If Hoi An Ancient Town is known for its timeless, nostalgic charm, Bay Mau Coconut Forest in Hoi An offers a refreshing and peaceful escape into the lush waterways of Central Vietnam. Often described as a “mini Mekong Delta,” the area is famous for its vast nipa palm groves, unique basket boats, and a variety of exciting traditional activities.

Following the administrative boundary adjustments between Da Nang and Quang Nam, Bay Mau Coconut Forest remains a popular destination for travelers combining Da Nang and Hoi An in the same itinerary.

Where is Bay Mau coconut forest located?

Bay Mau Coconut Forest is located in Cam Thanh, Hoi An, about 3 km from Hoi An Ancient Town and approximately 30 km from Da Nang city center.

Covering an area of more than 100 hectares, the eco-tourism area is surrounded by millions of nipa palm trees growing along the Thu Bon, Hoai, and De Vong rivers, creating a lush and refreshing landscape throughout the year.

Why is it called Bay Mau coconut forest?

The name “Bay Mau” comes from the forest’s original area of approximately 7 mau, a traditional Vietnamese unit of land measurement, where nipa palms once covered the area.

Over time, thanks to favorable natural conditions, the coconut forest gradually expanded to more than 100 hectares. However, the name “Bay Mau Coconut Forest” has remained and continues to be preserved by local residents and visitors as an important part of the area’s history and cultural identity.

History of Bay Mau coconut forest

Bay Mau Coconut Forest is not only an eco-tourism destination but also closely associated with the revolutionary history of Cam Thanh.

During the resistance wars, the dense nipa palm groves served as a natural shelter, protecting revolutionary forces and becoming an important base for the people and forces of Hoi An. Today, the area is preserved as a historical site, while also being developed as a community-based tourism destination.

What makes Bay Mau coconut forest attractive?

1. Experience a traditional basket boat ride

• • This is one of the most popular activities at Bay Mau Coconut Forest.
• • Sitting in a traditional Vietnamese bamboo basket boat, visitors can weave through the lush nipa palm groves, enjoy the fresh air, and experience the peaceful, simple lifestyle of the local people.

2. Watch an exciting basket boat performance

• • One of the most popular attractions is the traditional basket boat performance by local fishermen.
• • The basket boats spin rapidly in circles on the water while maintaining perfect balance, creating an exciting spectacle that delights visitors and often draws enthusiastic cheers from the crowd.

3. Experience life as a fisherman

Visitors can also take part in a variety of fun activities, including :

• • Casting fishing nets
• • Throwing traditional fishing nets
• • Pulling fishing nets
• • Catching crabs
• • Learning how to row a traditional basket boat

These hands-on experiences are suitable for families and children, offering a fun way to discover the traditional fishing lifestyle of local people.

4. Make souvenirs from coconut leaves

The skilled boat rowers can skillfully craft small souvenirs from coconut leaves, such as:

• • Coconut leaf rings
• • Coconut leaf grasshoppers
• • Coconut leaf flowers
• • Coconut leaf hats

This fun and hands-on experience gives visitors a closer look at the creativity and traditional craftsmanship of the people of Cam Thanh.