Hoi An Weather: A Traveller’s Guide

The weather in Hoi An plays an important role for the vast majority of tourist itineraries when planning a trip here. It’s a unique, charming, cultural destination recommended from traveller to traveller. But when is the best time to go? 

Due to the sheer length and topographic Geography of Vietnam, wet and dry seasons develop independently. The weather is therefore quite different between the southern, central, and northern parts of the country. All this makes planning a trip somewhat challenging if you’re trying to gauge climates along a travel route.

That’s where we come in! 

In this article, Hidden outlines Hoi An’s weather and climate throughout the year. Accompanied with a month-to-month breakdown to help you plan your trip and manage your expectations. Be it a quick stopover or an extended stay; nobody wants to have travel plans hindered too much by the weather.

 

Hoi An Weather at a Glance

Month	January	February	March	April	May	June	July	August	September	October	November	December
High Temperature	25°C (77°F)	26°C (78°F)	28°C (82°F)	31°C (87°F)	33°C (91°F)	35°C (95°F)	34°C (93°F)	34°C (93°F)	32°C (89°F)	29°C (84°F)	28°C (82°F)	25°C (77°F)
Low Temperature	19°C (66°F)	20°C (78°F)	22°C (72°F)	24°C (74°F)	25°C (77°F)	26°C (78°F)	25°C (77°F)	25°C (77°F)	24°C (75°F)	23°C (73°F)	22°C (71°F)	20°C (84°F)
Average Temperature	22°C (71°F)	23°C (73°F)	25°C (77°F)	27°C (80°F)	29°C (84°F)	30°C (86°F)	30°C (86°F)	30°C (86°F)	28°C (82°F)	26°C (78°F)	25°C (77°F)	22°C (71°F)
Average Humidity	83%	83%	83%	81%	78%	73%	74%	76%	81%	81%	84%	84%
Rain Days	13	7	5	6	9	8	8	11	15	21	20	18
Season	Wet	Shoulder	Shoulder	Dry	Dry	Dry	Dry	Shoulder	Shoulder	Wet	Wet	Wet

Hoi An Weather And Climate

Hoi An is positioned along the centre of Vietnam’s rather lengthy coastline and governed by two main seasons, the wet season and the dry season. 

The Dry Season

This is defined as the months with the least rainfall along with a lesser chance of all-day rain days. However, there are still rain days. 

The total length of the dry season typically stretches from February to September, but within this timeframe, it has its fluctuations. February to April has the most moderate temperatures averaging a high of 30°C (86°F) making it a popular choice for tourists to visit the ancient city of Hoi An.

Moving on from May, the temperatures continue to rise and hit a peak in June. Things then plateau until September when the seasons change. If you need to cool off during this time Hoi An’s beaches are a great option. Check out our article on them here.

Hidden Hint: If you’re looking for sunshine weather in Hoi An, the highest number of sun-hours are from May to July.

The Wet Season 

This is defined as the months with additional rainfall along with a higher chance of rain days.  However there are still some sunny days. This season starts around October and lasts till around February.

From October to January, the wet season brings increased rainfall and the temperatures down to around an average high of 25°C (77°F). 

Hidden Hint: The months of October and November contain the bulk of the rain, and it’s not unusual that during this time the Old Town and the islands south of it have the possibility of flooding. 

While it doesn’t often happen, when it does the waterfront businesses have no choice but to close down. However, as quickly as the water levels return to normal, so do the shops.

Both the wet and the dry seasons don’t leave much of a shoulder season for residents. (A “shoulder season” being the months that have equal, rainy, and dry days.) In Hoi An, it’s one or the other weather-wise! The only variable is when they tend to start and end. This period only shifts by a month or so.

Adverse Weather – Flooding in Hoi An

Although flooding doesn’t happen every year, it is something to be aware of when planning your trip during the rainy season. Flood levels vary, mostly it’s restricted to the Old Town and immediate surrounding areas, some years it experiences knee-high water, while others it has received multiple metres. It’s best to check the weather forecast ahead of time if you expect to travel to Hoi An from October to December. Here is a related article about An Bang Beach which you can read.

If flooding does occur during your time in Hoi An, know that the locals are super adaptable and prepared—the weather won’t bring your travels to a full-stop. Many riverside businesses in the old town stack up their chairs and move their valuables upstairs to get ready for the flooding.

Interestingly, you may even notice that some shops have flood levels from previous years marked on their walls. Depending on the severity, only a portion of the city is affected by the flood, and even so, the shops and especially restaurants are usually back in business within a day or so.

Furthermore, it’s an incredibly unique experience to be in Hoi An during this time. Imagine locals paddling their boats through the picturesque laneways of Old Town! Flooding can happen, but life in Hoi An carries on.

When to Expect the Best Hoi An Weather 

Taking into account all the information and statistics, including tourism levels, weather, and national holidays, Hidden suggests the best two periods to visit Hoi An are  March/April and September. Just remember, mother nature is fickle, but these are the months you have the highest chance of great weather

Some of the Best Weather in Hoi An is During March and April

March and April have the benefit of statistically speaking at least, stability in weather and climate great for outdoor activities. Check out our article on the top ten things to do in Hoi An for inspiration. Tourism levels at this time are above average but are still nowhere near the peak in July and August.

Also, the weather in Hoi An is still mild compared to the annual peak. Those who are coming from colder temperatures will enjoy this. Rainfall during this time is also at its lowest point of the year, making this a great time to plan for outdoor activities in the surrounding area.

September Weather is Stable and Tourism Levels are Moderate

The hottest months have passed, and the temperatures are slowly but finally moving down towards a more tolerable range. Another welcomed reduction is in the form of tourists. As the flocks of people that were visiting the city in August have moved on as well. For the budget traveller, this helps in bringing prices back to a more moderate point.

Month By Month Weather in Hoi An

The following is a month-by-month weather breakdown for Hoi An. Hidden gathered the average climate and conditions for Hoi An from 1985 to 2017 and the close surrounding areas. It’s a great way to set your expectations in preparation for an upcoming trip to Hoi An. 

January

• High: 25°C (77°F)
• Low: 19°C (66°F)
• Rain Days: 13

The wet season that started in October is finally on the way out but still has the chance of making itself known as a final reminder. It is wise to pack for all weather conditions as a sunny cycle ride can quickly turn into a race for shelter from the rain.

Hidden Hint: Bring some light rain gear if you think you are planning to be here early in the month. If you forget, that is ok, Hoi an and Da Nang have some great shopping for jackets and more.

February

• High: 26°C (78°F)
• Low: 20°C (78°F)
• Rain Days: 7

February is a great month to visit Hoi An. The dry season will be starting or already has, and this means more beach days for you. Along with this, the temperatures have not hit their high points, meaning you can expect lovely moderate days and nights in the Old Town.

Depending on the lunar calendar, Tet (lunar new year) may happen during February. For the Vietnamese people, Tet is the most important festival of the year so travel around this time is expensive, unstable, and many businesses close. Plan carefully if arriving anywhere in Vietnam around Tet. Read all about Tet in our guide.

Tet dates for 2019 to 2021

2019: February 4th to 9th. 

2020: January 24th to 29th. 

2021: February 12th to 17th.

March

• High 28°C (82°F)
• Low 22°C (72°F)
• Rain Days 5

March is one of the best months to visit Hoi An. First, any lingering wet season echoes have moved on. The average temperature is going up and the days are generally sunny. due to the well-balanced weather, march is a favourite time for many travellers to visit Hoi An. The number visitors increase so make sure to book your accommodation in advance. If you need help deciding where to stay check out our article here.

April

• High 31°C (87°F)
• Low 24°C (74°F)
• Rain Days 6

April carries a similar climate to March, except with a slight increase in temperature. The level of tourists remains high during this time, so booking accommodation ahead is recommended.

On the last day of the month, the opening ceremony of the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival often occurs. It’s a pyrotechnic extravaganza that consists of eight competing countries and takes place over the coming nine weeks. Note that the date does change each year so check in advance.

May

• High: 33°C (91°F)
• Low: 25°C (77°F)
• Rain Days: 9

May is warm in Hoi An as the temperatures rise towards a peak in the coming months. The sea has also finally warmed up and with that brings great relief from the sweltering heat. Perhaps consider staying close to the beach in one of Hoi An’s beach resorts. In Hoi An tourism takes a real dive, hitting an annual low point. Accommodation during this time is cheaper, and the crowds are less intense as the mercury rises.

June

• High 35°C (95°F)
• Low 26°C (78°F)
• Rain Days 8

Expect hot weather for Hoi An in June, with some daytime temperatures reaching the high 30’s°C (86°F). It’s the hottest month out of the year to visit Hoi An, though the bulk of the tourists are still absent in this low season, meaning prices and crowds are more manageable.

July

• High: 34°C (93°F)
• Low: 25°C (77°F)
• Rain Days: 8

July only takes a negligible decline in temperature compared to June, and it usually holds out until September. Tourists return in full force, so expect the Old Town to be quite crowded, especially on weekends. July is the second busiest month of the year.

August

• High: 34°C (93°F)
• Low: 25°C (77°F)
• Rain Days: 11

August is another hot month, with it additionally being the peak season for domestic and international tourists. Be prepared for a congested, hot, and humid city. It’s also advisable to book your accommodation far in advance during this time.

Wandering Souls Day (Vu Lan Festival) takes place on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month and usually falls in August. On this day locals will prepare a vegetarian meal and have an empty seat ready for the family members that have passed away. The smell of burning Joss paper fills the air as families offer goods to the wandering souls. The eve of the festival is also celebrated, with many families heading to Buddhist temples and graves of loved ones.

Wandering Souls Day dates

2019: August 15th

2020: September 2nd

2021: August 22nd

September

• High: 32°C (89°F)
• Low: 24°C (75°F)
• Rain Days: 15

The temperatures during September begin to dip as the season gets ready to flip. Accommodations become less crowded as the tourist traffic lessens—the peak tourist season has passed. September, however, with a more temperate weather, is a great month to visit Hoi An.

At the end of September lions, unicorns and dragons take to the streets. The sounds of drums and symbols fill the air as the Mid Autumn Festival rolls into the city and shops. Shows can be seen in front of local businesses to bless the store and bring it good luck for the coming year.

Mid Autumn Festival Dates

2019 – September 13th

2020 – October 10th

2021 – September 21st

October

• High: 29°C (84°F)
• Low: 23°C (73°F)
• Rain Days: 21

Historically speaking, October contains the bulk of the rain out of the wet season, though in past years, it’s proven to be a wildcard, with some years being blessed with hot sunny days while others bring in the grip of a strong monsoon.

Hidden Hint: If planning a trip to Hoi An, come prepared for both warm summer weather and some wind and rain.

Hoi An often floods in October/November which affects all riverside businesses in the Old Town. However, once the water levels recede, the businesses recover right away and are open for visitors. Read more about what to expect during Hoi An’s flooding in our article about The Best Time to Visit Hoi An.

November

• High: 28°C (82°F)
• Low: 22°C (71°F)
• Rain Days: 20

The amount of precipitation decreases slightly during November but not by much. Winter winds are more prevalent in the area and planning day trips are a definite gamble. Rain gear is something to consider, as well as a light jacket for the cooler evenings. Tourism levels remain similar to October, and flooding is still a possibility.

December

• High: 25°C (77°F)
• Low: 20°C (84°F)
• Rain Days: 18

Rainy season begins to loosen its grip on Hoi An as some of the rains ease. Temperatures in the area are moderate, with the evenings feeling quite cool for some. At the beginning of the month, tourism levels remain low, but it ramps up and spikes during Christmas, with people looking for a cultural holiday getaway. Afterwards, however, they return to moderate levels and plateau until March.

Hidden’s Thoughts

There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the perfect time to visit Hoi An. We’ve aimed to narrow these down so you can find a time to visit that suits you or at least assists in setting some expectations for your upcoming trip. Just remember the key factors below when visiting.

Hottest time: May and June

Coolest time: January and December

Rain (with possible flooding): October, November, and December

Cheapest time: May, June, September, October, and November

Events to consider:

• Tet: January/February (check beforehand)
• Da Nang International Fireworks Festival: April to June
• Wandering Souls: August/September
• Mid Autumn Festival: September/October
• Independence Day: September 2