Cam Thanh Coconut Village
A water coconut palm swamp outside Hoi An, toured in round basket boats that were a tax dodge.
Updated 30 August 2026
The nipa palm swamp at Cam Thanh grows in brackish water where the Thu Bon river meets the sea, and it is toured in thung chai - round basket boats of woven bamboo sealed with resin. The usual story for their shape is that under the French a tax was levied on boats, and round baskets were argued not to be boats; whether that is the real origin or a good tale told to visitors is not settled. What the trips have become is a problem in itself: loud music, boat-spinning displays and heavy traffic on a small waterway, which local authorities have moved to regulate. Quieter operators exist.
What you'll find
- Nipa palm in brackish water - where the river meets the sea.
- Round basket boats - woven bamboo sealed with resin.
- A tax story about their shape - repeated everywhere, unverified.
- Regulation of the noisier trips - after complaints about the waterway.
When to go
February to August, avoiding the flood season. Half a day.
What to expect
The standard tour involves loud music and spinning displays that many visitors dislike - choosing a quiet operator is worth doing. The waterway is crowded with boats at peak times. It is a short trip sold at tourist prices.
Nearby
Hoi An is west; Cua Dai beach is east.
What to pack for Cam Thanh Coconut Village
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
- A refillable water bottle - Many cities have public fountains; save money and plastic. Find on Amazon
- A light layer + compact umbrella - For museum air-con and a sudden shower. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
