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What to expect at Cam Thanh Coconut Forest

Tourists enjoying a basket boat ride through a coconut forest.

Water coconut groves

A maze of lush palms and calm canals explored by traditional basket boat, a peaceful escape just minutes from Hoi An.

Aerial view of Hoi An fishing net activity with round boats on green water.

Traditional fishing

Local fishermen demonstrate net casting and crab catching, with a chance to try these age-old methods yourself.

Tourists riding coconut basket boats through lush palm-lined waterways.

Family-friendly activities

Short rides, calm waters, and simple hands-on tasks make it enjoyable for both children and older guests.

Woman enjoying basket boat tour on a lush green lagoon in Hoi An.

Photo opportunities

Emerald palms, wooden bridges, and reflective waterways create perfect backdrops for striking photos.

Women holding Bai Choi cards at a traditional folk game event in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Cultural performances

Folk music and dance performed by villagers give an authentic glimpse into local traditions.

Tourists enjoying fresh coconuts on a boat during Mekong Delta day tour from Ho Chi Minh.

Local foods

Fresh coconut water, light snacks, and shaded hammock areas offer a refreshing break during your visit.

Blue parking sign with arrow pointing right.

Accessibility and facilities

Located just 10–15 minutes from Hoi An, this venue offers parking, toilets, shaded seating, and clear boarding points for an easy visit.

About Cam Thanh Coconut Forest

People in round bamboo boats on a river in Cam Thanh Village, surrounded by lush greenery.

Cam Thanh Coconut Forest

Once a hidden shelter for soldiers, this 7-hectare nipa palm forest is now a peaceful eco-destination. Visitors can glide through its maze of narrow canals in traditional basket boats, discovering lush scenery and local culture as they go.

Flamingos wading in a pond surrounded by tall grass at Vinwonders Nam Hoi An Theme Park.

Ecosystem & wildlife

Cam Thanh supports a diverse ecosystem, home to various plant species and small freshwater creatures. This vibrant environment provides a rare glimpse into Vietnam’s riverine wildlife and natural beauty.

Aerial view of tourists in basket boats on a coconut village tour in Vietnam.

Cultural connection

Visitors can observe and interact with local river communities, gaining insight into their traditional ways of life and sustainable practices along the waterways.

No littering sign against a clear blue sky.

Conservation & respect

To preserve its beauty and ecological balance, visitors are encouraged to tread lightly, avoid littering, and respect the local environment, ensuring the forest remains a pristine retreat for future generations.

Cam Than Coconut Forest highlights

Aerial view of coconut basket boats navigating a lush green waterway in Vietnam.
People rowing bamboo basket boats on a river in Vietnam.
Guide rowing a colorful basket boat on Hoi An river with tourists in the background.
Hand holding a small crab during a crab fishing tour in Hoi An.
Woven palm leaves on colorful fabric, Kauai handicrafts.
Young couple relaxing in a hammock in a sunny, green park.
Hoi An Memories Show with Hoi An Impression Theme Park
Japanese Bridge in Hoi An with yellow buildings and water reflection.
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Water coconut forest

A rare seven-hectare ecosystem of nipa palms and winding canals — a living landscape found in few places in Vietnam.

Traditional basket boats

Iconic round bamboo boats designed to glide through narrow waterways, emblematic of this region’s river life.

Skilled local boatmen

Generations of experience rowing, steering, and performing playful tricks that bring the river culture to life.

Fishing heritage

Centuries-old techniques of net casting and crab catching that still sustain local families today.

Village craft traditions

Coconut-leaf weaving and simple handicrafts reflecting the everyday skills of the community.

Hammock lunch spots

Shaded platforms hidden among the palms where simple meals and fresh coconuts are served.

Folk arts

Traditional music, songs, and dances passed down through the village and performed for visitors.

Scenic backdrops

Rustic wooden bridges, reflective waterways, and lush palms — a natural setting ideal for photographs and quiet exploration.

Activities you can enjoy in Cam Thanh Coconut Forest

Tourists navigating a river in bamboo basket boats, Hoi An, Vietnam.

Paddle a basket boat through the palms

Climb into a round basket boat and navigate the maze of nipa canals with a local boatman, learning a few rowing tricks as you go.

People enjoying a vibrant coconut basket boat ride through lush palm trees in Vietnam.

Spinning tricks on the water

Experience the thrill of a spinning basket boat under the guidance of skilled rowers — a fun, interactive moment for photos.

Fisherman casting net from boat near basket boats in coconut water mangrove forest.

Cast nets and catch crabs like a fisherman

Learn how to throw a fishing net and try crab-catching using age-old methods passed down by local families.

Hands weaving coconut leaves at a workshop in Hoi An.

Weave coconut leaves and make souvenirs

Sit with villagers to craft small keepsakes from coconut leaves and discover simple, traditional skills.

Young woman using a laptop while lying in a hammock surrounded by lush greenery.

Relax in a hammock and enjoy a local lunch

Unwind under whispering palms, sip fresh coconut water, and enjoy a simple meal served in a shaded hammock area.

Bai Choi folk game performance in Hoi An with participants and musicians.

Watch folk music and dance performances

Catch short performances of traditional songs and dances for a glimpse of the area’s living heritage.

Aerial view of tourists in round bamboo boats on a river surrounded by lush greenery.

Capture unforgettable photos

Snap the spinning boats, lush green canals, and authentic river life for lasting memories.

Your Cam Thanh Coconut Forest itinerary

Aerial view of basket boats on a river surrounded by lush greenery in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Morning

  • Pickup from your hotel in Hoi An or Da Nang.
  • Welcome briefing and introduction to the forest.
  • Basket boat ride through winding canals with fun spinning tricks by the boatmen.
Coconut leaf basket weaving at a workshop.

Afternoon

  • Watch traditional fishing demonstrations and try net casting or crab catching.
  • Join hands-on activities like weaving coconut leaves or crafting souvenirs.
  • Relax in a hammock with fresh coconut drinks.
Tourists enjoying van transfer from Tirana to Bovilla Lake.

Late afternoon

  • Free time to explore, take photos, or enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
  • Return transfer to your hotel.

Note: Timings may vary slightly depending on the tour operator and group size.

Know before you visit Cam Thanh Coconut Forest

Bamboo basket boats navigating a river in a coconut palm forest tour.

Opening hours: Open daily from 8am to 5pm; last basket boat rides usually leave around 4:30pm.

Best time to visit

  • Best time of day: Early morning (8–10 AM) or late afternoon (3–5 PM) for cooler weather, softer light, and fewer crowds; midday can be hot and busy.
  • Weekdays vs. weekends: Weekdays are quieter and easier to book; weekends are livelier with more local visitors, so pre-book your slot.
  • Peak vs. low Season: March–May and July–August are peak months with bigger crowds; late September–December is quieter with more availability.
  • Special events: Around Tet or Hoi An’s Full Moon Festival, expect extra performances and a festive atmosphere—check with tour operators for seasonal activities.
Smiling taxi driver with passenger in the back seat.

Address: Cam Thanh (Bay Mau) Coconut Forest, Cam Thanh Commune — about 5 km southeast of Hoi An Ancient Town. Locate on the map!

  • Distance: Roughly 10–15 minutes from Hoi An by car; about 45 minutes from Da Nang.
  • By taxi/private car: The fastest and most comfortable option; taxis are widely available from Hoi An and Da Nang.
  • By motorbike: A quick, scenic 15–20 minute ride from Hoi An; rentals are inexpensive and easy to arrange.
  • Bicycle: A pleasant 20–25 minute pedal from Hoi An along quiet roads through rice fields.
  • Boat: Some experiences offer boarding at Bach Dang Wharf in Hoi An for a scenic river transfer to the coconut forest.
  • Hotel transfers: Many organised activities include pick-up and drop-off from Hoi An and Da Nang hotels.
Restroom sign outdoors with male and female symbols.
  • Designated parking for cars, bikes, and motorbikes.
  • Clean restrooms near the entrance.
  • Small refreshment stalls selling snacks and drinks.
  • Shaded seating areas to rest between activities.
  • Some tours offer dedicated hammock spots for post-ride relaxation.

Cam Thanh Coconut Forest in pictures

Aerial view of basket boats navigating through lush coconut water palms.

Basket boats on Emerald Canals

Iconic round basket boats gliding through a maze of nipa palms, the most serene way to explore Cam Thanh’s hidden waterways.

Weaving coconut palm leaves by hand on a stone surface.
Aerial view of Hoi An fishing net activity with round boats on green water.
Group enjoying lunch at a riverside restaurant in Hoi An, Vietnam.
Haupia coconut pudding squares on a wooden plate with colorful flowers in the background.

Tips when visiting Cam Thanh Coconut Forest

  • Dress for comfort: Wear light, breathable clothing and non-slip sandals or water-friendly shoes. The forest paths and boats can get damp, so comfort and grip matter.
  • Sun & photo essentials: Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and your camera or phone. Morning and late-afternoon light is beautiful for photography.
  • Book ahead in busy periods: During weekends, holidays, and high season, tours can fill up quickly. Pre-book online or with your hotel to secure your preferred time slot.
  • Respect nature & local life: Avoid littering, keep noise to a minimum, and don’t disturb wildlife. Follow your guide’s instructions to help protect the forest.
  • Pack light refreshments: Carry a small water bottle or wet wipes to stay cool and refreshed between activities.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Cam Thanh Coconut Forest

Can I ride a basket boat at Cam Thanh Coconut Forest?

Yes. Visitors can hop into a traditional round basket boat to glide through the forest’s canals. Local boatmen steer, but you can also try paddling yourself.

How long does a basket boat ride last?

Most rides last around 30-45 minutes, enough to explore the canals, see demonstrations, and take photos.

Can I watch or join traditional fishing activities?

Yes. Local fishermen often show how they cast nets and catch crabs. You can watch or even try under their guidance.

Are there hands-on activities apart from the boat ride?

Absolutely. Visitors can weave coconut leaves, row a boat themselves, or make small souvenirs from natural materials.

Is there somewhere to relax and eat after activities?

Yes. Many spots inside the forest have shaded seating and hammocks where you can enjoy a simple meal or a fresh coconut drink.

Is Cam Thanh Coconut Forest suitable for children and older adults?

Yes. Basket boats are stable, life jackets are provided, and activities are short and gentle enough for all ages.

When is the best time of day to enjoy the activities?

Early morning or late afternoon is cooler, with softer light for photos and more active wildlife.

What should I wear or bring for the activities?

Light clothing, non-slip sandals or shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera.

Are there facilities nearby?

Yes. Parking, restrooms, shaded seating, refreshment stalls, and hammocks are available around most activity areas.

Can I take photos during the activities?

Definitely! Photography is welcome during boat rides, fishing demonstrations, and crafts.