Spanning more than 76 km², Côn Đảo is an archipelago of 16 islands, with Côn Sơn serving as the administrative center and the largest island at over 51 km². From above, the archipelago resembles a giant bear stretching across the sea, surrounded by pristine white-sand beaches such as An Hải, Hàng Dương, Phi Yến, Đầm Trầu and Đất Dốc.
A Peaceful and Remarkably Gentle Island Life
Côn Đảo is one of the few places in Vietnam where locals can sleep without locking their doors and leave their motorbikes outside without worry. Life here is simple, honest and calm. Prices, however, can be surprisingly high — a bunch of morning glory may cost several times what it does on the mainland, and lettuce can be as expensive as pork.
This is simply part of island life. From September to February (lunar calendar), the gió chướng — strong seasonal winds — make it difficult for supply boats to reach the port, causing temporary shortages of fresh produce and goods. For islanders, this period marks a slower, quieter rhythm of life.
It is also the season when fishing boats rest ashore. Along the coastal roads, small street stalls appear selling dried fish, tropical fruits, fertilized duck eggs and a few cups of homemade rice wine — a familiar scene where fishermen gather to chat and pass the breezy afternoons.
A Surprisingly Popular Tourist Season
Contrary to its serene appearance, the monsoon season is also the busiest travel period in Côn Đảo. Many visitors — especially Europeans — come to stay for weeks, simply to sunbathe, swim and read in the island’s clean, tranquil environment.
Sitting under century-old tropical almond trees, toes buried in warm sand, gazing at the turquoise water and mountain ridges fading into the horizon — Côn Đảo brings a sense of peace that feels absolute, as if the noise of the world stops at the ocean’s edge.
A Sanctuary of Biodiversity
Blessed with a tropical oceanic climate, Côn Đảo possesses one of the richest ecosystems in Vietnam, much of it protected within Côn Đảo National Park.
The archipelago is home to nearly:
- 150 animal species
- 882 plant species
Many endemic species found nowhere else, such as the black giant squirrel, flying lizards, masked boobies and Nicobar pigeons.
It is also Vietnam’s most important sea turtle nesting site. Each year, turtles travel from Phú Quý, Phú Quốc, Trường Sa, Palawan (Philippines) and Pahang (Malaysia) to lay eggs on Bảy Cạnh Island. Witnessing a mother turtle emerge from the sea at night, quietly lay her eggs and return to the waves — is one of the most magical natural moments a traveler can experience.
An Island of Memory and Spirituality
Beyond nature, Côn Đảo is a land deeply rooted in history and remembrance. The island is home to a system of significant revolutionary sites: the infamous Côn Đảo Prison, the Governor’s House, the 914 Pier, and the unfinished bridge of Ma Thiên Lãnh.
Spiritual landmarks such as Phi Yến Shrine, Núi Một Pagoda and the Hàng Dương Cemetery — resting place of thousands of revolutionary prisoners, including the national heroine Võ Thị Sáu — draw countless visitors each year.
At night, the cemetery becomes a solemn sea of candlelight. Hundreds of people queue quietly to offer incense, pray and reflect — an overwhelming and unforgettable experience for many travelers.
Experiences Not to Miss
Visitors to Côn Đảo can enjoy:
- Seafood night markets with sizzling grilled dishes
- Scenic coastal walks or bike rides under shady tree canopies
- Snorkeling, fishing, hiking and swimming at An Hải, Đầm Trầu or Đất Dốc
- Turtle-watching tours on Bảy Cạnh
- Cano trips to surrounding islets
International Recognition
Côn Đảo has earned acclaim from global travel authorities:
- Travel & Leisure (2011): “One of the world’s 10 most mysterious islands.”
- Lonely Planet (2014): “One of the world’s most alluring islands.”
- Business Insider (2015): “A destination travelers shouldn’t miss.”
- BBC: “A tropical paradise in the East Sea.”
How to Get There
Plane (VASCO): Routes from Ho Chi Minh City and Cần Thơ
Helicopter (VNHS): Departures from Vũng Tàu every Friday and Sunday
High-speed ferry (Côn Đảo Express): From Vũng Tàu or Sóc Trăng
Côn Đảo – Wild, Gentle and Full of Life
Despite its growing popularity, Côn Đảo remains one of the few places still preserving its natural purity and calm spirit. Mornings begin with the rhythm of waves and wind. Nights are filled with incense, soft candlelight and moon reflections on the water.
Côn Đảo is where the past lingers, nature flourishes and people live kindly — just like the winds and waves that shape the island’s character.
