Hoi An has its own charm in every season, but to have a complete trip with bright sunshine and memorable check-in photos, the climate factor plays a decisive role. Many tourists before departure have the same concern about the weather Hoi An, worried that sudden rains in the Central region can disrupt the schedule. So which month is really the best to travel to Hoi An? And when should you consider carefully before booking tickets? Let’s decode the detailed climate characteristics of the ancient town through the article below to choose the most ideal departure date for your trip.
Why should you check the Hoi An weather before going? – An important factor that determines your experience
Before planning any trip, especially a journey to explore a city rich in experiences like Hoi An, learning about Hoi An’s weather is extremely important. Hoi An has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons, each season creating a different version of the ancient town from vibrant and bustling to quiet and emotional. Therefore, the weather is not only a reference factor but also a deciding factor in whether you will have a wonderful or regretful trip.
Figure 1. Check the weather Hoi An before going.
Hoi An climate characteristics: Two distinct seasons, two different “faces”
Hoi An has two main seasons in a year:
Dry season (February – August)
- Sunny and little rain
- An Bang and Cua Dai beaches are blue and clear.
- Ideal for walking, photography, boating, sightseeing
This is the time when the old town is most brilliant, the evening lantern lights are very beautiful, suitable for most outdoor activities.
Rainy season (September – January)
- Scattered to steady rain
- There may be slight flooding in the old town (typical phenomenon)
- The atmosphere is quiet, colder but very poetic and nostalgic
This season is suitable for tourists who like quiet spaces and want to see Hoi An in a more romantic way. However, some beach activities and outdoor shows may be limited.
Why does the weather strongly affect the travel experience in Hoi An?
Hoi An is a destination where 80% of the experience depends on the weather. Here are the important reasons:
1. Beach tourism depends entirely on the weather.
Want to swim, play water sports, and watch beautiful sunsets? Go during the dry season, especially from April to August.
2. The old town needs nice weather to walk, check-in and watch lanterns
The Old Quarter is most beautiful in mild sunshine or clear skies with little rain. Heavy rain will affect traffic, night markets and festivals.
3. Photography – an important tourist experience
Whether you are a photographer or a tourist, everyone wants to take beautiful pictures. The weather determines the light, the color of the old town and the sparkle of lanterns at night.
4. Outdoor shows and cultural activities
- Hoi An Memories Show
- Releasing flower lanterns on Hoai River
- Traditional festivals
If it rains, activities may be interrupted or the experience may be greatly reduced.
Therefore, the weather is one of the most important factors when choosing the time to travel to Hoi An. Hoi An is beautiful all year round, but each time will bring a different look. As long as you choose the right weather to suit the purpose of your trip, your journey will become much more complete.
Learn more: HOI AN TRAVEL GUIDE 2026: Answering all questions for tourists
Hoi An weather characteristics by season – What is the best season to visit Hoi An?
Hoi An is an attractive destination all year round, but each season has a different “character”. Understanding the weather by season will help you choose the right time to have the most complete experience. Below is a detailed analysis of the two typical seasons of the Central climate, optimized for the keyword “what is the best season to go to Hoi An?”.
Hoi An Dry Season (February – August) – The best time to go to Hoi An
Dry season weather characteristics:
- Temperature: 24–32°C, sunny but pleasant in the first months of the year.
- Humidity: Low, dry air.
- Rainfall: Very little, many weeks without rain.
- Sea: Clear blue, calm waves, ideal for swimming and taking photos.
This is the period when the old town is at its most brilliant: golden sunlight spreads over moss-covered tiled roofs, lanterns sparkle at night, Hoi An market is bustling and the Hoai River is crystal clear – all creating “valuable” photos.
Figure 2. The dry season is the best time to go to Hoi An
Why is the dry season considered the best time to go to Hoi An?
- The sky is always clear, the light is beautiful, easy to take pictures.
- All outdoor activities are normal.
- An Bang and Cua Dai beaches are at their most beautiful all year round.
- The shows, festivals and night markets are all vibrant and colorful.
Most international tourists choose this time for their trip to Hoi An because of the ideal and stable weather.
Suitable activities in dry season
- Swimming in the sea – watching the sunset in An Bang
- Walk in the old town, take pictures at the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tran Phu, Nguyen Thai Hoc… Then stop at the best restaurant in Hoi An – Chau Kitchen and Bar to enjoy refined cuisine with a combination of Asian and European styles to create a difference and the restaurant is located on Tran Phu street leading to the old town so it is very convenient for tourists.
- Bicycle tour to explore Tra Que village, Cam Thanh
- Join cooking class, visit Hoi An market
- Hoai River boat tour, releasing flower lanterns
- Culinary experiences from street food to fine dining
The dry season brings a vibrant, colorful and very “photogenic” Hoi An.
Hoi An Rainy Season (September – January) – The least ideal time to visit Hoi An but still has its own beauty
Weather characteristics of rainy season:
- It rains a lot, sometimes it rains continuously for 2-3 days.
- Temperature: 18–24°C, cool, pleasant but humid.
- There may be storms or floods in the old town.
- High humidity, the old town becomes more quiet and peaceful.
This is the period often mentioned when searching for “the worst time to vist Hoi An?”, especially for tourists who want to swim or take outdoor photos.
Figure 3. Hoi An rainy season
Why is the rainy season less ideal?
- Many outdoor activities may be canceled or limited.
- The sea is not beautiful, the waves are big, many days can not swim.
- Taking pictures was more difficult due to the grey and wet weather.
- Outdoor shows are sometimes suspended.
However, that does not mean that the rainy season is “not worth going” – Hoi An in the rainy season has a very different beauty, for those who love quietness, nostalgia and depth.
Unique experience only available during Hoi An flood season:
- Not everyone has witnessed the beloved flood season of the old town – a part of culture that has existed for hundreds of years.
- Rising water turns the old town into “Vietnamese version of Venice”.
- People travel by boat, not in a hurry.
- The atmosphere is quiet, rarely is the old town so peaceful.
Many visitors consider this an unforgettable and poetic experience. Of course, you need to monitor weather information to ensure safety, but if you are lucky enough to arrive at the right time when the tide is rising slightly, you will see a completely different Hoi An.
Suitable activities during rainy season:
- Sitting in an old town cafe, watching the rain fall on the yellow tiled roofs from the high cafes in Hoi An
- Enjoy Hoi An cuisine, especially hot dishes
- Tailoring, a famous service of Hoi An
- Lantern making, pottery making, painting workshop
- Experience spa, massage, and relaxation in the resort
- Visit ancient houses and museums, avoid the rain but still have a complete experience
Whether it is the brilliant dry season or the quiet rainy season, Hoi An has its own beauty in each season. As long as you choose the right time to suit your travel purpose, your journey will become much more perfect.
Hoi An weather by 12 months – Which month is the best to go to Hoi An?
To have a perfect trip, many tourists always ask the question: “Which month is the best to go to Hoi An?”. In fact, each month of the year in Hoi An has a unique climate, light and space of the old town. Below is a detailed analysis of the weather in Hoi An for 12 months, along with suggestions for suitable activities to help you easily choose the right time according to your wishes.
January – Cool weather, sometimes with light rain
- Temperature: 18–23°C
- Characteristics: Mildly cold, chilly, sometimes drizzle; the old town is more peaceful during peak season.
- Things to do: drink coffee in the old town, take photos at night, enjoy hot food, and walk around the beautiful streets at night.
January is suitable for those who want to experience a quiet, romantic and “poetic” Hoi An.
February – The beginning of the beautiful season, clear skies, little rain
- Temperature: 20–26°C
- Characteristics: The weather is clearly changing, light sunshine, fresh air.
- Suitable activities: taking photos, walking around the old town, visiting craft villages, participating in New Year festivals.
This is the ideal month to start the tourist season.
March – The most beautiful month of the year
- Temperature: 22–28°C
- Characteristics: Clear, sunny but not too hot; almost no rain.
- Suitable activities: all outdoor activities: beach, bicycle, cooking class, floating lanterns, Hoai River tour.
March is often considered the best time to travel to Hoi An.
Figure 4. Dry weather will help you have more experiences
April – Dry, perfect weather for every experience
- Temperature: 24–30°C
- Features: Sunny, dry, great light for photography.
- Suitable activities: swimming, going to Cu Lao Cham, visiting relics,…
If you like the balance between sea and old town, April is the perfect choice.
May – The weather starts to get hot, beach season is officially beautiful
- Temperature: 27–34°C
- Characteristics: Lots of sunshine, sometimes hot but the sea is extremely clear and beautiful.
- Suitable activities: beach tourism, water sports, sunset photography, drinking Mot Hoi An water to cool off.
May is a paradise for beach lovers.
Save this address now: Mot Water Hoi An: The “National” Drink at the Most Beautiful Check-in in the Old Town
June – Peak summer, brilliant weather
- Temperature: 28–35°C
- Characteristics: Hot sun at noon, gradually cooler in the afternoon; number of visitors increases sharply.
- Suitable activities: beach, island hopping tours, having fun at VinWonders, walking around the old town at night.
This season is suitable for families and groups of friends.
July – Sunny, crowded, bustling old town
- Temperature: 28–36°C
- Features: Quite hot but very pleasant in the evenings; peak international tourist season.
- Suitable activities: morning and evening beach trips; Hoi An Memories show; exploring craft villages.
July is the busiest time of year in Hoi An.
August – End of dry season, weather begins to change slightly
- Temperature: 27–34°C
- Features: Still many sunny days but there may be a few showers.
- Suitable activities: beach in the morning, old town in the afternoon, experience food Hoi An and workshop.
The weather is still nice, suitable for all activities.
September – The rainy season begins, the number of visitors decreases
- Temperature: 25–30°C
- Features: Some rain starts but doesn’t last long.
- Suitable activities: coffee, cuisine, tailoring, workshops, visiting ancient houses.
September is suitable for tourists who like quiet.
October – Heaviest rain of the year, possible flooding
- Temperature: 23–28°C
- Characteristics: This is the most “unpredictable” month, with lots of rain and flooding in the old town.
- Suitable activities: sitting in a cafe, experiencing a spa, enjoying hot food, taking photos of the old town during flood season.
Although it is a less than ideal time, Hoi An in flood season has its own unique beauty – quiet and full of nostalgia.
November – Prolonged rain, unstable weather
- Temperature: 22–27°C
- Characteristics: Continuous rain for many days, cold wind at the beginning of the season.
- Suitable activities: lantern making workshop, tailoring, enjoying typical cold season cuisine.
The old town is romantic in a melancholy way this season.
December – Cold, little heavy rain, the old town at night is very beautiful
- Temperature: 20–25°C
- Characteristics: Gradually dry, slightly cold weather; the street lights up at night, unusually beautiful.
- Suitable activities: taking photos of the old town at night, enjoying hot coffee, going on a boat to release flower lanterns, watching shows.
December is beautiful for tourists who like the cool, gentle air.
What month is the best to go to Hoi An?
When planning a trip, the most searched question is always “Which month is the best to go to Hoi An?”. Because although Hoi An is beautiful all year round, each period has a completely different climate, light and experience. To help you choose the most suitable time, below is a detailed analysis based on the weather – experience – needs of each group of tourists.
The best time to go to Hoi An: February – July
This is considered the golden period of tourism in Hoi An because the weather meets three factors: beautiful, stable and pleasant.
Why is February to July the ideal time?
- Little rain, light sunshine, cool climate.
- Beautiful light, very photogenic – especially the old town in the morning and evening.
- Suitable for all experiences: walking, boating, visiting relics, craft villages, workshops, shows.
- The old town lanterns are most beautiful at night when the sky is clear and the air is dry.
- If you want to fully experience the soul of the old town, this is the ideal time to come to Hoi An.
So if you have chosen the best time to visit Hoi An, where to eat in Hoi An to make it complete and memorable?
If you want to find a place that perfectly combines creative cuisine and Hoi An atmosphere, Chau Kitchen & Bar is a great stop. Located in an ancient house over 100 years old right on Tran Phu street leading to the center of the old town, the restaurant has a warm, romantic space and is full of heritage.
As a Hoi An Fusion Restaurant outstanding, Chau Kitchen & Bar offers a diverse menu, a sophisticated combination of Asian and European cuisine. From pasta dishes, seafood, salads to Hoi An specialties renewed in international style, all are prepared with creativity and attention to detail. In particular, the dish Iron Beefsteak Hoi An famous for its premium beef cooked directly on a hot cast iron pan, fragrant and soft, still sizzling when brought to the table – the highlight that diners will remember forever.
Whether you’ve just finished a long day of walking around, taking photos of lanterns or exploring craft villages, a dinner at Chau Kitchen & Bar will be the perfect way to end your journey with the flavors, space and emotions of Hoi An.
- Address: 141 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An Ancient Town
- Phone: 0903529377
- Opening hours: 08:30 – 22:30
- Website: https://chaukitchenandbar.vn/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chaukitchenhoian
- You can book a table directly through the website: Reservation
- Rating on Google Map: 4.8/5.0
- TripAdvisor Rating: 4.8/5.0
Figure 5. Tourists choose to stop at the best restaurant in Hoi An – Chau Kitchen and Bar
Choose the month to go to Hoi An according to your travel preferences
Not everyone likes the same weather, space and pace of life. Here’s how to choose the time depending on the travel style of each group of guests.
1. Love the sea – Go to Hoi An from May to July
The early summer months (May – July) are when An Bang and Cua Dai beaches are at their most beautiful:
- Clear blue sea water
- The sun is shining brightly
- The waves are calm, ideal for bathing and taking photos.
- The red sunset was extremely impressive.
If you like swimming, taking bikini photos, going to Cu Lao Cham, playing water sports, then choose to travel to Hoi An in May, June or July.
2. Love taking photos – February and March are the best
This is the perfect time for those who want to have a sparkling photo album.
- The morning light is beautiful
- Blue sky, soft clouds
- The old town is brilliant in pictures, not as brightly lit as in the summer.
- Evening lanterns in sharp image
Photographers or tourists who love checking in often prioritize this time.
3. Want to avoid crowds – January or December
If you like peace and want to experience Hoi An in a slower way:
- Choose January (end of rainy season, nice cool weather)
- Or December (less rain, cool weather, the old town is sparkling at the end of the year)
During these two stages, the old town is less crowded, you can easily take photos without being in the way of people, comfortably go to cafes, and have a more enjoyable culinary experience.
4. Want to travel cheaply – Go to Hoi An from October to December
- This is the time of year when room rates and airfares drop the most.
- October: not too much rain, still many sunny days.
- November is usually the peak rainy season and prone to flooding in Hoi An.
- December: no longer peak season, the old town is very beautiful in the evening, the air is cool and pleasant.
If you go with a group of friends, students, or family and want to optimize costs, then October to December is very reasonable.
Hoi An has its own beauty every month. Just choose the right time according to your preferences, your journey will become much more complete and memorable.
Worst Time to visit Hoi An? – Months You Should Consider Avoiding
Although Hoi An is beautiful all year round, there are still times when the weather can have a big impact on your travel experience. Those months are October and November, which are often considered “the worst months to visit Hoi An”. If you are planning a trip, understanding the weather characteristics of these two months will help you be more proactive and avoid less than perfect experiences.
Why is October – November considered the worst time to vist Hoi An?
1. Prolonged heavy rain, high humidity
October and November are the rainiest months of the year in Hoi An.
- Rain for many days in a row
- The weather is gloomy and humid
- Old Quarter lanterns do not look as beautiful in pictures as in the dry season.
- Traveling and sightseeing outdoors becomes inconvenient.
For tourists who want to take photos, explore the old town or stroll along the Hoai River, this weather has a great impact.
2. Risk of rising water or flood
Hoi An is located near the Thu Bon River, so every year there is a phenomenon of rising water in October and November.
- Part of the old town may be slightly flooded.
- Boats are used to move around in flooded areas.
- Some routes are restricted.
Although this scene has the typical quiet beauty of Hoi An in flood season, for most first-time visitors, this is not the ideal time.
Figure 6. Floodwaters rising in Hoi An
3. The sea is usually closed
If you have your sights set on An Bang or Cua Dai beach, consider carefully:
- Big waves
- Muddy water
- Many days the beach prohibits swimming for safety reasons.
Most sea games, Cu Lao Cham tours or diving activities are temporarily suspended.
4. Many outdoor activities are limited
Some signature Hoi An experiences may be affected or cancelled:
- Releasing flower lanterns
- Boat trip on Hoai River
- Night fair
- Outdoor show
- Take photos to check-in in the old town
Tourists often have to change their plans constantly due to unstable weather.
If you still want to go to Hoi An in October-November, what should you keep in mind?
Although it is not the most ideal time, many tourists still choose to go because of the low cost, the deserted old town and the opportunity to see a “rarely peaceful” Hoi An. If you are in this group, prepare carefully:
1. Choose a hotel/homestay in the central area, avoid low-lying areas
- Priority is given to Tran Phu, Nguyen Thai Hoc and Le Loi streets
- Avoid areas along the Hoai River or low-lying areas prone to flooding.
- Choose a hotel with rainy season support services (drying, umbrellas, shuttle service)
2. Prepare a “backup” schedule in the house
The weather can change quickly, so be prepared for indoor activities:
- Enjoy Hoi An cuisine
- Lantern making workshop
- Tailored clothes at famous tailor shops
- Massage, spa, health care
- Visit museums and old houses
- Sitting in a cafe watching the rain – a very “Hoi An” experience
3. Bring rain gear
A thin raincoat, foldable umbrella, and easy-to-dry shoes will help you move more comfortably in the old town.
4. Check weather forecasts regularly
Especially important if you go around late October – early November.
Figure 7. Traveling to Hoi An during the flood season will bring many new and interesting experiences for tourists.
Should I go to Hoi An in October-November?
If you are looking for nice weather, clear sky, blue sea, and sparkling photos, you should NOT go at this time.
If you like quiet, low cost, experiencing the romantic and unique rainy season in Hoi An is still possible, but you need to prepare carefully.
No matter from which angle you look at it, Hoi An is always beautiful in its own way in each season. As long as you know the weather characteristics in advance, your trip will always be easier and more proactive.
What to prepare when going to Hoi An in each season? Detailed preparation for the perfect trip
Whether you go to Hoi An in the dry season or the rainy season, preparing your luggage properly will make your trip more comfortable, safe and complete. Hoi An is a destination with many outdoor activities such as walking in the old town, cycling, visiting craft villages, swimming… so luggage always needs to be optimized according to the weather characteristics of each season. Below is a checklist designed specifically for visitors to Hoi An – easy to apply, easy to remember and extremely useful.
Going to Hoi An in the dry season – What to prepare?
Hoi An’s dry season lasts from February to August, characterized by sunny weather and little rain, especially from May onwards it can be quite hot. This is also the best season for traveling, taking photos and swimming. To make your trip more comfortable, you should prepare the following items:
1. Sunscreen – An indispensable item
Hoi An’s sunshine is great for photography, but UV rays are high – especially in May–July. Bring:
- SPF cream of 50 or higher
- Waterproof if you go to the beach
2. Sunglasses – Wide-brimmed hat
These two items not only protect you from the sun but also help make your check-in photos more beautiful.
- Wide-brimmed hat suitable for cycling
- Sunglasses keep you comfortable when sailing or strolling around town at noon.
3. Cool and sweat-absorbent clothing
The dry season is quite hot, so priority should be given to:
- Cotton and linen clothing
- Light, airy, easy-to-move clothes
- Maxi dress or modernized ao dai for taking photos in the old town
- Bikini, swimsuit if you go to the beach
4. A comfortable pair of shoes for walking
The old town has many old brick sections, so wear shoes:
- Soft on the feet
- Good grip
- Non-slip
5. Personal water bottle
Walking around in the sun will make you thirsty quickly. Carrying a water bottle will help you save money and protect the environment.
Going to Hoi An in the rainy season – What to prepare?
The rainy season lasts from September to January, characterized by drizzle, high humidity and occasional flooding. Although it is a less ideal season, the old town in the rainy season has many poetic and peaceful features. To ensure your trip is not interrupted, you need to prepare as follows:
1. Lightweight raincoat / umbrella
- The weather this season can change unexpectedly, so:
- Thin raincoats are more convenient than umbrellas when walking in the old town.
- Compact umbrella suitable for light rain
- Rain boots or non-slip shoes
- The roads in the old town are slippery when wet.
Suggest:
- Rubber shoes
- Non-slip sandals
- Avoid cloth shoes because they absorb water easily.
2. Waterproof bag for phone – camera
A MUST-BRING item if you go October–December:
- Protect cameras, phones, documents
- Avoid damage from moisture or rain
3. Thin coat – scarf
During the rainy season, especially December–January, it gets quite cold in the evenings.
- Scarves help keep warm when going boating to release floating lanterns
- Light jacket suitable for cold climate
4. Cold medicine – stomach ache medicine – essential oil
Due to the humid and rapidly changing weather, having basic medicines on hand will give you peace of mind.
Need to prepare for both seasons – Always useful for every trip to Hoi An
In addition to seasonal items, you should also prepare:
- Backup charger
- Personal documents
- Cash (many small shops do not accept cards)
- Face mask
- Mosquito repellent (if going to craft villages or coconut forests)
Each season in Hoi An brings its own beauty, and the right luggage will help you fully enjoy every moment.
- Dry season: prioritize sun protection and comfortable clothing.
- Rainy season: prioritize waterproof, non-slip shoes and light warm clothes.
No matter what time you go, Hoi An is always ready to bring you beautiful memories as long as you prepare a little before leaving.
Hoi An weather is not only a reference, but also a decisive factor in the quality of the whole trip. From the bright sunny days of the dry season, when the ancient town sparkles under the golden light and An Bang beach is enchantingly blue, to the light rainy afternoons of the rainy season with its own quiet, romantic beauty, each period of the year creates a different version of Hoi An. Understanding the weather characteristics of each month and each season will help you choose the right time to suit your preferences: if you want to take beautiful photos, come in February-March; if you want to enjoy the sea, choose May-July; if you want to travel economically, consider September or December; and if you love peace, the cold season has its own appeal. Even on rainy days or during the flood season, Hoi An still retains a charming charm that is rarely found anywhere else.
No matter what time you choose, Hoi An always has a way of touching the emotions of visitors with its simple beauty, gentle people and rich cultural space. Hopefully, the article about Hoi An weather will help you easily plan your upcoming trip and enjoy the journey to the fullest. If you are ready, let Hoi An tell you the story of each season through the sunshine, the rain and the slow, enchanting pace of life of the ancient town.
Last updated: 09/12/2025 10:17
