Con Dao tops list of the world’s 30 most mysterious islands

The renowned U.S. travel magazine Travel + Leisure has ranked Con Dao first on its list of the world’s 30 most mysterious islands. The recognition once again highlights the growing appeal of the Vietnamese archipelago among international travelers.

According to Travel + Leisure, the selected islands are distinguished by their unspoiled beauty, limited exposure to mass tourism, and ability to offer visitors a sense of escape from modern-day life. These destinations are particularly suited to travelers seeking privacy, tranquility, and close connections with nature.

In its feature on Con Dao, the magazine described the archipelago off Viet Nam’s southeastern coast as an ideal destination for those seeking a more peaceful side of the country.

Secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic granite outcrops contribute to the unique charm of the island group. The magazine compared Con Dao’s natural beauty to that of the renowned Amalfi Coast, but without the crowds typically associated with world-famous tourist destinations.

Topping the latest ranking adds to a growing list of international accolades for Con Dao. Previously, Business Insider included the archipelago among the world’s most mysterious islands, while CNN described it as one of Asia’s “beach paradises.” Lonely Planet has also recognized Con Dao as one of the region’s most compelling travel destinations.

In 2024, both Time Out and Vogue featured Con Dao in their lists of must-visit destinations around the world.

Located approximately 185 kilometers from the mainland, Con Dao comprises 16 islands with a total area of about 76 square kilometers. The archipelago is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, unspoiled beaches, and relatively well-preserved natural landscapes.

Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including coral reef diving, trekking through Con Dao National Park, exploring smaller islands, and observing sea turtles coming ashore to nest during the breeding season, which typically runs from July to September each year.

Beyond its natural attractions, Con Dao is also deeply rooted in Viet Nam’s history. Sites such as the Con Dao Prison complex and Hang Duong Cemetery bear witness to the archipelago’s historical significance. The combination of leisure, nature-based experiences, and cultural-historical exploration has helped create Con Dao’s distinctive identity.

The destination’s growing appeal is reflected in its tourism performance. According to local authorities, Con Dao welcomed more than 410,000 visitors in the first six months of the year, up 3.5 percent compared with the same period last year. International arrivals reached nearly 24,000, marking a 62 percent increase, while tourism revenue was estimated at more than USD 76 million, up around 15 percent.

With its pristine beauty, protected ecosystems, and rich cultural and historical heritage, Con Dao is steadily reinforcing its position as one of the most attractive travel destinations in Viet Nam and the wider region.