Con Dao is home to some of the most stunning and diverse beaches in Vietnam, offering everything from pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters to secluded coves surrounded by lush jungles. Whether you’re looking for tranquility, adventure, or breathtaking natural beauty, these 11 best beaches in Con Dao promise unforgettable experiences.
1. Dam Trau Beach
Dam Trau Beach is undoubtedly one of Con Dao’s most iconic and beautiful beaches. With its golden arc of sand framed by casuarina trees and rocky headlands, this beach offers a picturesque retreat just a short distance from Co Ong Airport. The waters are calm and clear, making it ideal for swimming, while the surrounding natural scenery of primeval forests and rugged cliffs enhances its charm.
It’s not uncommon for visitors to pause and watch planes glide low over the beach, adding a unique flair to this serene spot. Recently restored to preserve its natural glory, Dam Trau Beach is perfect for those seeking relaxation with a touch of adventure, whether it’s snorkeling, exploring nearby mangrove paths, or simply enjoying the breathtaking sunsets.
2. An Hai Beach
An Hai Beach is a tranquil escape just south of Con Son town, offering convenience and natural beauty in equal measure. Fringed by lush coconut palms and casuarina trees, the beach is backed by green mountains, creating a postcard-perfect setting. Its wide stretch of soft sand and clear, cool waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
While the beach’s proximity to town means it’s easily accessible, its peaceful atmosphere ensures it never feels overcrowded. However, visitors should be mindful of occasional sandflies and the potential for increased development in the area. An Hai is perfect for those looking to enjoy a serene beach day just minutes from the town center.
3. Suoi Nong Beach
Suoi Nong Beach is a hidden gem tucked away south of the more popular Dam Trau Beach, offering an escape into tranquility and natural beauty. Accessible through a scenic jungle pathway, this secluded beach is a haven for those seeking peace and quiet, far from the more frequented spots on Con Dao.
The soft white sand, crystal-clear water, and thick jungle backdrop create a stunning setting that feels untouched. A freshwater stream flowing into the sea adds to the beach’s charm, while its spacious shoreline invites relaxation, leisurely walks, or exploration of nearby mangroves. Suoi Nong is the perfect destination for those looking to unwind in solitude while soaking in Con Dao’s breathtaking landscapes.
4. Nhat Beach
Nhat Beach is undoubtedly one of the most dramatic and picturesque beaches in Con Dao, offering breathtaking scenery and a unique coastal experience. Located along the southern coastline, this beach stretches for several kilometers, with gin-clear water, rice-white sand, and rugged boulders scattered along the shore. The backdrop of Nui Thanh Gia, the island’s highest mountain, adds a striking element to the landscape, making it feel like a scene from a movie.
Best enjoyed in the morning when the tide is low, Nhat Beach reveals more of its pristine shoreline and calm waters, ideal for swimming or simply strolling along the sand. While the lack of shade can be a challenge, the serenity and stunning views more than make up for it. However, the nearby landfill is a reminder of the island’s environmental challenges, highlighting the delicate balance between its natural beauty and the need for preservation.
5. Lo Voi Beach
Lo Voi Beach, situated at the northern end of Con Son town’s scenic promenade, is a peaceful haven offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This ribbon of white sand stretches along the calm and shallow turquoise waters, making it an excellent spot for a relaxing stroll or a quiet afternoon by the sea. Casuarina trees line the beach, providing a gentle breeze and a serene atmosphere.
At low tide, the sandy expanse extends far into the sea, and adventurous visitors can explore a hidden cove around the headland. However, this beach also bears a somber legacy from its past as a dumping ground for prisoners during the island’s prison era. Today, a memorial park honors those who suffered here, adding depth to the tranquil surroundings. Lo Voi is not just a place for leisure but also a site for quiet reflection amidst stunning natural beauty.
6. Dat Doc Beach
Dat Doc Beach, located just 4 kilometers east of Con Son town, is a secluded gem that offers a tranquil retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Known for its pristine white sand, calm turquoise waters, and picturesque surroundings, this beach provides a perfect setting for relaxation and exploration. Flanked by gentle hills and lush greenery, it’s one of the most visually stunning beaches in Con Dao.
This beach is adjacent to the luxurious Six Senses Resort, and while parts of the area may be restricted to guests, there are accessible stretches for public enjoyment. Whether you’re kayaking, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun under the shade of nearby trees, Dat Doc Beach delivers a serene experience. Visitors should come prepared with their own supplies, as there are no food or drink vendors here, ensuring an unspoiled and peaceful environment.
7. Ong Dung Beach
Ong Dung Beach is a hidden gem nestled within the Con Dao National Park, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility. Located approximately 2 kilometers northwest of the park’s central area, this beach is surrounded by dense jungle and a vibrant ecosystem. While the sandy shore is relatively narrow, it gives way to an expansive rocky coastline shaped by centuries of waves and wind, creating a rugged yet captivating landscape.
For snorkelers and nature enthusiasts, Ong Dung Beach is a treasure trove. The nearby coral reefs teem with marine life, and the clear turquoise water provides excellent visibility. The beach also has a relaxed atmosphere, enhanced by the occasional monkey scurrying around, adding a touch of wilderness. Though it’s not the easiest beach to access, requiring a short hike or taxi ride, the journey is worth it for the serene environment and the opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form.
8. Dam Tre Lagoon & Secret Beach
Dam Tre Lagoon and Secret Beach are a secluded paradise located at the northern tip of Côn Sơn Island. Accessible only through a scenic hiking trail that winds through dense jungle or by speedboat, the journey to these spots is as rewarding as the destination itself. The lagoon is surrounded by lush greenery and features crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling. The vibrant coral reefs beneath the surface add to the lagoon’s allure for those who love marine life.
Adjacent to the lagoon is Secret Beach, a crescent-shaped stretch of soft sand backed by dense jungle. A charming swing in the shallow waters offers a photogenic spot for relaxation. While the area is breathtakingly beautiful, it’s important to exercise caution when swimming, especially during an outgoing tide, as the current can be strong.
9. Bai Vong Beach
Bai Vong Beach is one of the longest and most expansive beaches on Con Dao, offering a sweeping stretch of soft sand backed by casuarina trees. Located on the northeast of the island, this beach transforms with the seasons. During the summer months (April to September), the calm waters resemble an infinity pool, making it perfect for swimming and relaxation. In contrast, the northeast monsoon season (October to March) brings dramatic waves and a rugged atmosphere to the beach.
At around 2.5 kilometers in length, Bai Vong Beach provides ample space to explore or enjoy some solitude. Its low tide reveals vast expanses of sand, giving it the appearance of a river estuary rather than a typical beach. Several dirt paths lead to Bai Vong, but the easiest access is from the southern end near Poulo Condor Resort. Late afternoons are particularly magical here, with serene views and tranquil waters ideal for unwinding.
10. Ong Cau Beach
Ong Cau Beach, tucked away on the undeveloped southwest coast of Con Dao, is a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush tropical foliage. Accessible only by a jungle trail from the west coast road, this secluded beach is a hidden gem for those who enjoy exploring off the beaten path. The sandy stretch is nestled in a picturesque bay, offering a peaceful escape from the island’s busier spots.
When the sea is calm, the crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, and just 50 meters from the shore, you’ll find coral formations ideal for snorkeling. The beach’s isolation does come with a few challenges—picnic trash can sometimes mar the area, and visitors are advised to keep an eye out for snakes on the path leading down to the beach. Despite these minor drawbacks, Ong Cau Beach offers a serene and secluded setting, making it a great spot for nature lovers and adventurers seeking solitude.
11. Con Son Beach
Côn Sơn Beach, located along the seafront of Côn Sơn town, is less about pristine sands and more about embracing the lively, social atmosphere of the island. During low tide, a stretch of sandy beach emerges, drawing locals and tourists alike. In the mornings and late afternoons, the beach becomes a hub of activity, with families and friends wading in the shallow waters, playing games, or simply enjoying the serene views.
One of the best times to visit is around sunset when the golden hues of the sky reflect on the calm waters, creating a picture-perfect scene. Nearby, the vibrant energy of the seafront promenade comes alive with food vendors and cozy cafes like the Côn Sơn Cafe, offering a great spot to relax with a drink. While it’s not the most idyllic beach for sunbathing or swimming, Côn Sơn Beach shines as a gathering place, showcasing the charm of Vietnam’s coastal community life.