Hoi An with Kids – 19 Best Things To Do (Toddlers to Teens)

Is Hoi An a family-friendly destination?

Yes—Hoi An is arguably the most family-friendly destination in Vietnam. It combines culture, nature, and comfort in a way that appeals to both kids and parents. The Ancient Town, countryside, and beaches all lie close together, so you can easily mix activities like cycling, beach time, and craft workshops without long travel times. While the Old Town can get busy during the day, the atmosphere remains relaxed, and traffic is far calmer than in big cities. With so many enjoyable things to do in Hoi An with kids—and plenty of charm for adults—it’s one of those rare places that truly suits the whole family.

Best things to do in Hoi An with Kids

From lantern-lit streets to countryside adventures, Hoi An offers plenty of fun and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, school-aged children, or teens, there’s a good mix of relaxing, cultural, and hands-on experiences to enjoy together. In this section, you’ll find the best things to do in Hoi An with kids—from creative workshops and gentle beach days to exciting day trips and countryside discoveries.

1. Exploring Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An’s Ancient Town is one of Vietnam’s most charming UNESCO sites, with yellow-painted houses, lantern-lit streets, and small shops selling toys, souvenirs, and snacks. While many historic towns feel formal, Hoi An can be magical for kids—especially after sunset when hundreds of colorful lanterns glow along the river. During the day, you can ride in a cyclo, visit the Japanese Bridge, or stop for ice cream between photo moments in the alleys.

For families, mornings and late afternoons are best to avoid the heat. Young kids can rest in a stroller while parents wander, and older children or teens often enjoy taking photos or browsing quirky souvenir stalls. In the evening, the atmosphere is lively but safe, so you can enjoy street food and let kids release floating lanterns on the Thu Bồn River—an unforgettable highlight when visiting Hoi An with kids.

2. Visit the beach – From sandcastles to surfing

Hoi An has several long, sandy beaches perfect for families. An Bang Beach is the most popular and offers gentle waves, sun loungers, and beachfront cafés, while Cua Dai and Hidden Beach are quieter options. The beaches are clean and wide enough for small kids to build sandcastles, play ball, or splash safely in shallow water. Teens can try surfing lessons or rent paddleboards.

If you’re visiting Hoi An with kids, bring swimwear, sunscreen, and sand toys. Lifeguards are usually present at An Bang, and there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants nearby for lunch or smoothies. Early mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid strong sun, and if you prefer more comfort, you can book a resort with direct beach access and a pool for the kids.

3. Make your own lantern

Hoi An’s colorful lanterns are one of its most iconic symbols, and making one is a fun hands-on experience for all ages. Several small workshops in the Old Town and nearby villages offer short classes where families can learn how bamboo frames are made, choose fabrics, and decorate their own lanterns to take home. It’s creative, cultural, and very photogenic—kids love seeing their creation light up afterward.

Lantern workshops usually last one to two hours, making them ideal for a morning or afternoon break from walking. Prices are affordable (around 150,000–250,000 VND per lantern), and English-speaking staff are used to working with children. For toddlers, you can skip the frame assembly and just help them choose colors or paint. Booking ahead isn’t necessary—many workshops welcome walk-ins.

4. Local workshops in craft villages

Hoi An isn’t just an ancient town—it’s also surrounded by small craft villages where local families have been practicing traditional skills for generations. Visiting these places is a great way to show kids how things are made by hand, from wood carving to pottery. It turns sightseeing into something creative, hands-on, and memorable.

At Kim Bong Carpentry Village, just across the river from the Ancient Town, you can see wooden boats, furniture, and delicate carvings being made with traditional tools. Some workshops let children sand or paint small wooden toys or try carving with guidance from local craftsmen—perfect for school-age kids and teens who enjoy creating something tangible.

At Thanh Hà Pottery Village, families can watch potters spin clay on foot-powered wheels and then try making their own small cup, bowl, or animal figure. The clay is soft and easy for young children to shape, and many workshops will help fire the pottery so you can take it home later. It’s one of the simplest but most rewarding things to do in Hoi An with kids, combining play with a glimpse of Vietnamese culture.

5. Basket boat ride in Cam Thanh

Cam Thanh, a short drive from Hoi An, is known for its water coconut forest and the round bamboo basket boats used by local fishermen. A basket boat ride here is both fun and cultural—you’ll glide through narrow waterways surrounded by palms, watch local rowers perform gentle “spinning” tricks, and sometimes even try fishing or crab catching. Kids love the movement of the round boats and the chance to steer with help from the guide.

The ride usually lasts about 30–45 minutes, and most tours provide life jackets for all ages. For families with small children, ask for a calm, slow-paced trip rather than the fast-spinning showboats. Morning or late afternoon trips are best to avoid the heat. You can book a basket boat ride directly at the village or as part of a half-day countryside or cooking tour.

6. Farming experience in Tra Que

Tra Que Vegetable Village, located just a few kilometers from Hoi An, is a peaceful farming community where locals grow herbs and vegetables using organic methods. Visiting the village offers a break from the busy town and gives kids a chance to learn where food comes from. You can walk through the fields, smell the herbs, and watch farmers working with traditional tools and water cans balanced on bamboo poles.

Many local tours and homestays offer short farming experiences where families can join the farmers—watering, planting, or harvesting vegetables. It’s gentle, muddy fun for young kids and educational for teens. The activity usually takes one to two hours, often combined with a home-cooked meal or cooking class afterward. Wear light clothes and sandals that can get wet, and go early in the morning for cooler temperatures.

7. Cycling through the countryside

The countryside around Hoi An is a peaceful patchwork of rice fields, small canals, and village lanes shaded by palm trees. It’s flat, quiet, and ideal for cycling with kids of all ages. You’ll pass farmers working in the fields, water buffalo cooling off in ponds, and friendly locals waving from their doorsteps. Compared to many parts of Vietnam, Hoi An’s rural roads are calm and safe, making it one of the most enjoyable places in the country for family cycling.

Most hotels offer free bicycles, and you can rent children’s bikes or seats for toddlers (often called child bike seats or baby carriers). For families visiting Hoi An with kids, a private guided tour is often best—you can set your own pace, take short breaks, and stop for fun experiences like visiting a farm, riding a buffalo, or joining a short boat trip. Morning rides are cooler and quieter, perfect for spotting local life at its most authentic.

8. Go on a River Safari

The Vinpearl River Safari, located about 30 minutes south of Hoi An, offers a completely different type of outing. This attraction is part of the VinWonders Nam Hoi An complex and features boat rides through animal enclosures where you can spot giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife. It’s designed like a mini-safari on water, offering a relaxed and exciting experience—especially for young children who might not be as interested in Hoi An’s cultural sights.

While it’s not a typical Hoi An activity, visiting the River Safari can be a fun reward for kids after days of exploring temples and markets. Families can easily combine it with a few hours at the nearby amusement and water parks. Tickets can be bought online or at the entrance, and free shuttles from Hoi An Old Town are often available.

9. Visit a water park

Also part of VinWonders Nam Hoi An, the water park offers slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones suitable for all ages. It’s large, clean, and modern, with separate play areas for small children and more adventurous rides for teens. It’s a great way for families to cool off and let kids burn off energy after sightseeing in the Old Town.

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and towels; lockers and food stalls are available inside. The park can be combined with the River Safari or theme park area for a full day of family fun. While it’s not the most authentic experience in Hoi An with kids, it’s a great choice for a break from the heat or a reward at the end of your trip.

10. Riding a buffalo

In the countryside around Hoi An, water buffalo are still used for farming and can often be seen grazing near the rice paddies. For kids, meeting one of these gentle animals can be a fun and memorable part of rural life in Vietnam. Locals sometimes offer short rides or photo opportunities for a small tip—it’s lighthearted, harmless, and gives families a chance to connect with local farmers in a spontaneous way.

You’ll often spot buffalo along cycling routes or during countryside tours. Many family-friendly tours already include a short buffalo ride, but even if you’re exploring on your own, locals are usually happy to let children sit on the animal for a photo. It’s best to go in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler, and always bring some small change for the farmer as appreciation.

11. Evening Theatre Show

Evenings in Hoi An aren’t just about lanterns—there are also excellent live performances that combine music, dance, and storytelling in stunning outdoor or indoor settings. These shows are family-friendly and easy to follow, even without understanding Vietnamese, making them a great cultural experience for travelers with kids and teens.

The Hoi An Memories Show is the largest outdoor performance in Vietnam, featuring hundreds of dancers on a riverside stage that recreates scenes from the town’s history. It’s visually spectacular and lasts about an hour, keeping even younger kids engaged with its lights, costumes, and music.

The Lune Center, located in the Old Town, offers smaller-scale shows focusing on Vietnamese culture and traditional instruments, performed under a striking bamboo dome. It’s shorter, more intimate, and ideal for families looking for a calm, cultural evening.

12. Speedboat Trip to the Cham Islands with Snorkeling

The Cham Islands are a small group of islands located about 15 kilometers off the coast of Hoi An. They form part of a protected marine park and are known for clear turquoise water, coral reefs, and white sandy beaches. A day trip by speedboat lets families escape the crowds of Hoi An and enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation.

A typical trip includes a short speedboat ride (around 30 minutes), snorkeling at coral spots, a seafood lunch, and beach time for swimming or sand play. The fast boat ride itself is exciting for kids, and the shallow snorkeling areas are suitable for beginners and teens. Families looking for a slower pace can also stay overnight on Cham Island, where small homestays offer a peaceful island experience with evening walks, beach games, and stargazing.

13. Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge

Ba Na Hills is a mountaintop resort and theme park located near Da Nang, about 1.5 hours from Hoi An. Originally built as a French hill station, it’s now home to the famous Golden Bridge—a massive pedestrian bridge held up by giant stone hands—and a mix of European-style architecture, flower gardens, and rides. For kids and teens, the cable car ride up the mountain is an adventure in itself, offering stunning views over the jungle and coast.

Once at the top, families can enjoy a small amusement park with indoor games, 3D rides, and a mini roller coaster. The weather is cooler than in Hoi An, which makes it a comfortable day trip for all ages. Arrive early to avoid crowds and catch good light for family photos on the Golden Bridge. Bring a jacket for the higher altitude, and expect a full day of fun, food, and unique photo opportunities.

14. Cooking Class (Family-Friendly)

Hoi An is Vietnam’s best place for a cooking class—not just for the delicious food, but because classes here often include fun extras that make them perfect for families. You’ll start by visiting a local market to shop for ingredients, followed by a short boat ride or cycle to a countryside kitchen surrounded by rice fields or herb gardens. It’s more of a half-day adventure than a simple cooking lesson.

Cooking classes are very hands-on and suitable for children as young as five. They can roll spring rolls, mix sauces, and decorate their plates while learning about Vietnamese herbs and spices. Teens often enjoy mastering new dishes like pho or banh xeo pancakes. Many tours also include picking fresh herbs at Tra Que Village or learning how rice noodles are made. Vegetarian and allergy-friendly options are easy to arrange.

15. Tailor-made clothing – kids choose fabrics & designs

Hoi An is famous worldwide for its talented tailors, who can create custom-made clothing within a day or two. Hundreds of small shops line the Old Town, offering everything from suits and dresses to linen shirts and traditional ao dai outfits. For families, visiting a tailor isn’t just about shopping—it’s a cultural experience that shows how skilled local artisans are.

For kids, the process can be surprisingly fun. They can browse colorful fabrics, choose patterns, and even design matching family outfits. Tailors are patient and used to working with families, often making cute dresses, shirts, or lightweight trousers for children. Measurements take only a few minutes, and fittings can be done later the same day. It’s one of those activities in Hoi An with kids where everyone gets something memorable to take home.

16. Exploring the Marble Mountains

The Marble Mountains, located halfway between Hoi An and Da Nang, are a cluster of five limestone hills filled with caves, temples, and viewpoints. Each mountain represents one of the five elements, and inside you’ll find hidden pagodas, Buddha statues, and chambers lit by shafts of sunlight from above. It feels more like exploring a natural maze than visiting religious sites, which makes it surprisingly fun for families—especially for teens who enjoy climbing and discovering hidden corners.

While the caves and stairs are part of the adventure, they can be steep for small children. Families visiting Hoi An with kids can take the elevator up one side to make it easier. Bring water, comfortable shoes, and a flashlight for some of the darker sections. It’s best to visit in the morning to avoid heat and crowds, and the panoramic views from the top are worth the climb.

17. Day Trip to Da Nang

Da Nang is the modern coastal city just 45 minutes north of Hoi An, known for its beaches, bridges, and family-friendly attractions. It’s a great day trip when you want a mix of city comforts and natural sights. The city’s Dragon Bridge breathes real fire and water on weekend nights—a spectacle that’s a hit with kids and teens alike.

During the day, families can visit Son Tra Peninsula to see wild monkeys, swim at My Khe Beach, or explore indoor play zones and aquariums on rainy days. Da Nang is easy to reach by car or motorbike, and you can combine several highlights in one trip. For parents traveling with younger children, Da Nang also offers modern malls, cafés, and plenty of kid-friendly dining options.

18. Half-day trip to My Son Sanctuary

My Son Sanctuary, about an hour from Hoi An, is a fascinating complex of ancient Hindu temples hidden in a lush jungle valley. The ruins date back more than a thousand years and are often compared to a smaller, quieter version of Angkor. For kids and teens, walking among the moss-covered towers feels like exploring a real-life adventure site, with plenty of space to wander and take photos.

Most family-friendly tours combine My Son with a boat ride back to Hoi An along the Thu Bồn River, stopping at a craft village such as Thanh Hà (pottery) or Kim Bồng (wood carving). The half-day format works well for families—it’s not too long, includes varied activities, and mixes light history with hands-on fun. Go early in the morning for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

19. Driving the Hai Van Pass

The Hai Van Pass is one of Vietnam’s most scenic mountain roads, winding between Da Nang and Hue with sweeping ocean views on one side and lush green hills on the other. It’s famous for its photo stops and curving roads, making it a highlight for travelers of all ages. For families visiting Hoi An, the pass can be done as a day trip or as a scenic transfer when traveling onward to Hue.

Teens will love the adventure of riding as passengers on an Easy Rider motorbike or in an open-top army jeep, both exciting and safe ways to experience the route. For families with younger kids, a car offers a more comfortable ride, often including stops at a local beach, a fishing village, and a small waterfall where you can swim. No matter how you travel, it’s one of the most unforgettable journeys you can take from Hoi An.

Or check all our tours between Hue and Hoi An over the Hai Van Pass: Hai Van Pass tours

Best time to visit Hoi An

Timing matters when planning a family trip to Hoi An, since the weather shapes what you can comfortably do with children. The city has two main seasons: a dry season and a rainy season. As the name suggests, the rainy months bring heavier rain and stronger winds, which can make outdoor family activities like cycling or beach time less appealing. Still, there are plenty of fun things to do in Hoi An with kids even during wet days, such as lantern workshops, cooking classes, or exploring local cafés and markets.

The dry season, from February to August, offers warm, sunny weather ideal for swimming, cycling, and exploring the countryside. March to June are particularly pleasant months, with lower humidity and calmer seas—perfect for families who want to mix sightseeing with beach time.

The rainy season, from September to January, brings frequent showers and occasional flooding in low areas, especially around October and November. The weather can shift quickly between sunshine and downpours, but temperatures remain mild. It’s still possible to enjoy Hoi An with kids during this period if you plan more indoor or short outdoor activities. However, families seeking guaranteed sunshine and beach days will find the dry months more reliable.

Family-Friendly places to stay

Best areas to stay

Hoi An’s Ancient Town is undeniably charming and a big draw for visitors. But when you’re traveling with kids, staying right inside or immediately beside the old town can feel a bit cramped. Rooms are often smaller, and evening energy (tourists, vendors, foot traffic) can be high. If you stay just a little farther out — in the countryside or by the beach — you’ll find hotels, resorts, and even homestays that offer more room to breathe: gardens, swimming pools, play areas, and quieter surroundings. Yet the Ancient Town remains close enough for easy visits by bike or short drive.

Here are two areas that balance convenience and family comfort:

Countryside of Hoi An

Staying in the rice fields and village lanes around Hoi An gives you peace and space. You’ll find properties tucked among green fields, canals, and small farms. Many offer free bikes, walking paths, and nature views. From here, it’s often just a 5–15 minute pedal to the Ancient Town — close enough to be part of the action, far enough to feel calm.

Beach of Hoi An

The An Bang and Ha My beaches (and to a lesser extent, Cua Dai) are ideal for families who want sun, sand, and sea access. Here, resorts line the coast, with beachfront views, shallow swimming zones, and kid-friendly amenities. From a beach base, you can combine relaxing sea days with scheduled visits into town. The trade-off is a bit more travel when leaving or returning to the beach for other daytime activities, but many families find the quiet mornings and evenings well worth it.

Recommended accommodations

Here are a few family-friendly hotels, resorts, and villas frequently recommended by families who’ve visited Hoi An:

• Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai (Ha My Beach) — luxury, private villas, children’s programs
• Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa — beachfront, pools, convenient access
• Ngan Phu Villa (near rice fields) — budget-friendly, free bikes, quiet and cozy
• Laluna Hotel Riverside Resort & Spa — interconnecting rooms, riverfront location
• Bon Sand Villa & Spa Hoi An — rice-paddy setting, pool, laid-back atmosphere
• AIRA Boutique Hoi An Hotel & Villa (An Bang Beach) — beachside, walkable restaurants and sand fun

Tips for travelling to Hoi An with kids

Getting around Hoi An with kids

Besides cycling, one of the most convenient ways to get around Hoi An with kids is by using ride-hailing apps. The most popular is Grab, which works just like Uber. You can order a car directly from your phone—perfect for short rides between the beach, countryside, and Ancient Town, especially when it’s raining or after dark when cycling isn’t ideal. For longer sightseeing trips, such as to Ba Na Hills or other nearby attractions, renting a private car with driver for the day is more comfortable and often cheaper than taking multiple taxis.

Facilities and Shopping

Hoi An is well-equipped for families, with several supermarkets, pharmacies, and convenience stores spread across town. You can easily find baby supplies, diapers, and basic medicine at places like VinMart or Bach Hoa Xanh. For a wider selection of international products, baby food, or specific items, Da Nang (about 45 minutes away) has larger shopping malls and supermarkets such as Lotte Mart, Vincom Plaza, and Big C. Pharmacies are common and usually open late, and staff are used to helping foreign travelers.

What to bring for families

Hoi An’s warm climate and relaxed setting make packing simple, but families should come prepared for both sun and rain.

• Light stroller – usable on most streets, though not ideal inside the Ancient Town’s narrow or uneven lanes; baby carriers can be easier for exploring there.
• Light rain gear – quick-dry jackets or ponchos for short showers.
• Swimwear – for beaches, waterfalls, or hotel pools.
• Sunscreen and hats – the sun can be strong, even outside summer.
• Insect repellent – useful near rice fields or during evening activities.
• Snacks and refillable bottles – handy for day trips or picky eaters.

Cultural etiquette and local interaction

Vietnamese people are very welcoming toward children, and it’s common for locals to smile, wave, or gently interact with them. In family-run homestays or local restaurants, staff often go out of their way to help families feel comfortable. When visiting temples or pagodas, remind kids to dress modestly and stay quiet out of respect. Shoes should be removed before entering sacred spaces, and pointing directly at statues is best avoided. Overall, Hoi An is one of the easiest places in Vietnam to experience genuine, warm interactions with locals.

Health and Safety

Hoi An is generally safe and family-friendly, but a few precautions help ensure a smooth trip. Keep children hydrated and apply sunscreen regularly, as the heat and humidity can be intense. Use mosquito repellent, especially around dusk or in rural areas. Food is fresh and tasty, but stick to clean restaurants and avoid raw salads if your child has a sensitive stomach. For medical help, there are international clinics and pharmacies in Hoi An, and larger hospitals just 45 minutes away in Da Nang. English-speaking doctors are available if needed, so you can travel with peace of mind.