Con Co Island, a volcanic treasure off Vietnam’s coastline, showcases dramatic basalt cliffs and pristine beaches adorned with clam shells, sand, and coral fragments.
Nhi Linh, a tourism expert from Quang Tri, recently visited Con Co Island with friends. She explains that accessing the island requires a 1-1.5 hour boat ride from Cua Viet Port.
Two high-speed boats, Chin Nghia and Con Co Tourist, operate daily trips to the island, departing at 8 a.m. and returning the next morning. One-way tickets cost 340,000 VND per person.
“The single daily boat schedule requires visitors to stay overnight on the island,” Linh notes.
The island’s harbor is the sole maritime gateway to the mainland, welcoming all arrivals, from delegations to tourists.
According to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, Con Co Island, situated along the 17th parallel, serves as both a guardian of national sovereignty and a breathtaking destination in Central Vietnam.
Covering 2.3 km², over 70% of the island is blanketed by untouched forest, preserving a rare three-tiered tropical rainforest ecosystem.
Exploring this pristine forest by bicycle is a must-do activity for visitors.
Given its compact size, Con Co is perfect for bicycle exploration, allowing visitors to discover its rich biodiversity and enjoy the fresh air with ease.
April to August is the ideal time to visit, offering sunny weather, minimal rain, and calm seas perfect for swimming and coral diving.
Nhi Linh recommends exploring historical sites and popular spots like Ben Nghe, Bai Tranh, the lighthouse, the national flagpole, and the Memorial Site on Hill 37.
Bai Tranh and Ben Nghe, the island’s main beaches, feature gentle waves, weak currents, and clear waters, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Ben Nghe is also renowned for its stunning sunrise views.
Iconic attractions on the island.
Since 2024, several island facilities have been upgraded, including the Thai Van A Observatory, Bang Vuong cluster, military hospital bunker, and traditional house, enhancing visitor experiences.
Nhi Linh highlights various activities such as tandem biking, paddleboarding, snail catching, and sea grape harvesting.
Recent additions include glass-bottom boat tours, seasonal coral diving, bonfires, and cultural exchanges with locals and military personnel.
The lighthouse, a popular photo spot, offers panoramic views of the island.
Accommodation options include government guesthouses and homestays, priced between 400,000 and 600,000 VND per night, often with meal services.
Local restaurants serve unique seafood dishes like king oysters, cone snails, and sea grapes.
King oysters, a Con Co specialty, are notably large, weighing 1.2-1.5 kg, with some reaching 3 kg.
Con Co’s culinary delights include king oysters, cone snails, and sea grapes.
Due to their quality and scarcity, king oysters are primarily consumed locally, with limited quantities reaching the mainland.
Their firm, sweet meat is enjoyed fresh or in dishes like oyster porridge or grilled oysters with scallions.
Nhi Linh emphasizes the freshness and affordability of all island seafood.
Visitors should adhere to local regulations for a safe and meaningful trip.
Nhi Linh advises booking tickets in advance due to potential schedule changes caused by weather and passenger numbers.
As a military zone, visitors must carry valid ID and essentials like motion sickness medication, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
On the island, conserve freshwater, minimize plastic waste, respect no-photography zones, and avoid disturbing rock crabs.
