When I first heard about the Bay Mau Coconut Forest in Hoi An, I imagined a quiet, tropical place filled with coconut trees and gentle rivers. Once I actually got there, I realized it was even better. Known as the “Mini Mekong Delta” of Central Vietnam, this forest in Cam Thanh Commune gives visitors a real taste of local river life, beautiful nature, and cultural charm.
Introduction to the Bay Mau Coconut Forest Experience
Nestled just 3 km from the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town, Bay Mau Coconut Forest, also called Cam Thanh Coconut Forest, is an eco-tourism treasure. The forest covers around 100 hectares of water coconuts and is surrounded by the calm Thu Bon River.
This place used to be a wartime base during the French and American wars. Today, it’s a beloved spot for travelers seeking peaceful nature, exciting activities, and genuine interaction with locals.
When I arrived early in the morning, I could hear the gentle paddling of the basket boats and the laughter of local guides preparing for the day. That’s when I knew it was going to be a good day.
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
- Entrance fee: 30,000 VND/person
- Basket boat rental: 150,000 – 200,000 VND/boat/2 pax
Where Bay Mau Coconut Forest Is and How to Get There
The forest is located in Cam Thanh Commune, a small village southeast of Hoi An. If you’re staying in town, it’s only a 15-minute ride by motorbike, taxi, or even bicycle. I tried going by bike once—it was relaxing and allowed me to enjoy the countryside views.
You can also take a boat along the Thu Bon River, which is not only scenic but also saves time. If you’re coming from Da Nang, the distance is about 35 km, and it takes around one hour by car or taxi. Text us through Whatsapp number +84934899900 to book a private car to Hoi An from Da Nang quickly.
Tip: Combine your visit with nearby attractions using this comprehensive guide to Hoi An for first-timers to make your trip even smoother.
Best Time to Visit Bay Mau
The best time to visit is from February to August, when the weather is dry, sunny, and perfect for outdoor activities. I went in March, and the sunlight filtering through the coconut leaves created magical reflections on the water.
From September to January, it’s the rainy season. Although there’s more water and the scenery turns lush green, you should check the weather before planning your trip.
The morning or late afternoon is the most comfortable time of day to explore. Avoid midday when the sun can be quite strong.
What to Do at Bay Mau Coconut Forest
Basket Boat Ride through the Coconut Forest
The highlight of the trip is definitely the basket boat ride. Locals call them “thung chai,” and they’re round, woven boats used for navigating the narrow waterways.
My guide, an older fisherman named Nam, showed incredible skill spinning the boat in circles while singing traditional bài chòi folk songs. It’s fun, a bit dizzying, but unforgettable!
The basket boat rental costs around 150,000–200,000 VND per boat for two or three people. It’s affordable and absolutely worth it.
Why Locals Use Basket Boats
One of the most fascinating parts of the Bay Mau Coconut Forest experience is discovering why locals use those round basket boats, known in Vietnamese as “thung chai.”
When I first saw them, I thought they were just for fun rides, but there’s actually a clever history behind them. During the French colonial period, regular wooden boats were heavily taxed. To avoid paying those fees, local fishermen came up with a brilliant idea. They built small, round boats made from woven bamboo and coated them with waterproof tar or resin. Since they didn’t count as “boats” under French law, these thung chai became tax-free vessels, helping locals continue fishing without extra costs.
Beyond their history, basket boats are incredibly practical. Their round shape allows them to move easily through shallow and narrow waterways, perfect for navigating between the thick coconut trees of Bay Mau Forest. They’re also lightweight, so fishermen can easily carry or drag them onto the shore after use.
Join Fishing and Crab Catching Activities
Another thing I really enjoyed was trying crab catching with a bamboo rod. I managed to catch two tiny crabs! Nam laughed and told me I was “almost local now.”
This hands-on activity shows you the simple yet resourceful lifestyle of the Cam Thanh fishermen. Kids love it too—it’s both fun and educational.
Take Part in Traditional Folk Games
If you come in a group, don’t miss the traditional games. You can join a basket boat race, a tug-of-war, or even try to break a clay pot while blindfolded. These games make everyone laugh and bond quickly.
Make Handicrafts from Coconut Leaves
After the games, we stopped by a small hut where locals made souvenirs from coconut leaves. They taught me how to fold a tiny grasshopper. It wasn’t perfect, but it was fun and gave me a new appreciation for local crafts.
Discover the Local Life and Culture of Cam Thanh Village
One of the best things about this trip is how close you get to local culture. The people here are warm, funny, and eager to share stories about their past.
During the war, Bay Mau was a strategic base, hidden among dense coconut groves. Today, it’s a symbol of resilience and peace. The locals now protect the forest as part of sustainable eco-tourism.
Walking through the village, I saw families drying fish sauce in the sun and children running along the riverbanks. Everything felt peaceful and genuine.
Local Cuisine to Try at Bay Mau Coconut Forest
No visit is complete without food! The small restaurants around the forest serve some of the best Quang Nam specialties I’ve ever tasted.
Here are my top favorites:
- Banana Blossom Salad – crunchy and fresh, mixed with lime juice, herbs, and peanuts.
- Grilled Scallops with Scallion Oil – smoky, tender, and topped with crispy pork bits.
- Coconut Rice Cake – a sweet treat made from glutinous rice and coconut.
- Grilled Chicken – perfectly marinated with local spices.
- Grilled Leatherjacket Fish – smoky and rich, best enjoyed with mustard greens.
Each dish reflects the forest’s river-based cuisine, using local ingredients from nearby waters and gardens.
Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
If you love bringing home something authentic, consider these local gifts:
- Cam Thanh Fish Sauce – bold and fragrant, perfect for cooking or dipping.
- Bánh Ít Lá Gai – chewy sticky rice cakes with sweet mung bean filling.
- Grilled Coconut Rice Cakes – crispy snacks that travel well.
I bought a bottle of Cam Thanh fish sauce and used it later in my kitchen, it gave my dishes that rich, savory Quang Nam flavor I couldn’t forget.
Tips to Avoid Getting Scammed at Bay Mau Coconut Forest
1. Buy tickets directly or through travel services. You can buy tickets right at the ticket counters of the tourist area when you arrive. Another option is to book through travel agencies or tour services, which often include entrance fees, boat rides, and other activities in a clear package, helping you avoid unexpected extra costs.
2. Check the basket boat price before getting in. The standard price is about 150,000–200,000 VND per boat (for 2–3 people). Confirm the total price before the ride starts, and ask whether it includes performances or crab-catching.
3. Avoid “forced tips.” Some boatmen may ask for extra tips after the performance. Tipping is optional, you can give a small tip (around 20,000–50,000 VND) if you genuinely enjoyed the experience, but don’t feel pressured.
4. Join a tour or book through your hotel. If you prefer a smooth experience, book through a trusted agency or your hotel. They often include the entrance fee, transport, and activities — no surprise costs.
5. Visit early in the morning. Early visits (before 9 AM) mean fewer crowds and less chance of being rushed into overpriced “quick tours.” You’ll also enjoy the peaceful scenery more.
6. Carry small cash. Bring small bills (10,000–50,000 VND). Some vendors claim they “don’t have change” — having your own helps you pay the exact amount easily.
7. Be polite but firm. If someone insists on selling you something or charging extra, smile, say no thank you, and walk away. Locals are friendly, but firmness helps you stay in control.
Why Bay Mau Coconut Forest Is Worth Visiting
For me, the experience at Bay Mau Coconut Forest was more than just a tourist activity—it was a personal journey. I got to see a different side of Hoi An: calm, green, and full of heart.
It reminded me of the Mekong Delta, but in a more compact and peaceful way. Here, you don’t need to rush. You just float, breathe, and enjoy every little sound around you.
If you’re traveling to Central Vietnam, make sure to add Cam Thanh Coconut Villages to your itinerary. It’s a place that blends nature, culture, and kindness—a combination that stays with you long after you leave.