Indulge in Ben Tre’s Coconut Candy: Best Brands, Prices, and Culinary Tours in Vinh Long

Nestled in the heart of Vinh Long province, Ben Tre ward is Vietnam’s “Coconut Kingdom,” where sprawling coconut groves and a century-old tradition have made kẹo dừa (coconut candy) a cultural and culinary icon. This sweet, chewy treat, crafted from fresh coconut milk, malt, and sugar, is a beloved specialty of the Mekong Delta, known for its rich, creamy texture and diverse flavors like durian, peanut, and pandan. Originating in Mo Cay (now Mo Cay Nam), Ben Tre’s coconut candy is not just a snack but a symbol of local ingenuity, exported globally to Asia, Europe, and America. With its vibrant markets and artisanal factories, Ben Tre offers an immersive experience for foodies and travelers. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, curates culinary tours that guide you to the best candy-making spots, blending tastings with Vinh Long’s scenic waterways and cultural treasures. Ready to savor this Mekong delight? Book your tour via the links on this page and explore Ben Tre’s sweet legacy!

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Vietnam experiences with English-speaking guides, sustainable partnerships with Ben Tre’s artisans, and seamless logistics. Our tours are designed to inspire action, connecting you with the ward’s culinary heritage while supporting local communities. Reserve your spot now and let us lead you to the heart of kẹo dừaculture in Vinh Long!

Ben Tre’s coconut candy tradition began in the 1930s in Mo Cay district, pioneered by Mrs. Nguyen Thi Ngoc, who crafted the first treats known as “Mo Cay candy.” In 1970, Mrs. Nguyen Thi Vinh revolutionized production with machine-based methods, founding Thanh Long, the first major brand. Today, Ben Tre produces over 600 million coconuts annually across 78,000 hectares, fueling a thriving candy industry. Artisans use xiêm coconuts for their thick, creamy milk, paired with malt from germinated glutinous rice and high-grade sugar, creating a soft, fatty texture that’s both sweet and savory. Modern flavors like cacao, taro, and durian add variety, while brands like Thanh Long and Yen Hoang innovate with non-sticky, crispy versions.

How It’s Made

1. Ingredient Selection: Xiêm coconuts are chosen for creamy milk; glutinous rice is fermented into sweet malt; yellowish-brown sugar adds depth.

2. Mixing: Coconut milk, malt, and sugar are blended and stirred over heat (traditionally by hand, now often by machine) until thickened.

3. Molding: The mixture is poured into non-stick molds, cooled, and cut into uniform pieces.

4. Flavoring: Add-ins like peanuts, durian, or pandan are mixed in for variety.

5. Packaging: Candies are wrapped in edible rice paper and outer packaging, often by automated machines, to prevent moisture. Price: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) for 300g; varies by brand and flavor (1 USD ≈ 25,000 VND).

Ben Tre’s candy factories and markets are culinary landmarks, offering tastings, factory tours, and souvenirs. Below are the best spots with updated prices and locations:

1. Thanh Long Coconut Candy Factory

The first and most iconic brand, founded in 1970, Thanh Long offers traditional and modern flavors like durian, peanut, and cacao, with automated production lines ensuring quality.

• Price: $1.20–$2.40 (30,000–60,000 VND)/300g; gift boxes $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Location: 212B Dong Khoi, Phu Khuong Ward, Ben Tre, Vinh Long.

• Contact: +84 275 382 2567

• Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Highlights: Factory tours, tastings, and diverse products like coconut syrup ($3–$7). “Top-quality candies, great for gifts” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Sample durian flavor; buy gift boxes for export-quality packaging.

2. Bà Hai Tỏ (Dong A Coconut Candy)

Known for its founder Pham Thi To’s “Auntie Hai Tỏ” image, this brand, established in 1978, produces over 1,000 tons annually, exporting to the US and Australia.

• Price: $1.40–$2.80 (35,000–70,000 VND)/300g; premium flavors $3–$4 (75,000–100,000 VND).

• Location: 379C Nguyen Van Tu, Ward 7, Ben Tre, Vinh Long.

• Contact: +84 275 382 3456

• Hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Highlights: Handcrafted and machine-made options; “rich, authentic taste” (Google Reviews, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Try pandan flavor; visit mornings for fresh batches.

3. Yen Hoang Coconut Candy (Vinh Tien Co., Ltd.)

Innovative for its non-sticky, crispy texture since 2011, Yen Hoang uses modern technology to produce uniform candies, popular for their clean coconut flavor.

• Price: $1.60–$3 (40,000–75,000 VND)/300g; gift packs $6–$12 (150,000–300,000 VND).

• Location: 123 An Hoi, An Hoi Ward, Ben Tre, Vinh Long.

• Contact: +84 275 383 7890

• Hours: 7:30 AM–5:30 PM.

• Highlights: “Crispy, non-sticky innovation” (Mytour.vn, 4.7/5 stars).

• Tip: Buy taro flavor for a unique twist; ideal for kids.

4. Hong Van Coconut Candy

Run by Mr. Nhut and Mrs. Thuy, this family-owned brand offers large-scale production with flavors like peanut and chocolate, emphasizing quality and tradition.

• Price: $1–$2.40 (25,000–60,000 VND)/300g; bulk packs $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).

• Location: 45 Nguyen Thi Dinh, Phu Hung Ward, Ben Tre, Vinh Long.

• Contact: +84 275 382 9012

• Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Highlights: “Authentic, budget-friendly” (Vietnamplus.vn).

• Tip: Sample peanut flavor; great for bulk souvenirs.

5. Ben Tre Night Market

A vibrant hub for sampling coconut candy from various brands, including smaller artisans, alongside street food like bánh xèo ($0.80–$1.60).

• Price: $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND)/300g; sampler packs $0.40–$1 (10,000–25,000 VND).

• Location: Hung Vuong, Ward 2, Ben Tre, Vinh Long (near Ben Tre River).

• Hours: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM.

• Highlights: “Lively atmosphere, affordable candies” (Tripadvisor, 4/5 stars).

• Tip: Bargain 10–15% off; try before buying to ensure quality.

Our expertly crafted tours immerse you in Ben Tre’s coconut candy culture, combining factory visits, tastings, and Mekong Delta adventures. All include transportation, English-speaking guides, and activities:

• Half-Day Candy and Market Tour ($35–$50 per person)
  Visit Thanh Long Factory ($1.20–$2.40/300g), taste coconut candy, and explore Ben Tre Night Market for bánh xèo($0.80–$1.60). Includes a coconut drink ($0.40–$0.80).

• Full-Day Mekong Culinary Adventure ($65–$85 per person)
  Tour Bà Hai Tỏ ($1.40–$2.80/300g) and Yen Hoang ($1.60–$3/300g), enjoy a boat ride on Ham Luong River ($5–$10), and taste bánh mì xíu mại ($0.60–$1.20). Includes a gift pack of candy ($1–$3).

• Private Coconut Candy Experience ($60–$100 per person, minimum 2 people)
  Customize with Hong Van Factory ($1–$2.40/300g), a candy-making workshop ($10 extra), and coffee at a riverside café ($0.80–$1.50). Includes photos and candy souvenirs.

• Combo Candy and River Tour ($50–$70 per person)
  Visit Thanh Long, explore Con Quy islet by boat ($5–$10), and sample coconut candy at Ben Tre Night Market ($0.80–$2/300g). Includes lunch with rice snail pancakes ($1–$2).

• Multi-Day Mekong Delta Journey ($150–$250 per person)
  Over 2–3 days, visit all listed factories, Cai Mon fruit gardens ($1–$2 entry), and Vinh Trang Pagoda (free). Includes homestay at Mekong Rustic ($15–$30/night) and meals.

Prices include guides, transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Exchange rate: 1 USD ≈ 25,000 VND. Group discounts for 10+ travelers. Book now for seasonal promotions!

Ben Tre’s coconut candy is a cultural emblem, rooted in Mo Cay’s artisanal traditions since the 1930s. Its simple yet meticulous recipe—using xiêm coconut milk, glutinous rice malt, and premium sugar—creates a soft, fatty texture that’s globally loved, as noted by saigoneer.com. Brands like Thanh Long dominate with over 400 retail points in Vietnam and exports to the US and Australia, while innovations like Yen Hoang’s non-sticky candy elevate the craft. The candy’s edible rice paper wrapping and diverse flavors, from pandan to cacao, make it a versatile souvenir. Tripadvisor reviews praise its “rich, creamy taste” but note hygiene concerns at smaller stalls; our tours ensure vetted vendors. Despite challenges like rising coconut prices, Ben Tre’s candy remains a Mekong Delta staple, symbolizing resilience and creativity.

The dry season (December–April) is ideal for factory tours and market visits, with sunny weather (27°C average) and festivals like Tet boosting vibrancy. The rainy season (May–November) offers lush scenery and fewer crowds, perfect for intimate tours; morning visits (8:00–11:00 AM) avoid showers. Coconut harvests peak year-round, ensuring fresh supplies.

• Thanh Long Factory: 212B Dong Khoi, Phu Khuong Ward (2 km from center). Walkable or taxi/Grab $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Bà Hai Tỏ: 379C Nguyen Van Tu, Ward 7 (3 km from center). Taxi $1–$2; motorbike parking $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–10,000 VND).

• Yen Hoang: 123 An Hoi, An Hoi Ward (1.5 km from center). Walkable or taxi $1–$2.

• Hong Van: 45 Nguyen Thi Dinh, Phu Hung Ward (4 km from center). Taxi $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).

• Ben Tre Night Market: Hung Vuong, Ward 2 (city center). Walkable or Xanh SM taxi ($1.16 for 2 km).

• Tip: Legend Travel Group’s tours include round-trip transfers for ease.

• Choose Reputable Brands: Opt for Thanh Long, Bà Hai Tỏ, or Yen Hoang for quality and hygiene, as recommended by Mytour.vn.

• Sample Flavors: Try durian, peanut, or pandan at factories; sampler packs at markets cost $0.40–$1.

• Buy Souvenirs: Gift boxes ($5–$12) are ideal for travel; ensure sealed packaging for freshness.

• Moderate Consumption: High sugar content; enjoy in moderation, as noted by onevietnamtours.com.

• Bring Cash: Small VND notes (5,000–20,000) for stalls; some factories accept cards.

• Stay Safe: Keep valuables secure in markets; use crossbody bags.

• Join a Guided Tour: Legend Travel Group’s tours ensure vetted vendors, factory access, and cultural insights, addressing hygiene concerns.

Ready to taste Ben Tre’s sweetest treat? Legend Travel Group makes it effortless:

1. Browse Tours: Explore our culinary tour options on this page (right or below).

2. Customize Your Trip: Contact us for private tours, factory workshops, or family-friendly itineraries.

3. Book Seamlessly: Secure your spot with a small deposit and enjoy free cancellations up to 24 hours before departure.

4. Savor the Sweetness: Our guides lead you to Ben Tre’s best kẹo dừa experiences with local expertise.

Book Now and let Legend Travel Group craft your delicious Ben Tre culinary journey!

Ben Tre’s coconut candy, or kẹo dừa, is a sweet symbol of Vinh Long’s Mekong Delta heritage, blending creamy coconut milk, malt, and sugar into a globally loved treat. From Thanh Long’s pioneering factory to Yen Hoang’s crispy innovations, these candies offer diverse flavors and cultural depth. Legend Travel Group’s Vinh Long Tours provide a seamless way to explore Ben Tre’s candy-making legacy, ensuring a sustainable Vinh Long Travel experience pairing factory visits with river cruises and local delicacies. Don’t just crave this Mekong gem—experience it. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your kẹo dừa adventure today!
Ready to taste Ben Tre’s coconut candy? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Vinh Long’s sweetest tradition!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group