Con Co Island – The Emerald Gem of the Sea

One day, as you stand on the shores of Cua Tung Beach and gaze into the vast horizon, you might catch sight of a faint green dot in the distance – that is Con Co Island, a small isle with stories as immense as the ocean that surrounds it.

The Journey Begins at the Coordinates of the Nation

Located at 17°10′N latitude and 107°21′E longitude, about 30 km off the mainland, Con Co belongs to Con Co Island District, Quang Tri Province. Though it spans just 2.3 square kilometres and is home to only a few hundred residents, the island embodies raw beauty and resilient life – a rough-cut emerald lying quietly in the heart of the sea.

Born of Earth and Fire

Few would imagine that millions of years ago, this island was formed by volcanic eruptions, which left behind layers of rich basalt soil. The once-molten lava has since transformed into striking rock terraces – known locally as “three-step platforms” – a rare geological wonder. From this terrain has sprung a lush, three-layered tropical rainforest, untouched and vibrant.

Surrounding the island are small, secluded beaches, their sand composed of crushed white coral, and crystal-clear waters so transparent you can see straight to the seabed.

A Snorkeller’s Paradise

These turquoise waters offer one of Con Co’s most enchanting experiences: snorkelling among coral reefs just metres from shore. No need for diving suits or complex gear – just a simple mask is enough. Swim gently a few metres out, and you'll find vibrant coral gardens teeming with life. Predominantly hard coral mixed with soft varieties, the reefs shimmer in hues of ivory, orange, pink, and violet, dazzling beneath the sunbeams dancing on the water’s surface.

A Living Monument of Patriotism

Con Co is not just a place of natural wonder – it is also a living monument to Vietnam’s history. During the war against America, the island served as a strategic stronghold. More than 4,200 supply vessels from the mainland arrived here, delivering over 2,500 tonnes of weapons, fresh water, and medicine. Ben Nga, on the island’s southwest coast, played a key role in wartime logistics.

Today, visitors can explore historical landmarks such as:

• A-shaped bunkers – shelters for soldiers amidst relentless bombardment

• Martyrs’ Memorial – a tribute to those who gave their lives for the island’s defence

• Resistance Flagpole Monument – a silent witness to the island’s heroic past

In 2005, Con Co was awarded the prestigious title Hero of the People’s Armed Forces, symbolising national sovereignty and unwavering patriotism in the East Sea.

Live with Nature – Experience the Island with All Senses

The adventure typically begins with a high-speed boat departing from Cua Viet Port at 7:30 AM, taking about 1.5 hours to reach the island. Boats operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with tickets costing around 200,000 VND per trip.

Once on the island, you can travel by electric vehicle or rent a motorbike to roam along coastal paths, through forests, or up to quiet rocky cliffs. One of the most unforgettable experiences is cycling through the rainforest, breathing in the scent of damp leaves while waves whisper through the canopy.

Wake up early – around 4 to 5 AM – and join local fishermen as they cast their nets. In the dim morning light, tiny boats glide across the waves, pulling in silver fish, mackerel, squid... and laughter carried on the sea breeze.

Seafood & Specialities – Gifts from the Ocean

Con Co boasts some of the richest seafood in Central Vietnam. Among the delicacies, none is more famous than the "king oyster", a special variety far larger, firmer, and sweeter than typical oysters. Grilled with scallion oil, this is the unofficial welcome dish for every visitor to the island.

Two Icons Not to Miss: The Lighthouse and the National Flagpole

Standing at 78.2 metres, Con Co Lighthouse, operational since 2006, is the island’s guiding eye, ensuring safe passage for ships and signalling the presence of land during storms.

Nearby, the 38.8-metre-tall national flagpole, bearing a 24m² flag, rises proudly on the easternmost tip of Quang Tri. It is a symbol of sovereignty and a solemn reminder of the quiet sacrifices made to safeguard Vietnam’s maritime frontier.

Con Co – More Than a Trip, It’s a Feeling

Although only recently opened to tourism, Con Co has retained its pristine charm and simplicity. In time, it may become more modern and comfortable, but one thing will remain unchanged – the feeling of pride and gratitude when standing on this tiny yet resolute island, the beating heart of Vietnam’s East Sea.

 Phong Nha Viet