Bay Mau Coconut Forest: A-Z Guide for Basket Boat Experience

Bay Mau Coconut Forest: A-Z Guide for Basket Boat Experience

Bay Mau Coconut Forest is one of the prominent tourist spots in Hoi An, attracting visitors with its cool waterways and peaceful stretches of coconut trees. Here, you will have the chance to experience riding a unique basket boat, explore the lives of the locals, and enjoy a relaxing feeling amidst the fresh nature.

Location of Bay Mau Coconut Forest in Hoi An

Bay Mau Coconut Forest is located at Group 2, Can Nhan Hamlet, Cam Thanh Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province (now part of Da Nang after the merger). This is a cool green tourist destination just about 3km from the ancient town center, making it very convenient for you to combine sightseeing in the same itinerary.

Bay Mau Coconut Forest attracts a large number of tourists

Bay Mau Coconut Forest attracts a large number of tourists

>>> See more: Tra Que Vegetable Village: Cool Green Space in the Heart of Hoi An

This place is also known by many familiar names such as Cam Thanh Coconut Garden, Hoi An Coconut Forest. What makes this destination particularly attractive is the fresh ecological space, the rows of water coconut trees providing shade, and the winding canals.

The scene of basket boat cruising on the river carries the rustic imprint of the waterway region. The peaceful landscape harmonizes with the slow pace of local life, creating a "green oasis." Anyone visiting will feel relaxed and comfortable, embodying the essence of the Mekong Delta in the heart of Hoi An.

The long history of Bay Mau Coconut Forest

Few people know that Bay Mau Coconut Forest has existed for about two hundred years. At that time, settlers from the Mekong Delta brought a few water coconut seedlings and planted them in Cam Thanh. Surprisingly, this familiar plant from the South thrived in this land. They quickly took root and spread along the canals around the village.

The coconut forest has been planted for a long time

The coconut forest has been planted for a long time

>>> See more: Phung Hung Ancient House - An Architectural Masterpiece Over 200 Years

Initially, the coconut area was very small, covering only a few acres (about 7 acres), so the locals affectionately called it "Bay Mau Coconut Forest." Over time, the coconut bushes grew wider, connecting to form a green carpet stretching nearly 100 hectares. Nevertheless, the simple name from the past is still preserved.

During the war, the coconut forest served as a natural shield, protecting revolutionary forces. The tangled canal system and dense coconut canopy became a strategic advantage. It can be said that these coconut bushes helped the local military organize ambushes, hide food supplies, and complete many important missions.

A famous ecological tourist area you should experience when visiting Hoi An

Famous eco-tourism area you should experience when visiting Hoi An

The most attractive experiences at Cam Thanh Coconut Forest

If you are looking for a place that embodies the essence of waterways while retaining the rustic beauty of Hoi An's countryside, Bay Mau Coconut Forest is the ideal stop. Here, visitors can try many exciting activities connected with nature and local culture.

Riding a basket boat to explore the green coconut maze

One of the must-try activities when visiting Bay Mau Coconut Forest is the basket boat experience. The small round boat glides gently through the winding canals. The calm water reflects the dense water coconut trees on both banks.

During this journey, you will feel the slow pace of life and the characteristic breath of Quang with the gentle sound of paddles touching the water. The cool breeze blowing from the tall coconut trees combined with the scent of alluvium blends into the fresh air.

Experience sitting in a unique bamboo boat

Experience the unique basket boat ride

Watch the basket boat dance performance, a specialty of the coconut forest

One highlight that delights visitors is the basket boat dance, a familiar performance that never loses its charm. Local people, with their skilled rowing techniques, will make the basket boat spin, glide over the water, and change direction with just a few decisive strokes.

The quick, strong, and precise movements create a feeling of excitement and amazement. The splashing water, the cheers of visitors, and the joyful laughter make the entire Bay Mau Coconut Forest area come alive.

Bamboo boat dancing has become a "specialty" of the coconut forest tourist area

Basket boat dancing has become a "specialty" of the coconut forest tourism area

Participate in unique folk games at the coconut forest

Bay Mau Coconut Forest is not only a peaceful sightseeing spot but also an entertainment playground for those who want to experience traditional folk games typical of the waterways. Visitors can try their hand at many exciting activities such as cycling over bamboo bridges, racing boats on the canal, tug-of-war, or blindfolded pot breaking,...

What’s special is that these games are organized right in the cool natural space, under the shade of the coconut trees, providing an experience that is both thrilling and relaxing. The joyful laughter of everyone, the gentle sound of water lapping against the boat, and the faint aroma of coconut make every moment memorable.

Tourists can try their hand at various recreational activities

Visitors can try their hand at recreational activities

Admire the "fishing net throwing"

One of the unique cultural features at Bay Mau Coconut Forest in Cam Thanh is the net throwing and pulling of local fishermen. When the nets are cast, spreading round on the water surface, each movement is very skillful and graceful. If you visit during sunset, you will see the sunlight shining through the gaps in the coconut leaves beautifully.

Make souvenirs from coconut leaves with local artisans

A very popular experience at the coconut forest is making handicrafts from coconut leaves by hand. Under the guidance of artisans, you will learn how to transform seemingly simple leaf fronds into small, lovely gifts. For example, flowers, rings, grasshoppers, mini hats, each product carries a rustic yet delicate beauty.

Make souvenirs from the coconut leaves right here

Make souvenirs by hand from the coconut leaves here

This activity allows visitors to experience folk craftsmanship culture, as well as a way to relax, hone skills, and creativity. After completion, these items will become meaningful keepsakes, marking your trip to Bay Mau Coconut Forest in your heart.

Travel guide to Hoi An Coconut Forest

Bay Mau Coconut Forest is an ideal destination for those who love nature, seek tranquility, but still want to experience unique activities rich in the essence of the waterways. This guide from NVK Travel will provide everyone with important information for a satisfying trip to Hoi An.

Ideal time

The climate in Hoi An is divided into different stages, each period has its own unique experiences. You can consider the following time frames:

The ideal time for tourists to have a wonderful trip

The ideal time for visitors to have a wonderful trip

  • From February to June: This is the ideal time if you want to avoid harsh sun and heavy rain. The weather is dry and cool, convenient for basket boat rides, walking tours, or taking photos amidst Bay Mau Coconut Forest.
  • From May to July: If you want to combine the coconut forest experience with the festive atmosphere in the ancient town of Hoi An, this is a reasonable choice. During this period, you can visit the coconut forest and then return to the town to enjoy lantern releasing programs and traditional performances.
  • From August to November: This is when the climate is cool, with little rain, especially suitable for those who want to experience the coconut forest during the full moon night, combined with the flower lantern releasing festival on the river. The peaceful space, the moonlight reflecting on the water, harmonizes with the green coconut groves.

How to get to Bay Mau Coconut Forest

Depending on the starting point, everyone can choose a suitable route to get to Bay Mau Coconut Forest. Below are two directions from the center of Da Nang and from the center of Hoi An for your reference:

Route for tourists

Route for tourists

From Hoi An Ancient Town

  • By river: Take a boat at Bach Dang pier, follow the Thu Bon River to reach the coconut forest, relaxing while enjoying the river scenery.
  • By road: Drive along Tran Nhan Tong, cross the Cua Dai bridge, and after about 500m you will reach the coconut forest with a travel time of about 10 minutes.

Da Nang City:

  • Route 1: Starting from Dragon Bridge - Ngo Quyen - Ngu Hanh Son - Hoi An Ancient Town - continue to travel as directed from the ancient town.
  • Route 2: Starting from Dragon Bridge - Vo Van Kiet - turn into Vo Nguyen Giap - Lac Long Quan - Tran Nhan Tong - Cua Dai bridge - Bay Mau Coconut Forest.

Opening hours and entrance fees

Customers should also check the hours and ticket prices to ensure a smooth trip from Hoi An to the coconut forest. Generally, the coconut forest is open all day, so you can visit at any time.

Tourists can refer to the entrance fee for the coconut forest tourist area

Tourists can refer to the entrance fee for the coconut forest tourist area

  • Opening hours are from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
  • Entrance ticket is 30,000 VND/person.
  • Bamboo boat rental ticket is 280,000 VND/boat (2 adults + 1 child under 1m) or 150,000 VND/2 people.
  • Some folk games and bamboo boat experiences will have separate fees, with prices varying by season.

Bay Mau Coconut Forest is truly an ideal destination to enjoy the cool green river space and experience the unique bamboo boat.If you want to make your trip to Hoi An more convenient, safe, and fully experienced, choose a professional tour with preferential prices from NVK Travel. Visit the website: nvktravel.com today for memorable moments.