Hoi An isn’t just about ancient streets and lantern-lit evenings; its waterways are a highlight that beckon travelers looking for active, scenic adventures. Paddling through the Thu Bon River or the mangrove ecosystems offers a fresh perspective on this historic town. We especially like the Sunset Paddle and Lantern Town tour because it combines the thrill of standup paddleboarding with spectacular sunset views—perfect for anyone wanting a peaceful yet engaging experience. If you’re after a comprehensive day exploring both land and water, the Private Hoi An Bike and Kayak Guided Tour with Lunch offers a well-rounded adventure with local encounters. For those who prefer a quick, natural escape, the Hoi An: Kayaking Tour of the Waterways provides a serene half-day paddle through quiet fishing villages.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the best Canoe & Kayak Experiences in Hoi An, each offering something special—whether it’s sunset views, culture, or a family-friendly outing.
1. Sunset Paddle and Lantern Town
At number one, the Sunset Paddle and Lantern Town stands out for its combination of engaging paddling and breathtaking scenery. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience Vietnam’s beautiful river systems from a different angle—standing on a standup paddleboard. The tour kicks off with a pickup from your hotel and a quick safety briefing at the kayak station in Cam Thanh. Once on the water, you’ll paddle along the coconut-palm-lined mangroves and small villages, with the guide sharing insights about local life.
What makes this trip special is the timing—paddling into the golden hour as the sun dips behind the rice paddies and old town. The reflection of lanterns flickering on the water creates a magical scene that photographers will love. The tour includes all equipment, a drybag for valuables, and refreshments, making it a relaxed yet adventurous way to see Hoi An’s countryside. Many reviews highlight how peaceful and picturesque the experience is, with one guest praising “the private tour during the end of season, making it feel like a personalized nature escape.”
Bottom Line: This tour suits active travelers who want a scenic, peaceful experience with the added beauty of sunset lighting. It’s also a fantastic way to see Hoi An from the water without needing previous paddling experience.
2. Private Hoi An Bike and Kayak Guided Tour with Lunch
For around $93, the Private Hoi An Bike and Kayak Guided Tour with Lunch offers a full-day immersion into the countryside. This tour begins with cycling through Hoi An’s historic streets, giving you a chance to see the town’s architecture and meet local residents. The biking segment is ideal for those who want to move at a relaxed pace and learn about rural Vietnamese life directly from locals.
Later, you’ll switch to kayaking along the Thu Bon delta, where you glide past fishing hamlets and river communities inaccessible by land. The itinerary includes visits to local families and craft workshops, providing a genuine glimpse into everyday life. The tour is well-reviewed for its personalized attention and the opportunity to taste authentic Vietnamese delicacies at a family-run restaurant. Many guests appreciate the mixture of physical activity and cultural exchange, calling it “a highlight of our trip,” and noting that guides are fluent in English, reducing language barriers.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for active travelers who want a mix of cycling, kayaking, and cultural visits. It offers excellent value for a full-day experience with many authentic interactions.
3. From Hoi An: Cam Kim Island by Bicycle and Kayak
If you’re seeking a straightforward way to explore Hoi An’s countryside, the From Hoi An: Cam Kim Island by Bicycle and Kayak offers a scenic combination. Just a short ride from the Old Town, the island features rice paddies, traditional houses, and a quieter pace of life. The cycling part of this trip is especially notable for its picturesque views and the chance to interact with local villagers and artisans.
After cycling, you’ll paddle through the mangrove ecosystems—an environment teeming with birdlife and aquatic species—offering a different perspective on the region’s natural beauty. The tour concludes with a hearty lunch at a family-run restaurant, giving you a taste of local cuisine. This experience is perfect for travelers who want a mix of gentle physical activity and tranquil nature.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who prefer a shorter, relaxed day with authentic rural sights and an easy paddle, making it great for families or less experienced paddlers.
$52 per person
4. Hoi An: Kayaking Tour of the Waterways
The Hoi An: Kayaking Tour of the Waterways offers a 2.5-hour paddle through the town’s quiet rivers and dense mangroves. Starting at 52 Huyền Trần Cô Chúa, this tour provides a peaceful glide past fishing villages, organic farms, and bird-filled wetlands. This experience immerses you in the natural rhythms of life along the riverbanks while giving you a close-up view of traditional houses and local fishing practices.
The highlight is observing local communities from the water and learning about their livelihoods. The guide shares insights into the rich biodiversity—expect to see various bird species and aquatic creatures. Many reviewers comment on the calm waters making it accessible for beginners, and the chance to see Hoi An from a different vantage point.
Bottom Line: This tour is suited for travelers who want a tranquil, nature-focused paddle without a long day, perfect for families or those with limited time.
$49 per person
5. Hoi An River Kayak Tour
The Hoi An River Kayak Tour is designed for active travelers eager to explore the town’s waterways more thoroughly. This experience combines paddling along the Thu Bon River with opportunities to see traditional dockyards, vegetable gardens, and birdlife. The tour is flexible in duration, but it generally offers a dynamic morning on the water, giving you a different perspective of Hoi An’s architectural and natural sights.
Participants will meet local residents along the riverbanks, providing a personal connection to the community. The focus here is on active exploration, making it a good choice for those comfortable with a more engaging paddle.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers who want a full-waterway experience with ample opportunities to see local life and natural beauty from the water.
$49 per person
How to Choose Your Canoe & Kayak Adventure in Hoi An
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If a peaceful sunset paddle sounds perfect, go for the Sunset Paddle and Lantern Town. For a full-day immersion into both land and water life, the Private Hoi An Bike and Kayak Guided Tour is excellent. If you prefer a shorter, calmer paddle, the Waterways Kayaking Tour offers a peaceful escape, while the Cam Kim Island trip is ideal for a relaxed, cultural outing.
Consider your budget, too—these range from around $32 for a short paddle to over $93 for a comprehensive day. Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to ensure you secure your preferred time slot.
To sum it up, Hoi An offers a variety of canoe and kayak experiences that suit different interests and fitness levels. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, seeking authentic village visits, or simply want to float through mangroves, these tours provide memorable ways to see the town from the water. For a peaceful, scenic paddle, the Sunset Paddle and Lantern Town is hard to beat. For a full-day adventure that combines cycling, kayaking, and local culture, the Private Hoi An Bike and Kayak Tour is a top contender. Whatever your choice, early booking will help secure the best experiences in this charming Vietnamese town.