Family Adventure to the Con Dao Islands

A Day of Serenity and History

Today was a beautiful blend of natural beauty and historical reflection. Con Dao continues to surprise me with its hidden corners and poignant stories etched into the landscape. It's days like these that remind me why I love sharing our family's travel experiences – hoping to inspire others to seek out the authentic heart of a place.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at An Ơi Cafe & Restaurant. Maximilian and Elena were particularly excited about the fresh bread, and I couldn't resist trying their Vietnamese coffee. It was the perfect start to fuel our explorations. The cafe had such a cozy atmosphere, it felt like we were visiting old friends.

Discovering Bãi Nhát

Our first stop was Bãi Nhát, a beach known for its unique characteristic of appearing only during low tide. We timed our visit perfectly, arriving just as the tide receded, revealing a stunning stretch of golden sand. The surrounding hills provided a dramatic backdrop, and the tranquil atmosphere was exactly what we needed. Elena loved running along the shore, collecting seashells and chasing the gentle waves. Maximilian and I took the opportunity to relax and soak in the peaceful ambiance. It was a photographer's dream, with the vibrant sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.


Discover the serene beauty of Bãi Nhát, a hidden coastal paradise on Côn Đảo Island, perfect for relaxation and breathtaking sunsets.

Sometimes, the most beautiful places are those that reveal themselves slowly, demanding patience and rewarding those who seek them out.

We learned that Bãi Nhát used to be a local waste disposal site, and was known as “bãi rác”. But, after a clean-up effort, it transformed into a tourist attraction. We took some time to appreciate the transformation and the importance of taking care of our environment.

Exploring the Vietnam Heritage Tree

Next, we ventured inland to find the Vietnam Heritage Tree. The walk to the tree was a short but pleasant hike through the island's lush interior. The path was easy enough for Elena, with a few stone steps that added a touch of adventure. As we approached the tree, its colossal size became apparent. It was a truly magnificent sight, a testament to nature's enduring power. We spent some time admiring its massive trunk and gnarled branches, imagining all the stories it could tell.


Explore the Vietnam Heritage Tree: A majestic symbol of nature’s beauty and resilience in Côn Đảo, Vietnam.

According to the Vietnam Heritage Tree Council, there were 24 heritage trees recognized in Con Dao. The trees include the tropical almond tree, bishopwood, Lumnitzera littorea, wild gold apple, velvetleaf soldierbush, giant crepe myrtle, longan, conacaste, rain tree, and Peltophorum dasyrhachis. Many of the trees are over 150 years old and date back to when the French colonists began constructing the prison in 1862.

I thought about Sofia Hernandez, a marketing consultant from Cholula, Mexico, who now lives in Bielefeld, Germany. I, too, have a deep appreciation for heritage. I think of my hometown, Cholula, and its rich history. Con Dao has a similar feeling of history and culture. I am glad I can share this with my family.

Lunch and Local Flavors

For lunch, we stopped at Tân Sơn Quán, a local eatery recommended for its authentic Vietnamese cuisine. We savored some fresh seafood dishes, and Elena particularly enjoyed the spring rolls. It's always a treat to discover new flavors and experience the local culinary scene.


Discover Tân Sơn Quán: A top seafood destination in Côn Đảo offering fresh flavors and stunning coastal views.

Shopping at Linh Bùi Store

In the afternoon, we decided to do a little shopping. We stopped by Linh Bùi Store, which offered a variety of Vietnamese costumes and clothing. Elena was immediately drawn to the colorful áo dài, and we couldn't resist buying her one as a souvenir. The store had a lovely atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly helpful, making our shopping experience even more enjoyable.


Discover the charm of Vietnamese culture at Linh Bùi Store, Côn Đảo's premier destination for unique costumes and clothing.

Dinner at Cây Bàng Đỏ

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Cây Bàng Đỏ for dinner. The restaurant was known for its local dishes, and we were eager to try some more authentic Vietnamese flavors. The meal was delicious, and the ambiance was perfect for a relaxing evening.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Cây Bàng Đỏ in beautiful Côn Đảo – where tradition meets flavor.

Reflections on Con Dao

Today was a reminder of the simple joys of travel – discovering hidden beaches, exploring historical landmarks, and savoring local cuisine. Con Dao has a way of slowing down time, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the present moment. As we walked along the beach, Elena chattered about her day, Maximilian shared interesting facts about the island's history, and I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. It's moments like these that make our family adventures so special.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Hòn Bảy Cạnh and Hòn Tre Lớn, two more of Con Dao's stunning islands. We're also looking forward to trying TYNA FOOD & COFFEE for breakfast, Kwai's Bistro Con Dao for lunch, and Nhà hàng Phố Biển for dinner. And perhaps, if we have time, we'll stop by the Wine & Coffee Bar Côn Đảo House for a relaxing evening drink. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us!

I am excited for what tomorrow brings!