Lucia's Solo Escape to the Tranquil Con Dao Islands

A Day of Discovery in Con Dao

As the sun began its ascent, casting a golden hue over the Con Dao Islands, I knew today would be special. The agenda included exploring secluded beaches and witnessing the wonders of marine life. With a mix of excitement and anticipation, I set out to embrace the natural beauty and tranquility that this island paradise had to offer.

My day started with a hearty breakfast at TYNA FOOD & COFFEE. Fuelled up with a strong Vietnamese coffee and a delicious bánh mì, I felt ready to take on the day. The cafe was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day in this island paradise. It's amazing how a simple breakfast can set the tone for an entire day of adventure.

Dat Tham Beach: A Secluded Paradise

My first stop was Dat Tham Beach, a hidden gem known for its pristine beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The journey to the beach was an adventure in itself, requiring a trek through the Con Dao National Park. As I walked along the 3km forest trail, I was surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. The educational signage along the way provided insights into the local flora and fauna, making the hike both enjoyable and informative.

Arriving at Dat Tham Beach, I was immediately struck by its untouched beauty. The beach was secluded, with clear waters and soft, white sands. The beach is well-maintained and surrounded by mangrove trees. I took a refreshing dip in the sea, enjoying the calm and clear waters. Although some reviews mentioned that entering the ocean can be challenging, I found it perfectly pleasant for a morning swim.

I spent a few hours lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The beach is also known for its beautiful corals, located just a short distance from the shore. Although I didn't have snorkeling gear with me, I could see the vibrant colors of the coral reef from the surface of the water. Dat Tham Beach truly felt like a hidden paradise, far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.


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

The beauty of Con Dao lies not just in its landscapes, but in the serene escape it offers from the world.

Hòn Bảy Cạnh: An Island of Conservation

After a refreshing morning at Dat Tham Beach, I set off to Hòn Bảy Cạnh, an island known for its diverse ecosystems and sea turtle conservation efforts. To get there, I had to take a boat from the main island, which offered stunning views of the surrounding archipelago. The boat ride itself was an experience, with the wind in my hair and the sun on my face.

Hòn Bảy Cạnh is a protected area, home to old-growth forests, mangrove forests, and vibrant coral reefs. The island is also one of the few places where green sea turtles come to lay their eggs during nesting season. Although I was visiting outside of nesting season (April to October), I was still able to learn about the conservation efforts and see the areas where the turtles nest. The island is actively involved in protecting sea turtles and their habitats.

I embarked on a hike to the island's lighthouse, a historic structure built during the French era. The hike took about two hours, winding through the island's lush forests and offering panoramic views of the surrounding sea. Reaching the lighthouse, I was rewarded with breathtaking views from the summit. The island is a versatile destination, offering beautiful beaches, old-growth forests, mangroves, and coral reefs.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Hòn Bảy Cạnh in Con Dao, a serene island paradise perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst stunning natural landscapes.

Culinary Delights: A Taste of Con Dao

After a day of exploring, it was time to indulge in the local cuisine. For lunch, I headed to Nhà hàng Phố Biển, a restaurant known for its fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese dishes. The restaurant had a charming ambiance, with an open-air setting and views of the sea. I savored a delicious seafood meal, enjoying the flavors of the local ingredients. The restaurant has a garden setting and a breezy sea view.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to ULA Restaurant & Bar Con Dao for dinner. This charming spot exudes a beach bar ambiance and offers an array of delicious dishes that showcase the best of Vietnamese cuisine. From beautifully plated grilled shrimp with exquisite marinades to light and crunchy fried silken tofu, every bite was a treat. The location and decor make this place a really good place to relax and watch the world go by. The staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating, making me feel right at home.

To cap off the evening, I decided to check out Beach House Restaurant & Cocktails Côn Đảo. Although it's not located directly on the beach, this cozy restaurant is highly recommended for its delicious food and friendly owners. Sipping on a refreshing cocktail, I reflected on the day's adventures and felt grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Con Dao.


Discover the exquisite flavors of Vietnam at Beach House Restaurant & Cocktails in Côn Đảo, where ocean views meet culinary artistry.

Evening Reflections

As I sit here, writing about my day, I can still feel the warmth of the sun on my skin and the gentle sea breeze in my hair. Con Dao has a way of captivating your senses and leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. It's a place where you can truly escape from the stresses of everyday life and reconnect with nature.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Van Son Pagoda and the Island Chief Palace, eager to delve deeper into the cultural and historical aspects of Con Dao. Before that, I'll grab breakfast at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant. I'm also looking forward to exploring more of the island's hidden gems and discovering new culinary delights. For lunch, I'm planning to try Kwai's Bistro Con Dao and Nhà hàng Poulo Condore for dinner. I might also do some souvenir shopping at Siêu thị đặc sản,quà lưu niệm côn đảo Hương Biển.

Con Dao has already captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. It's a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are found in the most unexpected places. As I prepare for another day of exploration, I feel a sense of excitement and gratitude for the experiences that lie ahead. This solo journey is proving to be exactly what I needed – a chance to reconnect with myself and the world around me.

The weather in Con Dao in December is generally pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) to 29°C (84°F). The humidity is relatively low, making it comfortable to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and snorkeling. December is also one of the driest months in Con Dao, with occasional short rain showers.