Uncover the “Gem of the South”, Indulge in Delicacies With Embarrassing Names but Heavenly Taste

Venturing through the primitive forest leads to Ong Dung Beach, a serene stretch of coastline with fine white sand and crystal-clear waters. Here, visitors can unwind, try their hand at fishing, or dive into the refreshing waters to explore the vibrant coral reefs beneath.

In addition to its ecological and scenic value, the area also offers a cultural experience through its pearl farms. Visitors can observe the entire process of pearl cultivation, from the seeding stage to the harvesting of precious pearls, and even have the opportunity to purchase pearl-crafted products as unique souvenirs of their trip.

Ong Dung Beach invites visitors to relax and immerse themselves in its tranquil beauty.

Dam Tre Bay

Located on the northern side of Con Dao, Dam Tre Bay is a sheltered bay where the sea and mountains harmoniously converge, creating a picturesque landscape of mystical and romantic scenery. The bay’s gentle winds and serene surroundings offer a sense of comfort and tranquility to visitors.

While it may lack towering mountains or grand caves, Dam Tre Bay captivates travelers with its naturally endowed beauty and diverse ecosystem. It has become a new “check-in” hotspot, especially for those who relish the experience of overnight camping and exploring pristine nature.

Beyond swimming and sunbathing, visitors to Dam Tre Bay in Con Dao can also enjoy scuba diving to admire the coral reefs, observe swallows nesting, watch seabirds soaring in the sky, or explore the diverse and rich ecosystem of the mangrove forest.

Dam Tre Bay is also an ideal spot for camping and al fresco dining with your loved ones.

Bay Canh Islet

Bay Canh Islet, one of the islands in the Con Dao archipelago, captivates visitors with its pristine natural beauty and rich biodiversity, offering unique and captivating experiences.

With its relatively small size, the islet is renowned for its long stretch of fine white sand, emerald-green waters, and a characteristic tropical primitive forest ecosystem. The highlight of Bay Canh Islet lies in its sea turtle conservation efforts.

It is one of the largest green turtle (Chelonia mydas) nesting sites in Vietnam. Visitors have the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring process of mother turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs at night during the breeding season and observe the tiny hatchlings making their way back to the vast ocean. This experience not only holds great educational value in nature conservation but is also an incredibly moving and memorable moment.

Beyond sea turtle conservation, Bay Canh Islet offers other captivating nature exploration experiences. Visitors can embark on hikes through the primitive forest, marveling at the diverse and rich flora, including rare tree species. Scuba diving to admire the colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life is another enticing option. The waters surrounding the islet are home to various tropical fish species, creating a vibrant and lively underwater canvas.

Hang Duong Cemetery

With its tropical climate, the ideal time to explore Con Dao is from March to September, when the sea is calm and the sun is gentle, perfect for sightseeing and exploration. Here are five fascinating and meaningful destinations in Con Dao, where visitors can not only capture memorable moments but also deeply appreciate the historical, cultural, and natural significance of this place.

When visiting Hang Duong Cemetery in Con Dao, it is customary to light incense to pay respects to the heroic souls resting there. Notable figures laid to rest here include the revolutionary martyr Le Hong Phong, the patriotic scholar Nguyen An Ninh, the heroic Vo Thi Sau, Cao Van Ngoc, and Le Van Viet, among others.

Hang Duong Cemetery serves not only as a spiritual site but also as a space for visitors to express their gratitude and reflect on the past. At night, from 9 pm until midnight, a steady stream of people visit Vo Thi Sau’s tomb to pay their respects and offer prayers.

Nui Mot Pagoda

Nui Mot Pagoda, also known as Van Son Tu, is a spiritual destination that exudes peace and tranquility, offering breathtaking views. Perched atop a mountain, the pagoda is designed in the traditional Buddhist architecture of East Asia, overlooking the Con Son Bay and the An Hai lotus pond.

From this vantage point, visitors can take in the panoramic views of the Con Dao town, the vast ocean, and the majestic mountains. Nui Mot Pagoda is not only a place for seeking blessings but also an ideal “check-in” spot, especially at sunrise or sunset. Photographs captured at the pagoda’s entrance or from a higher vantage point overlooking the bay convey a sense of serenity and capture the unique beauty of Con Dao.

Nui Mot Pagoda offers a peaceful retreat and a stunning backdrop for photographs.

Must-Try Delicacies in Con Dao

Sea Snail (Oc Vu Nang)

Con Dao is not just a destination for natural wonders but also a journey through history, culture, and spirituality. Additionally, the island boasts a plethora of delectable dishes that captivate travelers from near and far.

With a name that sparks curiosity and a hint of sensitivity, Con Dao’s sea snail, or “oc vu nang,” is a culinary masterpiece from the deep blue sea that captivates food enthusiasts. Its distinctive shape, resembling a woman’s breast, gives this snail its intriguing name. However, beyond the name lies a delicious treat—a tender and chewy delicacy that encapsulates the very essence of Con Dao’s seas.

This snail species has a grayish-black shell, but its meat, when skillfully prepared, reveals a pristine white, firm texture. What sets Con Dao’s sea snail apart is its larger size compared to those found in other regions, resulting in meat that is thicker and more flavorful. Despite its somewhat “shy” name, this delicacy leaves an indelible impression on those who taste it, making it a must-try culinary experience when visiting Con Dao.

Con Dao’s sea snail, or “oc vu nang,” is a renowned delicacy loved by many.

Bang Fruit Candy

Bang fruit candy, a specialty of Con Dao, embodies the essence of the sea and the warmth of the people of this distant island. The ripe bang fruits, after a meticulous preparation process, transform into a chewy, sweet, and slightly tangy treat. The golden-brown color of the candy reflects the sunshine and sea breeze of Con Dao.

When savored, the gentle sweetness melts on the tongue, blending with the fragrant aroma of ripe bang fruit, evoking memories of the lush bang trees along the coastline. Bang fruit candy is not just a tasty snack but also a meaningful gift, carrying the distinctive flavors and fond memories of Con Dao to share with loved ones and friends.

One-Sun Dried Mackerel

One-sun dried mackerel from Con Dao is a gift from the sea, bearing the characteristic flavors of this island. It consistently tops the list of must-buy items for visitors. The uniqueness of this fish lies in its meticulous preparation process.

Freshly caught mackerel, straight from the local fishermen’s nets, is simply rinsed with saltwater to retain its natural sweetness. The secret lies in the single sun-drying process, carefully timed so that the fish dries just enough to reduce moisture while preserving its freshness and tenderness. This technique eliminates the strong fishy odor typically associated with fresh fish while avoiding the dryness commonly found in conventional dried fish.

When cooked, the fish retains its softness and distinctive aroma. Locals often prepare it in various mouthwatering dishes, such as braising it with pepper for a flavorful kick or simmering it in a tangy tomato sauce. However, the most famous preparation is deep-frying the mackerel to a golden crisp. The white fish fillet, fried to perfection and paired with a spicy ginger fish sauce, is an irresistible combination that complements any meal. No wonder it is a beloved delicacy that leaves a lasting impression on all who taste it.

Con Dao captivates visitors with its pristine natural wonders, from the forests and seas of Ong Dung and Dam Tre to the historical landmarks at Hang Duong Cemetery. The island also unveils a diverse ecosystem and a delectable culinary scene, featuring specialties like sea snail, bang fruit candy, and one-sun dried mackerel. The fusion of breathtaking landscapes, historical significance, and unique flavors makes Con Dao an unforgettable destination.