Exploring the Hidden Beauty of Con Dao Islands with My Husband

A Day of Exploration and Relaxation

Today was all about diving deeper into the heart of Con Dao, uncovering some of its more secluded treasures. Daniel and I set out with a sense of adventure, ready to explore both the spiritual and natural beauty that this island has to offer. From a sacred cave to a unique beach and, of course, some delicious local food, it was a day packed with unforgettable experiences.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at The Secret Restaurant. As the name suggests, this place has a certain allure, nestled in a charming villa with French Indochinese architecture. We enjoyed Shakshuka eggs and some pastries, fueling up for the day ahead. It felt like stepping back in time, and the Mediterranean-inspired cuisine was a delightful surprise. I made sure to take some photos, as the interior design was very inspiring. After breakfast, we set off to find the Holy Cave.


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

Exploring the Holy Cave

Finding the Holy Cave, also known as Our Lady's Cave, was an adventure in itself. Hidden within Con Dao National Park, it required a bit of a trek through the forest. The path was short, only about 400 meters, but it felt like a world away from the bustling town. The air was thick with the scent of the jungle, and the sounds of nature enveloped us as we walked. It was so peaceful and quiet. Daniel was in his element, pointing out various plants and insects along the way. He always had a love for nature, something he picked up during his childhood in the English countryside.

As we approached the cave, we noticed the light radiating from the entrance. Vines surrounded the opening, creating a mystical atmosphere. Inside, there was a small altar with statues of Our Lady and Jesus on the cross, adorned with flowers and candles. It was a humble yet powerful place, filled with a sense of serenity. I could see why the French colonialists chose this spot to pray.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quietest of places.

I lit a candle, said a silent prayer, and took a moment to reflect on the history and spirituality of the island. It was a deeply moving experience, and I felt a sense of connection to both the past and the present. I am not particularly religious, but I do have a deep appreciation for places of worship and reflection. After visiting, we made sure to blow out the candle before leaving.

Relaxing at Bãi Suối Nóng (Hot Springs Beach)

Discover the hidden beauty of Bãi Suối Nóng, a serene beach in Vietnam offering stunning views, relaxation, and adventure in a tranquil setting.

Next on our itinerary was Bãi Suối Nóng, or Hot Springs Beach. After the tranquility of the Holy Cave, we were ready for some relaxation by the sea. This beach is known for its unique hot spring, which feeds into the ocean. The name Bãi Suối Nóng translates to Hot Springs Beach.

The journey to the beach involved a short walk through a mangrove forest, which added to the sense of adventure. The scenery was stunning, with white sand, clear turquoise water, and lush greenery all around. It felt like we had stumbled upon a hidden paradise. I made sure to apply some more sunscreen. I had forgotten bug spray, but luckily the bugs weren't too bad.

The hot spring itself was quite a phenomenon. The water, which originates from a source deep in the forest, is around 50°C (122°F) at the source. By the time it reaches the sea, it has cooled down to a comfortable temperature, perfect for a relaxing dip. We spent a couple of hours soaking in the warm water, swimming in the sea, and lounging on the beach. It was incredibly therapeutic, and my muscles felt so relaxed afterwards. Daniel even tried his hand at some amateur photography, capturing the beautiful scenery around us.

We learned that the best time to visit Bãi Suối Nóng is between March and September, when the weather is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Although it’s technically the rainy season, the weather in Con Dao is still lovely, with gentle sunshine and calm seas. I was so glad that we decided to come during this time.

A Culinary Journey Through Con Dao

After a morning of exploration and relaxation, our stomachs were starting to rumble. For lunch, we headed to Nhà hàng Thu Ba, a local seafood restaurant. I had read about this place online, and it came highly recommended for its fresh seafood and authentic Vietnamese flavors.


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

The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, which is always a good sign. We ordered a variety of dishes, including grilled fish, seafood salad, and some local specialties. The food was absolutely delicious, and the seafood was incredibly fresh. I especially enjoyed the grilled fish, which was marinated in a flavorful blend of herbs and spices. Daniel was a big fan of the seafood salad, which was light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. It was the perfect meal to replenish our energy after a long day of exploring.

In the evening, we decided to treat ourselves to a nice dinner at Nhà Hàng Bến Cảng - Seafood Restaurant. This restaurant is known for its stunning oceanfront views and its wide selection of fresh seafood. The restaurant sources its ingredients from local fishermen, ensuring that every meal is not only delicious but also supports the community.


Experience the freshest seafood delights with stunning views at Nhà Hàng Bến Cảng in beautiful Côn Đảo, Vietnam.

We arrived just in time to catch the sunset, which was absolutely breathtaking. The sky was ablaze with colors, and the ocean sparkled in the fading light. It was the perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner. We ordered a seafood platter, which included grilled fish, prawns, squid, and scallops. Everything was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were incredible. I especially enjoyed the prawns, which were sweet, succulent, and bursting with flavor. Daniel was a big fan of the scallops, which were tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

Evening Drinks at Sea Sense Bar and Grill

Discover the flavors of Côn Đảo at Sea Sense Bar and Grill, where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views for an unforgettable dining experience.

To cap off the evening, we decided to visit Sea Sense Bar and Grill for a couple of drinks. The bar had a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, with comfortable seating and a great selection of cocktails. We ordered a couple of margaritas and sat back to enjoy the sea breeze. The drinks were delicious, and the atmosphere was perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

As we sipped our drinks, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the spiritual tranquility of the Holy Cave to the natural beauty of Bãi Suối Nóng and the culinary delights of the local restaurants, it had been a day filled with unforgettable experiences. I felt so grateful to have had the opportunity to explore this beautiful island with my husband, Daniel. It was a day that I will cherish for many years to come.

Tomorrow is our last day in Con Dao, and we plan to make the most of it. We’re planning to visit Six Senses Con Dao, a luxurious and sustainable resort. We’ll have breakfast at Infinity Cafe & Restaurant, lunch at Nhà hàng Thu Tâm, and a final dinner at Quán Én Tô. I am also hoping to do some souvenir shopping at ST MART siêu thị mini Côn Đảo. It’s bittersweet to think that our trip is coming to an end, but I am excited to see what tomorrow brings.

Con Dao has a lot of offer, with pristine beaches and best snorkeling. Much of the island is covered by the Con Dao National Park, with dense jungle that you can explore. There are also historical sites, like the Con Dao Museum and the Con Son prison. There are no temples or churches, but the tomb of Sister Sau is a sacred place to visit.

As I sit here writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment and gratitude. Con Dao has exceeded all of my expectations, and I am so glad that we decided to come here. It is a truly special place, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience.