Con Dao Island: A Dark Past and Stunning Landscapes to Discover

Heading to Con Dao Soon?

Where to Stay: Booking.com is our trusted website for finding comfortable accommodations in Vietnam. Here are the top hotels to book on Con Dao Island.

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Mid-Range

Eden House

Mid-Range

The Mystery Con Dao

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Best Time to Visit: February to September

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Getting to Con Dao: The most convenient way to reach Con Dao is flying from Ho Chi Minh City. You can also take the express ferry from Can Tho, Tran De port in Soc Trang, or Vung Tau. Book your ferry to Con Dao here!

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Con Dao: A Serene Paradise

Off Vietnam’s southern coast lies Con Dao, an archipelago of 16 islands and islets, with Con Son Island being the largest and the only inhabited one. So when people talk about Con Dao, they’re almost always referring to Con Son.

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Once infamously known as “the living hell on earth” due to its brutal colonial-era prisons, the island has undergone a remarkable transformation into one of Vietnam’s most serene and unspoiled destinations.

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Compared to the more frequented Phu Quoc Island, Con Dao feels smaller, quieter, and far less visited. This means you’re more likely to find an empty stretch of sand. 

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Heading to Vietnam soon? Check if you need a visa and get everything ready with our helpful guide to Vietnam’s entry requirements.

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Map of Con Dao

Discover Con Dao Island with our curated map, highlighting the key attractions, best beaches and our favorite spots to eat, drink, and stay.

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National Park Headquarters

When planning your adventures in Con Dao, the sheer variety of hikes, boat tours, and island excursions can feel a bit overwhelming. For reliable information and guidance, your best resource is the National Park Headquarters. While their main office is located 2.5 km inland behind Con Son town, a more convenient option is their smaller office at 36 Ton Duc Thang Street, right across from the ferry terminal.

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The English-speaking staff are happy to provide detailed advice, suggest itineraries and help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re planning a solo hike, joining a guided tour, or arranging an overnight trip to one of the surrounding islands, this is the ideal starting point. You can also purchase your national park permit here for 50,000vnd ($2).

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Note: To make navigating the island easier, we’ve divided this guide into two main sections: activities in Con Son town (mainly focusing on prisons and museums) and those beyond the town (including hiking, diving, and island trips).

Con Son Town 

Nestled on the eastern coast of Con Son Island, the island’s main town offers a laid-back charm framed by a well-maintained promenade running along the shoreline, where pristine beaches stretch endlessly on either side.

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The town’s narrow, almost deserted streets are shaded by ancient trees and lined with colonial-era buildings, giving it a timeless, nostalgic atmosphere. Most of the island’s key sights are conveniently scattered throughout the town, making them easily accessible on foot or by bike.

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Read: Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Vietnam

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Museums

Con Dao carries a dark past, yet it’s equally rich in natural beauty and extraordinary wildlife. This unique blend is beautifully captured in the island’s museums, where captivating exhibitions offer a glimpse into its history. Here are the must-visit museums in Con Son town.

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Con Dao Museum

Entrance Fee: 50,000vnd ($2)

Opening Hours: 7-11:30am & 1:30-5pm

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For a comprehensive overview of the island’s history, start your visit at the Con Dao Museum. The exhibits explore the archipelago’s diverse natural resources and dive into its dark past as a prison camp, with photos, paintings, and artifacts bringing the stories to life. While English signs are available, hiring a guide offers valuable insight, especially when visiting the nearby prison camps.

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Note: The museum is open daily and the entrance fee also covers access to the island’s prison camps, which must be visited the same day.

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Island Chief Palace

Entrance Fee: Included in the Con Dao Museum joint-ticket

Opening Hours: 7-11:30am & 1:30-5pm

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Standing on Ton Duc Thang Street and framed by a well-maintained garden, the Island Chief Palace—also known as the Lord’s Palace—once stood as a symbol of colonial power and control over Con Dao. For 113 years (1862–1975), this grand residence housed 53 island lords, men tasked with enforcing strict policies and overseeing the brutal punishments inflicted on prisoners.

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A short walk from Con Dao’s largest prison camp, the palace offers a striking juxtaposition: the opulent lifestyle of its former occupants set against the harsh realities endured by those imprisoned nearby.

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Now functioning as a museum, the palace hosts a collection of black-and-white photographs depicting island chiefs, including Nguyen Van Ve, who ruled the island during the American War. Original furniture pieces—chairs, tables, and cabinets—are carefully preserved, offering a glimpse into life within these walls during the palace’s heyday.

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Vo Thi Sau Memorial House

Entrance Fee: Free

Opening Hours: 8-11am & 2-5pm

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Located just across from the Island Chief Palace, the Vo Thi Sau Memorial House honors Vo Thi Sau, the first woman executed on Con Dao Island, who is remembered as a national martyr and heroine.

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The house is set within a beautifully tended garden, adorned with vibrant flowers, and features a porcelain statue of Vo Thi Sau. Inside, the museum showcases photos of her childhood, school, and neighborhood, alongside images of the places where she was imprisoned and executed. Behind the museum, you can visit the police cell where she spent her final night.

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Con Dao Prisons

Entrance Fee: Included in the Con Dao Museum joint-ticket

Opening Hours: 7-11:30am & 1:30-5pm

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Uncover the island’s tragic past by visiting its vast prison complex, once one of Vietnam’s largest and most brutal detention centers. The camps are spread across the island, and renting a bike is the best way to visit them.

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Tip: Since there’s little shade at the sites, plan your visit during the cooler morning or late afternoon hours to avoid the midday heat.

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For a deeper understanding, hiring a guide is highly recommended. English signage is limited, but a knowledgeable guide can provide detailed insights into the history and events, making your experience much more insightful.

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Phu Hai Camp

Located in the heart of Con Son town, Phu Hai Camp (Bagne I) is one of the island’s major prison complexes. Established in 1862, it was the first and largest prison on Con Dao. Here, you’ll find cells with effigies of former inmates shackled at the feet depicting life within its walls—cramped, restrictive, and offering little room to move.

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Phu Son Camp

Next to Phu Hai, Phu Son Camp (Bagne II), the second oldest prison, features a large courtyard with communal cells lining either side. In the center of the courtyard stands a small building that once served as the barbershop. Above the entrance, embossed letters still faintly read “phong hot toc” (haircut room). 

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Phu Tuong Camp (French Tiger Cages)

Known for its brutal history, Phu Tuong Camp (also called the Con Dao Prison) is located right next to the main museum. The camp houses cell blocks that once held hundreds of prisoners, along with various torture cells, including the infamous French tiger cages.

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Background: In 1969, U.S. Congressional aide Tom Harkin, alongside Senator Augustus Hawkins, visited Con Son. Harkin’s photographs of the tiger cages exposed the brutal conditions, leading to a Life magazine exposé in 1970 that brought international attention to the inhumane treatment of prisoners.

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A ramp allows you to peer down into the cages, where mannequins reenact the grim scenes, with guards poking sticks into cells and emaciated prisoner figures shackled in cramped spaces below.

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Phu Binh Camp

On the northeastern edge of the town lies Phu Binh Camp, a quieter and less visited site on Con Son. Built by the U.S. in 1971, the camp features 384 cells divided into eight sections, known as the "American Tiger Cages" because of their iron grid ceilings.

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In each section, two rows of cells face each other separated by a dark, narrow corridor. The iron roofs trap heat during the day, while cold air seeps in at night, amplifying the harsh conditions.

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Surrounded by trees, the camp exudes a sense of peace, but the stories paint a far darker picture. One chilling detail, shared by our guide, revealed how guards relentlessly slammed the iron doors day and night, driving prisoners to the brink of madness. Our guide reenacted this without warning—trust us, it was truly terrifying.

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Phu An Camp

Adjacent to Phu Binh, Phu An Camp was constructed by the U.S. in 1968. Smaller and less developed for tourists, it features just two buildings facing each other. The cells are open to enter, but there is little to see in terms of exhibits or displays.

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Han Duong Cemetery

Hang Duong Cemetery serves as the final resting place for over 20,000 prisoners, both marked and unmarked, who died on the island. Although it may seem unusual, many visitors come at night, as midnight is considered the most auspicious time for paying respects.

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The burial grounds glow with the light of incense sticks, and many gather around the grave of Vo Thi Sau. Vigils are held throughout, with offerings of plastic-wrapped fruits, flowers, and prayers.

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Note: There’s no entrance fee, but it’s important to dress respectfully when visiting.

Beaches near Con Son Town

Remoteness is one of Con Dao’s standout features, with its beaches remaining pristine and untouched. Here are some of our favorite beaches near Con Son town.

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An Hai Beach

The closest beach to the center is An Hai Beach featuring fine golden sand and gentle waves. While there are few resorts located by the beachfront, it’s still quiet, with few people swimming in the afternoon.

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Tip: You’ll more likely find a spot all to yourself if you head further down to the west side. You can access the beach through this path.

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Lo Voi Beach

Located at the northeastern end of Con Son town’s promenade, Lo Voi Beach offers a long stretch of fine sand right in front of the Con Dao Prison. The shallow, crystal-clear water and breathtaking views of the mountain range to the east make it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.

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From the untouched beaches of Con Dao Island, more secluded sands await in Quy Nhon, Vietnam’s rising beach destination on the southeast coast.

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Con Son Town Market

Like many towns in Vietnam, Con Son revolves around its market—located in the heart of town and divided into three distinct areas, each offering its own experience. Take your time to explore them all.

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First is the wet market, where vendors display a wide array of produce, from fresh vegetables to cuts of meat. Visit at dawn to see the market at its liveliest. 

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Next, the covered street food market is filled with food stalls offering local dishes like com tam (broken rice) and bun thit nuong (grilled pork noodles). The perfect spot for breakfast!

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As night falls, the seafood night market comes alive. You’ll find excellent grilled seafood, banh trang nuong (Vietnamese pizza), and com chay kho quet (crispy rice with braised fish sauce). Don’t miss out on the coconut ice cream!

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Read: Visit the Pho Cao Tribal Market in Ha Giang

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Where to Eat in Con Son Town

Gia Minh Bistro: Located at the northern edge of town, specializing in handmade noodles and homemade plum and pineapple wines. 10:30am-10pm

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An Oi Cafe & Restaurant: Serving delicious Vietnamese meals with a healthier twist. Don’t miss their freshly baked sourdough bread. 7am-8pm

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Madame Ha: A vegan and vegetarian restaurant next to Gia Minh Bistro, run by a lovely owner who shares great tips on what to do on the island. 10am-10pm

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Beach House Restaurant: Tucked in a small alleyway just outside of town serving homemade pastas, flatbreads, and salads. 5-11pm

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Drinking in Con Son Town

Infiniti Cafe & Resto: Located across the market, this trendy cafe offers excellent coffee and arguably the best burgers in town. 10:30am-2pm & 5:30-9:30pm

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May Bistro: Blending a cozy interior with recycled materials, this café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with a variety of drinks, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed bite. 7am-10pm Tue-Sun

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Sunrise Con Dao: Perched on a cliff with breathtaking views of Con Son town and the sea, this open-air cafe is the ideal spot to enjoy a refreshing coffee, tea, or ice cream. 7am-10pm

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Where to Stay in Con Son Town

For a comfortable and convenient stay, pick your accommodation in town—you’ll be just steps away from most attractions and restaurants. Find all hotels in Con Dao here.

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Here are our recommended places to stay in Con Son town.

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Mid-Range

Eden House

Mid-Range

The Mystery Con Dao

Beyond Con Son Town

Venture beyond the town to discover Con Dao’s natural beauty on a scenic drive, where rugged cliffs and panoramic sea views await. The island is backed by a national park with great trekking opportunities and dotted with hidden coves, home to some of Vietnam's most pristine beaches.

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Hiking

With its well-maintained, marked, and sometimes even paved trails, Con Dao is a fantastic destination for avid hikers. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure or looking to join a guided tour, the island’s diverse paths cater to all levels of experience.

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Note: Be sure to stop by the National Park HQ to obtain a hiking permit for 50,000vnd ($2)—arranged trips with English-speaking guides are also available.

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So Ray Hike

Duration: 2 hours return

Trailhead: Huynh Tuc Khang street

Difficulty: Moderate 

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The So Ray hike takes you to the islands’ old fruit plantations perched high atop a mountain. The trail begins with a steady incline, winding through dense forest with occasional glimpses of the surrounding islands. The path is well-marked and easy to follow, though the climb can be challenging at times. At the summit, you’re greeted by two lookout towers, providing sweeping views of the archipelago.

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Dat Tham Beach Hike

Duration: 3 to 4 hours return

Trailhead: North of the National Park HQ

Difficulty: Moderate 

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Dat Tham Beach is a secluded pebble beach only accessible by foot. The journey starts with some hills but flattens out as you move through the lush forest dotted with ancient trees. At a junction along the way, take a detour west for Bai Bang Waterfall—especially stunning during the rainy season. Continuing east leads you to Dat Tham Beach, where you can take a refreshing dip.

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For the ultimate hiking adventure, Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park offers everything from short day hikes to multi-day expeditions through caves and dense forests.

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Dam Tre Hike

Duration: 5 hours return

Trailhead: Bai Vong Beach

Difficulty: Moderate 

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At the northern tip of Con Son Island lies Dam Tre (Bamboo Lagoon), a pristine water body so remote that few visitors venture here. Start your hike from Bai Vong Beach (you can park near Poulo Condor Resort), until you reach the signposted trailhead to Dam Tre. The paved path winds through thick canopy, with some steep inclines along the way. Once you reach the lagoon, take a swim or snorkel before starting your return hike.

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Read: Visit Chuon Lagoon: A Unique Experience in Hue 

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Beaches

With secluded coves, low overflying planes, and untouched golden sands, the beaches of Con Dao are some of the best you can find in Vietnam. Here are some of our favorites.

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Dam Trau Beach

Dam Trau Beach is tucked away in the northern part of Con Son, behind the island’s airport. Here, you can watch planes glide low overhead as they land, all while swimming in crystal-clear waters. Nearby restaurants serve food and drinks, but be mindful of the monkeys—don’t leave your food unattended!

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Suoi Nong Beach

A few minutes' walk from Dam Trau Beach lies Suoi Nong Beach, one of the most serene spots on the island and our personal favorite.

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Note: Suoi Nong Beach is part of the national park, so you might have to pay 50,000vnd ($2) to rangers if they are present.

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To reach Suoi Nong, climb the boulders on the west end of Dam Trau Beach, which are only accessible during low tide. We recommend heading there in the morning and paying attention to the tides. Otherwise, you will have to hike up the trail into the forest located next to the boulders, which will take you about 20 minutes.

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Some of the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam are found in Phu Yen province, with Tu Nham Beach standing out as our favorite.

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Nhat Beach

Not your typical tropical beach, but just as beautiful in its own way, Nhat Beach on the south coast of Con Son is the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset. The rocky beach only appears at low tide, making it a bit of a secret find. From here, you can also take in a stunning view of Mui Ca Map, one of Con Dao’s most dramatic rock formations.

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Note: Unfortunately, Nhat Beach is located near the garbage disposal centre, and when the wind blows in the wrong direction, the smell can be hard to ignore.

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Dat Doc Beach

We didn’t get to visit Dat Doc Beach, but we want to mention it so you don’t waste time searching for an entrance as it’s not accessible to the public. The beach is privately owned by the luxurious Six Senses Resort and is only accessible to guests staying there.

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Interested in staying at Six Senses Resort? Find rates and availability here.

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Diving & Snorkeling

If you're looking to explore beneath the surface, Con Dao is a great spot for divers and snorkelers!

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The island’s isolation and protected waters have allowed its marine life and coral reefs to flourish, making it a standout dive spot in Vietnam. While it might not be the ultimate destination for seasoned divers, the warm waters still make it a pleasant experience for all levels.

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The diving season on Con Dao Island is from March to October, but the best months are from March to June. For tours, head to Con Dao Dive Center, where you can book PADI courses, fun dives, and snorkeling excursions.

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For more diving opportunities, Nha Trang and Phu Quoc Island are two of the best places to dive in Vietnam.

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Island Adventures

With Con Dao being an archipelago, it comes as no surprise that boat tours to surrounding islands offer some of the most memorable experiences. There are multiple islands to visit, with Bay Canh, located just east of Con Son Island, being the most notable one. The island boasts stunning beaches, coral reefs, and a great 2-hour hike to a historic French-era lighthouse. 

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But Bay Canh is perhaps most famous for its turtle conservation efforts. From June to September, the island becomes a sanctuary for sea turtles, drawing visitors eager to witness their remarkable nesting rituals.

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Read: Island Adventures on Nam Du

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Turtle-watching tours come in two options: a half-day tour, which includes the magical experience of releasing baby turtles into the sea and snorkeling among colorful coral reefs; or an overnight tour, offering a rare chance to observe mother turtles lay their eggs under the moonlit sky. 

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Tip: For more information on visiting Con Dao’s Islands or arranging a turtle-watching tour, stop by the National Park Tourist Office conveniently located just across the pier.  

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Eating & Drinking Beyond Con Son Town

Tyna Food & Coffee: A no-frills spot near Dam Trau Beach, serving delicious Vietnamese dishes, all beautifully plated. Don’t miss the bo kho (beef stew). 6am-6pm

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Kim Con Dao: A short boat ride brings you to this floating restaurant nestled between Con Son and Hon Ba Island, where you can enjoy freshly caught seafood. 9am-11pm

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Tai Sinh Zone: On the west coast, this seaside outdoor eatery offers plenty of seating to enjoy the view and a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including vegetarian options. 6am-6pm

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Con Dao Bus: A pop-up bus serving drinks and snacks, the perfect spot to enjoy the beautiful sunsets on the northwest coast of Con Son Island. 4-7:30pm (weather permitting)

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Where to Stay Beyond Con Son Town

For a peaceful escape from the crowds, consider staying outside Con Son town. While the prices may be higher, you'll enjoy ultimate relaxation and complete seclusion. Find all hotels in Con Dao here.

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Here are our recommended places to stay outside the town.

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High-End

Poulo Condor Boutique Resort and Spa

High-End

Six Senses Con Dao

Planning Your Trip to Con Dao Island

Con Dao is well-developed and easy to reach, making it an ideal island getaway. However, it’s always a good idea to be well-prepared and familiar with the island before you go, especially when taking the ferry. Here are the key things to consider: from how to get there and getting around, to how long to stay and the best time to visit.

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How to Get to Con Dao Island

To reach Con Dao, first travel to Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, or Vung Tau, where you can either fly or take the ferry to Con Son Island.

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Plane: The fastest and most convenient way to reach the island is by plane, with options from Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho to Con Dao Airport (VCS). Book your tickets here!

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Tip: Metered taxis are available outside the airport. For added convenience, book this private transfer to your accommodation in Con Dao.

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Ferry: Take advantage of the ferry operated by Mai Linh Express from Can Tho City which takes around 4 hours. Alternatively, head 80 kilometers south to Tran De in Soc Trang, where Superdong and Con Dao Express ferries depart regularly.

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If travelling from Vung Tau, the Phu Quoc Express will get you to Con Dao in 4 to 5 hours.

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Note: Ferry services are limited during the monsoon season and may be canceled if the seas are rough.

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How to Get Around

Motorbike: With paved roads and little traffic, riding a motorbike is the best way to explore the island. Keep an eye out for monkeys. Motorbikes are available for rent at most accommodations for around 150,000vnd ($6) a day.

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Taxi: There are plenty of metered taxis available in the center, but if you're staying outside the town, be sure to ask your accommodation for assistance.

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Electric Cars: A good option if you’re traveling in a big group as it can seat up to 13 people, with fares calculated per kilometer.

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Heading to Vietnam for the first time? Read our 17 tips you need to know before visiting Vietnam to help you prepare for your trip

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Best Time to Visit Con Dao

The best time to visit Con Dao Island is from February to September, when you can enjoy mild temperatures and clear skies, perfect for outdoor activities. From October to February, weather is less favorable, with larger waves, making water-based activities such as island hopping and diving more challenging.

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Read: Best Time to Visit Vietnam

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How long to Stay on Con Dao

To fully experience the beauty of Con Dao, we recommend staying at least 3 to 4 days. This gives you enough time to explore the main attractions, enjoy the beaches, take a leisurely motorbike ride around the island, and still have time to relax in between.

And that’s everything you need to know to plan your trip to Con Dao Island.

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If you’re craving more island adventures, consider exploring the secluded Nam Du Archipelago or the nearby Hon Son Island for a quieter escape. For a more developed and comfortable island experience, Phu Quoc is your go-to destination.

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If there’s anything we’ve missed or if you’d like to know more about Con Dao, feel free to drop a comment below!