Bay Mau Coconut Forest: Ideal for a fun eco-tour in Hoi An

Contents

1. Overview of Bay Mau Coconut Forest, Hoi An

1.1. Location

Bay Mau Coconut Forest is located in Vong Nhi Village, Hoi An Dong Ward. It is about 3 kilometers away from Hoi An Ancient Town and 31 kilometers away from Da Nang City. 

Bay Mau Coconut Forest in Hoi An (Source: Collected)

Covering over 100 hectares, the forest stretches along three major rivers – Hoai, Thu Bon, and De Vong. Surrounded by vast waterways, Bay Mau Coconut Forest has grown into a large ecological site across the villages of Van Lang, Thanh Nhut, Thanh Tam Dong, Thanh Tam Tay, and Con Nhan. This haven offers visitors a chance to immerse in lush surroundings, explore the local culture, and participate in memorable activities. 

1.2. History

During the resistance against French and American forces, Bay Mau Coconut Forest served as a vital base, witnessing many key events and significant victories. Today, it stands as a site of thriving ecotourism. With beautiful landscapes and a rich biodiversity within a vast mangrove ecosystem, the forest has become a haven for nature lovers.

Despite being a relatively new tourist site, Hoi An Coconut Village has quickly gained popularity. Here, visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences, from boat rides to cultural activities. Its blend of history, nature, and entertainment makes it a standout attraction in Hoi An, appealing to tourists seeking a meaningful journey.

2. Top activities for tourists at Bay Mau Coconut Forest

2.1. Take a basket boat ride

A visit to Bay Mau Coconut Forest wouldn’t be complete without taking a Hoi An boat ride. Gliding through the narrow waterways in a charming basket boat, surrounded by lush groves and fresh air, is an experience like no other. As you drift along, you’ll hear fascinating stories about the forest’s past, while the soft melodies of folk songs echo in the distance.

Basket boat rides at Bay Mau Coconut Forest, Hoi An, Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.2. Enjoy basket boat dances and races

The local boat rowers will not only guide you through Bay Mau Water Coconut Forest but also put on an entertaining show with exciting basket boat dances and races. You’ll be amazed at their ability to maintain perfect balance on the wobbly boats, spinning with incredible speed and grace. The boat races are just as thrilling, full of energy and competition. Be sure to cheer and clap to keep the excitement alive and give them a boost of encouragement!

2.3. Watch fishermen casting nets

Casting nets is another highlight that many eagerly anticipate during a Bay Mau Coconut Forest tour. You’ll watch in awe as a large net is cast high into the air, then slowly falls onto the water. This skillful performance is carried out by the local fishermen, displaying their traditional craft with impressive mastery.

2.4. Listen to music under coconut trees

At the river junction where the main stream branches off, a few young locals play upbeat music through large speakers to liven up the atmosphere. Many tourists love this lively moment and often step into the water to dance along to the rhythm. If dancing’s not your thing, you can wander into the coconut groves to find a perfect photo spot. And ladies – don’t forget to dress up a little for those dreamy shots!

There are many photo spots at Bay Mau Coconut Forest (Source: Collected)

2.5. Try making crafts from coconut leaves

Many visitors are pleasantly surprised by these simple, heartfelt gifts from the basket boat rowers at Bay Mau Coconut Forest, Vietnam – little tokens full of countryside charm. Even better, you’ll have a chance to learn how to make them yourself. From grasshoppers and bracelets to sunglasses and flowers, each item is handcrafted with care. It’s a nostalgic, hands-on experience that brings back memories of childhood. The friendly rowers will patiently guide you so you can create your own special keepsake to take home.

2.6. Join traditional games

Alongside the main attractions, traditional games are another highlight at Bay Mau Coconut Forest. Depending on your energy, you can take part in fun activities like balancing on bikes, smashing clay pots while blindfolded, or walking across floating platforms. It’s a great way to dive into the local culture and add a bit of playful adventure to your trip.

2.7. Savor local specialties

At Cam Thanh Coconut Forest, you’ll be treated to a variety of delicious homemade dishes like crispy spring rolls, banana blossom salad, shrimp and pork salad, and banh xeo. For even more food options, you can head back to Hoi An Ancient Town. Don’t miss out on specialties such as cao lau, chicken rice, Quang noodles, wontons, white rose dumplings, grilled pork rolls, and traditional desserts like sweet corn pudding and black sesame soup.

Enjoy homemade dishes at Cam Thanh Coconut Forest (Source: Collected)

Make your trip exciting with our list of things to do in Hoi An!

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[VinWonders Nam Hoi An] – Standard Admission Ticket

15 USD23 USD

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[Buy 2 Get 1] – Combo of 2 Entrance Tickets & Buggy + FREE Kids Combo

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[-10%] – VIP River Safari Ticket*

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[Nam Hoi An Signature] Admission Ticket + Buggy + F&B Voucher (300.000 VND) | FREE Capybara Cap

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[Nam Hoi An Signature] VinWonders Ticket + VIP Safari Package | FREE Merchandise Gift

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[VinWonders Nam Hoi An] – Standard Admission Ticket

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[VinWonders Nam Hoi An] Direct admission & Buggy Ticket Combo

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[VinWonders Nam Hoi An] – Standard Admission Ticket

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3. Ticket and tour prices at Bay Mau Coconut Forest

Below is a quick overview of ticket options at Bay Mau Coconut Forest:

The basket boat ride lasts from 70 to 90 minutes. One basket boat can accommodate two tourists. For safety reasons, anyone weighing over 100 kg will ride solo in one boat.

For convenience, you can also book a tour to Bay Mau Coconut Forest in advance. The tour includes hotel pick-up & drop-off, entrance fee, basket boat ride fee, lunch, tour guide, etc. Here is the pricing for these Bay Mau Coconut Forest tours:

To secure the best deals, contact the tour operator via the hotline 0985 402 302.

Read more: Attractions in Hoi An to add to your bucket list

*Note: The information in this article is for reference purposes only and may be subject to change over time.

4. Guide for first-time visitors to Bay Mau Coconut Forest

4.1. When to visit?

The best time to visit Hoi An in general and Bay Mau Coconut Forest in particular is the dry season from February to August. The cool, refreshing weather is great for outdoor activities, forest tours, town excursions, and beach trips to An Bang Beach or the Cham Islands. The coconut forest is at its most scenic in August, the perfect time to enjoy fragrant coconut rice. From October to December is the rainy season in Hoi An, which can affect travel plans.

The best time to visit Bay Mau Coconut Forest is the dry season (Source: Collected)

4.2. How to get there?

From Hoi An Ancient Town, you can easily reach Bay Mau Coconut Forest by either road or river.

• By river: Get on a boat at Bach Dang Wharf. The boat will follow the Hoai River east for about 5 kilometers before arriving at the forest.
• By road: Follow Tran Phu Street east, then Nguyen Duy Hieu Street. Turn left onto Tran Nhan Tong Street, then turn right onto Cua Dai Street. Follow Cua Dai Street to the forest.

If you are departing from Da Nang, it is best that you first get to Hoi An Ancient Town either via bus or taxi, then continue the journey as mentioned above. Alternatively, if you have rented a motorbike, you can follow the coastal roads in Da Nang and Hoi An (Truong Sa Street and Lac Long Quan Street) until you get to Cua Dai Street.

4.3. What to note?

To make the most of your visit to Bay Mau Coconut Forest, it’s important to come prepared for the outdoor activities. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

• Clothing: Opt for simple, comfortable outfits like ankle-length maxi dresses, skirts with tops, or jeans and T-shirts. Avoid bulky or flowy clothing that could get in the way during boat rides.
• Accessories: Bring a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a fully charged phone with a selfie stick.
• Tips: Life vests and conical hats are provided on-site. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather. If you get motion sickness, ask the boat rowers to go gently.

Whether you’re looking to explore nature, enjoy the local culture, or simply unwind in a peaceful setting, Bay Mau Coconut Forest offers a unique side of Hoi An that you won’t want to miss. Add it to your itinerary for a fun, refreshing, and memorable experience!

After your adventure through Bay Mau Coconut Forest, why not continue the fun at VinWonders Nam Hoi An? Just a short trip away, this vibrant amusement park offers an exciting mix of games, shows, and even a river safari – perfect for families and friends alike.

VinWonders Nam Hoi An is a vibrant amusement park in Vietnam

Book VinWonders Nam Hoi An ticket now

If you’re in the mood for an upscale retreat, choose to stay at Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An. Surrounded by scenic beauty and designed with elegance in mind, Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An is a haven of comfort with top-tier amenities and services.

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Best-selling products

-36%

[VinWonders Nam Hoi An] – Standard Admission Ticket

15 USD23 USD

-9%

[-10%] – VIP River Safari Ticket*

6 USD

-15%

[Nam Hoi An Signature] Admission Ticket + Buggy + F&B Voucher (300.000 VND) | FREE Capybara Cap

39 USD47 USD

[VinWonders Nam Hoi An] – Standard Admission Ticket

23 USD