Bay Mau Coconut Forest (also known as Cam Thanh Coconut Forest) is one of the most popular attractions near Hoi An, attracting thousands of visitors every year. Located just a short distance from the ancient town, this peaceful eco-tourism site offers a unique river-life experience that many travelers love.
However, due to its popularity and the presence of informal services, many visitors end up paying more than necessary or encountering unexpected extra fees. To help you enjoy a smooth and worry-free trip, here are some important things you should know before visiting Bay Mau Coconut Forest.
Where Is Bay Mau Coconut Forest? How Far Is It from Hoi An?
Bay Mau Coconut Forest is located in Cam Thanh Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province, covering an area of over 100 hectares. It is often described as a “mini Mekong Delta” in central Vietnam.
The forest is only about 3 km from Hoi An Ancient Town, making it very convenient for a half-day trip.
You can reach the coconut forest by:
- Road: Travel along Tran Nhan Tong Street, cross Cua Dai Bridge, and continue for about 500 meters. The journey takes around 10 minutes.
- River: Take a boat from Bach Dang Wharf in Hoi An and enjoy a scenic ride along the Thu Bon River.
Opening hours are generally from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Ticket Prices at Bay Mau Coconut Forest
One of the most common questions visitors ask is about ticket prices.
Currently, the basket boat tour costs around 160,000 VND per boat, suitable for 2 adults and 1 child. This price usually includes:
- Basket boat ride
- Life jackets
- Traditional conical hats
- Folk performance shows
Prices may vary depending on the service provider and season, so it’s best to confirm the full package price before boarding to avoid extra charges.
Beware of Ticket Scams and Middlemen
Around the coconut forest area, you may encounter many people offering “cheap tickets” or “special deals.” In reality, some visitors are later asked to pay additional fees for performances, spinning boats, or tips.
To avoid being overcharged, DanangTips recommends buying tickets directly at the entrance or booking through reputable travel agencies, rather than dealing with unofficial middlemen.
How Long Is the Basket Boat Ride? What Will You Experience?
A standard basket boat tour usually lasts about 35–45 minutes.
During the ride, you will:
- Float through narrow canals shaded by lush green coconut palms
- Enjoy the peaceful countryside scenery
- Take beautiful photos in a calm, natural setting
You will also have the chance to watch:
- Basket boat spinning performances by skilled local boatmen
- Traditional fishing net casting demonstrations
- Karaoke and music performances on the river, creating a lively and cheerful atmosphere
👉 Tip: Always ask in advance which activities are included in your ticket, especially basket boat spinning, to avoid misunderstandings.
Is Tipping or Buying Souvenirs Mandatory?
Some boat operators may suggest tipping or encourage you to buy small souvenirs such as coconut rings or fans.
These are not mandatory services. If you’re not interested, you can politely decline without any issue.
Best Time to Visit Bay Mau Coconut Forest
The ideal time to visit is during the dry season, from January to September. August and September are particularly beautiful, as water coconut palms are at their best, and you may also get to enjoy traditional coconut rice dishes.
It’s best to avoid visiting during October and November, when central Vietnam enters the rainy and stormy season.
Best time of day:
- Peak hours: 8:00–10:00 AM and 3:00–5:00 PM (very crowded)
- Best experience: 7:00–8:00 AM or 4:00–5:00 PM, with cooler weather and fewer crowds
What Should You Bring?
To fully enjoy your visit, consider bringing:
- Water and light snacks
- A phone or camera for photos
- A hat for sun protection (conical hats and umbrellas are usually provided)
Bay Mau Coconut Forest is a wonderful destination when visiting Hoi An. With a bit of preparation and the right information, you can enjoy a fun, fairly priced, and hassle-free experience without worrying about unnecessary expenses.
