Out of the 15 islands forming the CĂ´n Äảo archipelago, only CĂ´n SĆĄn is inhabited, multiplying the potential for sunbathers and snorkellers to enjoy secluded beaches and see colourful coral reefs and fish. Even hikers can enjoy this beach destination by exploring the vast national park that covers most of the island. Far enough from the mainland to feel remote, but close enough to reach with a short plane ride, the CĂ´n Äảo archipelago has all the makings of an idyllic holiday. Here are seven ways to spend your time on the island.
Every journey has secret destinations that even travelers canât expect.
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Soak up the beachy vibesÂ
Flip flops, summer dresses and the islandersâ laid back attitude will tip you off. The weather here is warm all year round, and the locals take advantage of the sunshine at the many beaches scattered around the island. Spend a day at Äáş§m Tráş§u Beach, surrounded by a pine forest with easy access to the water and gentle waves. Closer to town is Lò VĂ´i Bay. The low tide in the morning and early afternoon is perfect for taking a walk. There youâll see fishermen out on their basket boats and children foraging for shells in the sand.
Test out the waters
Diving and snorkelling in CĂ´n Äảo is among the best in the country. Save a day to join a boat tour to the coral reefs at Hòn TĂ i, Bảy Cấnh or Câu islands, where you can spot stingrays, barracuda, turtles, moray eels, batfish, clownfish and cuttlefish. Apart from boat tours, youâll have plenty of offshore snorkelling opportunities as well. Äáş§m Tre Lagoon is one of CĂ´n SĆĄnâs best snorkelling spots, reached via an adventurous two-hour hike. On one end of Parkplatz Vong beach youâll find the national park trail leading to the lagoon. Donât forget to bring your snorkelling gear to see the many clams that inhabit the waters of Äáş§m Tre.
Hike the National ParkÂ
Most of CĂ´n SĆĄn is covered in trees, much to nature loversâ delight. Hikers can access trails from many different parts of the island, but one of the best hiking routes starts right at the parkâs entrance. The paved trail to Ăng Ä᝼ng rock beach is easily managed, and on your way, youâll find interesting information about the jungleâs unique ecosystem. For a full-day activity, take one of the many trails that split off at Ăng Ä᝼ng beach.

Isolated from the mainland, the Con Dao Islands are one of the star attractions in Vietnam. Long the Devilâs Island of Indochina, the preserve of political prisoners and undesirables, this place is now turning heads thanks to its striking natural beauty. Con Son, the largest of this chain of 15 islands and islets, is ringed with lovely beaches, coral reefs and scenic bays, and remains partially covered in thick forests.
TIP: Some of CĂ´n SĆĄnâs amazing trails ââ such as the hike to ThĂĄnh GiĂĄ, the highest point on the island ââ arenât well marked. Itâs a good idea to hire a guide if you want a safe and more insightful experience.
Ride the coastal highway
In CĂ´n SĆĄn, driving a scooter is a local pastime. The islandâs main road, connecting the North to the South, runs along the coast. Here, motorcyclists drive at a leisurely pace to take in the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. There are many tempting viewpoints along the drive, but the most breathtaking view is at Chim Chim Cape. Walk out on the tip of the peninsula to observe the waves crashing into the islandâs steep cliffs. Even locals gather here to watch the sunset, or to stargaze at night.
Visit a turtle hatching sanctuaryÂ
Bảy Cấnh, one of the islands in the archipelago, is where many marine turtles arrive from the Philippines to hatch their eggs. If youâre interested in this natural phenomenon, you can join the small organised tours that run daily from April to October during the hatching season. The guides, who are also conservationists, will tell you all about the behaviour of the turtles and the threats they face. In the early hours of the morning, you might get lucky and see hundreds of baby turtles rushing to the ocean.
Get to know the town
Youâll quickly become acquainted with CĂ´n SĆĄn, a small town with a smattering of colonial-era buildings plus several newer shops, hotels and restaurants. A bicycle ride is the best way to situate yourself. Small cafes such as Infinity provide a nice spot to cool down with a cĂ phĂŞ sᝯa ÄĂĄ. You may want to visit the PhĂş Hải Prison for a glimpse into the islandâs history as a former penal colony. Of course, CĂ´n SĆĄn is bursting with seafood joints ââ pick one with a live catch on display for a fresh seafood dinner. If youâre in the mood for Vietnamese food, try QuĂĄn Än Nguyen An, or the delicious handmade noodles at Gia Minh.
TIP: Finish your night with a cocktail at the lively 200 Bar, known for its classic rock playlist.
Relax at your resort
The most talked-about accommodation on CĂ´n Äảo is Six Senses. Six Senses specialises in immersive wellness retreats, and creates the ideal atmosphere to de-stress in its bamboo beachfront villas. The resortâs long private beach, eco-friendly design and celebrity guest list all contribute to its reputation. There are, however, other lovely places to stay in CĂ´n SĆĄn. Villa Maison is a boutique hotel in the heart of the town with cosy, stylish rooms and a fantastic restaurant. Budget travellers can try Maiâs Homestay, run by a local island girl and her partner who built their homestay with sustainability in mind.



