A maze of lush palms and calm canals explored by traditional basket boat, a peaceful escape just minutes from Hoi An.
What to expect at Cam Thanh Coconut Forest
Water coconut groves
Traditional fishing
Local fishermen demonstrate net casting and crab catching, with a chance to try these age-old methods yourself.
Family-friendly activities
Short rides, calm waters, and simple hands-on tasks make it enjoyable for both children and older guests.
Photo opportunities
Emerald palms, wooden bridges, and reflective waterways create perfect backdrops for striking photos.
Cultural performances
Folk music and dance performed by villagers give an authentic glimpse into local traditions.
Local foods
Fresh coconut water, light snacks, and shaded hammock areas offer a refreshing break during your visit.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
1/8
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
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.
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.
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.
Weave coconut leaves and make souvenirs
Sit with villagers to craft small keepsakes from coconut leaves and discover simple, traditional skills.
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.
Watch folk music and dance performances
Catch short performances of traditional songs and dances for a glimpse of the area’s living heritage.
Capture unforgettable photos
Snap the spinning boats, lush green canals, and authentic river life for lasting memories.
Your Cam Thanh Coconut Forest itinerary
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
- 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
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.
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
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.
Most rides last around 30-45 minutes, enough to explore the canals, see demonstrations, and take photos.
Yes. Local fishermen often show how they cast nets and catch crabs. You can watch or even try under their guidance.
Absolutely. Visitors can weave coconut leaves, row a boat themselves, or make small souvenirs from natural materials.
Yes. Many spots inside the forest have shaded seating and hammocks where you can enjoy a simple meal or a fresh coconut drink.
Yes. Basket boats are stable, life jackets are provided, and activities are short and gentle enough for all ages.
Early morning or late afternoon is cooler, with softer light for photos and more active wildlife.
Light clothing, non-slip sandals or shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera.
Yes. Parking, restrooms, shaded seating, refreshment stalls, and hammocks are available around most activity areas.
Definitely! Photography is welcome during boat rides, fishing demonstrations, and crafts.
