Bay Mau Coconut Forest Hoi An: Basket Boat Rides, Costs, and Sustainable Eco-Tours in Da Nang City

Bay Mau Coconut Forest, nestled in Cam Thanh Ward, Da Nang City, just 3 km southeast of Hoi An’s Minh An Ward, is a vibrant eco-tourism destination within the UNESCO-recognized Hoi An region. Spanning over 100 hectares of lush water coconut groves along the Thu Bon River, this serene forest, also known as Cam Thanh Coconut Forest, attracts thousands of Da Nang’s 8 million annual visitors with its tranquil waterways, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Established over 200 years ago by southwestern Vietnamese migrants, it served as a revolutionary base during the French and American wars, earning its status as a cultural-historical relic in 2008. Today, it offers immersive experiences like basket boat rides, traditional fishing, and coconut leaf handicraft workshops, blending adventure with sustainability. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-friendly tours to explore this natural wonder, bookable via links throughout this guide. Glide through Hoi An’s waterways—reserve your tour now!

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our Bay Mau Coconut Forest tours feature low-impact transport like bicycles, electric shuttles, and traditional basket boats, guided by local experts who share the forest’s history and ecological significance. We support Cam Thanh’s fishing communities and align with Da Nang City’s “Green Heritage” initiative to preserve UNESCO-adjacent sites. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless eco-adventure. Discover Bay Mau sustainably with our curated tours—book via the links on this page!

Quang Nam Province has merged into Da Nang City, integrating Hoi An as Minh An Ward and Bay Mau Coconut Forest as part of Cam Thanh Ward. This restructuring eliminates the district level, but Hoi An’s UNESCO status and Bay Mau’s eco-tourism appeal remain robust. Da Nang City enhances sustainable tourism with electric transport, cycling paths, and a VND500 billion flood mitigation project (2023), ensuring access to Bay Mau, though November floods may affect riverside paths.

Bay Mau Coconut Forest, named for its original 7-hectare expanse (“bảy mẫu” means “seven acres”), is a thriving ecosystem at the confluence of four rivers, hosting shrimp, crabs, and mollusks while acting as a natural water purifier. Its dense water coconut palms, introduced by Mekong Delta migrants, create a “miniature Mekong Delta” in Central Vietnam. During the French and American wars, the forest’s inaccessibility made it a strategic hideout for Vietnamese forces, preserving its pristine state. Recognized as a cultural-historical relic by the Quang Nam People’s Committee in 2008, Bay Mau has evolved into a premier eco-tourism site since 2017, offering authentic experiences like basket boat rides and sustainable fishing. With 20+ households in Cam Thanh engaged in community-based tourism, Bay Mau balances cultural preservation with visitor enjoyment, making it a must-visit near Hoi An’s Old Town.

Ticket Prices

• Entrance Fee: $1.20 (30,000 VND) per person for access to Cam Thanh Coconut Village and Bay Mau Forest.

• Basket Boat Ride:

  • Small Boat (2 passengers): $6–$8 per person (150,000–200,000 VND); total $12–$16 per boat (300,000–400,000 VND).

  • Large Boat (3–4 passengers): $4–$6 per person (100,000–150,000 VND); total $16–$24 per boat (400,000–600,000 VND).

  • Solo Rider (over 100 kg): $8–$10 (200,000–250,000 VND) for safety.

• Optional Activities:

  • Boat Spinning/Dancing: $4 per person (100,000 VND) for 1–2 minutes, paid directly to boatmen.

  • Crab Fishing or Net Casting: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per person.

  • Coconut Leaf Handicrafts: Free with boat ride; souvenirs $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Cooking Class: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND), including local dishes like banh xeo.

• Guided Eco-Tours: $10–$45 (250,000–1,125,000 VND) via Legend Travel Group, including entrance, boat ride, lunch, and guide.

• Where to Buy: Ticket booths at Can Nhan Hamlet or Tran Nhan Tong Street entrances; included in guided tours. Online booking via Klook or GetYourGuide offers discounts (e.g., $5.47–$7 per person for boat rides).

• Notes: Prices stable but may rise slightly during peak seasons (March–August). Carry exact VND; booths may not accept cards. Life jackets, conical hats, and umbrellas provided with boat tickets.

Opening Hours

• Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily, including holidays and Tet (Lunar New Year).

• Best Times:

  • Early Morning (7:00–9:00 AM): Cooler (24–28°C or 75.2–82.4°F), fewer crowds, freshest air.

  • Late Afternoon (3:00–5:00 PM): Sunset views (golden hour for photos); avoid midday heat (up to 35°C or 95°F).

  • Dry Season (February–September): Ideal weather (24–32°C); avoid October–December due to heavy rains and typhoons.

• Special Events: Full Moon Lantern Festival (14th lunar day monthly) enhances evening tours; 8th lunar month (August–September) offers ripe water coconuts.

• Notes: Boat rides may pause during heavy floods (October–November); check weather via AccuWeather. Festival hours may extend to 7:00 PM.

Bay Mau Coconut Forest is 3 km from Hoi An’s Old Town (10–15 minutes) and 28 km from Da Nang city center (45–60 minutes). Sustainable transport options include:

From Hoi An (Minh An Ward, 3 km)

• Bicycle (Recommended):

  • Cost: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).

  • Duration: 10–15 minutes via Tran Nhan Tong to Cua Dai Bridge.

  • Sustainable: Zero-emission; scenic riverside routes.

  • Tip: Rent from Hoi An Bike Rental (+84 961 172 423); follow signs to Cam Thanh. Included in our Hoi An Eco-Cycling Tour ($60–$80).

• Basket Boat from Bach Dang Wharf:

  • Cost: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) round-trip; group tours $2–$5/person (50,000–125,000 VND).

  • Duration: 20–30 minutes along Thu Bon River.

  • Sustainable: Supports local boatmen; low-impact travel.

  • Tip: Book at Bach Dang Wharf or via Klook; sunset rides ideal.

• Taxi/Grab:

  • Cost: $3–$6 (75,000–150,000 VND); Xanh SM electric taxis $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND).

  • Duration: 5–10 minutes.

  • Sustainable: Xanh SM reduces CO2 by 30%; share rides for efficiency.

  • Tip: Book via Grab; parking $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Motorbike:

  • Cost: Rental $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); fuel $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

  • Duration: 5–10 minutes via Cua Dai Bridge.

  • Sustainable: Use fuel-efficient models (e.g., Honda Wave).

  • Tip: Requires Vietnamese A1 license or International Driving Permit; helmets mandatory ($200 fine). Parking free at village.

• Walking:

  • Cost: Free.

  • Duration: 30–45 minutes.

  • Sustainable: Eco-friendly; explore Cam Thanh’s rural lanes.

  • Tip: Follow Tran Nhan Tong; early morning avoids heat.

From Da Nang (28 km)

• Public Bus (LK02):

  • Cost: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND) to Hoi An Bus Station; $3 taxi to Bay Mau.

  • Duration: 70–80 minutes.

  • Sustainable: Low-emission buses; use DanaBus app.

  • Tip: Departs every 15–20 minutes (6:00 AM–6:00 PM); not ideal for luggage.

• Taxi/Grab:

  • Cost: $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 VND); Xanh SM electric taxis $13–$16 (325,000–400,000 VND).

  • Duration: 45–60 minutes via Vo Nguyen Giap to Cua Dai.

  • Sustainable: Share rides; Xanh SM’s electric fleet.

  • Tip: Book via Mai Linh (+84 236 352 5252) or Grab.

• Guided Tours:

  • Cost: Group tours $10–$45 (250,000–1,125,000 VND); private tours $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND).

  • Duration: Half-day (4–6 hours) or full-day (8–10 hours).

  • Sustainable: Legend Travel Group uses electric shuttles and boats.

  • Tip: Included in our Bay Mau Coconut Forest Eco-Tour ($75–$95).

• Motorbike Rental:

  • Cost: Same as Hoi An; 45–60 minutes via Truong Sa and Lac Long Quan.

  • Tip: Scenic coastal route; experienced riders only.

Notes: From Da Nang, head to Cua Dai Bridge via Vo Nguyen Giap, turn left at Tran Nhan Tong, and continue 500 m. No public buses directly to Bay Mau; taxis or tours are more practical. Floods in November may affect roads; check conditions.

1. Basket Boat Ride

Overview: Glide through Bay Mau’s waterways in traditional thuyền thúng (basket boats), handwoven from bamboo and sealed with lacquer. These 50–90-minute rides offer serene views of coconut palms, with boatmen sharing wartime stories and performing folk songs.

• Cost: $6–$8 per person (150,000–200,000 VND) for 2-passenger boats; $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND) for 3–4 passengers. Entrance fee $1.20 (30,000 VND).

• Time Needed: 50–90 minutes.

• Sustainable Tips: Choose local boatmen; avoid motorized boats to reduce emissions.

• Highlights: “Peaceful ride with stunning views!” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Opt for sunrise (7:00 AM) or sunset (4:00 PM) for cooler weather and photos; wear life jackets (provided). Included in our Bay Mau Coconut Forest Eco-Tour ($75–$95).

2. Basket Boat Dancing and Racing

Overview: Watch skilled boatmen perform “basket boat dancing,” spinning boats with agile movements, or join thrilling boat races, a highlight during festivals. Optional spinning costs extra.

• Cost: Free with boat ride; spinning $4 (100,000 VND) per person for 1–2 minutes.

• Time Needed: 5–15 minutes.

• Sustainable Tips: Tip boatmen ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND) to support families; avoid overcrowding boats.

• Highlights: “The spinning was exhilarating!” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Best during the 8th lunar month festival; cheer loudly to boost performers. Included in our Bay Mau Festival Tour ($65–$85).

3. Traditional Fishing and Crab Catching

Overview: Learn sustainable net-casting techniques from local fishermen or try crab fishing with bamboo rods, catching fiddler crabs along the riverside.

• Cost: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per person, often included in guided tours.

• Time Needed: 15–30 minutes.

• Sustainable Tips: Practice catch-and-release to protect wildlife; support local fishermen.

• Highlights: “Net-casting was surprisingly fun!” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for muddy banks; morning tours yield more catches.

4. Coconut Leaf Handicraft Workshops

Overview: Craft souvenirs like rings, grasshoppers, or hats from coconut leaves under local guidance, preserving traditional techniques. Free with boat rides, with optional purchases.

• Cost: Free; souvenirs $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Time Needed: 10–20 minutes.

• Sustainable Tips: Buy directly from artisans; avoid mass-produced trinkets.

• Highlights: “Made a coconut leaf crown—loved it!” (Tripadvisor, 4.4/5 stars).

• Tip: Great for kids; practice at boat stops. Included in our Bay Mau Coconut Forest Eco-Tour ($75–$95).

5. Cooking Classes and Local Dining

Overview: Join cooking classes to prepare Hoi An specialties like banh xeo or spring rolls, or dine at riverside restaurants serving fresh coconut water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) and dishes ($1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND).

• Cost: Cooking classes $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND); meals $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Time Needed: 1–2 hours.

• Sustainable Tips: Choose venues using local ingredients; opt for biodegradable packaging.

• Highlights: “Banh xeo class was delicious and fun!” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Book classes via Coconut Fragrance Restaurant; try banana blossom salad.

Bay Mau Coconut Forest is a model for sustainable eco-tourism in Da Nang City:

• Eco-Friendly Practices: Basket boats are handmade, avoiding motorized vessels; 70% of vendors use biodegradable packaging, per Vietnam’s 2022 anti-plastic campaign.

• Conservation: As part of the UNESCO Cu Lao Cham-Hoi An Biosphere Reserve, Bay Mau protects its ecosystem, with entrance fees funding conservation.

• Community Support: Over 20 households earn livelihoods through tourism, employing 100+ boatmen and artisans; revenue supports vocational training via Cam Thanh’s community programs.

• Recent Developments: A 2024 eco-tour project links Bay Mau with Tra Que and Thanh Ha villages, promoting green travel. Plans for 2026–2028 include solar-powered facilities and vegan dining options.

• Challenges: Overcrowding and loud music during peak times can disrupt the eco-experience; visitors should book early morning tours and report litter to local authorities.

Legend Travel Group’s tours align with these efforts, using eco-transfers and partnering with local boatmen, ensuring a low-impact visit.

• Plan Ahead: Book basket boat rides or tours 2–3 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group, Klook, or GetYourGuide, especially for Full Moon Lantern Festival or peak seasons (March–August). Check lunar calendar for festival dates.

• Dress Code: Comfortable, lightweight clothing (e.g., t-shirts, shorts); avoid high heels or flowy outfits. Bring sunscreen ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND), wide-brimmed hat, and mosquito repellent.

• Pack Smart: Reusable water bottle, waterproof bag for electronics, small VND for souvenirs, motion sickness medication ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), camera (ask boatmen permission for photos).

• Budget Wisely: Expect $15–$80/day in Hoi An (budget: $15–$30; mid-range: $30–$50; luxury: $50–$80). Entrance $1.20; boat rides $4–$8; tours $10–$120; dining $1–$5.

• Stay Safe: Wear life jackets (provided); avoid sudden movements on boats; secure valuables during busy tours; check for seasickness tendencies. Report overpricing to ticket booths.

• Sustainability: Support local boatmen and artisans; use bikes or boats to reduce emissions; avoid plastic waste with reusable bags. Join clean-up initiatives if available.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip boatmen ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); respect fishing nets and wildlife.

• Navigation: Allow 2–4 hours at Bay Mau; combine with Hoi An Old Town (3 km) or Tra Que Village (2 km) for a full day. Offline maps (e.g., Maps.me) essential.

Our sustainable tours offer immersive experiences at Bay Mau Coconut Forest, tailored for eco-conscious travelers:

• Bay Mau Coconut Forest Eco-Tour ($75–$95/person): Basket boat ride, crab fishing, coconut leaf handicraft workshop, Tra Que Village cycling. Includes entrance ($1.20), boat ride ($6–$8), eco-transfers, and lunch.

• Hoi An & Bay Mau Full-Day Tour ($80–$120/person): Bay Mau boat ride, Hoi An Old Town, Japanese Covered Bridge, cao lầu tasting. Includes Old Town ticket ($6), eco-transfers, and meals.

• Bay Mau Festival Tour ($65–$85/person): Basket boat dancing, folk games, Full Moon Lantern Festival, riverside dining. Includes entrance ($1.20), eco-transfers, and snacks.

• Bay Mau & Thanh Ha Artisan Tour ($80–$120/person): Boat ride, Thanh Ha Pottery Village, cooking class, Hoi An Market. Includes tickets ($1.50–$3), eco-transfers, and lunch.

• Central Vietnam Eco-Explorer ($350–$550/person, 3–4 days): Bay Mau, Hoi An, My Son, Da Nang, homestays ($15–$50/night). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, entrance fees, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via links around this page!

Bay Mau Coconut Forest, a lush eco-tourism gem in Da Nang City’s Cam Thanh Ward, offers an unforgettable adventure just 3 km from Hoi An’s UNESCO Old Town. With $1.20 entrance fees and $6–$8 basket boat rides, visitors can explore serene waterways, learn traditional fishing, and craft coconut leaf souvenirs. Supported by sustainable practices like handmade boats and local sourcing, Bay Mau preserves its 200-year legacy as a cultural-historical relic. By joining Legend Travel Group’s eco-conscious Hoi An Tours, you support Cam Thanh’s community, minimize environmental impact, and create lasting memories in this “miniature Mekong Delta.” Don’t miss Bay Mau’s tranquil beauty—browse our featured Hoi An Tours and book your Hoi An Travel eco-adventure today!
Ready to glide through Bay Mau Coconut Forest’s waterways? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Hoi An Travel sustainably!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 1000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.