Climate and region of Con Dao
Con Dao is an island archipelago located 230 km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, known for its remote beaches, diverse marine life, and rich history. The islands are part of the Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province and remain one of Vietnam’s most untouched coastal destinations.
The climate in Con Dao is tropical monsoon, divided into two seasons:
- Dry season (November to April): Warm temperatures, minimal rainfall, and calm seas make it the best time for beach holidays and diving.
- Rainy season (May to October): Characterized by higher humidity, occasional heavy showers, and overcast skies, though the sea remains calm compared to other coastal destinations in Vietnam.
May is a transition month, meaning that while the weather can still be pleasant, there is an increasing chance of rain later in the month.
Weather in Con Dao in May
May is hot and humid, with temperatures ranging between 27°C and 33°C (81°F to 91°F). The humidity levels rise, making the air feel warmer, especially during midday.
While the start of May still sees mostly dry conditions, as the month progresses, short but heavy rain showers become more common, particularly in the afternoons or evenings. These are not all-day rains, but rather brief tropical downpours that can be unpredictable.
The sea remains calm, and while visibility for diving is still good, the occasional rain may affect water clarity on some days.
Beach holiday or not?
May is a mixed month for a beach holiday. The first half of the month can still be great for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing on the beach, but as the rainy season sets in, there is an increasing chance of short but intense rain showers.
If you are visiting in early May, you can still enjoy long sunny days and warm water, making it a decent time for a beach getaway. However, if your main goal is clear, dry weather for the entire trip, it’s better to visit between December and April.
Travel tip: If you’re planning a beach holiday later in the month, consider heading to Vietnam’s central coast instead, where destinations like Hoi An, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Quy Nhon have ideal beach weather in May.
To see which months are best for visiting Con Dao, check our Con Dao weather from month to month.
Diving in Con Dao in May
Diving is one of the top reasons to visit Con Dao, and May falls within the high season for diving (March to September). While short rain showers may occur, they typically don’t disrupt diving conditions, and visibility remains good, often exceeding 15-20 meters.
During this time, divers can encounter colorful coral reefs, large schools of fish, rays, and even sea turtles. Some of the best dive sites include Bay Canh Island, Hon Tai, and Tre Lon Island, where both beginner and advanced divers can enjoy the underwater beauty.
For a complete diving guide, check our guide to diving in Con Dao.
Turtle watching season
May marks the start of the turtle nesting season in Con Dao, but the best chances to see them are later in the month. From late May to October, green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles come ashore to lay eggs on the protected beaches of Con Dao.
If you visit in late May, you may be able to witness the first turtles nesting at locations such as Bay Canh Island and Hon Cau Island, where conservation programs protect these endangered species.
For more details on turtle watching, check our guide to Con Dao’s turtles.
Is Con Dao worth visiting in May?
May is a transition month for Con Dao, and whether it’s worth visiting depends on your travel priorities.
- If you visit early in May, you’ll still enjoy mostly dry weather, warm seas, and good diving conditions.
- Later in the month, the increasing chance of rain showers and higher humidity can affect outdoor activities, though the sea remains calm.
- Diving is still good throughout the month, and for wildlife lovers, late May offers a chance to see the start of the turtle nesting season.
If you are looking for a guaranteed beach holiday with dry weather, it may be better to choose Vietnam’s central coast (Hoi An, Da Nang, Nha Trang, or Quy Nhon) in May. However, if you’re interested in diving or turtle watching, Con Dao can still be a great destination this month.
