A basket boat tour in Hoi An offers a serene journey through the Cam Thanh Coconut Forest, but the surrounding area has much more to offer. Once you disembark, travelers often wonder what else they can do nearby to extend their visit and make the most of their day.

This guide provides practical ideas for things to do near Cam Thanh, focusing on cultural experiences, nature exploration, and local engagement—all within easy reach of the forest.

1. Cycle Through the Countryside

Why cycling works well after a boat tour

The Cam Thanh area is famous for its flat, quiet roads lined with rice paddies and small village houses. Cycling after a basket boat tour allows you to:

  • Continue exploring at a relaxed pace

  • See rural landscapes up close

  • Visit local homes and farms

Recommended route

  • Start from Cam Thanh village

  • Follow the small canal-side paths toward surrounding rice fields

  • Pass through coconut groves beyond the main waterways

Cycling is generally easy for all skill levels, making it family-friendly.

2. Visit Local Handicraft Villages

Traditional craft nearby

Several nearby villages produce woven mats, bamboo items, and local fishing tools. Visiting a handicraft workshop lets travelers:

  • Observe artisans at work

  • Learn about traditional techniques

  • Purchase souvenirs that support the local economy

Practical tips

  • Look for small, family-run workshops rather than commercialized stores

  • Ask guides for recommendations to ensure authenticity

3. Try Local Foods and Snacks

Cam Thanh culinary highlights

After the boat tour, stop at a nearby eatery or riverside café to sample local flavors. Some popular options include:

  • Freshwater fish dishes prepared in local styles

  • Rice pancakes (Banh Xeo)

  • Coconut-based snacks reflecting the area’s natural produce

Sampling local foods enhances understanding of village life.

4. Explore Other Nearby Waterways

Short paddling or boat trips

Even if your basket boat ride is complete, some travelers enjoy a short canoe or paddle-boat session along smaller canals. This provides:

  • Alternative perspectives of the coconut forest

  • Opportunities to observe wildlife quietly

  • Less crowded experiences than the main forest routes

5. Photography Walks Along the Canal Edges

The forest and village edges are rich in visual details:

  • Fishing nets and bamboo traps

  • Water reflections of palms and sky

  • Daily activities of local residents

A quiet walk along the canals allows travelers to capture scenes that are missed from the boat.

6. Birdwatching and Nature Observation

The area around Cam Thanh Coconut Forest is home to several bird species and aquatic life. After the boat tour, visitors can:

  • Look for kingfishers, herons, and egrets

  • Observe small fish and crabs near shallow edges

  • Experience the forest at a slower pace on foot

Morning and late afternoon are ideal times for wildlife observation.

7. Visit Nearby Markets

Local village markets

A short ride from the forest, village markets offer insight into local trade:

  • Fresh produce and seafood

  • Handcrafted items

  • Seasonal fruits like coconut, mango, and papaya

Walking through a market after a boat tour provides a sensory contrast to the quiet waterways.

8. Participate in a Cooking Class

Some local operators offer cooking experiences in Cam Thanh or nearby villages. Travelers can:

  • Learn traditional recipes using fresh ingredients

  • Understand how waterway life influences local cuisine

  • Enjoy hands-on interaction with residents

A cooking class pairs well with the calm observation of a basket boat tour.

9. Relax at Riverside Cafés

After hours on the water, a break at a riverside café is refreshing:

  • Enjoy fresh coconut juice or local tea

  • Watch daily life along the river

  • Reflect on the peaceful forest experience

This low-key activity continues the slow, mindful approach introduced by the boat tour.

10. Combine with Countryside Cycling Tours

Many operators and guesthouses near Cam Thanh offer guided cycling tours that integrate multiple activities:

  • Basket boat rides

  • Village visits

  • Cooking demonstrations

  • Markets and nature stops

This allows travelers to experience several things to do in Hoi An in one relaxed itinerary.

Tips for Planning Your Post-Tour Activities

  • Allow enough time: Don’t rush directly from the boat. Take at least 30–45 minutes to transition.

  • Stay hydrated: Carry water, especially in the warmer months.

  • Respect local communities: Follow pathways and avoid walking through private areas without permission.

  • Consider timing: Morning or late afternoon visits are quieter and more visually appealing.

Why Exploring the Surroundings Adds Value

A basket boat tour is enjoyable on its own, but exploring nearby activities enhances understanding of the area. Travelers gain:

  • A fuller sense of rural life

  • Additional nature and cultural insights

  • Varied sensory experiences—sight, sound, and taste

This approach ensures that a visit to Cam Thanh is more than a single ride; it becomes a holistic day of exploration.

Final Thoughts

The Cam Thanh Coconut Forest is just the beginning of what the surrounding area has to offer. Pairing a basket boat tour in Hoi An with cycling, local markets, cooking experiences, and riverside walks creates a day that is rich in culture, nature, and quiet observation.

For travelers who enjoy layering experiences without rushing, these activities complement the calm pace of the coconut basket boat ride and provide lasting memories of Hoi An’s rural charm.