Hoi an : Coconut Boat & Hoi an Acient Town (Optional)

If you’re visiting Central Vietnam, a 4-hour adventure combining a tranquil ride through the Bay Mau Coconut Forest with a walk through the historic Old Town of Hoi An offers a delightful mix of nature and culture. For just $4.82 per person, this experience is packed with picturesque scenery, authentic local interactions, and a taste of Vietnam’s historic charm. Guided by friendly locals, you’ll explore bamboo basket boats, float lanterns on the water, and stroll along lantern-lit streets that feel like stepping into a living postcard.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances natural beauty with culture. The boat ride through the coconut groves offers a peaceful break from the busy cities, giving you a chance to see rural Vietnam up close. Plus, the evening walk through Hoi An’s Ancient Town lit by colorful lanterns creates a magical atmosphere that’s hard to beat. The combination of these elements makes for an experience that’s both relaxing and enriching.

One thing to consider is that this tour involves some walking and boat paddling, so it might not be ideal if you have mobility issues or are pregnant. Also, the schedule depends on availability, so you’ll want to check the starting times in advance. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who want a taste of authentic Vietnam—whether you’re into scenic boat rides, history, or vibrant night markets.

If you enjoy gentle boat rides, exploring UNESCO sites, and savoring local cuisine in a relaxed setting, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip to Hoi An. It’s especially great for those seeking a tranquil experience with authentic local flavor.

• Affordable Price: At just under $5, it offers excellent value for a mix of scenic and cultural activities.
• Cultural Highlights: Visiting the UNESCO-listed Old Town and releasing lanterns provides memorable, photo-worthy moments.
• Natural Beauty: The bamboo boat ride through Bay Mau Coconut Forest offers a peaceful retreat from urban life.
• Authentic Interaction: Friendly locals teach you to paddle and perform bamboo boat races, adding a personal touch.
• Flexible Options: You can choose to include dinner and additional visits, making the tour adaptable to your interests.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues due to walking and boat paddling.

The Allure of Bay Mau Coconut Forest

The tour begins with an exploration of Bay Mau Coconut Forest, a tranquil water landscape dotted with towering coconut palms. Here, we board traditional bamboo basket boats, which are small, round craft perfect for floating and gliding through the water. The experience feels both scenic and interactive—learning how to paddle these boats from local guides feels authentic and fun. Many reviews highlight the peaceful beauty of the natural surroundings and the joy of watching bamboo boat performances and races.

One guest, GODARD, described it as a “wonderful ride” that was “well worth the detour,” emphasizing how surprisingly enjoyable and genuine the experience was for such an affordable price. The boats provide a different perspective on rural Vietnam, offering a quiet moment amidst lush greenery while the guides share stories of local life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Charm of Hoi An Ancient Town at Night

Following the coconut forest adventure, the tour continues to Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We love how the town transforms at night, with colorful lanterns casting a soft glow over ancient architecture. This is when the town truly feels magical, with narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant markets.

A highlight is the release of floating lanterns, a tradition that adds a layer of serenity and beauty. As you walk along the Hoai River, the lanterns drift away, creating a spectacular scene. Many visitors find that the lantern release and night market evoke a sense of peace and nostalgia.

The tour also includes a guided walk through the town, where you can admire sites like the Japanese Bridge, the sole remaining relic of Japan in Hoi An, and other historic structures. The opportunity to stroll along these streets after dark, with lanterns illuminating the way, makes for wonderful photo opportunities and memorable moments.

Culinary Delights and Local Interactions

The tour offers a chance to savor local Vietnamese dishes, such as Cao Lau, Hoanh Thanh, Banh Bao, and Banh Vac. If you opt for the combined package, you’ll enjoy a proper dinner in Hoi An, which many reviewers say is a real highlight. The food is authentic, with flavors that capture the essence of Vietnamese cuisine in a relaxed setting.

Interactions with local guides and boat operators add a personal touch, making the experience feel more genuine than a typical tourist event. Many travelers note how friendly and welcoming the guides are, often sharing stories of their lives and the history of the area.

Practical Aspects and What to Expect

This tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with starting times varying based on availability. Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, which adds to the comfort, especially after a day of sightseeing. The boat cruise in the coconut forest is about 2 hours, giving you ample time to relax and soak in the scenery.

The tour includes all fees and taxes, entrance tickets to the Coconut Village and Hoi An Ancient Town, and a local meal. You can also opt for different pickup locations, which involves a surcharge depending on where you’re staying—ranging from Da Nang airport to various resorts or districts.

While the price is quite reasonable, keep in mind that personal expenses such as souvenirs or extra drinks are not included. Also, this activity is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility limitations, given the walking and boat paddling involved.

Authenticity and Value for Money

Many reviews praise the value of this tour, noting how inexpensive it is compared to similar experiences elsewhere. The combination of natural scenery, cultural exploration, and local food is hard to beat for the price. One guest summed it up as a “wonderful ride,” highlighting the friendliness of the boat captain and the overall authenticity of the experience.

The tour is particularly ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful escape from busier cultural sites, or those who enjoy nighttime explorations. It’s also suitable for first-time visitors who want a gentle introduction to Hoi An’s beauty without strenuous activity.

This Coconut Boat & Ancient Town tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and authentic local interactions. For a modest fee, you get to glide through serene coconut groves, float lanterns on the river, and wander through one of Vietnam’s most charming towns at night. The experience is relaxed, scenic, and packed with photo-worthy moments, making it an excellent choice for travelers on a budget or those wanting a taste of rural Vietnam alongside historic exploration.

While it might not be suited for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or pregnant women—it’s a fantastic way to see Hoi An from a different perspective. If you love peaceful boat rides, historic streets lit by lanterns, and local Vietnamese cuisine, this tour is likely to become one of your favorite memories from Central Vietnam.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It depends on the child’s age and comfort with boats and walking. The boat ride is gentle, but the tour involves walking and some paddling, so adult supervision is recommended.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual clothing and sandals are ideal. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen if you visit during the daytime, and a light jacket for the evening.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak Vietnamese?
Yes, the tour is guided in English and Vietnamese, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

How long does the boat ride last?
The boat cruise in the coconut forest lasts about 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and participate in boat activities.

Are the boats safe?
Yes, the bamboo boats are traditional but safe, especially when operated by experienced local guides.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
This tour involves walking and boat paddling, so it’s not suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Can I customize the experience?
Options include adding dinner or choosing different pickup points, but the core experience is fixed.

What is included in the price?
All fees, entrance tickets, boat ride, dinner (if selected), and a local meal are included. Personal expenses are not.

What is the best time of day to enjoy this tour?
Evening is ideal for experiencing the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, but check availability for your preferred starting time.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve it in advance via the provider’s website or booking platforms, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour date.

This tour perfectly combines nature, history, and local flavor, offering an authentic experience that doesn’t break the bank. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Vietnam, it’s a peaceful yet lively way to enjoy Hoi An’s unique charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: