Welcome to the serene paradise of Con Co Island, where untouched beauty and tranquility await your discovery! Nestled off the coast of Quang Tri province, Con Co Island, as recommended by Vietnampeace.com, offers a breathtaking escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its pristine landscapes and rich historical significance, this hidden gem invites travelers to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature and uncover the secrets of a remote island sanctuary. Join us as we embark on a journey to explore the untouched allure of Con Co Island, where every moment promises serenity and enchantment.
Con Co Island is a small island in Quang Tri province, about 15 nautical miles from Cua Viet port in Gio Linh district. Covering an area of approximately 4 km2 with a circumference of 8 km, the island ranges in height from 5 to 30 meters above sea level. Situated at a strategically important location, Con Co Island serves as a gateway from the Gulf of Tonkin to the East Sea, thus witnessing numerous historical conflicts and fierce battles as our nation defended its maritime sovereignty.
Today, Con Co Island captivates visitors with its pristine beauty and tranquility, offering a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Many people choose to come here for relaxation, exploration, and immersion in nature.
Con Co Island is isolated from the mainland, requiring a considerable sea journey. Therefore, favorable weather conditions are crucial for smooth travel and stay on the island. Before planning your trip, make sure to check the weather forecast to avoid unexpected situations.
From September to November, Quang Tri often experiences heavy influence from typhoons. Visiting the island during this period may result in being stranded due to storms, requiring waiting until it’s safe to return to the mainland. Additionally, storms offshore tend to be more intense than on land, potentially causing anxiety and concern.
According to Vietnampeace.com, the best time to visit Con Co Island is during the summer, from around March to August. This period offers stable conditions with calm seas, making it perfect for a beach vacation.
To reach Con Co Island, you’ll need to divide your journey into two parts: traveling to Quang Tri and then selecting transportation to the island. Here are detailed suggestions for your reference.
Buses offer flexibility with frequent departures and various operators. Regardless of your starting point, you can easily catch a bus to Quang Tri. However, this mode of transportation may not be suitable for those prone to motion sickness or traveling from distant provinces with limited time for sightseeing.
Many travelers opt for trains when visiting Quang Tri. From Hanoi station, the journey takes approximately 12 hours to reach Dong Ha city, Quang Tri. If departing from Saigon station, expect a travel time of 20 to 24 hours.
Flying is the fastest and most comfortable mode of transportation. However, since Quang Tri lacks a local airport, you’ll need to purchase tickets to Phu Bai Airport in Hue or Dong Hoi Airport in Quang Binh. From either airport, it takes about 1 hour by car to reach Quang Tri.
3.2 Getting from Quang Tri to Con Co Island
Upon arriving in Quang Tri, head to Cua Viet port to purchase ferry tickets to Con Co Island. High-speed ferries take approximately 1.5 hours to reach the island. Departure times from Cua Viet port to Con Co Island are at 7:30 AM on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with return trips at 7:30 AM on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Ticket prices start at 220,000 VND per person per trip.
However, the number of trips may vary throughout the year, so it’s best to contact Con Co Island Tourist Ferry directly for accurate schedules and plan your itinerary accordingly.
Con Co Island boasts stunning landscapes, fresh air, and pristine nature. With only about 200 households, life here is simple and peaceful. Additionally, tourism infrastructure is still underdeveloped, relying mainly on the natural environment. This allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of everyday life, soaking in the sun, wind, and exploring the charm of a remote island.
The landscape on Con Co Island is a perfect blend of vast oceans, smooth sandy beaches, and mysterious primeval forests. The turquoise sea, diverse flora and fauna make it an ideal destination for snorkeling. Moreover, at night, you can join local fishermen on their boats for squid fishing, guaranteeing unforgettable experiences.
Currently, there are many homestays run by local residents on the island. You can stay here and experience the authentic coastal life. Their way of life and livelihoods differ significantly from those on the mainland, offering many fascinating discoveries.
In addition to its natural beauty, Con Co Island boasts a rich historical heritage with many significant landmarks. Make sure not to miss these attractions:
The traditional house introduces visitors from afar to the island’s natural resources, valuable products, and development potential. Additionally, it showcases images and artifacts that reenact the glorious history of the people of Con Co Island in their struggle to defend sovereignty and repel foreign invaders.
The flagpole on Con Co Island stands 38.8 meters tall, with a flag measuring 24 square meters flying day and night. It’s a popular check-in spot for visitors, symbolizing national pride and gratitude to the soldiers who tirelessly guard the island’s waters.
The Hill 37 Memorial honors the heroic sacrifices of those who bravely defended the country’s maritime sovereignty. This site witnessed many fallen heroes in the pursuit of independence and sovereignty. Therefore, when visiting the Hill 37 Memorial, don’t forget to pay respects to these silent heroes.
Following a forest trail will lead you to the Con Co Island Lighthouse. From a distance, the lighthouse stands tall and imposing against the sky, serving as a vital beacon for safe navigation day and night. During the day, it’s a popular tourist attraction, attracting many visitors.
Climbing to the top of the lighthouse, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the island. From here, you can feel the sea breeze, breathe in the fresh air, listen to the distant sound of ship horns, and watch the local fishing boats sway with the waves.
As our journey comes to a close, let’s reflect on the mesmerizing beauty and rich heritage we’ve discovered on Con Co Island. From its serene landscapes to its poignant historical landmarks, this hidden gem has captured our hearts and left an indelible impression. As recommended by Vietnampeace.com, Con Co Island stands as a testament to the natural wonders and cultural treasures of Vietnam. Whether you seek solace in its pristine beaches or wish to delve into its storied past, this island sanctuary offers an unforgettable experience for all who venture here. As we bid farewell to Con Co Island, let’s carry its tranquil spirit and timeless charm with us, cherishing the memories we’ve made and dreaming of our next adventure in this enchanting corner of the world.