My Sunrise Paddle Boarding Experience in An Bang (Hoi An)

I’m not the kind of person who gets up at 4:30 a.m. for fun. But sometimes, you have to break your routine to experience something truly unique. That morning, on the still-sleepy shores of An Bang beach, I stepped onto a paddleboard, paddled toward the horizon, and witnessed one of the most peaceful sunrises of my life.

I chose to do this activity with Whatsup Hoi An, a small and super friendly team. Calm sea, total silence, a sky slowly catching fire… That quiet moment off the coast of Hoi An was worth every minute of lost sleep.

My Morning Paddle Boarding Experience in Hoi An

Very (very) early start

The meeting time is 5:00 a.m. at An Bang Beach. Yes, it’s early. But once you’re on your scooter, riding through the still-silent streets of Hoi An, you can feel it’s going to be something special.

The Whatsup Hoian team is already waiting for you on the beach, smiling and wide awake. The guide gives quick safety instructions, shows you how to stand on the board, and off you go. Even beginners can handle it easily. You don’t need to be athletic just a bit of balance (and the life jacket is there just in case).

A magical moment

Once on the water, you gently paddle away from the beach. At that hour, the sea is calm, flat, almost silent. Then the sky starts to change colors, from purple to pink, and then bright orange. You stop, either sit or stand on the board, and just soak it all in.

Honestly, watching the sunrise from the water is a unique experience. No noise, no crowds, just a few silhouettes on other paddle boards. The guide takes amazing photos while you enjoy the view. And yes, they’re really good photos (not just some shaky phone pics!).

Back to the beach & breakfast

After around 40 minutes, you gently paddle back to the beach. Then you’re taken to a nearby local restaurant, just a few steps away. Mi Quang noodles, Vietnamese coffee, smoothie, it’s all included in the price.

The bonus? Amazing photos taken by the guide, a tasty local breakfast afterwards (I had Mi Quang noodles), and access to showers on site. Honestly, for 550,000 VND (around 20 €), it’s one of the most peaceful and rewarding experiences I’ve had in Hoi An.

Practical Info

• Departure time: Pick-up at your hotel at 4:30 a.m. – Tour starts at 5:00 a.m.
• Location: An Bang Beach
• Price : 550.000 VND (around €20)
• Included:
  • Paddle board + paddle + life jacket
  • Dry bag & waterproof phone case
  • Local breakfast & drinks
  • Free pick-up from Hoi An

• WhatsApp: 077 449 1446
• Email: tranminhphi151120@gmail.com

My Opinion

Paddle boarding at sunrise in Hoi An is a simple, accessible experience that leaves a great memory. You don’t need any prior experience, the team is friendly, the moment is beautiful, and the breakfast is the cherry on top.

If you’re looking for something different from your usual beach day or old town visit, I highly recommend this sunrise paddle tour. It’s peaceful, refreshing, and honestly, very photogenic.