Glide through narrow canals lined with lush coconut palms in the iconic round boats rowed by locals.
The Coconut Boat Ride is Hoi An’s signature eco-tour: round bamboo boats drifting through lush nipa palm canals, guided by local rowers. Visitors can take 60-minute coconut boat rides with lantern releases, cooking classes, or village walks. Planning helps you pick the best time, avoid crowds, and combine it with nearby attractions like the Ancient Town.
Travel logistics
Most rides depart from Cam Thanh’s riverside piers, about 10–15 minutes from Hoi An Ancient Town. Reach the boarding points by taxi, rideshare, e-bike, or as part of a guided transfer—many tours include hotel pick-up/drop-off. Crowds peak late morning and on weekends, so aim for before 9 am or after 3 pm. Sunset slots often pair with lantern-release tours.
Plan your day
- Quick visit (2–3 hrs): Take a basket boat ride, snap photos in the coconut groves, then head back to Ancient Town for coffee or shopping.
- Half day (4–5 hrs): Enjoy the boat ride, watch or join a crab-fishing demo, take a short village walk, and sample local snacks.
- Full day (6–8 hrs): Extend your boat ride, release lanterns at sunset, join a Vietnamese cooking class, and opt for a scenic bike ride through the rice paddies.
Handy tips
- Tickets: Pre-book your slot online in peak months (Oct–Apr).
- Best times: Early morning (7am-9am) or late afternoon (3am–5pm) for cooler weather and softer light.
- Rules: Wear a life jacket during your coconut boat ride, water-friendly shoes, and supervise children under 5.
- Pro tip: Combine your ride with a Hoi An city tour (old Hoi An city), lantern release, dining experience, or a farmer’s market visit.
- Respect: Keep noise low and don’t litter—this is a protected mangrove area.
Must-see highlights during your coconut boat ride in Hoi An
Basket boat ride
Spinning boat tricks
Watch rowers skillfully spin, balance, and “dance” their basket boats, a crowd-pleasing show.
Crab & net fishing demo
Try traditional crab fishing or learn to cast a Vietnamese fishing net alongside villagers.
Lantern release at sunset
Float lanterns on the water during evening rides for a magical glow and photo-perfect moment.
Coconut-leaf craft workshop
Make small toys, hats, or rings from coconut leaves as a hands-on souvenir.
Village walk & local life
Stroll riverside paths, meet locals, and see how fishing families live along the mangroves.
Nature & wildlife spotting
Look out for crabs, small fish, and river birds in the calm mangrove ecosystem.
Folk songs & live drumming
Some tours include traditional songs or drumming on board for a festive touch.
Getting to the Coconut Boat Ride
Most Coconut Boat rides depart from Cam Thanh (Bay Mau) Coconut Village, about 5–7 km southeast of Hoi An’s Ancient Town. Here are the easiest ways to reach the pier:
Direct hotel pick-up and drop-off to Cam Thanh.
- Hassle-free round trip in a minivan.
- Time: ~10–15 min from Ancient Town
- Cost: Moderate (per person)
- Best for: Visitors wanting a no-fuss option
- Cons: Fixed schedule, less flexibility
An exclusive vehicle for your group with hotel pick-up and drop-off.
- Time: ~10–15 min from Ancient Town
- Cost: Higher than shared transfer
- Best for: Families or groups needing privacy and flexible timing
- Cons: Higher price
Arrange your own pick-up for a fast, direct ride to the pier.
- Time: ~10–15 min
- Cost: Metered fare
- Best for: Flexible travelers
- Cons: You still need to book your boat separately
Take the scenic route through rice fields via Trần Nhân Tông or Võ Chí Công Road.
- Time: 15–20 min from Ancient Town
- Cost: Low (rental)
- Best for: Active travelers
- Cons: Hot midday sun or rain can make it uncomfortable
- Some tours let you board at Hoi An’s Bạch Đằng Wharf for a scenic river transfer straight into the coconut forest — a relaxed way to start the experience.
Things to do nearby
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Cooking class in Coconut Village
Hands-on class where you learn to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes after your boat ride.
Cam Thanh Village walk
Stroll past palm-roof houses and small markets to see everyday life up close.
Sunset lantern release
Stay into the evening to float lanterns on the water for dreamy photos.
Hoi An Old Town tour
Wander lantern-lit streets, assembly halls, and riverside cafés in the UNESCO-listed historic center.
Dinner experience
Combine your visit with a riverside Vietnamese dinner or seafood feast nearby.
Farmer’s market visit
Join locals at the morning market to see fresh produce, herbs, and spices used in village cooking.
Vietnamese folk games
Try traditional games hosted by locals—fun for families and a peek into community culture.
Where to eat
Riverside snack stalls
Grab fresh coconut water, crispy Vietnamese pancakes, or bánh mì at informal stands near the pier.
Hoi An Ancient Town cafés
Cool off post-ride with coffee, smoothies, and heritage desserts in lantern-lit cafés.
Cooking class meals
Many classes serve the dishes you prepare—turning the lesson into lunch or dinner.
Riverside dining experience
Sit-down restaurants and homestays along the water offer set menus of seafood, clay-pot dishes, and vegetarian options.
Where to shop
Coconut Village craft stalls
Pick up handmade souvenirs woven from palm leaves, bamboo, and coconut shells—made by local families right near the pier.
Hoi An night market
Stroll through lantern-lit stalls for textiles, paper lanterns, and street snacks after your ride.
Cam Thanh Village Co-ops
Small cooperatives sell eco-friendly crafts, spices, and teas sourced from the surrounding countryside.
Hoi An Old Town Boutiques
Heritage houses double as artisan shops offering tailor-made clothes, leather goods, and jewelry.
Tips from locals
- Time it right: Start before 9 am or after 3 pm to avoid the worst heat and crowds.
- Book ahead: Sunset and lantern-release rides sell out quickly—reserve at least a day in advance.
- Go light & secure: Ask your rower for the “spin trick,” but keep phones and valuables in a waterproof pouch.
- Bring cash: Small notes are best for snacks, crafts, and tips; ATMs are limited near the piers.
- Dress for the elements: A hat, sunscreen, and quick-dry shoes make the ride more comfortable.
- Combine activities: Pair the boat trip with a short village walk or market visit for a richer experience.
