Ride out to Cẩm Thanh’s water-coconut wetland for the famous basket-boat ride — how to get there, prices and the best time to go.
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Exploring the Bay Mau Coconut Forest in Hoi An by motorbike is an exhilarating adventure that allows you to immerse yourself in the unique natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area. Here’s a guide to help you plan your perfect motorbike trip to this fascinating destination.
Why Visit Bay Mau Coconut Forest?
- Unique Ecosystem: The forest, also known as the Cam Thanh Coconut Forest, features a dense network of water coconut trees and waterways, offering a unique ecological experience.
- Cultural Experience: Discover the traditional fishing techniques and lifestyle of the local people.
- Adventure Activities: Enjoy a fun basket boat ride, crab fishing, and explore the serene waterways.
A little history: the nipa palm forest
The “coconut” palms here are actually nipa (water coconut) palms, brought from the Mekong Delta decades ago and now thriving in Cẩm Thanh’s brackish water. The name Bảy Mẫu means “seven mẫu” (an old Vietnamese land unit), though the forest has long since grown well beyond that. During the war its dense channels served as a hideout for local soldiers — today it’s one of Hoi An’s most-loved eco-experiences.
Out on the water, your rower paddles through narrow palm-lined channels and performs the famous basket-boat spinning show, whirling the round bamboo boat in fast circles. You’ll often see locals crab fishing and casting fishing nets, and rowers love weaving rings, hats and grasshoppers from palm leaves for guests.

How to Get to Bay Mau Coconut Forest from Hoi An by Motorbike
- Starting Point: Hoi An Ancient Town
- Distance: Approximately 5 km southeast of Hoi An
- Route: Head south from Hoi An Ancient Town towards Cua Dai Street. Follow the signs for Cam Thanh Village, and you’ll soon reach the entrance to Bay Mau Coconut Forest.
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Detailed route & where to park
From Hoi An Old Town, head east on Trần Nhân Tông Street (the riverside road continuing from Bạch Đằng). Follow it for about 5–6 km — roughly 12–15 minutes — passing rice paddies and the entrance to Cẩm Thanh village. When you start seeing rows of parked round basket boats and signs for “Rừng Dừa Bảy Mẫu / Bay Mau Coconut Forest”, you’ve arrived.

There are several boat piers, each with a small guarded motorbike parking area (about 5,000–10,000₫). Park, buy the combined ticket at the booth, and you’ll be paired with a rower. Tip: on Google Maps, search “Bay Mau Coconut Forest” and choose a pier with good recent reviews — service and crowd levels vary between operators.
Top Things to Do
- Basket Boat Ride
- Experience: Navigate through the narrow waterways of the forest in a traditional bamboo basket boat. Skilled local rowers will guide you and even perform impressive boat-spinning tricks.
- Cost: Approximately 150,000 – 200,000 VND per person.
- Crab Fishing
- Experience: Try your hand at catching crabs using simple bamboo poles. It’s a fun activity for all ages and a great way to connect with local fishing traditions.
- Cultural Performances
- Experience: Some tours include live performances of traditional Vietnamese folk songs and dances, providing a deeper understanding of the local culture.
- Eco-Tour
- Experience: Join an eco-tour to learn about the diverse flora and fauna of the coconut forest and the importance of this ecosystem in protecting the coastline.
- Cycling and Walking Trails
- Experience: Explore the surrounding area on foot or by bicycle, enjoying the peaceful scenery and the chance to interact with local villagers.
Bay Mau Coconut Forest Prices & Tickets (2026)
| Item | Price (2026) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Entrance fee | ~30,000₫ | Per person |
| Basket boat ride | ~70,000₫ | 45–60 min round trip |
| Combined package | ~100,000₫ | Entrance + boat |
| Rower tip | 20,000–50,000₫ | Optional but customary |
| Motorbike parking | 5,000–10,000₫ | At the pier |
Prices are per person and can vary slightly by operator and season. Agree on the boat price and any tip before you set off, and note that some boats blast loud music and spin aggressively — just ask for a quieter ride if you’d rather paddle in peace.
Opening Hours, Address & Practical Info
Address: Bay Mau Coconut Forest (Rừng Dừa Bảy Mẫu), Cẩm Thanh, Hội An, Quảng Nam — about 5–6 km east of the Old Town.
Opening hours: the piers generally run from around 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily, with the last boats leaving before sunset.
Basket boat duration: each ride lasts about 45–60 minutes.
Going independently by motorbike vs booking a tour
Riding out yourself is the cheapest and most flexible option — just pay the ~100,000₫ combined ticket at the pier and go whenever you like. A booked tour costs more but usually bundles hotel transfers, an English-speaking guide and sometimes extras like a cooking class or a village bicycle ride. If you already have a scooter from Anh Khoa Hoi An, going DIY is easy: the route is short, flat and well signposted.
Best season to visit Bay Mau Coconut Forest
The forest is green and open year-round, but the most comfortable months are the dry season, roughly February to August, with sunny skies and calm water. From September to December, Cẩm Thanh can see heavier rain and occasional flooding, so check the weather before you ride out.
Tips for a Great Experience
- Timing: The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the serene environment.
- Booking: Book a tour in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak tourist season.
- Clothing: Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and bring a hat and sunscreen.
- Safety: Always wear a helmet when riding your motorbike and follow local traffic rules.
Sample Itinerary
- Morning Departure
- Start your journey from Hoi An Ancient Town.
- Enjoy the scenic ride to Bay Mau Coconut Forest.
- Basket Boat Ride
- Upon arrival, join a guided basket boat tour.
- Experience the thrill of navigating through the waterways and enjoy cultural performances.
- Crab Fishing
- Try crab fishing and learn about local fishing techniques.
- Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the opportunity to interact with locals.
- Lunch
- Head to a local restaurant in Cam Thanh Village for a delicious Vietnamese meal.
- Afternoon Exploration
- Explore the surrounding area by foot or bicycle.
- Visit nearby attractions such as Tra Que Vegetable Village or An Bang Beach.
- Return to Hoi An
- Ride back to Hoi An in the late afternoon, taking in the beautiful countryside views.
Essential Items to Bring
- Helmet: Ensure your safety by wearing a helmet.
- Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and energized throughout your trip.
- Sunscreen and Hat: Protect yourself from the sun.
- Camera: Capture the stunning scenery and memorable moments.
- Cash: Small denominations for entrance fees, food, and boat rides.
Exploring the Bay Mau Coconut Forest by motorbike is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Hoi An. This adventure promises a day filled with fun activities, scenic views, and unforgettable experiences.
Combine Bay Mau with Nearby Hoi An Spots
Because Cẩm Thanh sits between the Old Town and the coast, the coconut forest pairs perfectly with other stops on the same easy motorbike loop:
- An Bang Beach — about 6 km away; finish your morning with a swim and a beachfront lunch.
- Tra Que Vegetable Village — a fragrant organic herb village around 4 km north, lovely for a short walking or cycling stop.
- Cam Kim Island — cross the bridge for quiet lanes, traditional woodworking workshops and rice paddies.
- Hoi An Old Town — only 5–6 km back, perfect for lanterns, coffee and dinner in the evening.
With a scooter or e-bike you can link all of these in a single relaxed day, stopping whenever something catches your eye.
Bay Mau Coconut Forest — FAQ
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