Hoi An is renowned for its ancient streets and nostalgic charm, but beyond the Old Town lies another hidden gem - Coconut Village Hoi An (Bay Mau Palm Forest), a “mini Mekong Delta” in Central Vietnam. Here, you can glide through lush coconut groves on traditional basket boats, watch skilled fishermen in action, and experience the vibrant culture of waterway communities. Let’s explore!

1. Essential Information about Coconut Village Hoi An

1.1. History of Coconut Village Hoi An

Located in Thanh Tam Dong and Thanh Nhut Hamlets, Cam Thanh Commune, about 5km southeast of Hoi An Ancient Town, Coconut Village (Bay Mau Palm Forest) is a fascinating eco-destination that offers a glimpse into both the natural beauty and historical significance of the region. Spanning over 100 hectares, this vast water coconut forest sits at the confluence of three major rivers in Quang Nam - Thu Bon, Truong Giang, and Co Co - before they merge and flow into the Cua Dai estuary.

During the wars against French colonial rule and American intervention, Coconut Village served as a strategic revolutionary base due to its secluded, waterlogged terrain. Today, visitors can still hear stories of its past from the locals, adding another layer of depth to their journey.

For those seeking an immersive experience beyond Hoi An’s historic streets, Coconut Village is a must-visit (Source: Internet)

1.2. How to Get to Coconut Village Hoi An

Getting to Coconut Village from Da Nang

Travelers from Da Nang can reach Coconut Village via two main routes:

• Route 1: From Dragon Bridge, take Vo Van Kiet Street to its end, turn right onto Vo Nguyen Giap, continue straight to Lac Long Quan, then turn onto Tran Nhan Tong, and follow it to Cua Dai Bridge, leading to the village.

• Route 2: From Dragon Bridge, take the Ngo Quyen - Ngu Hanh Son route toward Hoi An Ancient Town. From there, continue by either road or river to reach Coconut Village.

Getting to Coconut Village from Hoi An

Visitors starting from Hoi An Ancient Town can choose between two travel options:

• By Road: Follow Tran Phu Street to Nguyen Duy Hieu, turn left at the intersection, and continue on Tran Nhan Tong until reaching Cua Dai Bridge.

• By River: Board a boat from Bach Dang Wharf in the Ancient Town and travel approximately 5km downstream on the Hoai River to reach the palm forest.

The trip to Coconut Village promises a refreshing escape into nature just minutes from Hoi An (Source: Internet)

Common Transportation Options

For travelers seeking the best way to reach Coconut Village Hoi An, there are several convenient transportation options to suit different preferences:

• Bicycles (Rental: 30,000 - 50,000 VND/USD 1.20 - USD 2.00 per day): Ideal for those who enjoy a ride through Hoi An’s peaceful countryside.

• Motorbikes (Rental: 120,000 - 200,000 VND/USD 5 - USD 8 per day): More flexibility and speed, but riders need a valid license, and traffic conditions in Vietnam may be challenging for inexperienced riders.​

• Taxi & Ride-hailing Services (costs 100,000 - 150,000 VND/USD 4 - USD 6): Convenient and quick, but costs are higher compared to renting a bicycle or motorbike, and availability may be limited in peak hours.

• Guided Tours (Prices range from 300,000 - 600,000 VND/ USD 12 - USD 25 per person, depending on inclusions): A hassle-free option that often includes transportation, boat rides, and cultural experiences but offers less flexibility to explore at your own pace.

If you enjoy a scenic and immersive journey, renting a bicycle or motorbike is a great choice (Source: Internet) 

1.3. Best Time to Visit Coconut Village 

Coconut Village Hoi An offers a unique experience throughout the year, with each season bringing its own charm. Depending on your preference for weather and activities, here’s what you can expect:

• January - March: The coconut forest enters its most vibrant season. This is when the trees begin to sprout new leaves, covering the entire area in a fresh, lush green. Combined with the cool and comfortable climate, this period offers a peaceful and picturesque setting, perfect for sightseeing and photography.

• April - September: The best months for exploration, featuring dry, sunny (however, be aware of heat and sun stroke). During these months, the river is calm, making it easier to enjoy basketboat rides and explore the lush landscape.

From February to September, visitors can fully enjoy boat rides, explore the lush palm forest, and experience local culture (Source: Internet) 

2. 5 Best Things to Do in Coconut Village Hoi An 

Coconut Village Hoi An offers a variety of engaging activities that immerse visitors in the local culture and natural beauty. Here are five must-try experiences:​

2.1. Take a Basketboat Ride Through the Coconut Forest

A basketboat ride is the perfect way to explore the peaceful waterways of Coconut Village, surrounded by lush nipa palms and a serene mangrove ecosystem. You can choose between a guided tour with detailed explanations or a private ride for a more personal experience. A standard basket boat ride costs 150,000 VND (~USD 5.86) for two adults per boat, making it an affordable and worthwhile experience.

Early morning trips offer the freshest air and a calm atmosphere, while late afternoon rides provide beautiful golden-hour lighting and fewer crowds.

Local boatmen skillfully navigate the waters, sharing fascinating stories about the forest’s ecology and history (Source: Internet)

Tips:

• Sit centrally to maintain balance and prevent tipping over.

• Wear a life jacket at all times, even if you’re confident in swimming.

• Secure your belongings in a waterproof bag to avoid getting them wet.

• Avoid standing up suddenly, as basketboats can be wobbly.

• Bring sunglasses and a hat for sun protection, especially in the afternoon.

• Take the time to chat with your boatman to learn more about the area.

The ride is both relaxing and exciting, especially when boatmen skillfully navigate the winding waterways (Source: Internet) 

2.2. Watch the Thrilling Basket Boat Dance Show

One of the most exciting experiences in Coconut Village is watching the basketboat dance performance. Skilled boatmen spin and tilt their round boats at high speed, creating a spectacular whirlpool effect on the water. The energy of the performance, combined with the rhythmic movements of the boat, makes for an unforgettable show. 

The boatmen use incredible strength and technique to keep the boats twirling at high speed while maintaining perfect balance (Source: Internet)

Visitors who are feeling adventurous can even hop on a boat to try a slow spin with guidance from the boatman (Source: Internet)

Tips:

• Head to designated performance areas within the coconut forest for the best view of the boat show, held at various times throughout the day.

• For an extra thrill, try sitting in the boat while it spins, but if you’re prone to dizziness, ask for a slower rotation. 

• Secure your phone and valuables before watching the show.

• Hold onto your hat and sunglasses - the fast spinning can create strong winds that might blow them away.

2.3. Try Crab Fishing Like a Local

Crab fishing is a simple yet entertaining activity that lets visitors experience the traditional way of catching crabs in the coconut forest. The method is simple: attach bait to a small hook, lower it near the mangrove roots, and wait for a crab to latch on. However, the real challenge is pulling them up gently without letting them escape. It’s a great hands-on experience for both kids and adults, offering a glimpse into the daily life of local fishermen.

Using a small bamboo fishing rod with bait tied to the end, visitors can dangle the line into the water and wait for the crabs to latch on (Source: Internet)

This activity is especially enjoyable for families with children though it does require patience (Source: Internet)

Tips: 

• Follow local guides’ instructions to avoid harming the crabs and the environment. It's recommended to release them back into the water to preserve the ecosystem.

• Be patient  - crabs can take a while to bite, so stay still and watch carefully.

• Keep your hands away from the claws, even small crabs can pinch hard.

2.4. Learn Traditional Handicrafts from Coconut Leaves

One of the most unique cultural experiences in Coconut Village is learning how to craft traditional items from coconut leaves. Local artisans skillfully weave coconut leaves into intricate shapes like grasshoppers, fish, hats, and flowers, and visitors can even try making their own under their guidance. For more durable gifts, guests can explore local stalls offering woven bags, home decorations, and coconut-based accessories.

Immerse yourself in local culture by learning how to weave intricate handicrafts from coconut leaves (Source: Internet)

Under the guidance of skilled artisans, visitors can create unique items like grasshoppers, flowers, rings, and hats using freshly cut coconut leaves (Source: Internet)

Tips: 

• Start with simple designs like fish or rings before moving on to more complex creations.

• Engage with artisans to learn about the cultural roots of coconut leaf weaving.

• Support local communities by purchasing handmade products.

2.5. Enjoy Fresh River Food and Local Delicacies

No trip to Coconut Village is complete without indulging in its flavorful local cuisine. The area is known for its fresh river-to-table dishes, featuring ingredients like fish, shrimp, coconut water, and locally grown vegetables. Some must-try dishes include:

• Grilled coconut cake (Banh dua nuong). 

• Gai leaf cake (Banh it la gai) 

• Coconut salad (Goi rau dua).

• Cam Thanh fish sauce (Nuoc mam Cam Thanh). 

Whether you dine at a riverside restaurant or share a home-cooked meal with locals, the flavors of this region will leave a lasting impression (Source: Internet)

Tips: 

• If you have dietary restrictions, inform the restaurant in advance, most places are happy to adjust ingredients.

• Bring cash as some smaller eateries might not accept credit cards.

Goi rau dua (coconut salad) in Hoi An (Source: Internet)

Recommended Riverside Restaurants in Coconut Village

Long Phu Restaurant

Dua Bay Mau Restaurant

Discover the delicious cuisine at Dua Bay Mau Restaurant (Source: Internet) 

Tran Long Restaurant

3. Tips for a Perfect Visit to Coconut Village Hoi An

To make the most of your visit to Coconut Village in Hoi An, here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

• Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent to stay comfortable under the tropical weather.

• Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable footwear, especially if you plan to join water-based activities like the basketboat ride or crab fishing.

• Ask for food and drink prices beforehand.

• Avoid littering, especially in the water. Carry a small trash bag if needed, and dispose of waste in designated areas.

• Enhance your trip by exploring nearby destinations such as Tra Que Vegetable Village, An Bang Beach, or Hoi An Ancient Town for a well-rounded experience.

Coconut Village Hoi An is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic and immersive experience of Vietnam’s natural beauty. From gliding through lush coconut forests on a basketboat to enjoying fresh local delicacies, every moment here promises to be unforgettable.

For a seamless travel experience, book your flight with Vietnam Airlines - the first 4-star Skytrax airline in Vietnam, offering comfortable flights to Da Nang and nearby destinations. Check out other Vietnamese destinations on the Vietnam Airlines website: https://www.vietnamairlines.com/vn/en. With spacious seating, diverse in-flight meals, and hospitality, Vietnam Airlines ensures a top-tier travel experience. Plan your trip today and make the most of your time in Hoi An!