Solo Escape to Vietnam's Con Dao Islands

Con Dao's Coastal Wonders

Today was a day of pure exploration and relaxation as I ventured to the northern side of Con Dao Island. From hidden beaches to local markets, every moment was filled with unique experiences and breathtaking scenery. It's amazing how much diversity this island holds, and I'm excited to share my adventures with you.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant. This charming spot is known for its delicious and healthy options, and I couldn't resist trying their vegan banh mi. The flavors were incredible, and it was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of beach hopping. The cafe itself is a cozy haven, filled with lush potted plants that create a welcoming atmosphere. It’s run by a passionate vegan owner, which is always a plus in my book. I made a mental note to try their beetroot smoothies and Vietnamese coffee next time.

Discover exquisite Vietnamese flavors at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant, where every meal is a celebration of freshness and tradition in Côn Đảo.
With a full stomach and a spring in my step, I set off to Bãi Suối Nóng, also known as the ‘Secret Beach’. The journey there was an adventure in itself. The beach is nestled away, requiring a bit of a trek through the island's raw landscape. The anticipation grew with each step I took, and let me tell you, the destination was more than worth it.

Discover the hidden beauty of Bãi Suối Nóng, a serene beach in Vietnam offering stunning views, relaxation, and adventure in a tranquil setting.
Bãi Suối Nóng is a true hidden gem. As I arrived, I was greeted by a stunning vista of white sand and crystal-clear water. The beach is framed by a lush forest, adding to its secluded and tranquil feel. What makes this beach unique is the hot spring that feeds into the ocean. The warm water mixes with the cool sea, creating a soothing and therapeutic experience. I spent a good hour soaking in the natural warmth, feeling my muscles relax and my mind unwind.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are found off the beaten path.

After my rejuvenating soak, I decided to explore the beach further. I walked along the shoreline, taking in the stunning views and breathing in the fresh sea air. The sand was soft and powdery beneath my feet, and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore was incredibly calming. I even spotted a few local fishermen casting their nets, adding to the authentic charm of the place.
Next on my list was Bãi Đầm Trầu, another of Con Dao's famous beaches. Unlike the secluded Bãi Suối Nóng, Bãi Đầm Trầu is more accessible and lively. It’s located near the airport, offering a unique experience of watching planes land and take off while you relax on the beach. Luckily I remembered to bring my camera on today's adventure, as I'm trying to hone my photography skills on this trip. As someone who loves capturing moments, this was a unique opportunity. The beach is beautiful, with golden sand and clear turquoise waters. I found a cozy spot under the shade of a tree and spent some time swimming and sunbathing.

Explore the enchanting Bãi Đầm Trầu, a pristine beach on Con Dao Island, Vietnam, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.
Legend has it that Bãi Đầm Trầu is named after a tragic love story between a man named Cau and a woman named Trau. They were star-crossed lovers who discovered they were siblings, leading to their untimely deaths. It’s said that the beach is named after Trau, who threw herself into the sea out of despair.
For lunch, I decided to try some local street food near Bãi Đầm Trầu. I found a small stall selling banh xeo, a savory Vietnamese crepe. The crepe was crispy and filled with shrimp, bean sprouts, and herbs. It was absolutely delicious and incredibly affordable.
In the late afternoon, I made my way back to Con Son town and decided to do some souvenir shopping. I visited Siêu thị đặc sản,quà lưu niệm côn đảo Hương Biển, a local specialty supermarket. This place is a treasure trove of local products, from dried seafood to handcrafted souvenirs. I picked up some mứt hạt bàng (cured বাদাম seeds) and some dried mực một nắng (one-sun dried squid) to take back to Berlin. I couldn’t resist getting a few small trinkets for my friends back home as well.

Explore Hương Biển Specialty Supermarket in Côn Đảo for a unique shopping experience with local delicacies and memorable souvenirs.
For dinner, I treated myself to a seafood feast at Nhà Hàng Bến Cảng - Seafood Restaurant. Located right by the harbor, this restaurant offers the freshest seafood on the island. I ordered grilled oysters with garlic butter, salt-grilled lobster, and clams sautéed with basil. Every dish was bursting with flavor, and the view of the fishing boats returning to the harbor added to the ambiance. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

Experience the freshest seafood delights with stunning views at Nhà Hàng Bến Cảng in beautiful Côn Đảo, Vietnam.
Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of Con Son Island and visit the Côn Đảo National Park Tourist Office. I’m also looking forward to trying TYNA FOOD & COFFEE for breakfast and Yin Yang for dinner. And perhaps, I'll unwind at the Hide & Find Bar Côn Đảo in the evening.
As I reflect on my day, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Con Dao Island. It’s a place where nature and culture intertwine, creating a truly unforgettable experience. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.
Puerto Rico will always be a part of me, but I'm glad I took a chance and moved to Berlin. It's allowed me to expand my horizons and see so much of the world. This solo trip to Con Dao is a perfect example of that, and I can't wait to see where my travels take me next.