Not only famous for its ancient town and lanterns, Hoi An also surprises visitors with a lush green palm forest that evokes the charm of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. That place is Bay Mau Coconut Forest – a rising eco-tourism destination beloved by many. Join Hoi An Royal Beachfront Villas to explore what makes this spot so special that everyone who visits wants to return.
Where is Bay Mau coconut forest? How far is it from Hoi An ancient town?
Bay Mau Coconut Forest – also known as Cam Thanh Coconut Village – is located in Hoi An Dong Ward, Da Nang City (formerly Cam Thanh Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province). The forest stretches across several hamlets including Thanh Tam Dong, Thanh Tam Tay, Van Lang, Thanh Nhut, and Con Nhan, forming a unique water coconut ecological zone.
From the center of Hoi An Ancient Town, it takes only about 10 minutes (around 3 km) to reach the forest and begin your journey exploring this special mangrove ecosystem.
History and significance of Bay Mau coconut forest
Bay Mau Coconut Forest in Hoi An was established around 200 years ago when migrants from the Mekong Delta brought nipa palm seeds and planted them in the fertile soil of Cam Thanh. Initially covering only 7 hectares (hence the name “Bay Mau”, meaning “Seven Hectares”), the forest has now expanded to over 100 hectares.
Historically, the forest served as a critical revolutionary base during the wars against French and American forces. With its dense and hidden terrain, it was used by soldiers and locals as a shelter, supply depot, and staging ground for battles.
Especially notable is the heroic victory by the people of Cam Thanh in 1964 during the resistance against the U.S., where they used “nipa palm stem guns” in a clever decoy tactic—creating a legendary story in Hoi An’s revolutionary history.
Today, beyond its historical significance, Bay Mau Coconut Forest is considered the “green lung” of Hoi An, with its rich biodiversity, tranquil scenery, and popularity as an eco-tourism spot offering activities such as basket boat rides, coconut forest tours, and local cuisine experiences—highlighting both the cultural and environmental values of Quang Nam.
Best time to visit the Coconut Forest
The ideal time to visit Bay Mau Coconut Forest is during the dry season, from January to September. At this time, the weather is mild and sunny, the air is fresh, and the forest is lush—perfect for sightseeing, boating, and nature-based activities.
The most beautiful months are from February to May, when the weather is cool, the sunlight is soft, and occasional light showers make the landscape even more refreshing—excellent for photography and relaxation.
Recommended times of day:
- Early morning (7:00–10:30 AM): Cool air and gentle sunlight make it ideal for boat rides and exploring the peaceful surroundings.
- Late afternoon (3:00–5:00 PM): The sun is softer, the sky is clearer, and gentle breezes create a calm atmosphere—perfect for watching the sunset.
The rainy season from late October to December is not ideal, as heavy rains and storms may affect your schedule and experience.
Opening hours and entrance fees
Bay Mau Coconut Forest is open to visitors daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, year-round. Morning or late afternoon visits are recommended to avoid harsh sunlight and fully enjoy the refreshing natural surroundings.
Ticket information:
- Entrance fee: 30,000 VND per adult. Children under 1 meter tall or under 6 years old (depending on the location) are typically free of charge.
- Basket boat rental (2 people): From 150,000 to 200,000 VND per boat. Includes life jackets, conical hats, and a local guide. Each trip lasts around 50 minutes and takes you through lush green water paths.
- Family ticket (2 adults + 1 child): Approximately 280,000 VND for a private boat. Flexible timing, ideal for families needing more privacy and comfort.
How to get to Bay Mau coconut forest
To reach Bay Mau Coconut Forest from the center of Hoi An Ancient Town (Quang Nam), you have two popular options:
From Hoi An ancient town to Bay Mau coconut forest:
| Mode of Transport | Detailed Route | Estimated Time | Suggested Experience |
| By Road | From Tran Phu → Nguyen Du → Tran Nhan Tong → across Cua Dai Bridge → continue about 500m | 8–10 minutes | Suitable for motorbike, car, or bicycle |
| By River | Depart from Bach Dang Wharf → boat ride along Thu Bon River to the forest | 15 minutes | Relaxing boat ride, scenic views along the riverbanks |
From Da Nang City to Bay Mau Coconut Forest:
| Route | Direction | Notes |
| Route 1 | From Dragon Bridge → Vo Van Kiet → Vo Nguyen Giap → Lac Long Quan → Tran Nhan Tong → across Cua Dai Bridge → the forest | Direct route, convenient for motorbike or car travel |
| Route 2 | From Dragon Bridge → Ngo Quyen → Ngu Hanh Son → Hoi An Ancient Town → continue with the route from Hoi An | Ideal if combining with a visit to Hoi An Ancient Town |
Unmissable activities at Bay Mau coconut forest
Basket boat ride through coconut groves
The most iconic and beloved activity at Bay Mau Coconut Forest is taking a ride in a traditional round basket boat steered by local residents. These boats glide gently through narrow canals shaded by lush nipa palms, offering a peaceful journey immersed in nature.
You’ll feel the cool breeze, admire the tranquil waterscape, and hear local stories about life in the waterways. Some tours even allow you to row the boat yourself for a hands-on experience with the river currents.
Artistic basket boat dance performance
Don’t miss the basket boat dance, also known as “boat spinning” or “thung shaking” – a unique cultural performance. Local boatmen skillfully spin the round boats at high speed on the water, thrilling the audience with their impressive control.
In many shows, the performance includes casting fishing nets – reenacting daily river life – making it both entertaining and culturally enriching.
Participate in traditional folk games
Bay Mau Coconut Forest is also the perfect spot to enjoy vibrant traditional folk games:
- Cycling across a balancing beam over the river – testing your agility and spirit.
- Walking on monkey bridges and rope bridges – feel the thrill of crossing narrow paths over water.
- Other fun games include basket boat racing, tug-of-war, blindfolded pot smashing, fishing, crab catching, and net casting – bringing joyful moments for all ages.
Make your own souvenirs from coconut leaves
A delightful hands-on activity is crafting souvenirs from coconut leaves. With guidance from local artisans, you can learn to create simple yet charming items like flowers, grasshoppers, bracelets, rings, pinwheels, or miniature hats.
Though simple, making something by hand adds meaning to your trip – giving you a keepsake infused with the warmth of Quang Nam’s people.
Cycle around Cam Thanh Village
Surrounding the coconut forest is Cam Thanh Village, a peaceful rural area rich in the rustic charm of Hoi An. The village paths are lined with nipa palms, rice paddies, old houses, and traditional workshops – creating a serene countryside landscape.
Rent a bicycle and leisurely explore the narrow lanes while enjoying the fresh air and observing the slow-paced life of the locals. You can also join in on activities like crab catching, fishing, or farming – perfect for families with children.
Taste Hoi An specialties at local homes or restaurants
After a full day of activities, don’t forget to recharge with delicious Hoi An specialties. Choose a riverside restaurant or enjoy a home-cooked meal in a local’s home for a more authentic experience.
Must-try dishes include cao lau, Hoi An chicken rice, banh xeo, banh dap, hen xuc banh trang, and mi Quang. The area is also well-known for fresh seafood like shrimp, crab, fish, and clams – caught daily.
The cuisine here reflects the spirit of Quang Nam: rustic, fresh, and heartfelt.
Where to stay when visiting Bay Mau coconut forest?
Just about 5 km from Bay Mau Coconut Forest, Hoi An Royal Beachfront Villas is a great accommodation option for travelers seeking a luxurious, peaceful, and well-equipped resort experience.
The villa complex features 69 high-end private villas, each with its own swimming pool, modern furnishings, and a harmonious design that blends seamlessly with nature — offering guests complete relaxation throughout their stay.
In addition to its open, airy design and lush landscape, the resort also boasts a full range of amenities — from a spacious outdoor swimming pool and an ocean-view infinity pool to a private beach within the resort, where guests can unwind, enjoy the sunset, or bask in the sun beside the pristine sea.
Dining options include Royal Café & Restaurant and Royal Shore Restaurant, serving a variety of dishes from local Hoi An specialties to international cuisine. Meanwhile, three bars — Chill Sky Bar, Beach Pool Bar, and Ruou Poolside Bar — offer ideal spots to relax in the evenings.
Beyond its professional spa services, the resort also hosts engaging experiences such as cooking classes, coffee-making workshops, and tai chi sessions — giving guests a chance to connect with local culture in their own unique way.
Children can enjoy themselves at both indoor and outdoor play areas, while adults take advantage of the fully equipped gym, live music entertainment, or the outdoor cinema. The elegant and spacious conference center, with a capacity of up to 400 guests, makes it ideal for major events, corporate meetings, or beachside weddings.
Daily shuttle service to the ancient town, airport transfers, and complimentary bicycles make it convenient for guests to explore all that Hoi An has to offer.
With all these features, Hoi An Royal Beachfront Villas is more than just a place to stay — it becomes a memorable part of your journey to Bay Mau Coconut Forest, where you can slow down, recharge, and immerse yourself in the tranquil coastal atmosphere.
What to prepare when visiting the coconut forest
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, consider packing the following essentials — each item plays a practical role in your comfort:
- Light, breathable clothing and suitable footwear: Ideal for boat rides, walking on dirt paths, or joining local games.
- Hat and light raincoat: Protection against the sun or sudden summer showers, which are common in Hoi An.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent: Prevent sunburn, glare, and bug bites, especially when outdoors or in the forest.
- Face mask and personal water bottle: Helpful in hot weather or crowded areas.
- Phone, camera, selfie stick: Capture memorable moments — from boat rides and handicrafts to the picturesque coconut canopy.
- Cash, waterproof bags, snacks: Useful for tickets, protecting devices, and avoiding hunger if you skip a meal before the tour.
Bringing these items won’t require much effort, but they’ll make your visit smoother, more comfortable, and filled with joy.Escaping the hustle of the city, Bay Mau Coconut Forest in Hoi An is where you can let your mind drift along calm waterways and experience the warm, rustic culture of Vietnam. If you’re staying at Hoi An Royal Beachfront Villas and planning your vacation in Hoi An, be sure to include this peaceful spot in your itinerary!
