Cầu tàu 914

Strolling along the picturesque promenade of Con Son island, it is impossible not to notice the majestic stone structure reaching out into the turquoise waters of the ocean. Known as 914 Pier, this site is one of the most significant historical landmarks that Con Dao takes pride in. This place is not just a jetty, but an architectural monument of the colonial period that has become a symbol of resilience and memory for the whole of Vietnam.

The pier is located in the very heart of the town, directly opposite the monumental Governor's Palace. Today, it attracts travelers with its stunning panoramic views of the sea and neighboring islands. Here, you can always see bright fishing boats that add a special flavor to the landscape, making this spot a favorite among photography enthusiasts.

The name of the structure carries a deep meaning: the number 914 symbolizes the vast number of human lives sacrificed during its arduous construction in the colonial era. Thus, the pier harmoniously combines the beauty of the natural landscape with a profound emotional history, making it a must-visit for every guest of the archipelago.

For those planning a visit on their own, we have gathered some practical information. Although the site is open to the public and located outdoors, it is useful to have the contact details for the Con Dao historical sanctuary, which manages the area.

When visiting 914 Pier, guests first and foremost seek to enjoy the inspiring views. It is an ideal vantage point for ocean watching, offering a panorama of azure waters and green islands visible in the distance. Photographers will find plenty of subjects here—from traditional boats with eyes painted on the bow to picturesque moments of local fishermen's daily lives.

A walk along the wide stone surface of the pier is one of the most pleasant activities, especially during the pre-dawn hours or at sunset. At these times, the heat fades, and the sky is painted in incredible shades, turning the jetty into one of the most romantic spots on the island. Many tourists come here simply to sit on the edge, listening to the sound of the surf and relaxing in the shade of the coastal trees.

An important part of the visit is a stop at the memorial located at the base of the pier. This site allows you to pay tribute to the builders and feel the historical depth of this landmark. The combination of contemplative relaxation and historical remembrance makes a visit to the pier a rich and meaningful experience.

Finding 914 Pier is easy, as it is located in the heart of Con Son town, on the central promenade street, Tôn Đức Thắng. If you are staying in one of the town's hotels, you can reach it on foot, using the prominent Governor's Palace building directly opposite as a landmark.

For travelers arriving from the airport (a distance of about 13 kilometers), it is most convenient to take a taxi or rent a motorbike—the most popular way to get around the island. Its proximity to the port and main tourist routes makes the pier an easily accessible point to visit at any time of day.

The history of this structure began in 1873, when the French colonial authorities decided to build a jetty for the island's needs. Work continued for many decades, and 914 Pier only acquired its modern appearance by 1930. Every block in its foundation was hand-carved from stone at the foot of Mount Chua.

The most remarkable and somber fact is that the jetty was built entirely by the prisoners of Con Dao prison. Under conditions of incredibly hard physical labor, the workers secretly kept count of their fallen comrades. The number 914 in the name is a tribute to those who lost their lives to exhaustion, accidents, and the harsh regime during the construction of these walls.

Despite the dark pages of its past, the pier is now considered an important architectural monument of the colonial era. It symbolizes incredible strength of spirit and serves as a living testimony to the island's history, having transformed from a place of forced labor into one of the most visited and revered landmarks of the archipelago.

For a quick introduction to 914 Pier, including a stroll along the promenade and a look at the memorial plaque, 30–60 minutes is quite enough. This is sufficient time to take beautiful photos against the backdrop of the sea and soak in the atmosphere of the place.

However, for a more meaningful visit, we recommend setting aside about 2–3 hours. This will allow you not only to enjoy the views from the jetty but also to visit the nearby Con Dao Museum and the Governor's Palace, creating a complete historical route through the center of the island.

For the convenience of tourists, 914 Pier is open to visitors 24 hours a day. You can come here at any time—whether to catch the first rays of the sun at dawn or for an evening stroll to the sound of the waves. Entry to the pier area is free of charge.

As the site is managed by the Con Dao National Relic Conservation Center, visitors are encouraged to check their official website for information on special tours or commemorative events. Otherwise, access to the pier itself remains unrestricted throughout the week.

Exploring the surroundings of 914 Pier allows tourists to get a more complete picture of this amazing region's past. Thanks to its central location, you can easily combine a walk by the sea with a visit to other significant sites within walking distance.

Many of these locations are part of the unified historical heritage complex of Con Son town. Below is a list of nearby attractions that will help you dive deeper into the island's cultural code: