Con Dao Islands – Vietnam’s Best Beach Destination
If you are looking for the perfect way to end your Vietnam vacation, or a place to spend a week of relaxation and amazing views, Con Dao Islands are THE spot – specifically Con Son Island for visiting. We recently did a trip to Vietnam that was about two weeks and 1.5 weeks of that was JAM-PACKED with non-stop adventure, so for us, spending the last four days on an island sounded like heaven. We stumbled across Con Dao Islands and we could not be happier with this destination – the perfect mix of relaxation, stunning scenery, and great vibes. Read along for a quick overview of the Island and what it has to offer!
- Where Are The Con Dao Islands?
- How To Get To The Con Dao Islands?
- Best Time Of Year To Visit?
- What Is There To Do?
- Where To Stay?
Where Are The Con Dao Islands?
The Con Dao Islands are located off the coast of Vietnam, in South Eastern Vietnam. They are a group of 16 islands, with the largest being Con Son Island (where people base themselves out of).
How To Get To The Con Dao Islands?
You have to take a flight to Con Son Island in the Con Dao Islands but trust me it’s worth it! Direct flights are available through Ho Chi Minh City and take about 1 hr. They are only available on certain days so plan accordingly.
Best Time Of Year To Visit?
I don’t think you can go wrong when visiting this island, but definitely plan for the activities you’d like to do:
- Dry Season: December to May
- Rainy Season: May to November
We were there during December – the weather was nice and warm but there was still some rain. But when the sun was out it was SO beautiful. The weather is in mid-high 20 degree celsius almost all year round. The dry season is also the touristy season and more expensive.
What Is There To Do?
Depending on the time of year you visit, different activities will be available. Turtle hatching is usually around July-November (they come to lay their eggs May-October timeframe). February – July is the best timeframe for water activities.
However all-year round (weather dependent) you can explore the island! There’s so much to do. Beach-hopping, island-hopping, visiting restaurants, water sports, seeing nature (there’s SO many monkeys around), and hiking. You can rent bicycles and bike the entire island, or take a scooter around. There are some awesome little bars along the coast to get a drink and watch the sunset! For us, here were our favourite activities:
- Scooter rental and explore the island
- Visiting the STUNNING beaches around the island (especially Nhat Beach Con Dao)
- Hiking on Con Dao Island – they have a bunch of hikes on the island ranging from short to long.
- Getting a drink at Sunrise Con Dao – a cute little spot overlooking the water.
- Visiting Con Son Prison
- Tour the Con Dao Temple
Where To Stay?
There are so many beautiful spots to stay here but we would really recommend these two:
- Poulo Condor Boutique Hotel & Spa: We decided to splurge a bit, and this spot is SO worth it. This hotel is so stunning. Located on a private beach with a few different restaurants, a private spa, and a relaxing pool to chill by. This spot is the perfect place to wrap up your vacation!
- Six Senses: If you are looking for luxury, this would be the ultimate destination. The facilities overlook a breathtaking view of the islands surroundings.
- The Secret Resort: An upscale spot with great reviews located in the heart of the island making it super easy to explore!
