Discover Hoi An Top Destinations Worth Experiencing

When Hoi An is mentioned, most tourists immediately think of the ancient town ablaze with lanterns, the bustling Japanese Bridge, or the crowded An Bang beach every summer afternoon. But there is another Hoi An – quieter, more authentic, and almost invisible on the mainstream tourism map. These are the bamboo-lined village roads of Cam Kim, the beaches of Cu Lao Cham, or the rhythmic life of fishermen at dawn on Con Hen islet – experiences few have had the chance to witness.

At Thinh Adventures , we believe that travel is not just about “coming and taking pictures,” but about a journey of genuine connection with the land and its people. We pursue a philosophy of responsible experiential travel : respecting the rhythm of local communities, minimizing the impact on the natural environment, and prioritizing small, meaningful experiences over crowded check-in spots.

This article is the result of field research and collaboration with locals, compiling lesser-known destinations around Hoi An – for those who truly want to discover a slower-paced and more fulfilling Hoi An experience.

If you love independent travel , are passionate about exploration, and are always curious about authentic local experiences , the list below is the map for you.

I. Ecotourism & Nature

1. Cam Kim Oasis – A riverside village forgotten by time.

Location & Getting There: Cam Kim is a small islet located directly opposite Hoi An Old Town, separated by the Thu Bon River. From the center of the old town, visitors can take a boat across the river in just 10-15 minutes, or ride a motorbike/bicycle across the Cam Kim bridge in about 15-20 minutes.

The most striking feature: Despite being separated from the Old Town by only a river, Cam Kim has almost completely preserved the traditional Vietnamese village life – winding village roads shaded by bamboo, lush green rice fields stretching as far as the eye can see, untouched by the encroachment of noisy tourist services.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Cycling through the village roads, stopping to chat with the locals.
  • Visit Kim Bong carpentry village right in the oasis.
  • Take a boat ride through the rows of water coconut trees along the river.

Travel tips from Thinh Adventures: It’s best to go early in the morning (6:30 AM – 9:00 AM) when the sunlight is gentle and the locals are starting to go to the fields, creating the most beautiful scenes of everyday life. Wear comfortable shoes because some sections of the village roads are rough, and always ask permission before taking close-up photos of the locals.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit duration: Half a day
  • Suitable for: Families, couples, international travelers who appreciate a slow pace of life.

2. Con Hen Island & Cam Nam Alluvial Plain – Where the Hoai River awakens at dawn

Location & Directions: Located just south of the Old Quarter, in Cam Nam ward, it’s only a 5-10 minute walk from the Japanese Bridge via Cam Nam bridge.

The most outstanding feature: This is one of the few places where you can watch the sunrise over the Hoai River without having to compete with crowds, and at the same time witness the complete rhythm of the fishing life of the riverside residents at dawn.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Wake up early to watch the sunrise and capture the moment the fishing boats set sail.
  • Enjoy sticky corn from Cam Nam – a famous specialty of the alluvial plain region.
  • Take a stroll along the riverbank and observe the lives of the local fishermen.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: The best time is 5:15 – 6:00 AM. Bring a light jacket because it’s quite chilly by the river early in the morning, especially in autumn and winter.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit time: 2-3 hours
  • Suitable for: Photographers, couples, international visitors

3. Bai Huong (Cu Lao Cham) – An ancient fishing village in the heart of the blue sea

Location & Getting There: Located on Cu Lao Cham Island, about 15km from Cua Dai. Travel by speedboat (25-30 minutes) or wooden boat (about 1 hour) from Cua Dai pier, then take a local boat or electric vehicle to Bai Huong beach.

The most striking feature: Huong Beach is a tranquil, ancient fishing village, far less commercialized than the island’s center, with crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and coral viewing.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Snorkeling to admire coral reefs and underwater rock formations along the shore.
  • Stay in a homestay with a fisherman’s family and enjoy fresh seafood.
  • Visit the Ông Mausoleum – a place that preserves the belief in worshipping the Whale God among the island’s fishermen.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: The best diving season is from March to August, when the sea is calm and the water is clear. Prioritize bringing a sun-protective swimsuit instead of chemical sunscreens to protect the coral reefs.

Quick information:

  • Level of risk: Medium
  • Ideal visit duration: 1 day (or overnight)
  • Suitable for: Backpackers, international tourists, beach lovers

4. Bai Xep (Cham Island) – The last pristine, tranquil spot on the island

Location & Getting There: Located in a less-visited area on Cu Lao Cham Island, it requires a small boat or trekking from the island’s center; a local guide is recommended.

The most striking feature: This is a pristine beach, part of the Cham Islands – Hoi An World Biosphere Reserve, recognized by UNESCO in 2009. The marine ecosystem is strictly protected, and visitors must comply with regulations when visiting.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Immerse yourself in the tranquil, noise-free atmosphere of the sea.
  • Light camping or picnic with homemade food.
  • Capture rare, unspoiled, and pristine landscapes.

Travel tips from Thinh Adventures: Since there are no services on-site, bring plenty of water, snacks, and eco-friendly sunscreen. Always bring your trash back to land to help preserve this pristine environment.

Quick information:

  • Level of risk: Medium
  • Ideal visit duration: Half a day
  • Suitable for: Backpackers, wildlife lovers

5. Hidden Beach (Between Cua Dai & An Bang) – A private beach nestled between two famous beaches.

Location & Directions: Situated on the stretch of coastline connecting Cua Dai and An Bang, about 15-20 minutes by motorbike from the center of Hoi An. It’s recommended to ask locals or tour guides for directions as there aren’t many clear signposts.

The most striking feature: Despite being situated between two of Hoi An’s most popular beaches, this stretch of coastline remains quiet and little-known, offering a rare sense of privacy.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Enjoy a relaxing swim in the sea without the crowds.
  • Take a walk along the sandy beach at sunset.
  • Light camping and stargazing at night (if permitted).

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: It’s best to go with a local acquaintance or a Thinh Adventures guide as this area lacks official signage or lifeguard services – always exercise caution when swimming.

Quick information:

  • Level of risk: Medium
  • Ideal visit time: 2-3 hours
  • Suitable for: Couples, those seeking privacy

6. Cam Ha Lotus Pond – Vibrant pink blossoms amidst the tranquil countryside.

Location & Getting There: Located in Cam Ha commune, about 5km from the center of Hoi An, easily accessible by bicycle or motorbike via village roads.

The highlight: A natural lotus pond that blooms brilliantly in the summer, surrounded by shady countryside – a peaceful corner rarely found in typical tourist tours.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Taking photos amidst the pink hues of lotus flowers in the early morning.
  • Enjoy lotus tea or lotus seed dessert at small shops along the lagoon.
  • Cycle to explore the nearby village roads.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: Lotus flowers are at their most beautiful from May to July, and it’s best to arrive before 8 am when the flowers are still fresh and the light is soft.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit duration: 2 hours
  • Suitable for: Families, photography enthusiasts

7. Co Co River Alluvial Plain – A wetland area for birds

Location & Getting There: Stretching along the Co Co River, the area connecting Hoi An and Da Nang, it can be accessed by boat or motorbike along the riverside roads.

The most striking feature: This pristine brackish water area is home to many species of waterbirds, especially bustling at dusk when flocks of birds fly back to their nests – a rare natural spectacle near urban areas.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Watching birds and aquatic life at sunset.
  • Take a boat ride along the alluvial plain.
  • Ecological photography of wetlands

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: Bring binoculars if you have them; the ideal time is 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM. Maintain distance and minimize noise to avoid startling the birds.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit time: 2-3 hours
  • Suitable for: Nature lovers, photographers

8. An My Vegetable Village – A small field of vegetables and flowers in the countryside of Cam Chau

An My Vegetable Village

Location & Getting There: Located in Cam Chau area, about 3-4km from the center of Hoi An, easily accessible by bicycle.

The most distinctive feature: A small, rustic agricultural space nestled in the countryside – where visitors can experience the rhythm of traditional farming without the commercialization seen in larger vegetable farming villages.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Take a stroll among the colorful rows of vegetables and flowers.
  • Talking with farmers about traditional farming techniques.
  • Take photos of rustic countryside landscapes.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: It’s best to go early in the morning when farmers are watering and tending their gardens – this is when the scene is most vibrant and authentic.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit time: 1-2 hours
  • Suitable for: Families, international visitors who love local agriculture.

II. Cultural & Historical Tourism

9. Kim Bong Woodworking Village – Where skillful hands create the ancient town

Location & Directions: Located in Cam Kim commune, about 10-15 minutes by boat across the Thu Bon River from the Old Town.

The most distinctive feature: A wood carving village over 500 years old, where artisans carved most of the ancient houses in Hoi An Old Town – a vibrant piece of history that few tourists visit.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Observe the artisan carving wood by hand.
  • Try making a small wooden product yourself under the guidance of a carpenter.
  • Visit a traditional boat-building workshop.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures : It’s best to visit in the morning during the week when the workshops are busiest, avoiding weekends as some artisans are off.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit duration: 2 hours
  • Suitable for: Families, international visitors who love culture and handicrafts.

10. Phuoc Kieu Bronze Casting Village – Echoes of 400 Years of Gong Music in Quang Nam Province

Location & Directions: Located in Dien Phuong commune, Dien Ban town, about 10km from Hoi An, it takes about 20 minutes to get there by motorbike or car.

The most distinctive feature: A 400-year-old craft village specializing in casting gongs, bronze incense burners, and various traditional musical instruments – one of the rare traditional bronze casting villages in Central Vietnam that still preserves its original craftsmanship.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Watch the traditional handcrafted bronze casting process.
  • Listen to the artisan demonstrate the sound of the gongs.
  • Buy handcrafted copper products as souvenirs.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: Combine a visit to the nearby Ban Thach mat weaving village with a trip to save travel time.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit time: 1-2 hours
  • Suitable for: International visitors, lovers of traditional culture

11. Ba Le Ancient Well – The secret behind the famous Cao Lau flavor

Location & Directions: Located in a small alley off Phan Chu Trinh Street, right in the heart of Hoi An Old Town, easily accessible on foot.

The most remarkable feature: An ancient Cham well dating back to the 10th century, considered the source of the authentic flavor for Hoi An’s famous Cao Lau noodle dish – a culinary history little known to tourists.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Learn about the legend and history of the ancient well.
  • Stop by the Cao Lau restaurant nearby and enjoy a dish cooked using water from this very source.
  • Discover a small alleyway that retains the authentic atmosphere of an old town.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: This is a small spot hidden in an alley, so ask locals for directions or use a detailed map. Visit in the morning to avoid peak hours in the Old Quarter.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
  • Suitable for: History and food lovers

12. Nguyen Tuong Clan Church – A place preserving the literary spirit of the Tu Luc Van Doan literary group.

Location & Getting There: Located in Hoi An’s Old Town, easily within walking distance of central attractions.

The most distinctive feature: Ancient, moss-covered traditional houses, which preserve valuable documents related to Vietnam’s famous Tu Luc Van Doan literary group – a destination rich in cultural depth, rarely seen in mass tours.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Learn about the family history and the literature of the Self-Reliance Literary Group.
  • Admire the original traditional stilt house architecture.
  • Photographing ancient, tranquil spaces.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: It’s a good idea to learn a little about the Tu Luc Van Doan literary group beforehand to make your visit more complete and meaningful.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visiting time: 1 hour
  • Suitable for: Literature and history lovers

13. Quan Thang Ancient House – A little-known masterpiece of wood carving.

Location & Directions: Located on Tran Phu Street, in Hoi An Old Town, easily accessible on foot.

The most striking feature: This privately owned, lesser-known house, compared to other famous old houses in the Old Quarter, preserves some of the most exquisite wood carvings – an architectural gem “overshadowed” by overcrowded tourist destinations.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Admire the exquisite wood carvings on the columns and beams.
  • Learn about the traditional house architecture that combines Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese styles.
  • Chat with the homeowner about the history of the house.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: Visit in the late afternoon when sunlight streaming through the wooden windows creates a beautiful lighting effect for architectural photos.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit time: 30-45 minutes
  • Suitable for: Architecture enthusiasts, photographers

14. Cam Pho Village Temple – A perfectly preserved place of worship in the heart of the old town.

Location & Directions: Located in Cam Pho ward, about 5-10 minutes walk or bike ride from the central Old Quarter.

The most striking feature: The ancient village communal house still preserves the original worship space and community life of the people – a rare place where you can experience the traditional spiritual life of the people of Hoi An.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Learn about the beliefs surrounding the worship of the village tutelary deity.
  • Observe the architecture of traditional Vietnamese village communal houses.
  • Visit during the village festival (if it coincides with the festival schedule) to experience community life.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: Dress modestly and respectfully when entering sacred areas and maintain silence to respect the spiritual space.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit time: 45 minutes
  • Suitable for: People who love spiritual culture and history.

15. Thanh Ha Pottery Village (Private Ancient Pottery Kiln Area) – Clay Tells Stories in the Narrow Alleys

Location & Getting There: Located in Thanh Ha ward, about 3km from the Old Quarter, accessible by bicycle or motorbike along the Thu Bon River.

The most striking feature: While the main pottery village has become crowded, the traditional handcrafted pottery workshops nestled deep within the narrow alleys still maintain their original craft rhythm, with few signs of commercialization.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Hand-craft pottery under the guidance of a family-inherited artisan.
  • Explore the narrow alleyways and visit each family-run pottery workshop.
  • Buy handcrafted ceramic products directly from the artisans.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: Ask locals for directions to the small workshops in the alleyways – these are often the places with more reasonable prices and a more authentic experience than in the city center.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit duration: 2 hours
  • Suitable for: Families, craft lovers

16. Xưởng Bạc Pagoda (Ancient Pháp Bảo Pagoda) – A peaceful haven amidst the hustle and bustle of the old town.

Location & Getting There: Located in the Old Town of Hoi An, easily accessible on foot.

The most striking feature: A tranquil temple, rarely visited by tourists, housing many precious Buddhist artifacts – a peaceful spiritual space in the heart of the bustling old town.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Visit and learn about the Buddhist artifacts preserved at the temple.
  • Sitting in quiet contemplation in a rare tranquil space.
  • Learn about the history of the temple’s formation.

Travel tips from Thinh Adventures: Dress modestly, speak softly, and visit in the early morning or late afternoon to fully enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit time: 30-45 minutes
  • Suitable for: People seeking tranquility and those who appreciate Buddhist culture.

III. Adventure & Exploration Tourism

17. Kayak/SUP Paddling Route on the Do River (Cam Thanh) – Lost in a tranquil mangrove forest without engine noise

Kayaking on the Do River

Location & Directions: Located in Cam Thanh commune, about 4km from the center of Hoi An, a 10-15 minute drive by motorbike or car.

The most distinctive feature: Unlike the noisy basket boat tours in the main tourist area, this free-style kayaking/SUP tour allows visitors to navigate through completely quiet mangrove canals, with no engine noise, only the sound of paddles splashing in the water.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Kayaking or SUP paddling through the mangrove forest in the early morning or at sunset.
  • Observe the coconut forest ecosystem and aquatic life.
  • Combine the experience of catching crabs and fish with local fishermen.

Travel tips from Thinh Adventures: It’s recommended to go with a local guide familiar with the waterways and to wear a life jacket. The best time to visit is early morning when the water is calm and there’s little wind.

Quick information:

  • Level of risk: Medium
  • Ideal visit time: 2-3 hours
  • Suitable for: Backpackers, couples, and active international travelers.

18. Cam Chau – Cam Ha Cycling Route – A Symphony of Rice Fields and Lotus Ponds

Location & Getting There: This route connects the two communes of Cam Chau and Cam Ha, about 3-5km from the center of Hoi An, making it suitable for cycling directly from the old town.

The highlight: A small dirt road winding through picturesque rice fields, irrigation ditches, and lotus ponds – a truly rustic cycling route, rarely found in typical bike tours.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Cycling through rice fields during the golden rice harvest season.
  • Stop to take photos at Cam Ha lotus pond.
  • Talking to farmers working along the roadside.

Travel tips from Thinh Adventures: It’s best to cycle early in the morning (before 8 am) to avoid the harsh sun, and bring your own water as there are few shops along the route.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit time: 2-3 hours
  • Suitable for: Families, light backpackers

19. Trekking around Hon Lao Island (Cu Lao Cham) – Trekking through the forest to admire the sea from above.

Location & Getting There: Hon Lao Island is part of the Cu Lao Cham archipelago. It’s about a 25-30 minute boat ride from Cua Dai, followed by trekking along the trails on the island.

The most striking feature: The trails winding through the island’s hills offer stunning panoramic ocean views that few tourists bother to explore, instead of just staying in the island’s center.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Trekking through the primeval forest to admire the island’s endemic flora.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Cham Islands from high vantage points.
  • Explore the Swallow Cave or other natural landmarks along the trail.

Travel tips from Thinh Adventures: Wear non-slip trekking shoes, bring plenty of water, and consider going with a guide as some trail sections lack clear signage. Avoid trekking in the intense midday sun.

Quick information:

  • Level of risk: Challenging
  • Ideal visit duration: Half a day
  • Suitable for: Backpackers, people with good physical fitness.

20. SUP paddling to watch the sunrise at An Bang beach – Starting the day on the water.

Location & Getting There: An Bang Beach is located approximately 7km south of Hoi An city center, easily accessible by motorbike in 15-20 minutes.

The highlight: While An Bang is quite crowded during the day, the sunrise over the sea is almost entirely reserved for those who wake up early to paddleboard – a refreshing and private water sport experience.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Paddle a SUP (stand-up paddleboard) to watch the sunrise over the sea.
  • Yoga on a SUP board (for experienced practitioners)
  • Swimming and relaxing in the cool morning water.

Travel tips from Thinh Adventures: Arrive at the beach before 5:30 AM, wear a life jacket if you are not familiar with SUP paddling, and check the wave conditions before entering the water.

Quick information:

  • Level of risk: Medium
  • Ideal visit duration: 2 hours
  • Suitable for: Water sports enthusiasts, couples

21. Motorbike trip along the Cua Dai – Binh Minh coastal route – An endless coastal road.

Location & Directions: Starting from Cua Dai, travel along the coastal road south of Quang Nam province, towards the Binh Minh beach area.

The most striking feature: The long, pristine coastal road offers a rare sense of freedom for adventure enthusiasts – a stark contrast to the crowded tourist routes around the center of Hoi An.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Motorbike trip along the coast, stopping at scenic viewpoints.
  • Stop by the small fishing villages along the way to enjoy fresh seafood.
  • Photographing pristine coastal landscapes with few tourist footprints.

Travel tips from Thinh Adventures: Fill up your gas tank before departure as gas stations are scarce along the coastal roads. Wear a standard helmet and bring a light raincoat in case of changing weather.

Quick information:

  • Level of risk: Challenging
  • Ideal visit duration: 1 day
  • Suitable for: Experienced motorcyclists/adventure travelers.

22. Scuba Diving at Bai Bac Beach, Cu Lao Cham Island – Conquering the underwater world of the ocean floor.

Location & Getting There: Bai Bac beach is located on the northern side of Cu Lao Cham island. It takes about 30 minutes by speedboat from Cua Dai, then you can take a specialized boat to the diving spot.

The most outstanding feature: This area boasts underwater caves and a rich coral reef ecosystem at depths of 10-15m – a deep-sea diving experience that most tourists who only do regular snorkeling have never encountered.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Scuba diving to explore underwater caves and coral reefs.
  • Observe tropical fish and endemic marine life.
  • Learn basic diving techniques with a certified instructor (if you are a beginner).

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: Only dive with instructors who have internationally certified teachers (PADI/SSI). The best diving season is from March to August, avoiding the rainy and stormy season.

Quick information:

  • Level of risk: Challenging
  • Ideal visit duration: 1 day
  • Suitable for: Backpackers, international tourists who love extreme sports.

23. Cycling route across the old Cam Kim Bridge – A small iron bridge preserving memories on both banks of the Thu Bon River.

Location & Getting There: The old Cam Kim Bridge connects the Old Town area with the Cam Kim oasis, easily accessible by bicycle from the center of Hoi An.

The highlight: The experience of traveling on the narrow iron bridge, designed only for two-wheeled vehicles, offers a unique sense of nostalgia and provides a stunning panoramic view of the Thu Bon River that larger bridges cannot offer.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Cycling across the bridge, enjoying the scenery of the river on both sides.
  • Stop in the middle of the bridge to watch the sunset over the Thu Bon River.
  • Combine exploring the Cam Kim oasis right after crossing the bridge.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: The bridge is quite narrow, so drive slowly and pay attention to oncoming traffic. The best time to enjoy the view is at sunset, around 5:30 PM – 6:00 PM.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visiting time: 1 hour
  • Suitable for: Couples, those who love a nostalgic feeling.

IV. Community Tourism & Healing

24. Triem Tay Eco-village – Slow living by the Thu Bon River

Location & Getting There: Located in Dien Phuong commune, Dien Ban town, about 5km from Hoi An, accessible by motorbike or boat along the Thu Bon River.

The highlight: A unique riverside garden village tourism model, where visitors can experience the rhythm of a sustainable tourism community – practicing yoga, making handicrafts, and enjoying a rare slow-paced lifestyle.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Join a morning yoga class by the river.
  • Learn to make handicrafts with local artisans.
  • Enjoy a homestay stay in a lush, green garden setting.

Travel tips from Thinh Adventures: Book your homestay in advance to arrange suitable community activities. Bring comfortable clothing for yoga sessions.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit duration: 1 day (or overnight)
  • Suitable for: Healing seekers, families, international visitors

25. Thanh Dong Organic Vegetable Village – The wholesome sweetness from chemical-free soil

Location & Getting There: Located in Cam Thanh commune, about 3km from the center of Hoi An, easily accessible by bicycle or motorbike.

The most outstanding feature: The organic vegetable village uses absolutely no chemicals, offering an authentic clean farming experience, combined with unique and healthy cooking classes rarely found elsewhere.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Join a macrobiotic cooking class with the locals.
  • Harvest your own organic vegetables from the garden.
  • Enjoy a light and healthy meal made from freshly harvested ingredients.

Travel tips from Thinh Adventures: Book cooking classes at least one day in advance, and wear comfortable clothing that can get dirty while gardening.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit duration: Half a day
  • Suitable for: Families, food lovers, and health enthusiasts.

26. Ban Thach Mat Weaving Village (Duy Xuyen) – The colorful rush mats along the Thu Bon River

Location & Directions: Located in Duy Xuyen district, about 10km from Hoi An, a 20-minute drive by motorbike or car.

The highlight: The traditional sedge mat weaving village, with its vibrant colors, is located along the Thu Bon River – a destination rich in the cultural identity of traditional crafts in Central Vietnam, rarely seen in mainstream tourist tours.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Observe the colorful hand-weaving process of sedge mats.
  • Try weaving a part of the mat yourself under the guidance of an artisan.
  • Buy handmade rush mats as meaningful souvenirs.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: Combine a visit to the nearby Phuoc Kieu bronze casting village to fully experience the traditional craft village route in one trip.

Quick information:

  • Risk level: Easy
  • Ideal visit time: 1-2 hours
  • Suitable for: Families, international visitors who love handicrafts.

27. An Luong Fishing Village – A night of squid fishing with local fishermen.

Location & Directions: Located in Duy Hai commune, Duy Xuyen district, about 15-20km south of Hoi An, approximately 30 minutes by motorbike or car.

The highlight: A peaceful fishing village by the sea, where visitors can stay in homestays and immerse themselves in the authentic life of fishermen – a rare and genuine community experience not typically found on a Hoi An tour.

An experience not to be missed:

  • Go squid fishing at night with local fishermen.
  • Stay at a homestay and experience a family meal in the coastal region.
  • Strolling along the beach to watch the sunset and experiencing the life of the fishing village in the late afternoon.

Travel tip from Thinh Adventures: Night squid fishing trips usually start from 6 PM to 7 PM, so bring a light jacket as the sea at night is quite cold and windy. Be prepared for mild seasickness, so bring motion sickness medication if needed.

Quick information:

  • Level of risk: Medium
  • Ideal visit duration: 1 day (or overnight)
  • Suitable for: Backpackers, international tourists who love experiencing local culture.

Conclusion

These 27 destinations are just a small part of the larger picture of a “different” Hoi An – where beauty lies not in familiar scenes, but in every small alley, every ancient house, every rowing rhythm on the river, or the gentle eyes of the local people. Escaping the crowds doesn’t mean missing out on the most worthwhile experiences – on the contrary, that’s often when you find the most authentic version of a place.

Thinh Adventures believes that every self-guided travel itinerary deserves to be tailored to the pace, interests, and fitness level of each individual traveler. If you are looking for a journey to explore lesser-known destinations around Hoi An, combined with authentic local experiences and an environmentally responsible approach, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Let Thinh Adventures help you design a personalized itinerary – where every stop tells a story and every trip is an unforgettable memory. Contact the Thinh Adventures team today to begin exploring Hoi An in a way no one has ever told you before.