1. Introduction to Bay Mau Coconut Forest
Bay Mau Coconut Forest, also known as Cam Thanh Coconut Forest, is located about 3 km from Hoi An Ancient Town. Covering an area of more than 100 hectares, this lush green forest is often called the “Mini Mekong Delta” in the heart of Hoi An.
With endless rows of coconut palms and clear waterways, visitors can freely take stunning photos, enjoy a traditional basket boat ride, and join many fun local activities.
Here, you’ll immerse yourself in the refreshing river scenery, meander through coconut groves, and experience the authentic lifestyle of local people.
Besides the basket boat tours, this eco-tourism area is famous for its traditional folk games, lively basket boat dance performances, and delicious Quang-style cuisine.
2. How to Get to Bay Mau Coconut Forest
Bay Mau Coconut Forest spans over 100 hectares in Cam Thanh Village, just a short trip from Hoi An Ancient Town. It’s one of the must-visit eco-tourism sites in Hoi An, attracting both domestic and international travelers.
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From Hoi An Ancient Town: Only about 5 minutes by car or 10 minutes by bicycle.
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From Da Nang City: Roughly 31 km away, taking about 40–45 minutes by car.
Address: Cam Thanh Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province.
2.1 Directions from Hoi An Ancient Town
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Start at the Ancient Town center.
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Take Tran Nhan Tong Street.
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Cross the Cua Dai Bridge.
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Continue about 500m to reach the Bay Mau Coconut Forest.
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Travel time: 5–10 minutes.
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Suitable transport: Bicycle, motorbike, or car.
2.2 Directions from Da Nang City
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Distance: ~31 km.
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Travel time: 40–45 minutes by car.
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Route: Start from Son Tra or Ngu Hanh Son → follow the coastal road (Vo Nguyen Giap – Truong Sa – Lac Long Quan) → pass famous beaches like My Khe, An Bang, and Cua Dai → reach Hoi An → continue to Cam Thanh.
Tip: For the best experience, rent a bicycle or motorbike. This way, you can also explore the charming villages along the way.
3. Opening Hours and Ticket Prices
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Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
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Entrance fee:
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Adults: 30,000 VND/person
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Children under 1m: Free
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Basket boat rental: Around 200,000 VND/boat (for 2 guests)
Each basket boat ride lasts about 50 minutes, including exploring the forest and watching exciting basket boat dance performances. Life vests, conical hats, and umbrellas are provided.
Note: Prices may vary during peak tourist seasons, so it’s best to book in advance.
4. Exciting Experiences at Bay Mau Coconut Forest
4.1 Basket Boat Ride Through Coconut Groves
Sit in a round bamboo basket boat paddled by locals, glide along narrow waterways, and enjoy the cool breeze of the river. This is the highlight of the tour, giving you a sense of peace and adventure at the same time.
4.2 Basket Boat Dance & Boat Racing
One of the most thrilling performances, where skillful rowers spin the boats at high speed, creating a “dance on water” that makes the whole crowd burst into laughter and applause.
4.3 Casting Fishing Nets
Experience the life of Hoi An fishermen by trying your hand at casting fishing nets under the guidance of locals. It’s a fun and authentic way to connect with the community.
4.4 Making Coconut Leaf Souvenirs
Learn how to make rings, hats, grasshoppers, or small toys from coconut leaves. Both children and adults enjoy this hands-on activity, and you can bring home meaningful handmade souvenirs.
4.5 Traditional Folk Games
Join Vietnamese folk games such as sack races, blindfolded clay pot breaking, walking on monkey bridges, or tug of war. These activities are perfect for families or groups of friends.
4.6 Tasting Hoi An’s Local Specialties
After the tour, don’t miss out on delicious dishes such as spring rolls, crispy pancakes (bánh xèo), shrimp salad, banana blossom salad, and Hoi An chicken rice.
5. Travel Tips for Visitors
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Best time to visit: Dry season (January – September).
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Go in the morning for cooler weather and better photo opportunities.
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Wear light, comfortable clothes and sandals for easy boat boarding.
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Bring hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
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Book your tour in advance, especially for large groups.
6. Recommended Hotel Near Bay Mau Coconut Forest
For those who want to stay close to the eco-tourism site, Hoi An Luna Villa is an excellent choice. Located in Cam Thanh, just 5 minutes from Bay Mau Coconut Forest, this villa combines a traditional Hoi An style with modern comfort.
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Address: Group 4, Cam Thanh, Hoi An
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Highlights:
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Only 5–7 minutes from the Coconut Forest
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Lush gardens, outdoor swimming pool, and spacious rooms
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Infinity pool with views of the Hoai River – perfect for sunsets
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Free bicycle rental for guests
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Delicious breakfast, reasonable prices, ideal for families and groups
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7. Conclusion
The Bay Mau Coconut Forest and Basket Boat Tour is a must-try experience when visiting Hoi An. It’s not only about sightseeing but also about cultural discovery, local food, and hands-on activities with the community.
Plan ahead, book early, and prepare well so you can fully enjoy the journey. Hoi An is not just lantern-lit streets in the Ancient Town—it also offers the refreshing, green coconut forest waiting for you to explore! 🌿
