Hoi An Coconut Forest guide: Activities you shouldn’t miss

Hoi An Coconut Forest is an eco-tourism site located just a few kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town. Famous for its lush nipa palm groves and traditional basket boat rides, the forest offers visitors a chance to explore local fishing culture, peaceful waterways, and fun hands-on activities.

This guide will help you make the most of your trip and understand why this destination is a favorite among those seeking nature and authentic local life. Keep reading to discover the best things to do in Hoi An Coconut Forest and how to enjoy your visit to the fullest.

The natural beauty of Hoi An Coconut Forest

📍 Location: Group 2, Can Nhan Hamlet, Cam Thanh Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam.

The Coconut Forest in Hoi An is one of the most beloved eco-tourism attractions in the region, drawing countless visitors every year who seek to immerse themselves in nature and local culture. Also known by several names including Hoi An Coconut Garden, Bay Mau Coconut Forest Hoi An, or Cam Thanh Bay Mau Coconut Forest, this peaceful forest offers a refreshing natural retreat just a short distance from the bustling town center.

Visitors are enchanted by the forest’s lush rows of green coconut palms lining calm, crystal-clear streams. Traditional basket boat rides along the gentle river allow travelers to experience the forest from a unique perspective while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. This combination of natural beauty and cultural charm makes the Coconut Forest a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Hoi An.

How to get to Hoi An Coconut Forest?

Visitors can choose to travel from Da Nang or Hoi An to Bay Mau Coconut Forest. However, starting from Hoi An will save you much time compared to departing from Da Nang.

From Hoi An town, you have two options to reach the forest:

• By river: You can board a boat at Bach Dang Wharf, right in the center of Hoi An Ancient Town. The boat will take you into the forest along the gentle Thu Bon River.

• By road: From Hoi An town, take Tran Nhan Tong Street, cross the Cua Dai Bridge, then continue about 500 meters to reach the forest. This trip only takes around 10 minutes by car.

From Da Nang, visitors have two different routes to reach the Coconut Forest:

• Route 1: Go across Dragon Bridge and Vo Van Kiet Road, then turn right onto Vo Nguyen Giap Street. Continue straight to Lac Long Quan, then drive along Tran Nhan Tong Street toward the foot of Cua Dai Bridge to reach your destination.

• Route 2: Take the route passing Dragon Bridge, then head toward Ngo Quyen – Ngu Hanh Son to reach Hoi An Ancient Town. From the ancient town, you can continue by road or river to the Coconut Forest.

Best time to explore Hoi An

Hoi An charms visitors with its historic alleys, sparkling lanterns, and unique rich culture. Among its natural treasures, the coconut forest is a must-visit spot for those who love peaceful and authentic scenery. However, to fully enjoy your trip, it is important to choose the right time according to the climate and local events. Here are the best periods:

• February to April: This is the ideal time to visit Hoi An. Early spring offers pleasant weather with mild temperatures, moderate sunshine, and very little rain.

• May to August: Summer months in Hoi An are usually sunny and dry, perfect for exploring beaches and attractions. However, high temperatures may make some days feel quite hot.

• September to January: Corresponding to the rainy season, this period features frequent and sometimes prolonged showers. Check the weather forecast before planning your trip to Hoi An during these months.

By selecting the timing that suits your preferences, you will surely have an unforgettable experience in Hoi An.

Top 5 must-do activities in Hoi An Coconut Forest

The coconut forest in Hoi An is an appealing place where nature, culture, and relaxation blend harmoniously. Surrounded by lush scenery and unique activities, it offers an authentic experience you shouldn’t miss. If you’re wondering what to do during your visit, here are five activities to make your trip memorable:

Ride a basket boat to enjoy the Coconut Forest scenery

One of the most iconic experiences in the Coconut Forest is riding the traditional basket boats, known locally as “thung chai”. These round, handwoven boats may look rustic, but they are surprisingly stable and safe for all visitors. Gliding through the clear, calm water surrounded by towering coconut palms creates a serene and almost meditative atmosphere. As you drift gently along the river, you’ll find ample opportunities to take stunning photos of the lush greenery and peaceful riverbanks — a perfect way to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty. A Hoi An Coconut Forest boat ride is the highlight of the visit for many travelers.

Watch boat art performances and exciting races

Beyond its natural charm, the forest is also a lively stage for unique boat art performances. Skilled performers balance gracefully on rocking basket boats, demonstrating their agility and artistry in a show that blends entertainment with local tradition. The excitement heightens during competitive boat races where teams push their strength and teamwork to the limit in a friendly yet thrilling contest. The cheers of the crowd and vibrant energy fill the air, turning the forest into a festive gathering spot that delights visitors of all ages.

Explore a variety of traditional folk games

Visitors to Bay Mau Coconut Garden are invited to participate in a range of traditional folk games that reflect the playful spirit of the local community. Activities such as balance biking along narrow paths, boat rowing competitions on the river, tug of war battles, and blindfolded rice pot smashing offer plenty of fun and laughter. These games not only entertain but also provide a hands-on connection to the customs and simple joys of rural Vietnamese life, making your visit more engaging and memorable.

Make handicrafts from palm leaves

Another fascinating experience is learning to craft delicate souvenirs from the abundant palm leaves that surround the forest. With guidance from local artisans, you can create beautiful handmade items like rings, grasshopper figures, traditional conical hats, and flowers. This activity is both creative and educational, allowing you to appreciate the skill and patience involved in Vietnamese handicrafts. Handmade gifts made from palm leaves are meaningful keepsakes that carry the spirit of Hoi An’s natural beauty and culture. If you want to give a gift made by yourself, you can ask local artisans to guide you through the process.

Enjoy Hoi An specialties

A visit to the Bay Mau coconut forest wouldn’t be complete without tasting the iconic dishes of Hoi An. After your Hoi An coconut forest boat ride, you can savor specialties like cao lầu—a flavorful noodle dish with pork and crispy rice crackers—or mì Quảng, known for its vibrant turmeric noodles and rich toppings. Crispy bánh xèo, fragrant bánh bèo, and the delicate white rose dumplings are also must-tries. These local dishes reflect the essence of Hoi An’s culinary heritage and can be enjoyed at eateries around the coconut forest or in nearby villages.

You may want to read: Explore Hoi An cuisine: 9 best local dishes

If you’re planning a 15-day family trip to Vietnam, Hoi An and the Coconut Forest are must-stop destinations to fully experience culture, relaxation and unforgettable memories.

Tips for visiting Hoi An Coconut Forest

The Coconut Forest in Hoi An is a magical place worth exploring deeply. To fully enjoy this unique experience along with many activities in Hoi An, proper preparation is essential. Here are practical tips to help you make the most of your visit to Hoi An Coconut Forest, ensuring a memorable and rewarding experience:

• Schedule and organization: The forest is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Plan to visit early in the morning or late afternoon to take advantage of the comfortable temperatures and perfect lighting for photos. On holidays, check in advance for any special hours.

• Tickets and activities: Entrance fee is 30,000 VND per person (about 2 EUR). If you want to explore the forest by basket boat, the price is 280,000 VND (about 11 EUR) for a boat accommodating 2 adults and 1 child (under 1 meter tall) or 150,000 VND (about 6 EUR) for 2 people.

• Preparation and gear: Wear light, comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking in water. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle to protect yourself from the heat. A camera or smartphone is essential to capture the picturesque landscapes.

The Coconut Forest in Hoi An offers much more than just beautiful scenery — it invites you to immerse yourself in tranquil natural surroundings, vibrant cultural heritage, and delicious local flavors. Choosing the right time to visit will allow you to fully appreciate the forest’s breathtaking beauty and enjoy a truly rewarding experience. So get ready to embark on a journey that will enrich your trip to Vietnam with unforgettable memories.

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