Hoi An: Sunset Kayak Paddle & Lantern Town Evening Tour

Summary

Kayak through Hoi An’s riverside life as lanterns glow

You’ll paddle through Hoi An’s evening river life as lanterns begin to glow, guided by a local who knows every bend and story here. Expect moments of calm, laughter over strong iced coffee, and glimpses into riverside routines you’d never see from shore. Let yourself drift into golden hour — it stays with you longer than you’d think.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t know what to expect from a sunset kayak tour in Hoi An. Maybe some quiet water, maybe just the usual tourist stuff. But paddling out from Cam Thanh with our guide Minh, the air already thick with that green, muddy smell of the river, I felt this weird mix of calm and curiosity. The sun was low but still hot on my shoulders. Minh grinned when I nearly dropped my paddle — “Don’t worry, happens to everyone!” — and then pointed out a fisherman untangling his net with one hand while waving at us with the other. It felt like we were floating right through someone’s evening routine.

The best part? When we drifted close to the edge of Hoi An Ancient Town just as the lanterns flickered on. There’s this moment where the sky goes gold-pink and suddenly you’re surrounded by color — not just the lanterns but reflections in the water, flashes of yellow walls, a woman laughing on her balcony somewhere above us. I tried to take a photo but honestly, it didn’t come close. Minh handed us iced coffee in little plastic cups (he said it was “for energy,” but I think he just likes seeing people try real Vietnamese coffee for the first time) and told stories about growing up near these rivers. I got more mosquito bites than usual but didn’t really care.

We paddled back slower than before, mostly quiet except for someone behind me humming a tune I couldn’t place. The light faded fast — one second you could see every ripple, next it was all shadow and soft voices from the banks. By the time we reached the kayak station again, my arms were tired but my head felt clear. Still think about that view sometimes when I see yellow lights at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset paddle through Hoi An river

• Pick up from hotel
• Briefing on safety and area
• Paddle along cocopalm mangrove
• Explore local villages by kayak
• Paddle to Lantern Town
• Enjoy sunset and lantern views

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Hoi An kayak tour?

Yes, hotel transfer is included for this sunset kayak experience.

How long does the sunset paddle last?

The tour includes time for briefing and paddling during sunset; exact duration may vary but expect an evening outing.

Do I need kayaking experience for this?

No prior kayaking experience is needed; a safety briefing is provided before starting.

Is there an English-speaking guide?

Yes, an English-speaking local guide leads the group throughout the tour.

Are drinks or snacks provided during the trip?

You’ll get drinking water and a local coffee or soft drink during your paddle.

What should I bring for this kayak tour?

You’ll be given a drybag for your belongings; bring comfortable clothes and maybe mosquito repellent.

Is this suitable for children?

Children are welcome if accompanied by adults; child rate applies when sharing with two paying adults.

Where does the kayaking start?

The tour begins at a kayak station in Cam Thanh after your hotel pickup.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your hotel in Hoi An, use of kayaks and paddles with life jackets provided, guidance from an English-speaking local expert, drinking water plus either local coffee or a soft drink along the way, and even a drybag to keep your things safe while you’re on the river.