Summer diving season: explore the vibrant coral reefs of Con Dao

Popular diving spots include Bay Canh island, Tai island, Dam Trau Beach, Dam Tre Bay, and Cau island. These sites are home to dense and diverse coral reefs. In the crystal-clear water, visitors can easily spot clusters of staghorn coral, soft coral, mushroom coral, and many other forms in various shapes and colors, interwoven with schools of fish, sea urchins, starfish, and sea anemones.

Visitors travel by speedboat to the bays and islands before diving. Photo: Van Phai

Bay Canh island is one of the most popular diving destinations, known for its extensive and diverse coral reefs. Photo: Van Phai
Depending on their preference and physical condition, visitors can choose between snorkeling (surface diving with a snorkel) or scuba diving (deep diving with an air tank accompanied by a guide). Some tours are organized in small groups and combine other experiences such as kayaking, swimming, and enjoying fresh seafood on board or at a beachside location.

Clear blue waters ideal for swimming and diving to admire coral reefs. Photo: Van Phai

Con Dao boasts about 1,700 hectares of coral reefs, home to around 360 species. Photo: Van Phai

Corals in Con Dao come in many forms such as branching, table, plate, disk, and mound. Photo: Van Phai

Photo: Văn Phái

While diving, visitors will often encounter schools of fish swimming among the coral reefs. Photo: Van Phai

Coral reefs not only help reduce wave energy, erosion, and storm damage along coastlines, but they also serve as vital habitats for thousands of marine species including fish, crustaceans, mollusks, starfish, and sea cucumbers. Photo: Van Phai

Christmas tree worms (Spirobranchus giganteus) are widely distributed across the coral reefs. Photo: Van Phai
The Con Dao National Park Management Board oversees numerous islands with rich coral reef ecosystems. Visitors can register for coral diving tours directly with the Management Board or through eco-tour operators affiliated with them. Group tours start at VND 900,000 per person, covering destinations such as Cau island, Bay Canh island, or Tai island. Additionally, tours can be customized to meet specific visitor interests.

After a day of diving, visitors can also participate in the unique experience of watching sea turtles come ashore to nest — an activity typically taking place at night on Bay Canh island. Photo: Van Phai
Beyond its stunning underwater beauty, Con Dao also captivates visitors with its pristine nature, fresh air, and tranquil pace of life. After a day of diving, travelers can cycle around the island, watch the sunset, or explore historical sites linked to the island’s rich past.