Hoi An’s charm really shines no matter the time of year, but honestly, the weather can make or break your trip. The best time to visit Hoi An for ideal weather is from February to April, when days stay warm, skies are usually clear, and rain barely shows up. During these months, you can wander the lantern-lit streets, bike through rice fields, or chill by the beach without stressing about heavy rain or crazy heat.
From May through July, the temperature jumps, but the coastal breeze helps a lot if you’re into the sun. September to November brings frequent rain and sometimes flooding, so outdoor plans might get tricky.
December and January cool things down, but it still feels a bit damp most days.
If you get a sense of the seasonal changes, you can plan a trip that fits your comfort and what you want to do. Want calm beach days, lively festivals, or just a peaceful bike ride in the countryside? Knowing the right time to go really helps you enjoy Hoi An’s unique vibe.
Understanding Hoi An Weather Patterns
Hoi An has a tropical climate shaped by monsoon winds and seasonal rainfall. You’ll notice a split between hot, dry months and wetter months with heavier showers, and there’s steady warmth all year.
Tropical Climate Overview
Hoi An sits in central Vietnam, and the tropical monsoon climate brings warmth no matter when you visit. Average highs stay between 76°F (24°C) in the cooler months and 93°F (34°C) when it’s hottest.
Nights rarely dip below 67°F (19°C), so you won’t get cold.
Humidity sticks around all year, which makes the heat feel even stronger than the numbers suggest. Even when it cools down, you’ll still feel moisture in the air and some dampness.
Since Hoi An’s close to the coast, sea breezes take the edge off the heat. Walking in town or hanging out at the beach feels more comfortable here than inland.
The climate keeps rice fields and greenery lush, but you should be ready for sudden changes in weather.
Dry Season vs. Rainy Season
Hoi An’s dry season runs from January to August. You’ll get long sunny days, barely any rain, and clear skies. The driest stretch, February to April, feels the most comfortable for sightseeing.
The rainy season starts around September and lasts until December. Heavy bursts of rain arrive, and October usually brings the most rain. Flooding sometimes happens, especially in the Old Town near the Thu Bon River.
Travel feels completely different depending on when you go. In the dry months, you can walk or bike around with hardly any worries. In the rainy months, you might deal with slippery streets, canceled boat rides, and gray skies.
Temperature and Humidity Trends
Hoi An’s temperatures change more by season than by day. February to April brings moderate warmth, with highs around 79–87°F (26–30°C).
May through July gets hot, with highs at 91–93°F (33–34°C), and the humidity makes it feel even hotter.
From September to November, things cool down a little to the low 80s°F (27–29°C), but humidity goes up as rain increases.
In December and January, highs drop to 76–77°F (24–25°C) and nights get cooler, around 67°F (19–20°C).
Humidity ranges from 70–90% all year, so even when it’s not that hot, you might feel sticky. Wear breathable clothes, take breaks in the shade, and drink plenty of water. This mix of heat and moisture is just part of Hoi An life and shapes when it’s best to visit.
Best Time to Visit Hoi An for Ideal Weather
Hoi An’s weather flips between a dry season and a rainy season, so when you visit matters a lot. The best months bring mild temperatures and not much rain, while the hotter months offer clear skies but can feel intense.
Why February to April Is Optimal
From February through April, Hoi An feels just about perfect. These months fall in the dry season, with daytime highs at 79–87°F (26–30°C) and cooler evenings from 69–75°F (20–24°C).
Rain barely shows up, and skies look clear, which makes it easy to walk or bike through the Old Town.
Humidity stays moderate, so you can explore without getting drenched in sweat. Outdoor spots like the Japanese Covered Bridge, rice paddies, and An Bang Beach feel way more enjoyable when the air is fresh.
You get more sunshine hours from February into April, which means longer days for exploring. Lantern festivals pop up during this time, too, and the steady weather makes joining in much easier.
If you want a mix of comfort, outdoor fun, and culture, this is really the best window to visit Hoi An.
May to August: Hot and Sunny Conditions
From May through August, Hoi An gets into its hottest phase. Temperatures often hit 91–93°F (33–34°C) during the day, and nights stay warm at 78–79°F (25–26°C).
Rainfall is still low, so you’ll see lots of blue sky and sunshine.
If you love the beach, this is your season. Cua Dai and An Bang Beach come alive with ocean breezes, and the sea stays calm for swimming.
Walking around the Old Town under the midday sun can feel exhausting, though.
Shade and water become your best friends if you’re sightseeing. Most people go for early morning or late afternoon walks, then duck inside during the hottest hours.
Even though it’s hot, the dry weather can be a plus if you’re after sunshine and outdoor time.
Monthly Weather Breakdown in Hoi An
Hoi An’s tropical climate means you get a clear split between dry and rainy seasons. Temperatures stay warm all year, but rain and humidity change a lot by month, which can really affect your plans.
Weather in January to March
From January to March, things cool off and dry out after the rainy season. January still has some light showers, but nothing like October through December. Average temperatures hover between 18°C and 25°C, which feels great for strolling the old town.
By February, you’ll get mild days with 20°C to 26°C and even less rain. This is also when the Lunar New Year (Tet) usually happens, bringing a burst of color and energy to the streets.
March feels especially nice. Days warm up to 21°C to 26°C, humidity stays low, and you’ll see lots of clear skies. Perfect for biking, exploring rice fields, or unwinding at An Bang Beach without big crowds.
Weather in April to June
April heats things up. Temperatures climb to 24°C to 30°C, with strong sun and longer dry spells. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and light clothes if you’re planning to be outside or hit the beach.
May gets even hotter and more humid, with daytime highs often reaching 32°C or more. Nights cool off a bit, but you’ll still feel the heat. This is the peak for beach fun like swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Book your hotel early, since tourism picks up.
June keeps the trend going with some of the highest temperatures of the year, averaging around 33°C and sometimes spiking above 37°C. Rain is still rare, so count on clear skies. Try to do your sightseeing early or late in the day to dodge the harshest sun.
Weather in July to September
July stays hot, with highs around 35°C. It’s still the dry season, so you get plenty of sun. Domestic tourism ramps up as school holidays start, so expect more people in the old town and at the beaches.
August is hot and humid, but you’ll start to notice the rainy season coming in. You might get a quick shower, but most days are still sunny. Travel prices usually drop, which is great if you want to save on hotels or flights.
September brings more rain as the wet season kicks in. Temperatures cool to 25°C to 30°C, and showers get more frequent. The Mid-Autumn Festival brings some culture, but you’ll want a raincoat or umbrella if you’re heading out.
Weather in October to December
October hits with some of the heaviest rain in Hoi An. Flooding and even typhoons can show up. Temperatures are cooler, but the weather can mess with your plans, so check forecasts before you go.
November keeps the rain and storm risks going. Average temperatures fall to 19°C to 24°C, which feels a lot cooler than summer. Many travelers skip this time because the old town can flood.
December has less rain than October and November, though showers still happen. Daily temps run from 19°C to 27°C, so it feels mild. The town gets a festive vibe, and it’s a quieter, cozy time to visit if you don’t mind the occasional rain.
Seasonal Activities and Events
Weather really shapes what you can do in Hoi An, from night festivals in the Ancient Town to lazy days at the beach or on the river. Every season brings different chances, depending on the rain, temperature, and sea conditions.
Hoi An Lantern Festival Timing
The Lantern Festival lights up the 14th day of each lunar month. Locals turn off most electric lights, and colorful lanterns glow along the streets and the Thu Bon River.
The best months to go are February through April and June through August, when rain is rare and evenings feel warm but not sticky. It’s just easier to walk around the Ancient Town and catch outdoor shows.
If you visit in the rainy season, especially October or November, the festival still happens but heavy rain or flooding can limit what you do. Waterproof shoes are a good idea if you’re coming then.
Beach Season at An Bang and Cua Dai
Hoi An’s main beaches, An Bang and Cua Dai, are at their best in the dry season from April to July. The sea stays calm, skies are clear, and swimming or sunbathing feels great.
An Bang Beach draws more visitors with its restaurants and chill vibe. Cua Dai Beach, though narrower now because of erosion, still gives you quiet spots if you want less crowd.
By August, humidity rises and you’ll start to see short afternoon storms. From September through January, the sea gets rough and it rains a lot, so swimming isn’t safe. If you want a beach trip, skip these months.
Exploring the Thu Bon River and Cham Island
The Thu Bon River offers everything from sunset boat rides to basket boat tours in the coconut groves. Go during the dry season for the best river trips, since water levels stay steady and skies are clear for photos.
If you’re into snorkeling or diving, Cham Island opens up from March to September. Calm seas and good visibility make this the best window. October through January brings storms and big waves, so ferries might stop running.
If you want both, try a morning boat trip to Cham Island and an evening cruise on the Thu Bon River during dry months. You’ll beat the midday heat and get smoother sailing.
Travel Tips for Each Season
Hoi An’s weather swings between a long dry season and a short but strong rainy season. Your plans, comfort, and budget really depend on how you handle the climate, storm risks, and changes in tourism.
What to Pack for Dry and Rainy Seasons
If you’re heading to Hoi An in the dry season (January–August), you’ll want to pack light, breathable clothing. Temperatures climb fast in spring and summer, and by June or July, the heat often pushes above 90°F (32–34°C).
A wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses can make long walks or bike rides around Old Town and the rice fields much more comfortable.
Choose comfortable shoes for walking, since exploring Hoi An mostly happens on foot. Sandals or light sneakers usually do the trick.
Beach plans? Don’t forget your swimwear and maybe a light cover-up for places like An Bang.
For the rainy season (September–December), you’ll run into frequent showers and sticky humidity. Toss a light rain jacket or compact poncho into your bag, along with quick-dry clothes.
Waterproof sandals or shoes help you deal with flooded streets. An umbrella sometimes works, but honestly, a poncho is often more practical in heavy rain.
Navigating Flood Risks and Typhoons
October and November bring the most intense rainfall, and flooding can become a real hassle. The Old Town sometimes ends up with ankle- or knee-deep water, especially near the Thu Bon River.
When streets flood, people swap walking for boats in low-lying spots.
If you’re visiting during these months, pick accommodation on higher ground or outside the flood-prone center. Always check with your hotel about local flood conditions.
Typhoons hit central Vietnam now and then from late summer into autumn. These storms can mess with flights, ferries, and tours.
Make sure your travel insurance covers weather delays, and keep an eye on local forecasts. Most storms don’t last long, but keeping your plans flexible can really help.
Crowd Levels and Pricing Trends
Hoi An’s crowds change with the weather, of course. From February to April, mild temperatures and low rainfall draw in the biggest crowds. Hotels and tours often fill up early, and prices jump to their highest.
During May to July, beaches stay busy, but the heat keeps some folks away from long walks in Old Town. Prices remain high, but you might have a bit more luck finding a room.
The rainy season (September–January) sees fewer tourists. October’s weather is rough, but November through January can still be nice if you don’t mind gray skies.
Hotel rates drop, streets quiet down, and tour groups thin out. If you like a slower pace, this time of year makes it easier to soak up Hoi An’s charm.
Sightseeing Highlights by Season
Weather really shapes your experience of Hoi An’s best sights. It changes how landmarks look, and you’ll probably adjust how much time you spend outside or ducking indoors.
Japanese Covered Bridge in Different Weather
Hoi An’s Japanese Covered Bridge is a favorite for photographers. In the dry months from February through April, you can cross comfortably under blue skies.
Morning or late afternoon light brings out the details in the wooden carvings and stone statues.
From May to July, the heat can get pretty intense. Visiting early in the day feels better, since temperatures haven’t peaked yet. The bridge offers a bit of shade, but the streets around it can be hot and crowded.
In the rainy season from September to January, the bridge takes on a different vibe. Rain makes the tiles glisten, and reflections in puddles look striking.
Sometimes flooding blocks access, but if the water stays low, you can enjoy the bridge with hardly anyone else around.
Ancient Town Experiences Year-Round
Hoi An’s Ancient Town shifts with the seasons. In spring, you’ll find yourself strolling through lantern-lit streets, enjoying the mild weather.
Outdoor cafes feel just right, and riverside walks become especially pleasant.
When summer rolls in, the skies brighten up, but the humidity climbs. You might end up spending more time indoors, poking around museums, art galleries, or old merchant houses.
Taking short breaks in shaded courtyards really helps you deal with the heat.
Autumn usually brings those afternoon showers. The rain cools everything down and somehow gives the streets a fresh, almost new look.
If you remember to bring a light raincoat, you can keep wandering through the alleys and markets without much trouble.
Winter feels cooler, and sometimes the temperature dips below 20°C. Fewer tourists show up, so you get to linger at temples, assembly halls, and craft shops.
The whole place feels quieter, which makes it easier to spot the small details in the architecture.