An Hai Beach Con Dao
Calm shores in the island's heart.
4.5 ⭐ (215)
Introduction
An Hai Beach Con Dao (Bãi An Hải) is a public beach located on the southeastern side of Con Dao Island, adjacent to the main town center. Its primary significance is its accessibility, making it the most convenient stretch of sand for visitors staying in town. The beach is characterized by its calm, sheltered waters, a gentle slope, and views of the nearby hills and public pier, serving as a popular spot for both locals and tourists to swim and relax.
Sunrise Viewing
The beach's east-facing orientation makes it an excellent location to watch the sunrise. Early mornings offer serene conditions as the sun appears over the horizon, casting a warm light across the calm sea and white sand.
Swimming and Relaxing
The sheltered bay ensures that the water at An Hai is typically gentle and clear, especially before noon. It's a suitable spot for a casual swim or simply relaxing on the sand without needing to travel far from your accommodation in town.
A Stroll to the Pier
At the northern end of the beach is the main pier (Cầu tàu du lịch Côn Đảo). A walk along this structure provides a different perspective of the coastline and is a popular place to see local fishing boats moored in the bay.
Getting there
From the Con Dao Town Center to An Hai Beach (approx. 0.5 - 1.5 km):
🛵 Motorbike: 2-5 mins
🚶 Walking: 5-15 mins. The beach is easily walkable from most hotels and guesthouses located in the main town.
⚠️ Notes: Given its central location, walking is the most common and practical way to reach An Hai Beach. The roads are generally quiet, especially in the morning, making it a pleasant stroll.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 24 hours
- Notes: This is a public beach with no restricted hours.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Admission is free for all visitors.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- The dry season in Con Dao, from November to April, offers the best weather with calm seas and sunny skies. For the best experience at An Hai Beach itself, visit in the early morning to enjoy tranquil, clean water and fewer people.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Plan for 1-2 hours for a swim and some relaxation. If you're coming for sunrise, you might stay a bit longer to enjoy the morning calm.
Tips from locals
Local tips
🏖️ An Hai Beach is the island's most developed beach, fronted by several resorts and hotels. While this offers convenience, for a more pristine and secluded experience, consider traveling to Dam Trau Beach near the airport or taking a boat trip to the smaller surrounding islands.
🌅 The beach faces east, making it a prime spot for sunrise, not sunset. Arrive around 5:30 AM to find a good spot and watch the sky change colors over the tranquil water. It's a quiet and reflective experience before the town fully wakes up.
🧹 Because of its proximity to town, the beach can sometimes have litter, especially after a busy weekend or holiday. For the cleanest conditions, visit on a weekday morning after the daily cleaning has taken place.
💡 Walk south along the beach to find quieter sections away from the main pier and central access points. Here, you'll find more open space and fewer people, offering a more peaceful setting just a few hundred meters from the busiest area.
Be aware
🚮 As the most accessible town beach, An Hai can experience issues with trash being left behind, particularly during peak tourist seasons and on weekends. While cleaning efforts are made, it may not be as immaculate as the island's more remote beaches.
📢 The beach's convenience means it is the default choice for many. It can become relatively crowded and noisy in the late afternoons and on weekends with both locals and tourists, which may detract from a tranquil experience.
FAQs
Is An Hai Beach free to visit?
Yes, An Hai Beach is a public beach and there is no entrance fee.
How do I get to An Hai Beach?
If you are staying in the main town of Con Dao, the beach is just a 5-15 minute walk away. It is the most easily accessible beach on the island.
Is it safe to swim at An Hai Beach?
Yes, the water is generally very calm and shallow, making it safe for swimming. There are no strong currents in the bay.
Are there restaurants or cafes on the beach?
There are no restaurants directly on the sand, but many cafes, restaurants, and hotels are located on the street that runs parallel to the beach, just a few steps away.
Can you see the sunset from An Hai Beach?
No, An Hai Beach faces east, so it is a location for watching the sunrise. For sunsets, you would need to go to the western side of the island, such as Dam Trau Beach.
Is An Hai Beach clean?
It is generally clean, especially in the mornings. However, due to its popularity and proximity to town, it can sometimes have litter compared to more remote beaches.
What is the sand like at An Hai Beach?
The beach has fine, white sand that is comfortable for walking and relaxing.
Are there any water sports at An Hai Beach?
Organized water sports are not a major feature here. The primary activities are swimming and sunbathing. You may find kayak rentals at some of the nearby resorts.
Is An Hai Beach good for families with children?
Yes, the calm, shallow water and soft sand make it a very suitable and safe option for families with young children.
Is the beach crowded?
It can be, especially in the late afternoons and on public holidays or weekends. For a quieter experience, visit in the early morning.
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