• Opening Hours : 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily

• Ticket Price : 60,000 VND/adult, 20,000 VND/child

If you’re planning a trip to Con Dao and like being outside, trekking in Con Dao National Park is one of the best things to do and see in Con Dao. The park has green forests , rare animals, and easy trails that take you to quiet beaches and nice viewpoints. When you visit Con Dao, walk on shady paths under big old trees, watch squirrels and colorful birds, or rest at Ong Dung Beach after your walk. The park feels calm and is great for slowing down and enjoying nature. It’s one of the Con Dao attractions locals and visitors both enjoy when they want a break from city life. Whatever the weather in Con Dao, a trek here gives you fresh air, green views, and a quiet place to enjoy the island.

4. Take a boat trip to Bay Canh Island

A great part of any trip to Con Dao is taking a boat to Bay Canh Island, one of the top things to do and see in Con Dao. It’s the second biggest island here, with over 680 hectares of tropical forests, mangroves, and seven quiet sandy beaches. From April to October , you might see sea turtles nesting or baby turtles heading to the sea. Even outside that time, it’s great for snorkeling among colorful corals and watching sea life in clear water. You can also take an easy walk to an old French lighthouse for wide ocean views. If you’re thinking about what to do in Con Dao, this trip gives you nature, wildlife, and a calm escape. The weather in Con Dao makes it even nicer, and it’s one of the top Con Dao attractions when you visit Con Dao.

5. Relax at Dam Trau Beach

Dam Trau Beach is a spot that makes any trip to Con Dao special. As one of the top Con Dao attractions, it offers golden sand, calm turquoise water, and green cliffs all around... Even though it’s close to the airport, it’s quiet and perfect if you want to visit Con Dao for a peaceful break. It’s great for swimming in clear, gentle waves or relaxing under shady trees with a cool drink. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try snorkeling to see colorful coral nearby. As evening comes, Dam Trau is an amazing place to watch the sunset paint the sky in warm colors. For anyone thinking about what to do in Con Dao, this beach is one of those relaxing things to do and see in Con Dao that shows off the island’s calm charm and beautiful weather in Con Dao.

6. Enjoy local flavors in Con Dao

Wondering what to do in Con Dao ? Trying local food is one of the best things to do and see in Con Dao, giving you a true taste of island life. Con Dao is famous for fresh seafood like lobster, squid, crab, and clams cooked simply to keep their natural flavors. No trip to Con Dao is complete without tasting cobia hotpot , with tender fish simmered in a rich broth with herbs and spices. For a local feel, walk through Con Dao market to see colorful produce and seafood caught the same day. At night, the market becomes one of the top Con Dao attractions, offering grilled seafood and street food at good prices. When you visit Con Dao, take time to share a meal — it’s one of the easiest ways to enjoy local culture and the relaxed island vibe, whatever the weather in Con Dao.

III. Travel tips for visiting Con Dao

1. When to visit Con Dao

Wondering about the best time to visit Con Dao ? This stunning island in southern Vietnam has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons, each offering its own appeal for a trip to Con Dao. You can choose the experience that suits you best depending on what you want to do and see.

Weather in Con Dao is divided into two main seasons :

• The dry season ( November to April ): This is the most popular time to visit Con Dao, with clear skies, lots of sunshine, and pleasant temperatures ( 25–32 °C ). Perfect for beach days, snorkeling, diving, and exploring Con Dao attractions without much rain. Great if you’re looking for what to do in Con Dao with plenty of outdoor activities.

• The rainy season ( May to October ): Brings short, refreshing showers that make the island green and lively. The sea is often calm, perfect for boat trips and snorkeling. It’s also turtle nesting season, one of the most unique things to do and see in Con Dao.

Honestly, both seasons have something special. Whether you want guaranteed sunshine or a greener, quieter escape, there’s no wrong time for a trip to Con Dao — just pick the adventure you’re after !

2. How to get around Con Dao

Getting around Con Dao is easy and part of the fun of your trip to Con Dao. The island is small with quiet roads, perfect for exploring at your own pace.

Motorbike : The most popular choice for visitors. Affordable ( around 100,000–150,000 VND per day ) and flexible, it’s ideal for checking out beaches, cafes, and those hidden gems. Just remember to fill up with fuel.

Electric Car : Perfect if you’re traveling with family or friends. Comfortable, eco-friendly, and easy to book via hotels or local tour operators.

Taxi : Taxis are available but pricier. It’s best to agree on a fare in advance for longer trips. They’re perfect for airport transfers or getting around town comfortably. You can also book a taxi through your hotel or try ride-hailing apps like Grab or Xanh SM when available.

Here are some reliable local taxi companies :

• Mai Linh : 0254 3850850

• Con Son Taxi : 0254 3908908

• Sai Gon – Con Dao Taxi : 0254 36363636

Canoe & Boat Trips : For things to do and see in Con Dao beyond the main island, you can rent a canoe or boat to visit nearby spots like Bay Canh Island for snorkeling and wildlife watching.

3. What to know before your trip to Con Dao

Planning your trip to Con Dao ? A few simple tips can help you enjoy this beautiful island more and make the most of the many things to do and see in Con Dao. Here are some useful tips :

• Dress respectfully : Especially at spiritual sites or memorials like Hang Duong Cemetery. Choose modest, comfortable clothing.

• Beach safety : Follow local swimming rules because currents can be strong. Watch children and listen to lifeguards.

• Stay on marked trails : When hiking in the national park, stay on marked trails to keep yourself safe and protect nature.

• Money matters : While ATMs exist in town, bring some cash for small shops or local markets.

Whatever you plan to do, a bit of preparation helps you enjoy the warm weather in Con Dao and the island’s relaxed vibe when you visit Con Dao .

Whether you want a relaxing trip to Con Dao or some adventure, this island has plenty for you. With quiet beaches, green forests, and historic places, there are many things to do and see in Con Dao. Check the weather in Con Dao so you can plan your visit better. From seeing sea turtles nest to walking through lively local markets, every part of your trip can feel special. If you’re thinking about what to do in Con Dao, remember each experience has something fun and memorable. Get ready to visit Con Dao and enjoy its friendly feel while exploring all the Con Dao attractions that make the island such a nice place to discover.

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