Family Adventure to the Con Dao Islands

Con Dao's Coastal Charms

Today was an immersion into the natural beauty and conservation efforts of the Con Dao Islands. Leaving behind the familiar streets of Con Son town, we set out on a boat adventure to explore the nearby islands and contribute to the preservation of the local marine life. It’s days like these that remind me why I love traveling – the opportunity to witness nature's wonders and support the communities dedicated to protecting them.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at TYNA FOOD & COFFEE. Maximilian opted for a strong Vietnamese coffee, while Elena enjoyed a delicious smoothie. I chose a traditional Banh Mi, savoring the combination of fresh herbs and savory fillings. Fuelled up, we were ready for our island hopping adventure. The November weather was on our side, offering a comfortable temperature and calm sea conditions. It was the perfect setting for a day of exploration and relaxation.

First on our itinerary was Hòn Bảy Cạnh, known for its significant sea turtle nesting sites. As we approached the island, the turquoise waters and lush greenery created a stunning backdrop. Hòn Bảy Cạnh is the second largest island in the Con Dao Archipelago, characterized by its seven sandy beaches. The island is part of the Con Dao National Park, which has been actively involved in sea turtle conservation since the 1980s.


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

We were fortunate to arrive during the nesting season. The Con Dao National Park is considered the most important turtle breeding ground in Vietnam. From May to October, green and olive ridley sea turtles come to the island to lay their eggs. The park's efforts have led to the hatching and release of over 1.5 million baby turtles into the sea.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

We visited the mangrove forest, where we spotted land crabs scurrying among the roots. It was fascinating to learn about the vital role these forests play in the island's ecosystem. Our guide explained the importance of mangrove forests in protecting the coastline and providing a habitat for various marine species. Elena was particularly intrigued by the crabs, and Maximilian captured some great photos of them. We then had the incredible opportunity to witness the release of baby turtles into the sea. It was an emotional moment, watching these tiny creatures embark on their perilous journey into the vast ocean. The conservation center carefully incubates the eggs to protect them from predators and ensure a higher hatching rate. Elena was ecstatic as she gently placed a baby turtle on the sand and watched it crawl towards the waves. It was a powerful lesson in the importance of protecting endangered species. We learned that only about one in a thousand turtles will reach adulthood, making conservation efforts crucial.

After our visit to Hòn Bảy Cạnh, we headed to Hòn Tre Lớn, also known as Big Bamboo Island. This island is a pristine paradise with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. We snorkeled in the crystal-clear waters, marveling at the colorful coral and schools of fish. The coral reefs around Hòn Tre Lớn are considered some of the most beautiful in Con Dao. Maximilian and I took turns diving deeper to get a closer look at the intricate formations, while Elena enjoyed floating on the surface with her inflatable ring. The underwater world was teeming with life, from tiny clownfish to larger parrotfish. It was a truly unforgettable experience.


Experience the untouched beauty of Hòn Tre Lớn, a tranquil island retreat in Ba Ria - Vung Tau, offering stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.

For lunch, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Kwai's Bistro Con Dao. The bistro had a cozy atmosphere, and the menu offered a mix of Vietnamese and Western dishes. We shared a fresh seafood platter, savoring the flavors of grilled prawns, squid, and fish. Elena enjoyed a simple pasta dish, while Maximilian tried a local Vietnamese beer. The bistro was a perfect spot to relax and recharge after our morning of exploration.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Kwai's Bistro Con Dao, where every meal is an unforgettable experience in paradise.

In the late afternoon, we returned to Con Son town and decided to unwind at the Wine & Coffee Bar Côn Đảo House. This charming spot offered a variety of wines and coffee, creating a relaxed ambiance. Maximilian and I enjoyed a glass of local wine, while Elena sipped on a refreshing fruit juice. The bar had a modern design and a pleasant atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind. We chatted about our day, sharing our favorite moments and planning our activities for the rest of the trip.


Discover the tranquil charm of Côn Đảo House, where exquisite wines and aromatic coffee meet the beauty of Vietnam's serene landscapes.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Nhà hàng Phố Biển for dinner. This seafood restaurant was known for its fresh ingredients and authentic Vietnamese flavors. We ordered a variety of dishes, including grilled scallops, steamed clams, and fried spring rolls. The food was delicious, and the service was attentive. Elena particularly enjoyed the spring rolls, while Maximilian raved about the grilled scallops. It was a perfect way to end our day of island hopping and turtle conservation.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Nhà hàng Phố Biển in Côn Đảo - where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Côn Đảo Market, hoping to immerse ourselves in the local culture and sample some traditional Vietnamese snacks. We also intend to relax on Dat Tham Beach, known for its pristine sands and tranquil atmosphere. A shopping trip to Mocoda Shop is also on the cards.

Before heading back to our guesthouse, we took a stroll along the beach, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves. The sky was ablaze with stars, creating a magical atmosphere. It was a perfect end to a day filled with natural wonders and meaningful experiences. I am so grateful for the opportunity to share these moments with my family and contribute to the preservation of this beautiful island.

Con Dao has truly captured my heart with its stunning landscapes, rich marine life, and dedicated conservation efforts. It's a destination that offers both relaxation and adventure, making it a perfect choice for families and nature lovers alike. I am already looking forward to discovering more of its hidden gems in the days to come.

I am learning to appreciate the simple things in life, like family, nature, and good food. I am reminded of the importance of preserving our planet for future generations. It’s not just about seeing these places, but protecting them. It’s about giving back to the world that has given me so much joy and inspiration. I hope that our travels can inspire others to do the same, one small step at a time.

I am also reminded of how fortunate I am to have Maximilian and Elena by my side on this journey. Their love and support mean the world to me, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with them. Together, we are creating memories that will last a lifetime, and I cannot wait to see what adventures lie ahead.