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Story: Phuong Nguyen
Photos: Tonkin, Thien Nguyen
With vibrant coral reefs, lush primeval forests, white-sand beaches, and world-class resorts, Con Dao has become an irresistible destination for both Vietnamese and international travelers. For those seeking a place rich in historical significance and the enduring spirit of national resistance, filled with pride and patriotism, Con Dao offers that experience.
Our Vietnam Airlines plane gently tilted as it descended toward Con Dao, home to Vietnam’s most unique and shortest runway. From the plane’s window, I glimpsed Dam Trau Beach, one of the island’s loveliest beaches.
A former “Hell on Earth”
According to accounts by Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu in 1705, the Vietnamese referred to the island as Con Lon. When Western powers seized it in the mid-19th century, they renamed it Poulo Condore. A tragic chapter began in 1862, when French forces turned Con Dao into a prison island, using its remote location in the open sea to prevent patriotic Vietnamese prisoners from escaping. For more than a century (1862 – 1975), the island became known as a “Hell on Earth,” infamous for its harsh conditions and the brutal torture of prisoners, many of whom were key revolutionary figures imprisoned for their fight for national independence.
Visiting the notorious sites recorded in history books – Phu Hai and Phu Tuong prisons, Hang Duong Cemetery, Pier 914 – we were overwhelmed with emotion and pride for the resilience of our ancestors, who sacrificed their lives so our nation could rise. Generations of patriots rest eternally at Hang Duong Cemetery, a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of a nation with a proud tradition of patriotism.
Transformed into “the jewel of the East Sea”
After the country was unified, Con Dao quickly emerged from its dark past. Today, it is celebrated not only for its breathtaking scenery but also as a world-recognized marine ecological reserve, home to many rare and endangered species. In 2013, Con Dao was officially named Vietnam’s first marine Ramsar site.
A speedboat took us to the sea turtle conservation area on Bay Canh, one of the small islands adjacent to Con Dao’s main island. This is the largest sea turtle conservation area in Vietnam. The management board of Con Dao National Park continuously monitors, protects, and assists mother turtles during the nesting season, and supports thousands of hatchlings as they return to their natural habitat in the open sea. During our visits, we were fortunate to witness two sacred moments: mother turtles laying eggs and the hatchlings’ wobbly journey into the sea.
Beyond its rich biodiversity, Con Dao is also home to some of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches. After exploring historical sites and learning about marine conservation efforts, we relaxed at a resort designed in harmony with nature. Today, Con Dao is celebrated as a “resort paradise,” offering modern, luxurious accommodations along pristine, untouched shores.
Many travelers wholeheartedly agree that Con Dao masterfully blends pristine nature with comfort and modern amenities in vibrant, secluded beachfront accommodations. Thanks to this combination, this jewel of the East Sea consistently places among the top must-visit destinations, as recognized by international tourism boards and major travel publications.
- Travel + Leisure ranked Con Dao in the Top 10 Most Welcoming Islands in the World (2020).
- Lonely Planet described it as the “Hidden Gem of Southeast Asia”.
- CNN Travel praised its pristine beauty and rich biodiversity, comparing it to the Seychelles and the Maldives.
- In 2023, Con Dao was nominated as a Global Green Destination, affirming its commitment to sustainable tourism development.
