Exploring the Untouched Beauty of Con Dao Islands

A Day of Island Exploration

After a restful night, I woke up excited to continue our exploration of the Con Dao Islands. The previous day had given us a taste of the island's serene beauty, and I was eager to delve deeper into what this hidden gem had to offer. Today promised a mix of natural wonders, local culture, and culinary delights.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Infinity Cafe & Restaurant. The cafe was charming, with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff. I opted for a traditional Vietnamese coffee, strong and sweet, while Daniel chose a refreshing fruit smoothie. We shared a plate of banh mi, filled with fresh herbs and flavorful pate. Fuelled up, we were ready to start our adventure.


Discover delectable Vietnamese cuisine at Infinity Cafe & Restaurant, where breathtaking views meet culinary excellence in Côn Đảo.

Our first destination was Hòn Tre Lớn, also known as Big Bamboo Island. To get there, we took a short boat trip from the main island. As we approached, the island's lush greenery and pristine beaches came into view. Hòn Tre Lớn is a protected area, renowned for its diverse marine ecosystem and vibrant coral reefs. It felt like stepping into another world.


Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture of Hòn Tre Lớn Island, a hidden gem in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Vietnam.

We spent the morning snorkeling, marveling at the colorful coral and the abundance of fish. The water was crystal clear, making it easy to spot various marine species. Daniel, ever the enthusiastic photographer, captured some incredible underwater shots. I was particularly fascinated by the intricate patterns of the coral, each one a unique work of art. It was so peaceful and quiet under the water, I felt completely relaxed and at one with nature.

The beauty of Con Dao lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in its ability to offer moments of profound peace and connection with nature.

After our snorkeling adventure, we relaxed on the beach, soaking up the sun. The sand was soft and white, and the gentle breeze kept us cool. Hòn Tre Lớn is a haven for those seeking tranquility. We practically had the beach to ourselves, save for a few other nature enthusiasts. I took the opportunity to read a few chapters of my book, while Daniel explored the shoreline, collecting seashells and taking photos of the island's unique flora.

For lunch, we headed back to the main island and stopped at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant. This place was recommended to us by a local we met yesterday, who swore they had the best seafood on the island. He wasn't wrong! We ordered a grilled fish platter, which included a variety of freshly caught fish, prawns, and squid. The seafood was cooked to perfection, with a smoky flavor that tantalized our taste buds. We also tried a local specialty, gỏi cá trích, a herring salad with a tangy dressing. It was a burst of flavors that perfectly captured the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.


Discover exquisite Vietnamese flavors at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration of freshness and tradition in Côn Đảo.

In the afternoon, we decided to visit Bãi Nhát, a beach known for its stunning natural beauty. Located on the main road connecting Con Dao town and Ben Dam Port, it's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. As we arrived, we were greeted by a breathtaking view. The beach is framed by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, creating a picturesque setting. The sand was soft and white, and the water was crystal clear.


Discover the serene beauty of Bãi Nhát, a hidden coastal paradise on Côn Đảo Island, perfect for relaxation and breathtaking sunsets.

We spent a couple of hours exploring Bãi Nhát, walking along the shoreline and taking in the stunning scenery. The beach is particularly beautiful at sunset, when the sky is painted with vibrant colors. Although we missed the sunset due to our earlier snorkeling, the afternoon light was still magical. Daniel and I enjoyed taking photos here, capturing the beauty of the landscape.

Before dinner, we wanted to immerse ourselves in the local culture, so we visited Con Dao Market. The market is a bustling hub of activity, where locals come to buy and sell fresh produce, seafood, and other goods. It was a sensory overload, with the sights, sounds, and smells of Vietnam all around us.


Explore Côn Đảo Market, where vibrant local culture meets delicious street food and unique handicrafts in a lively atmosphere.

We wandered through the stalls, marveling at the variety of fruits, vegetables, and spices on display. I was particularly intrigued by the seafood section, where vendors were selling everything from live fish to exotic shellfish. We bought some fresh fruit to snack on, including mangoes and dragon fruit, which were both incredibly delicious. Daniel, always on the lookout for unique souvenirs, found a beautiful hand-painted silk scarf for his mum.

The market was also a great place to observe local life. We watched as vendors haggled with customers, families shopped for groceries, and friends caught up over a cup of coffee. It was a glimpse into the daily routines of the people of Con Dao, and it made me feel more connected to the island.

For our final meal of the day, we treated ourselves to dinner at ULA Restaurant & Bar Con Dao. The restaurant had a stylish and modern ambiance, with a menu that featured a fusion of Vietnamese and international cuisine. We started with some refreshing cocktails, made with local ingredients. I opted for a passion fruit mojito, while Daniel chose a lemongrass margarita. Both were delicious and perfectly complemented the warm tropical evening.


Discover the flavors of Vietnam at ULA Restaurant & Bar in Con Dao – where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views.

For our main courses, I ordered the grilled tuna steak, which was cooked to perfection and served with a side of roasted vegetables. Daniel chose the seafood pasta, which was loaded with prawns, mussels, and squid in a creamy tomato sauce. The food was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration.

As we walked back to our accommodation, we reflected on our experiences of the day. Con Dao had exceeded our expectations in every way. From the pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs to the bustling markets and delicious cuisine, the island had offered us a taste of paradise. I felt grateful for the opportunity to explore this hidden gem with Daniel, and I looked forward to discovering more of its secrets in the days to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Dat Tham Beach and the Holy Cave. I have heard so many good things about Dat Tham Beach and its tranquility, and the Holy Cave is a must-see for its historical significance.

As I write this, I can't help but think about how much I forgot to pack insect repellent and a portable phone charger. I will definitely need to buy these tomorrow when we head to Con Dao Market again. I am so glad Daniel and I decided to come here before the peak of tourism in Con Dao between December and February, as I wanted to experience a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all!