Exploring the Untouched Beauty of Con Dao Islands

Day 3: Discovering Hidden Shores and Sacred Caves

Hello again from the Con Dao Islands! Today, Daniel and I ventured deeper into the heart of this archipelago, seeking out some of its lesser-known treasures. Our experiences today were a mix of serene beach relaxation and a touch of spiritual exploration, which made for a truly unforgettable day.

Our morning started with a delightful breakfast at Bar 200 - By The Beach. The location was perfect, offering direct access to the beach and a relaxed atmosphere with bean bag chairs right on the sand. I opted for a cheese pizza while Daniel had a club sandwich. The service was friendly, and the beach vibe was exactly what we needed to kick off our day of exploration.


Experience coastal bliss at Bar 200 - By The Beach, where delicious cuisine meets stunning ocean views in Côn Đảo.

Dat Tham Beach: A Secluded Paradise

After breakfast, we set off to Dat Tham Beach, a spot I'd read about for its untouched beauty. The journey there was an adventure in itself, requiring a stop at the Con Dao National Park office to register before embarking on a six-kilometer hike. The hike was moderately challenging, but the anticipation of discovering a secluded paradise kept us motivated. The trail wound through lush greenery, with the sounds of the forest accompanying our every step. I must admit, I was grateful for the hiking boots I packed, though I did forget the insect repellent, a mistake I won't be making again!

Finally, we arrived at Dat Tham Beach, and it was everything we had hoped for and more. The beach was pristine, with crystal-clear turquoise waters meeting a shore of soft, white sand. It felt like we had stumbled upon a secret, a hidden gem far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Daniel, ever the photographer, was in his element, capturing the stunning scenery from every angle. I, on the other hand, was content to simply relax on the sand, soaking in the sun and the tranquility of the surroundings. We even took a dip in the sea, the water was so refreshing. According to the internet, Dat Tham Beach is considered one of the cleanest beaches in Southeast Asia. It is protected by the Con Dao National Park, which helps maintain its untouched beauty.


Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Dat Tham Beach, a hidden gem in Vietnam's coastal paradise, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are those that require a little effort to reach.

We spent several hours at Dat Tham Beach, swimming, sunbathing, and simply enjoying each other's company. It was a perfect escape, a chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful and unspoiled place. The weather in Con Dao in December is quite pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 29°C and about 5 hours of sunshine a day.

Exploring the Holy Cave

In the afternoon, we decided to explore the Holy Cave, also known as Our Lady's Cave, a site of historical and spiritual significance. Nestled within the Con Dao National Park, the cave is a bit of a hidden treasure, requiring a trek through the primeval forest. According to what I read, the cave served as a place of prayer for fishermen Catholics and later for French colonialists.

The walk to the cave was enchanting, with sunlight filtering through the dense canopy above. The path was short, only about 400 meters, and marked with old French signs. As we approached the cave, a sense of serenity washed over us. The entrance, framed by vines, led to a small, airy space with an altar adorned with statues of Our Lady and Jesus on the cross.


Explore the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Holy Cave, a hidden gem in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Vietnam, perfect for pilgrimage and adventure.

I'm not particularly religious, but I found the atmosphere of the Holy Cave to be incredibly moving. It was a place of peace and reflection, a sanctuary amidst the wilderness. We lit a candle, took a moment to reflect, and then quietly made our way back to the main trail.

A Taste of Local Cuisine

For lunch, we stopped at Nhà hàng Nam Dinh, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. We enjoyed some fresh spring rolls and a flavorful pho. The restaurant had a pleasant ambiance, and the staff were very welcoming. It was a great opportunity to savor the local flavors and recharge after our morning adventures.


Savor the authentic flavors of Vietnam at Nhà hàng Nam Dinh in beautiful Côn Đảo - where every dish tells a story.

As evening approached, we headed to Nhà hàng Thu Ba for dinner, a seafood restaurant with a long-standing reputation in Con Dao. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a testament to its popularity. We ordered a variety of seafood dishes, including moon crab, seafood salad, and grilled snails. Every dish was delicious, bursting with the fresh flavors of the sea. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration and discovery.


Experience authentic Vietnamese seafood delicacies at Nhà Hàng Thu Ba in Côn Đảo's stunning surroundings.

Reflections on Day 3

Day 3 in Con Dao was a remarkable blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. Dat Tham Beach offered a secluded escape, while the Holy Cave provided a moment of spiritual reflection. The local cuisine was a delight, adding another layer to our Con Dao experience. As I write this, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this incredible island with Daniel. Each day brings new adventures, new discoveries, and new memories to cherish.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Sở Lò Vôi and Van Son Pagoda. We might also visit On Cloud Nine Cocktail&Bar for a drink.

Until next time, keep exploring!