A Solo Escape to the Enchanting Con Dao Islands

Diving Deep into Con Dao's Aquatic Treasures

As my Con Dao adventure nears its end, I wanted to dedicate a day to fully embracing the island's natural beauty, both above and below the water. Today was all about exploring the vibrant marine life at Hòn Bảy Cạnh and soaking in the panoramic views from Chim Chim cape. It was a day of discovery, a day of serenity, and a day that further solidified my love for this archipelago.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Tân Sơn Quán. It's always a pleasure to start the day with a delicious local meal, fueling up for the adventures ahead. After breakfast, I set off for Hòn Bảy Cạnh, also known as Bay Canh Island, a protected area renowned for its rich marine biodiversity. The boat ride to the island was smooth, the sea a shimmering expanse of turquoise under the clear morning sky.
As we approached Hòn Bảy Cạnh, I could already see the lush greenery that blankets the island. This island is the second largest in the Con Dao archipelago and is divided into two parts connected by the Cat Lon beach. What makes it special is that it is a conservation area; it has mangrove forests and is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
I was eager to explore the underwater world. Snorkeling gear in hand (thankfully remembered this time!), I plunged into the crystal-clear waters. Immediately, I was greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors. Coral reefs teemed with life, vibrant fishes darted in and out of the coral, and the sunlight danced through the water, creating an ethereal glow. I was mesmerized by the sheer diversity of marine life.
I spent hours exploring the reefs, each moment revealing something new and wondrous. I spotted sea turtles gracefully gliding through the water, their shells shimmering in the sunlight. Schools of colorful fish swam around me, seemingly unafraid of my presence. I even caught a glimpse of a 'tank crab' in the mangrove forest, a species unique to Con Dao. It was truly an underwater paradise, a testament to the importance of marine conservation. I was reminded of the fragility of these ecosystems and the need to protect them for future generations.

The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.

After my snorkeling adventure, I took some time to explore the island itself. Hòn Bảy Cạnh is not just about marine life; it also boasts a rich ecosystem of tropical forests and mangrove forests. I hiked through the lush greenery, breathing in the fresh, salty air. I learned that Cat Lon beach on Bay Canh island is one of 14 spawning grounds of sea turtles in Con Dao. The island has the largest number of turtles spawning. Unfortunately, my trip is in December, and the turtles' mating season is between April and October.

Experience the tranquil beauty of Hòn Bảy Cạnh in Con Dao, a serene island paradise perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Later in the afternoon, after returning from Hòn Bảy Cạnh, I had lunch at Huyền Mập. I decided to try their famous Bun Bo soup, which was highly recommended. The restaurant was charming, the staff were friendly, and the Bun Bo soup was delicious! After a satisfying meal, I decided to head to my next destination: Chim Chim cape.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Chim Chim Cape, a scenic spot in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, where tranquility meets stunning coastal views.
Chim Chim cape is one of the most renowned destinations in Con Dao. As I approached the cape, I was immediately struck by its natural beauty. The turquoise beaches, the imposing mountains, the golden sands, and the lush green landscapes created a dreamy landscape.
I spent the rest of the afternoon exploring Chim Chim cape. I walked along the coastline, the waves crashing against the rocks, creating a soothing soundtrack to my adventure. The panoramic views of the South China Sea were simply breathtaking. I found a quiet spot to sit and reflect, the gentle sea breeze caressing my face. It was a moment of pure serenity, a perfect way to end a day of exploration.
As the sun began to set, I made my way to Sea Sense Bar and Grill for a well-deserved drink. Sipping on a refreshing cocktail, I watched as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The sunset at Chim Chim cape was truly magical, a fitting end to a day filled with natural wonders.
Before dinner, I decided to have a drink at Sea Sense Bar and Grill. Sipping on a refreshing cocktail, I watched as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.
For dinner, I chose Yin Yang, a restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food. Run by a German-Vietnamese couple, the restaurant had a Zen vibe that made me feel right at home. I savored every bite, feeling grateful for the experiences of the day.
As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of the simple joys of travel: exploring new places, immersing myself in nature, and connecting with the local culture. Con Dao has a way of captivating the soul, of reminding us of the beauty that exists in the world. I'm already looking forward to my final day here, where I plan to visit the Vo Thi Sau Hero Grave and Di tích Bãi Sọ Người, to pay homage to the island's history. Tomorrow, I'll grab breakfast at Hani Bakery 2, have lunch at Quán Tri Kỷ, and then have a final dinner at Nhà hàng Poulo Condore. Before heading to the airport, I'll do some souvenir shopping at Mocoda Shop.
As my trip comes to a close, I'm reminded of why I started this blog in the first place: to share my love for travel and to inspire others to explore the world. And Con Dao, with its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and rich history, is a destination that deserves to be explored.
Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.
I'm so grateful for the opportunity to have experienced this enchanting archipelago. Until next time, Con Dao, thank you for the memories.
And to my readers, thank you for joining me on this journey. Stay tuned for my final blog post from Con Dao, where I'll share my reflections on the trip and offer some final tips for visiting this beautiful destination.