Coconut Prison Phu Quoc: The Darkest Chapter of Island History

Phu Quoc is known for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and luxury resorts. But few realize that amidst this beautiful natural setting lies a place that once held tens of thousands of prisoners – Phu Quoc Coconut Tree Prison. Visiting Phu Quoc Prison is a meaningful experience, offering a powerful reminder of the painful yet proud history of the Vietnamese people’s patriotism and resilience during the war years.

Overview of Coconut Prison

• Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM daily (including weekends and public holidays)
• Entrance fee: Free
• Recommended visit duration: Around 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the full grounds and exhibitions thoroughly

Historical background

Coconut Prison Phu Quoc during French colonialism in Vietnam

Phu Quoc Prison was built by the French colonialists in 1946, covering an area of 40 hectares and divided into four sections: A, B, C, and D.

It was once the largest prison camp in Southeast Asia, tightly guarded with barbed wire fences and armed soldiers. By April 1954, the prison held around 14,000 inmates, most of them men.

At least 99 soldiers lost their lives due to torture. Political prisoners were forced to live in bamboo huts, lacking clean water and sufficient food, and were frequently subjected to brutal beatings aimed at breaking their spirit.

Coconut Prison Phu Quoc during Vietnam War

In 1955, the South Vietnamese government took over and continued expanding the prison, adding a new 4-hectare section known as Coconut Tree Prison. This area was divided into separate zones for men, women, and the elderly.

During the war, some of the most brutal forms of torture were carried out here – from “tiger cages” made of barbed wire, to driving nails into prisoners’ foreheads, high-voltage electrocution, and even scalding with boiling water.

Thousands of revolutionary soldiers died in agony, and tens of thousands were left permanently disabled. Yet, despite the extreme suffering, many prisoners managed to hold onto their optimism and belief in the eventual reunification of the country.

What to explore in Coconut Prison Phu Quoc

The main entrance

The entrance to the Coconut Prison was once heavily guarded by military police, with layers of barbed wire fencing, floodlights for nighttime surveillance, and tall watchtowers overseeing the entire compound.

It was the only access point in and out of the prison, a stark symbol of the strict and oppressive control the former regime imposed on revolutionary prisoners.

Prisoner Cemetery – Horrors of Coconut Prison

Inside the grounds of Coconut Tree Prison lies a cemetery – the final resting place of thousands of revolutionary soldiers who lost their lives. Many of the graves are unnamed, without headstones, marked only by simple mounds of earth – a haunting reminder of the silent sacrifices made in what was once a living hell.

Here, visitors can light a stick of incense, pay their respects, and deeply reflect on the true cost of freedom and independence.

Kien Van Church

Amid the bleak and harsh surroundings, the Kien Van Church stood quietly – built from humble materials like bamboo, rattan, and wood. It was a sacred space where prisoners placed their hope and faith in freedom.

Though small in size, the chapel held immense spiritual power, helping the revolutionaries stay united and keep their hope alive through the darkest days of captivity.

Exhibitions of Artifacts

The exhibition area preserves many valuable artifacts: archival photographs, handwritten letters, prisoners’ clothing, and torture devices such as electric batons, leg irons, and spiked boards.

Every detail vividly reconstructs the harsh realities of prison life and the extraordinary courage of those held here.

It offers visitors a deeper understanding of the brutality of war crimes and the unbreakable spirit of those who resisted.

Sector B2 – “Hell on Earth”

Sector B2 was one of the most notorious areas, known for its extreme cruelty. Prisoners were confined in cramped, dimly lit cells, surrounded by layers of barbed wire.

Here, they endured horrific punishments – nail driving, electrocution, forced labor – all under severely inhumane conditions. Many never made it out, leaving behind their pain, and their unwavering loyalty.

The Martyrs’ Memorial at Sim Hill

Perched on a hillside covered in blooming purple myrtle – the flower symbolizing loyalty – the memorial stands in honor of the martyrs who gave their lives within the prison walls.

The quiet, sacred space, with the national flag waving proudly above, leaves a deep impression on all who visit. It’s a place that stirs emotion and reflection, a solemn reminder of the immense sacrifices made for the nation’s freedom.

Read more: Things to do in Phu Quoc

Attraction sights near Coconut Prison

Khem Beach

Location: About 7.4 km south of Phu Quoc Prison, in An Thoi Ward, Kien Giang Province

Khem Beach leaves a lasting impression with its crescent-shaped shoreline embracing crystal-clear emerald waters. The beach features silky white sand as smooth as cream and lush green trees lining the coast.

Its untouched, peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for nature lovers, those seeking a quiet retreat, or simply enjoying a sunset stroll.

Ong Doi Cape

Location: Near Khem Beach, at the southern tip of the island, in An Thoi Town, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Province

Ong Doi Cape is one of the rare places on Phu Quoc where you can witness both sunrise and sunset from the same spot. With deep blue waters on one side and pristine forest on the other, it’s an ideal backdrop for a gentle trek or a poetic photo session in nature.

Dat Do Beach

Location: Near An Thoi, about 3 km from Coconut Tree Prison

Dat Do Beach remains largely untouched by tourism, making it a quiet and pristine spot for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. True to its name, the sand here has a pale yellow hue with hints of reddish-orange, creating a unique glow when sunlight hits.

The water is crystal clear with gentle waves, and even in deeper areas near the shore, you can still see straight to the bottom.

An Thoi Lighthouse

Location: On Hon Dua Island, near the An Thoi area

Located on Hon Dua Island, about a 20-minute boat ride from the mainland, An Thoi Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the sea and surrounding islets. On clear, sunny days, you can see all the way to the horizon from the top of the tower – making it a great spot for sightseeing and aerial photography lovers.

Sao Beach

Location: About 5 km east of Phu Quoc Prison, in Bai Sao Hamlet, An Thoi Ward, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Province

Just a 15–20 minute ride by motorbike or taxi brings you to Sao Beach – one of Phu Quoc’s most stunning beaches. With powdery white sand as soft as cream and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s ideal for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), or enjoying fresh seafood right by the shore.

A meaningful trip to the past

Phu Quoc Prison is more than just a tourist destination – it’s a journey back into a painful yet heroic chapter of history. Every wall, every torture replica, and each memorial stone stands as a living testament to the nation’s suffering and the silent sacrifices of thousands of brave soldiers.

Visiting Phu Quoc Prison offers a powerful opportunity to reflect on the strength of the Vietnamese spirit and to better appreciate the peace we have today.

Where to stay while visiting Phu Quoc?

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring history, Chen Sea Resort & Spa Phu Quoc is a highly recommended option. Nestled right on Ong Lang Beach, the resort is about a 30-minute drive from Coconut Tree Prison.

From here, it’s easy to plan day trips to the prison, Khem Beach, and Sao Beach, then return to unwind in the resort’s pool, enjoy a soothing spa session, and relax in the tranquil natural surroundings – a rare and refreshing escape.