Hoi An’s waterways are a source of life for the town. The Thu Bon River provides the local people with food, building materials, a means of transport, and a never-ending display of natural beauty. The calm, shaded rivers and canals of Hoi An are perfect for exploring by kayak or on a stand up paddleboard. Here are five reasons to get on the water while you’re here.

Sunrise and sunset on the river

Catch the day’s first light as the sun comes over Cua Dai Bridge and the ocean, casting golden rays on fishing traps, wooden boats, and the nipa palms lining the riverbanks. Dusk is also a wonderful time to be on the water. You can paddle all the way to the lantern-lit streets of the Ancient Town, or soak up the soft hues of sunset from anywhere on the river.

Quang Nam fishing culture

On the water is where you’ll see Hoi An’s fishing culture up close. Small sampans carry women harvesting crabs and men checking on fish traps. In the early mornings, local fishermen and wholesale vendors gather at the Duy Hai fish market, trading buckets of just-caught fish, crab, squid, and shrimp. Dock your kayak for a look at the action.

Traditional craft villages

Many of Hoi An’s craft villages were founded along the river and would transport products by boat to the old market in Hoi An. You can easily reach these villages by kayak. See how sedge grass is woven into colorful mats in Tra Nhieu, watch pottery made using traditional methods in Thanh Ha, and meet Hoi An’s famous woodworkers in Kim Bong.

Local life on the beach

For a change of scenery, rent a kayak or a paddleboard on Tan Thanh or An Bang Beach. Morning and evening are when the beaches are crowded with locals and travelers. From the water you’ll see fishermen launching basket boats, families having picnics, kites flying on the breeze, and the Cham Islands in the distance.

TIP: You can also paddle to beaches and snorkeling spots on the Cham Islands. Rent a kayak or SUP in the quiet fishing village of Bai Huong for a chance to see hidden shores.

A chance to give back

Kayaking and paddle boarding are sustainable ways to tour your destination, with many opportunities to try community-based tours and see nature without damaging the environment. Every two weeks on Saturday morning, Hoi An Kayak Tours hosts a free river clean-up tour for travelers and locals. If you’d like to join, you can find them on Facebook.

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