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Phu Quoc Prison, also known as Coconut Tree Prison (Nha lao Cay Dua), is a historical site in the south of the island near An Thoi. It preserves the memory of a painful period in Vietnam’s history and draws many visitors who want to learn about the past alongside Phu Quoc’s beaches.
Quick facts
- Opening hours: about 7:30–11:30am and 1:30–5pm, daily. Some sources list an 8am opening, so check before you go.
- Entry fee: free.
- Address: 350 Nguyen Van Cu, An Thoi, south Phu Quoc.
- Time needed: about 1–2 hours.
This guide summarises the history, location, opening hours, what to see and how to visit respectfully.
A brief history
The prison was built under French rule and expanded during the later war years, holding tens of thousands of prisoners. It was closed after 1975 and recognised as a National Historical Site in 1995. Today it is a place of remembrance and education, with exhibition halls, reconstructed camp areas and a memorial.
Where is it and how to get there
The site is on Nguyen Van Cu road in the An Thoi area in the south, about 25–30km from Duong Dong, roughly 40–50 minutes by road. You can ride a motorbike, drive, take a taxi or join a south island tour, many of which combine it with the Hon Thom cable car and Sao Beach.
Opening hours and entry
- Reference opening hours: about 7:30–11:30am and 1:30–5pm daily. Hours may change, so check before you go.
- Entry fee: according to multiple sources, entry is currently free.
- Time needed: about 1–2 hours.
What to see
- Exhibition halls: documents, photos and artefacts about prisoners’ lives and resistance.
- Reconstructed camp: cell blocks, barbed-wire fences and watchtowers.
- Memorial and nearby martyrs’ cemetery: where many visitors offer incense.
Some areas include models depicting torture that can be distressing. If you are travelling with young children, consider this and prepare them beforehand.
Visiting tips
- Dress modestly, keep quiet and behave respectfully at the memorial.
- Ask staff before photographing areas with specific rules.
- The outdoor areas get hot; bring a hat and water and avoid midday.
- Do not climb on or touch exhibits.
Combine with the south island
- Morning: visit Phu Quoc Prison while it is cooler.
- Midday: swim and eat seafood at Sao Beach.
- Afternoon: ride the Hon Thom cable car, then dinner at the night market in Duong Dong.
See where everything is on our Phu Quoc map.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee for Phu Quoc Prison?
According to several sources, entry is currently free. Check again when you arrive.
How long does a visit take?
About 1–2 hours, depending on how closely you view the exhibitions.
Is it suitable for children?
The site has educational value, but some reconstructions are disturbing. Parents should decide based on their child’s age.
What are the opening hours?
Roughly 7:30–11:30am and 1:30–5pm daily; hours may change.
Discover more things to do in Phu Quoc.