Hoi An is arguably Vietnam’s most charismatic destination. With its mustard-yellow merchant houses, vibrant silk lanterns, and tailor shops on every corner, it’s a place that feels stuck in a much more romantic era. However, because it sits on the banks of the Thu Bon River and right on the coast, the weather plays a massive role in your experience.
If you don’t time it right, you might find yourself wading through knee-deep water in the Old Town or melting in 40°C humidity. To help you plan, here is the direct, local breakdown of the best time to visit Hoi An.
Hoi An’s weather breakdown
Hoi An has a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry and rainy. Temperatures are warm year round, usually between 23°C and 34°C. Humidity is constant.
The town sits near the Thu Bon River and close to the coast, which makes it vulnerable to flooding during heavy rain. Unlike northern Vietnam, Hoi An does not have cold winters.
Hoi An Old Town
Dry season (February to August)
The dry season is widely considered the best time to visit Hoi An. Rain is limited, streets stay walkable, and outdoor activities are reliable.
February to April: Best balance
February to April offers the most comfortable weather. Temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C. Humidity is lower than later months, and rain is rare. This period is ideal for walking the Old Town, cycling through rice fields, and visiting My Son Sanctuary. The sea at An Bang Beach is calm, making it suitable for swimming.
Crowds increase in March, but mornings and evenings remain pleasant.
Hoi An’s rice field
Local tip: explore the Old Town before 9 am or after 4 pm to avoid tour groups and heat.
May to August: Hot but beach friendly
From May onward, temperatures rise above 32°C. Midday heat can be intense, especially in the Old Town where airflow is limited. This season works best for travelers who plan around the heat. Early mornings, late afternoons, and beach time become essential.
An Bang beach
An Bang and Cua Dai beaches are at their best from May to July. Sea conditions are stable, and sunsets are clear. Local tip: plan indoor activities or rest between 11 am and 3 pm. Locals do the same.
Rainy season (September to January)
The rainy season changes Hoi An’s atmosphere significantly. Rainfall increases, and flooding becomes possible.
September to October: Transition Period
September sees rising rain but still has dry days. October brings heavier showers and occasional storms.
Flooding often affects low lying streets near the river. Boats replace walking in parts of the Old Town during peak floods.
Bay Mau coconut forest
This period can still work for flexible travelers who do not mind adjusting plans.
November to January: Wettest months
November is the rainiest month in Hoi An. Prolonged rain, cloudy skies, and flooding are common. December and January are cooler, with temperatures around 22°C to 25°C, but rain remains frequent. Outdoor sightseeing becomes difficult. Beach activities are usually not possible due to rough seas.
Hoi An during flood
Local tip: book accommodation outside the flood zone, slightly away from the river.
When is the Hoi An Lantern Festival
The Lantern Festival takes place on the 14th day of each lunar month. On these nights, electric lights are turned off in parts of the Old Town, and lanterns fill the streets and river. The best months for the Lantern Festival are February to April and early August. Rain during the festival reduces visibility and crowd movement.
Best time to visit Hoi An by travel style
- For first time visitors, February to April is the best time to visit Hoi An due to stable weather and walkable conditions.
- For beach focused trips, May to July works well if heat is managed carefully.
- For quieter streets and lower prices, September can be considered with weather flexibility.
- For photography, early mornings during the dry season provide the best light and reflections.
Deciding on the best time to visit Hoi An is just the first step. To truly experience the magic of this ancient port, you need a plan that navigates the crowds and captures the local spirit. At Asiaplus Tours, we specialize in “weather-smart” itineraries. Whether it’s finding the best beach villa for a summer escape or a luxury “flood-proof” stay in the rainy season, we’ve got you covered.
Explore our curated Hoi An & Vietnam Tours and let’s start planning your next adventure!
