The history of Con Co Island
Located along the 17th parallel, Con Co Island held a strategic military position during the Vietnam War, guarding a key access point between the Gulf of Tonkin and the East Sea. It was once a heavily militarized outpost, serving as a frontline island for communication, defense, and supply routes during some of the most intense years of the conflict.
Although peaceful today, the island still carries deep symbolic weight. Several memorials and patriotic landmarks remain, including the Hill 37 Monument, the National Flagpole, and the Traditional House, which honors the soldiers who served and sacrificed here. These quiet reminders of Con Co’s wartime past make it not only a place of natural beauty but also one of historical reflection.
Nature & scenery
Formed by volcanic activity over 40,000 years ago, Con Co Island features dramatic basalt rock formations, a narrow tropical rainforest, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. The island supports a surprisingly rich ecosystem, home to coral, seaweed, crustaceans, tropical birds, and a variety of coastal plants spread across distinct forest layers.
Unlike most Vietnamese islands, Con Co has rocky shores instead of sandy beaches, giving it a rugged, untouched feel. From the lighthouse, you can take in sweeping views of the island and sea, while the harbor area is a perfect spot to watch the sun set behind returning fishing boats. The lack of development makes the entire landscape feel peaceful, raw, and surprisingly wild.
Things to Do on Con Co Island
While Con Co Island is small and undeveloped, it offers a few quiet, authentic experiences for those who enjoy nature, local culture, and war history. Here are the main things to do and see during your visit:
Snorkeling around the island
The highlight for most visitors is snorkeling in the clear waters surrounding Con Co. The island’s coral reefs, seaweed beds, and rocky seafloor support a diverse range of marine life. While facilities are basic, the underwater world is vibrant and mostly untouched. Bring your own gear or ask locals in advance about rental options.
Climb the Con Co Lighthouse
Standing on the island’s highest point, the Con Co Lighthouse offers a panoramic view of the entire island and the open sea. Reaching the top involves a short walk through the forest, and once there, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping coastal scenery and a sense of just how remote and quiet the island truly is.
Visit the National Flagpole
At 38.8 meters tall, this is one of the largest flagpoles on Vietnam’s offshore islands. Covered in granite and flying a massive red flag, it serves as a symbol of Vietnamese sovereignty and is a popular photo spot for domestic visitors.
Hill 37 Memorial Monument
This small but meaningful monument honors those who fought and died defending the island. It’s a place of reflection and remembrance, especially important given the island’s wartime history.
Explore the traditional house (Museum)
Located in the main village, the Traditional House of Con Co District introduces visitors to the island’s history, natural resources, and development efforts. It also showcases wartime memorabilia and photos that reflect the resilience of the island’s former defenders and current residents.
Enjoy quiet walks and local seafood
With little traffic and few visitors, the island is ideal for slow walks along the coastline or through the village. In the evening, enjoy simple but fresh seafood meals at local eateries or homestays — often featuring the day’s catch.
Join night fishing or squid fishing
If you’re staying overnight and lucky enough to connect with local fishermen, you might have the chance to try night fishing or squid fishing. It’s a quiet, memorable experience that offers a glimpse into daily island life — but must be arranged in advance and isn’t guaranteed.
Visiting Con Co Island
Can foreigners visit Con Co Island?
Officially, there are no published restrictions on foreign visitors, but access can still be complicated. Con Co remains a militarily sensitive area, and while domestic tourism is encouraged, it’s unclear whether foreigners are always allowed to visit freely. Very few foreign reviews or tour reports exist, and some travelers have reported issues accessing similar islands in Vietnam.
If you’re a foreigner considering a visit, it’s strongly recommended to check in advance with a local travel agency or the boat operators in Quang Tri or Hue. Be prepared for possible permit requirements, last-minute schedule changes, or even denial of access depending on the current policy.
Accommodations on the island
Tourism on Con Co is still in its early stages. There are currently only two or three guesthouses on the island, all basic in comfort and facilities. Rooms may lack air-conditioning, hot water, or consistent Wi-Fi, and online reviews (where available) tend to be mixed.
While acceptable for a short stay if you’re prepared, the island is not suited for travelers expecting comfort or convenience. Booking options are limited online, so it’s best to arrange accommodation in advance through a local contact or tour provider.
Food and local facilities
There are no restaurants in the typical tourist sense — only a few local eateries and homestay kitchens serving simple, fresh meals, mostly based on seafood. Portions are generous, and prices are reasonable, but the variety is limited, especially for those with dietary restrictions.
Shops on the island are very small and basic. Bring your own snacks, toiletries, and any medications you might need, as options are extremely limited once you’re there.
How to get to Con Co Island
To reach Con Co Island, you’ll need to depart from Cua Viet Port in Gio Linh District, Quang Tri Province. Currently, passenger boats operate three times per week — on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays — run by either Greenline DP5 or Chin Nghia ferry.
Boats depart the mainland at 8:00 AM and return from the island at 8:00 AM the following day, making it an overnight trip by default. The journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on sea conditions.
Schedules can change based on weather and seasonal demand, so it’s important to check with ferry operators or a local agency in Quang Tri ahead of time. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the summer months or national holidays.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Con Co Island is from March to August, during the dry season when the sea is calm and boat services run more reliably. This period also offers the best conditions for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying the island’s clear weather.
Avoid visiting between September and November, when storms and rough seas are common. Boat trips may be canceled with little notice during this time, and even if you make it to the island, conditions are not ideal for outdoor activities.
Is Con Co Island worth visiting?
Con Co Island is not for everyone. It’s remote, undeveloped, and difficult to access — with basic accommodation, very few facilities, and limited tourist infrastructure.
That said, it might be worth considering if you’re:
- Already in Quang Tri and want to explore something off the beaten track
- Interested in Vietnam’s wartime history and patriotic landmarks
- Looking for a quiet, local island experience with snorkeling and fresh seafood
For most international travelers, Con Co is not recommended as a standalone destination, but for the right kind of visitor, it offers a rare and raw experience that few others get to see.
