During wartime, Con Dao was known as the “hell on earth” of Indochina. Today, this island has transformed into a pristine paradise, beloved for its crystal-clear beaches, soft white sand, and tranquil natural beauty. Con Dao is now one of Vietnam’s top luxury retreat destinations. Below are the places you shouldn’t miss when exploring this remarkable archipelago.
Hang Duong Cemetery
Hang Duong Cemetery is the largest memorial site in Con Dao. It is the resting place of tens of thousands of Vietnamese revolutionaries and patriots who were imprisoned from 1862 to 1975. Many national heroes rest here, including Vo Thi Sau, Nguyen An Ninh, and Le Hong Phong.
A unique experience for visitors is joining the nightly pilgrimage at midnight, when thousands of people come to pay respect. Despite the late hour, the cemetery remains as crowded and solemn as during the day.
Con Dao Prison Relics
Con Dao Prison was infamous during the French and American wars, regarded as the most brutal prison system in Southeast Asia. Built by the French to detain political prisoners and death-row inmates, it later became a detention center for Vietnamese soldiers during the American War.
The most notorious area inside the complex is the “Tiger Cages.” These were solitary confinement cells designed to break prisoners physically and mentally. Detainees were chained on damp cement floors, deprived of food and hygiene, and brutally tortured. This area held high-value prisoners who refused to confess or surrender.
Con Dao Museum
Con Dao Museum preserves invaluable historical artifacts documenting more than a century of struggle, sacrifice, and resilience. Nearly 2,000 artifacts are displayed across four main themes: the crimes of colonial and imperial powers, the unyielding spirit of Vietnamese revolutionaries, the development of Con Dao today, and the importance of preserving this national heritage site for future generations.
Con Dao National Park
Covering nearly 6,000 hectares of land and 14,000 hectares of surrounding water, Con Dao National Park is home to a rich ecosystem of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. This balanced ecosystem provides ideal conditions for the reproduction and conservation of marine species.
Con Dao is also Vietnam’s largest sea turtle nesting area, home to species such as the Hawksbill turtle and the Green turtle. Seventeen beaches are recorded as nesting grounds, and in four of them, up to 1,000 mother turtles lay their eggs each year. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, fishing, cycling, trekking, or simply admiring the untouched natural landscapes.
Dam Trau Beach
Often regarded as the most beautiful beach in Con Dao, Dam Trau Beach lies 12 km northwest of Co Ong Airport. From the town center, it takes about 30 minutes by motorbike or car. The beach charms visitors with its powdery white sand, lush primary forest, and uniquely shaped rocky cliffs. Swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling here are unforgettable experiences.
Ong Dung Beach
Located within Con Dao National Park and about 4 km west of the town center, Ong Dung Beach is ideal for nature lovers. Reaching the beach requires a one-hour trek through the forest, but the reward is priceless: vibrant coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and emerald-blue waters that wash away all fatigue.
Dam Tre Bay
Situated north of Con Son Island and just 3 km from the airport, Dam Tre Bay is a sheltered cove surrounded by mountains and forest. Its calm waters and scenic landscape make it perfect for sightseeing and eco-tourism.
Bay Canh Island
Bay Canh Island lies east of Con Dao, covering 683 hectares. The island consists of two landmasses connected by a long stretch of white sand known as Bai Cat Lon. It is one of Con Dao’s 14 sea turtle nesting sites—and the most active one. During nesting season (April to September), there can be 20–30 mother turtles coming ashore in a single night to lay eggs.
