Exploring the Pristine Beauty of Con Dao Islands with Friends

Coastal Bliss and Evening Grills

Today was all about soaking in the natural beauty of Con Dao and savoring the simple pleasures of island life. From the moment I woke up, I knew it was going to be a day filled with stunning vistas, delicious food, and the kind of relaxation that only a tropical paradise can offer. It’s hard to believe this amazing trip with my friends is coming to an end, but we're determined to make the most of our final days here.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at The Secret Restaurant. The hotel was lovely, and the breakfast buffet was excellent. After breakfast, we were ready to hit the beach. We packed our essentials – sunscreen, towels, and of course, my camera – and set off for Bãi Đầm Trầu, also known as Dam Trau Beach.


Explore the enchanting Bãi Đầm Trầu, a pristine beach on Con Dao Island, Vietnam, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.
The drive to Bãi Đầm Trầu was an adventure in itself. The road wound through lush greenery, offering glimpses of the sparkling sea. As we got closer, the anticipation grew. I’d heard so much about this beach, considered one of the most beautiful in Con Dao, and I couldn't wait to see it for myself. When we finally arrived, it was even more breathtaking than I had imagined. The sand was soft and white, the water a clear turquoise, and the backdrop of verdant forest created a stunning contrast.

We spent hours lounging on the beach, swimming in the gentle waves, and simply soaking up the sun. The beach wasn't too crowded, which added to the sense of tranquility. I even tried my hand at snorkeling, though the visibility wasn't perfect. Still, I managed to spot a few colorful fish darting among the coral. I made a mental note to bring Olivia back here; she would absolutely love this place.

The best part of traveling is those unexpected moments of pure bliss, where you feel completely connected to the beauty around you.

One of the unique things about Bãi Đầm Trầu is its proximity to the airport. Every now and then, a small plane would glide overhead as it approached Con Dao Airport. It was quite a sight to see, and surprisingly, the planes weren't too loud or disruptive. Instead, they added a touch of excitement to the otherwise peaceful atmosphere. According to local legend, the beach is named after a tragic love story. It is said that Cau and Trau were half-siblings who were in love. Crushed by grief, Cau vanished without a word, sailing to a deserted island where he lived the rest of his days in self-exile. Trau then walked into the ocean, surrendering to the waves with a love she could no longer hold. The beach where she ended her life was named Dam Trau, a tribute to her eternal longing.

Around midday, our stomachs started to rumble, so we headed to Quán Tri Kỷ for lunch.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Quán Tri Kỷ in Côn Đảo—where fresh seafood meets traditional culinary artistry.
This restaurant is known for its tasty, fresh seafood and reasonable prices. We ordered a variety of dishes, including grilled fish, shrimp spring rolls, and a refreshing mango salad. Everything was delicious, and it was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of swimming and sunbathing. It was nice to share stories and laughs with my friends over lunch, strengthening the bonds that brought us here in the first place.

After lunch, we decided to explore the area a bit more. We stumbled upon Con Dao Experience, a local tour operator that offers a range of activities, from hiking to diving.


Explore Con Dao's pristine beauty and rich history with Con Dao Experience—your ultimate travel partner in Vietnam's stunning archipelago.
While we didn't have time for a full-fledged tour, we chatted with the owner, who shared some fascinating insights into the history and culture of the islands. It's always enriching to learn more about the places we visit, and this brief encounter gave me a deeper appreciation for Con Dao's unique heritage.

As the afternoon wore on, we made our way back to our accommodation to freshen up before our evening plans. We had decided to check out Sea Sense Bar and Grill for dinner and drinks.


Discover the flavors of Côn Đảo at Sea Sense Bar and Grill, where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views for an unforgettable dining experience.
This bar is known for its laid-back atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and stunning sunset views. It was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

When we arrived at Sea Sense, we were immediately struck by the beautiful setting. The bar is located right on the beach, with comfortable seating and a relaxed vibe. We ordered a round of cocktails and settled in to watch the sunset. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky exploded with color – vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a truly magical moment, and we all felt grateful to be sharing it together. Sipping my drink, I couldn't help but think about Olivia and how much she would have loved this view.

For dinner, we ordered a selection of grilled seafood and some local specialties. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. We feasted on fresh fish, succulent shrimp, and flavorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection. As we ate, we reminisced about our adventures over the past couple of weeks, sharing stories and laughs.

As the evening drew to a close, we lingered at Sea Sense, reluctant to leave this idyllic setting. We sipped our drinks, listened to the waves lapping against the shore, and simply enjoyed each other's company. It was the perfect end to a perfect day, and a reminder of why I love to travel – to experience new places, meet new people, and create lasting memories.

Tomorrow marks the end of our trip. We plan to visit Côn Đảo and Trại Phú Tường (Chuồng Cọp Pháp) to delve deeper into the island's history. For our last meals, we'll be trying Bar 200 - By The Beach for breakfast, An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant for lunch, and Nhà hàng Thu Tâm for our final dinner.


Discover authentic Vietnamese seafood at Nhà hàng Thu Tâm in Côn Đảo – where freshness meets tradition in every dish.
We'll also squeeze in some last-minute souvenir shopping at Linh Bùi Store. It's going to be a busy day, but I'm determined to soak up every last bit of Con Dao before we head back to Toronto. I know I'll be carrying these memories with me for a long time to come.