First Time Exploring Con Co Island: 6 Things You Must Know!

Weather is a key factor determining the success of a trip to Con Co Island, as it is located in the open sea and easily affected by large waves and storms. According to Sovaba Travel, the ideal time to explore Con Co is from March to August, especially from April to June. This is when the sea is calm with smooth waves, creating favorable conditions for boat travel. The sunny weather during this period is perfect for participating in outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling to see coral reefs, and visiting tourist spots on the island. In addition, avoiding the storm season (from September to November) is also an important factor, helping travelers avoid boat cancellations or the risk of being stranded on the island due to bad weather.

Note:

• Always check the weather forecast at least 3-5 days before departure. If there are signs of rough seas, consider postponing your trip.
• Prepare a contingency fund in case you have to stay on the island longer than expected due to bad weather.

Con Co was a military island before developing tourism, so identity document checks are very strict. To ensure a smooth trip, you need to bring full personal identification documents: original ID card/Citizen Identification Card or passport. Foreign visitors also need to bring valid documents to be allowed to visit.

Preparing personal items:

• Medication: Motion sickness medicine, insect repellent, sunscreen, personal medication (if any).
• Clothing: Swimwear, hats, non-slip footwear, lightweight clothing suitable for coastal weather.
• Support equipment: Camera, power bank, diving goggles (if you want to see corals), waterproof bags.
• Freshwater: Freshwater on the island is scarce, so use it sparingly and bring your own water bottle.

Note: Con Co Island now has 24/7 electricity, but you should still bring a power bank as electricity may be unstable during peak season. 

Speedboat is the most popular means of transportation to Con Co, departing from Cua Viet port with a travel time of about 1.5 hours. Ticket prices range from 220,000 – 250,000 VND/person/way. The boat schedule usually runs in the summer, and the frequency may decrease during the low season. If traveling in a large group (10 people or more), you can choose to rent a private boat for around 3,000,000 VND for a round trip. In addition, if you want to save time and experience a full package, you can book a Con Co Island tour from Sovaba Travel, which includes boat tickets, meals, and a tour guide.

Travel notes: You should contact the transport provider, such as Cua Viet port, in advance to check the boat schedule and book tickets. Also, don't forget to bring motion sickness medicine and prepare some light snacks before boarding to avoid fatigue during the trip.

Tourism infrastructure on Con Co Island is still limited, with about 50 guest rooms belonging to public agencies such as the district party committee guest house or the military command. Some popular accommodation options:

• Con Co District Party Committee Guest House: Contact in advance via 0982 408 135. Room prices range from 300,000 – 500,000 VND/night.
• Con Co Lighthouse Guesthouse: Phone number 0917 334 234, suitable for small groups.
• Homestay: Experience the life of the islanders for about 300,000 – 350,000 VND/night. This is a great way to better understand the local culture.
• Camping: If you like backpacking, you can bring tents and sleeping bags, but you need to ask permission from the island management board to ensure safety.

Notes:

• Book rooms at least 1-2 weeks in advance, especially during peak season (April-June).
• If rooms are full, you can ask to stay at a local resident's house, but you need to contact the island management board in advance.

Cuisine on Con Co Island mainly consists of fresh seafood such as grilled oysters, cone snails, squid, and fish. However, food and beverage services are still limited, especially breakfast.

• Eateries: Small eateries on the island serve seafood and local dishes, priced from 100,000 – 200,000 VND/serving. Some places offer evening karaoke services (40,000 VND/hour).
• Bring emergency food: Since eateries often do not open in the morning, you should bring dry food (instant noodles, bread, snacks) for breakfast or in case of emergency.

Environmental protection note: Do not eat or catch rock crabs – a protected species on the island. Violations can be fined from 1,000,000 – 2,500,000 VND/crab.

Con Co Island is not only famous for its natural beauty but also carries deep historical value. Below are the destinations you should visit:

• Traditional House: Displays nearly 80 photos and 60 artifacts about the history of resistance, having received commendation letters from Uncle Ho three times.
• National Flagpole: Standing 38.8m high, a symbol of sea and island sovereignty, an ideal place to check-in and learn about history.
• Con Co Lighthouse: Standing tall amid the primeval forest, offering a panoramic view of the island and the East Sea.
• Ben Nghe: A unique basalt rock beach, where the first rays of sunlight hit the island, closely linked to the war supply history.
• Ben Tranh: A beautiful beach with fine white sand, ideal for swimming and coral reef diving.
• Medical bunker and pillbox: War relics preserving the heroic memories of the army and people of Con Co.

Notes:

• Do not take photos or record videos in military areas with prohibition signs; violators may be prosecuted.
• When diving to watch corals, do not touch corals or take them as souvenirs to protect the ecosystem.

To make your trip to Con Co even more complete, you can join an all-inclusive tour if it is your first time visiting the island, which helps save time and provides knowledgeable local guides. Don't forget to discover the beauty of the sunrise at Ben Nghe or watch the sunset from the lighthouse—unmissable, wonderful moments. If you have time, try night squid fishing by boat (costing about 1,000,000 – 1,500,000 VND/boat), an exciting activity to experience the beauty of the sea at night. Additionally, connecting with locals or soldiers on the island will help you better understand the unique life, history, and culture here.

A trip to Con Co Island may not be as glamorous as other famous destinations, but it leaves very special emotions: the tranquility amid pure nature, moments of reflection standing before the memorial monument, and the cool, clear blue water on a Central summer afternoon. And when you are ready with all the necessary tips, that first journey will become the beginning of many returns. Because there are places that the more we go to, the more we love, and Con Co is such a place: rustic, gentle, and full of life.