Lying off the southeast coast of Vietnam in the Ba Ria Vung Tau Province, the Con Dao islands offer a peaceful break from the likes of Ho Chi Minh City and Vung Tau and feature fantastic beaches.
The islands were used as a prison for political prisoners during French colonial times and you can still see the old prison buildings and relics for a bit of history. The main attraction of the Can Dao islands, however, is the empty beaches and the stunning interior of the islands.
Con Dao islands are actually a national marine park covering around 20 islands and they come with some exciting snorkeling and diving. There are striking coral reefs off some of the islands, along with an abundance of sea creatures to see such as the dugong, or sea cow. Head inland for dense forest cover and rare squirrels and apes.
Both cheap and luxury resorts can be found on the main island in the Con Dao islands and there are restaurants and a market in Con Son town.
Getting There & Away
Most people arrive at the Con Dao islands by boat from Vung Tau. It leaves a few times per week and unfortunately takes about 11 hours. There is also a relatively inexpensive helicopter service from Vung Tau to the small airstrip on the Con Dao islands, as well as flights from Ho Chi Minh City. Ho Chi Minh City Airport serves the south and express buses take about 2 hours, 30 minutes from Ho Chi Minh to Vung Tau.