Cam Thanh is a lively area just outside Hoi An, famous for its lush water coconut forests and traditional bamboo boat rides. It’s a place where you can step into a scene straight out of an old Vietnamese painting, with quiet waterways and friendly local fishermen. I particularly enjoy the opportunity to combine fun, culture, and tasty food—all of which are readily available here. One tour I love is the Coconut Boat, Lantern Making & Cooking Class, which perfectly captures the authentic charm of the region. It offers a full day of hands-on activities that go beyond just sightseeing, making it ideal for travelers who want meaningful, memorable experiences.
While Cam Thanh is packed with options, choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. Whether you’re eager to paddle a traditional bamboo boat, learn to make a paper lantern, or explore local fishing techniques, there’s something here for everyone. The three tours listed below stand out for their distinct approaches and authentic offerings.
1. Hoi An Coconut Boat, Lantern Making & Cooking Class Organic
At number one on our list is the Hoi An Coconut Boat, Lantern Making & Cooking Class Organic. For just around $20 per person, this tour offers a wonderful combination of traditional water coconut forest exploration, cultural craft, and culinary skills. The experience kicks off with a peaceful ride on a round basket boat through the tranquil water coconut groves—an iconic activity that feels both nostalgic and genuinely Vietnamese. The boat ride is a highlight because it immerses you directly into the natural environment, with the chance to see local fishermen at work.
Next, you’ll make your own Hoi An lantern, a wonderful keepsake that you can take home—perfect for remembering this part of Vietnam. The tour also includes a visit to an organic vegetable garden, where you pick fresh ingredients for your cooking class. The cooking session itself is led by a friendly local chef who guides you through preparing traditional dishes using fresh, organic produce. The entire experience ends with a hearty, homemade lunch served in a peaceful garden, making it both tasty and relaxing.
This tour scores highly for its balance of nature, culture, and food—an ideal choice for travelers who want to connect with local life while learning new skills. The organic focus and small-group setting provide intimate, authentic moments that make it stand out.
Bottom Line: Great for culture lovers, foodies, and anyone wanting a well-rounded, immersive experience that combines activity, learning, and relaxation.
$20 per person
2. Hoi An: Discover CamThanh Eco Water Coconut Village
Coming in at number two is the Discover CamThanh Eco Water Coconut Village. Priced at about $13 per person and lasting from 75 minutes up to 3 hours, this tour offers a deeper dive into local waterway life. It’s perfect if you want to experience more than just a quick boat ride, since you’ll be exploring the peaceful coconut waterways on a bamboo basket boat.
What makes this tour special is its focus on fishing techniques like net and cast net fishing, which are part of daily life here. You’ll also get to try your hand at paddle boating, learning how to control the traditional bamboo craft as local fishermen share their stories. The tour provides a genuine window into local rural life, with opportunities to chat with fishermen and observe their techniques.
The experience includes a basket boat race, adding some fun and friendly competition, and the chance to learn about the history of the waterways—once a site of wartime activity, now a peaceful habitat. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace and the opportunity to see everyday life in Cam Thanh, describing it as “a genuine and peaceful experience.”
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in local culture, traditional fishing techniques, and a leisurely boat ride that offers real insights into village life.
$13 per person
3. Hoi An: Discover Coconut Village on Basket Boat Ride
The third spot goes to the Coconut Village on Basket Boat Ride. For about $13, this quick, one-hour tour is perfect if your time is limited but you want a taste of bamboo boat paddling. It includes transfers from select hotels, making it straightforward for travelers staying in Hoi An.
This tour emphasizes the fun and excitement of riding in a bamboo basket boat along the lush waterways. You’ll learn how to paddle the boat yourself, making it a hands-on activity. The tour also introduces you to local fishermen, who demonstrate how they cast nets and catch crabs—an authentic glimpse into local livelihood. One notable feature is the bamboo boat race, which adds a lively, competitive spirit to the experience.
Though shorter, this tour provides a lively, engaging way to connect with Vietnam’s traditional fishing culture without a large time commitment. Reviewers mention that it’s a great way to try something different while enjoying the scenery and local life.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers seeking a quick and fun bamboo basket boat experience with some fishing and paddling thrown in.
$13 per person
How to Choose the Best Cam Thanh Tour for You
When deciding between these options, think about what fits your schedule, budget, and interests. If you’re after a full-day, immersive experience that combines nature, culture, and cooking, the Coconut Boat, Lantern Making & Cooking Class is hard to beat. It offers a mix of hands-on activities and relaxed dining, perfect for families or food lovers.
If you prefer a more culturally focused experience centered on fishing techniques and local life, the CamThanh Eco Water Coconut Village provides a deeper look at traditional livelihoods and peaceful waterways. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy a slower pace and authentic conversations.
For travelers on a tighter schedule or those wanting a lively, interactive ride, the Coconut Village on Basket Boat Ride is ideal. It’s a quick yet engaging activity that’s easy to add on to a busy sightseeing day.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular tours. Consider your interests—whether culinary, cultural, or just plain fun—and pick the experience that resonates most.
In summary, Cam Thanh offers a range of memorable experiences that blend traditional watercraft, local life, and tasty food. From full-day cooking adventures to quick boat rides, there’s something for every traveler eager to see a different side of Vietnam. Whether you want to craft a lantern, learn to fish, or paddle a bamboo boat, these tours provide a genuine taste of the region’s charm. Smart planning and early booking will help you make the most of your time in this peaceful, water-bound village.