10 Best Things to Do in Hoi An – A Local’s Guide to Hidden Gems
Top Things to Do in Hoi An – A Local’s Guide
There are plenty of lists of fun things to do when visiting a new destination, but nothing beats a guide curated by locals who truly know the area. Our local guides have put together this list of top experiences in Hoi An to help you discover hidden gems and must-visit spots beyond the typical tourist trail.
Rent a Bicycle and Explore the Countryside
A great way to take in Hoi An’s stunning landscape is by cycling through the countryside. Ride past lush rice paddies, traditional fishing villages, and peaceful water buffalo-dotted fields. You can explore solo or book a guided tour with Grasshopper Adventures for a deeper cultural insight.
Hang Out on An Bang Beach
When we’re not hosting a Secret Cocktail Experience, we love spending time at An Bang Beach—just 10 minutes from Old Town. Relax on pristine sand with an ocean breeze at Soul Beach or Salt Pub, both offering lounge chairs, comfy bed-style sofas, great food, and even better cocktails.
Best Coffee Spot: Phin Coffee
Hidden away in Hoi An’s Old Town, Phin Coffee is the go-to spot for coffee lovers. Try their signature coconut coffee or a slow-drip phin brew while enjoying the cozy, tucked-away ambiance.
Spend a Day at the Spa
Shopping and sightseeing can take a toll, so treat yourself to a spa day. Whether you want a full-body massage, cupping therapy, botanical facials, or a mani-pedi, Citrus Spa and La Luna Spa will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated.
Watch a Lune Show
Take a break from Netflix and immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture with a mesmerizing performance at the Lune Center. These captivating acrobatic shows beautifully depict the country’s traditions and heritage.
Explore the Thu Bon River
Experience Hoi An from the water with a kayak or paddleboard adventure along the Thu Bon River. Hoi An Kayak Tours offers excellent local-run excursions, including serene sunrise and sunset paddles. Want to give back? Join their Saturday morning river clean-up event!
For a romantic evening, book our SecretEATS Gourmet Dinner & Boat Ride—a private dinner cruise with floating lanterns and breathtaking views.
Catch the Sunrise from Cua Dai Bridge
For an Instagram-worthy sunrise, head to Cua Dai Bridge. Just 5 km from Old Town, this spot offers a stunning panorama of the river and surrounding countryside, bathed in golden morning light.
Join a Photo Tour
If you’re an aspiring photographer, book a tour with Hoi An Photo Tour. Whether you're into street, food, or landscape photography, their expert guides will help you capture stunning shots while exploring hidden corners of the city.
Practice Yoga
Find your zen with a yoga session at Nomad Yoga, offering drop-in classes, retreats, and teacher training. For a more personal experience, practice Om with Em, a private yoga teacher offering beachfront sessions.
Try Your Hand at Wood Carving (Family-Friendly!)
For a hands-on cultural experience, visit Lang Cui Lu and learn traditional Vietnamese wood carving techniques. This interactive workshop is perfect for families looking for a creative and memorable experience.
Experience the Secret Cocktail & SecretEATS Dinner
If you’re a fan of craft cocktails and hidden adventures, join our Secret Cocktail Experience for a night of expertly mixed drinks and fascinating local stories. For a truly unique evening, reserve a spot at our SecretEATS Gourmet Dinner—an intimate multi-course dining experience at a secret location.
So, forget the usual tourist guides and dive into Hoi An like a local. There’s so much to see, taste, and experience—happy traveling!