PRISTINE BEAUTY DESERVES TO BE PRESERVED
Isolated off the southern coast of Vietnam, Côn Đảo emerges like a majestic painting—home to lush primeval forests, untouched beaches, and remarkably preserved historical landmarks. Beyond its serene, unspoiled landscapes, the island is a rare ecological haven, quietly embracing the rhythms of nature where the ancient life cycle of sea turtles continues just as it has for centuries.
Côn Đảo is one of the few places in Vietnam where sea turtles still return to nest each year. During the nesting season, hundreds of green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) journey across vast oceans to lay eggs on the same sandy shores they were born. Their return is drawn by the island’s ideal conditions: calm seas, gentle lighting, and a pristine environment free from noise pollution.
In recent years, turtles from as far as Malaysia and the Philippines have traveled thousands of kilometers to choose Côn Đảo as their nesting ground—a living testament to the island’s pure biodiversity, guiding these precious lives back home.
Yet this fragile ecosystem is facing mounting challenges: from plastic pollution and unevenly developed tourism models, to a lingering lack of awareness about ecological and environmental values. Traditional nesting beaches are gradually shrinking, while hatchlings—whose natural survival rate is less than 1 in 1,000—are in urgent need of human support and protection to stand a chance at life.
SMALL ACTS CREATE GREAT IMPACT
In response to the ocean’s urgent call for help, “Save Turtles Run” was born as a heartfelt community initiative — where anyone can take action for nature through a simple yet powerful act: running.
Launched in 2022 by AKYN Hospitality Group and its member hotel, The Secret Côn Đảo, this annual event was created not only to raise environmental awareness, but also to help preserve the island’s pristine beauty on its path toward sustainable development.
This year, with three distances — 5km, 10km, and 21km — the run welcomes all ages: from beginners and active lifestyle lovers to families with young children. Together, they’ll carry the message: “Every Step We Take, Miles of Green We Make.”
UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS & LASTING IMPACT FROM THE PREVIOUS SEASON
In 2024, one powerful moment became a symbol of the event’s purpose: a stranded green sea turtle was found on Lò Vôi beach and rescued just in time by a group of runners and forest rangers along the course. That spontaneous act of compassion captured the very spirit of the run — where every step holds the power to impact life and awaken a deeper sense of environmental responsibility in each participant.
From these heartfelt real-life moments, Save Turtles Run has gradually gained strong support from like-minded brands and communities that share its values. Notable partners include: Filmore, Onways, VPBank, Searefico, Access Race, Minh Long, Traveloka, Ocany, Greenland Travel, Sen Decor, Aescentic, Lavie… along with the endorsement of media partners devoted to nature and especially to Côn Đảo.
BRIDGING SPORTS, TOURISM & CONSERVATION
As the event’s organizing unit, The Secret Côn Đảo sits in a prime beachfront location at the heart of the island, featuring contemporary architecture infused with heritage charm. The hotel offers not only a serene escape into nature and local culture but also upholds a strong commitment to sustainable tourism practices.
It is also the first hotel to be both owned and operated by AKYN Hospitality Group — marking the beginning of its long-term strategy to build a premium brand with a distinct identity. With a forward-looking vision, AKYN remains steadfast in its mission to create ideal destinations where every stay is rooted in sustainability, conservation responsibility, and the aspiration to elevate the value of Vietnamese tourism.
