Hoi An has a tropical monsoon climate, which means we have two very distinct seasons: a hot, sunny dry season and a cooler, wet rainy season. Understanding these seasons is the key to planning a trip that is comfortable, enjoyable, and perfectly suited to the activities you dream of. As your expert guide, we at Vietnam Story have created this detailed guide to the weather in Hoi An, curated especially for our Indian travelers. We will tell you the absolute best time to visit, what to pack for each season, and how to plan for everything from intense sunshine to tropical rain, ensuring your journey is a wonderful and seamless one.
Climate overview and the “Golden Window”
First, let’s understand the general climate of Hoi An.
General climate profile
- Climate type: We have a tropical monsoon climate with two very clear seasons.
- Average annual temperature: Hoi An is generally warm all year, with an average temperature of around 26°C to 28°C.
- Humidity: The humidity is quite high year-round, usually above 80%, which can make it feel warmer than the actual temperature.
The “golden window” (Ideal travel period)
So, what is the absolute best time of year to visit Hoi An? Without a doubt, the “golden window” for the most comfortable and pleasant weather is from February to April.
Here is a simple breakdown of the seasons to help you choose:
| Season | Months | Key Weather Characteristics | Traveler Benefits |
| Spring/Early Dry Season (Sweet Spot) | February – April | Cool, pleasant temperatures (Avg. 20°C–28°C), minimal rain, and lower humidity. | This is perfect weather for walking through the Ancient Town, cycling in the countryside, photography, and all-around comfortable sightseeing. |
| Hot Dry Season | May – August | Hot and very sunny (Avg. 30°C–35°C+). You can expect clear blue skies and the highest UV index of the year. | This is ideal for beach lovers. It’s the best time for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports at An Bang or Cua Dai Beach. |
| Rainy Season | September – January | Cooler temperatures (Avg. 22°C–27°C), frequent and sometimes very heavy rain, and high humidity. | The benefits are fewer crowds and lower prices. It’s a great time for indoor cultural experiences, cozying up in a cafe, or getting clothes made by a tailor. |
READ MORE: An Bang Beach: Ultimate guide to water sports, seafood & relaxation for Indian travelers
Detailed seasonal breakdown
Let’s dive a little deeper into what you can expect month by month.
The dry season (February to August)
This season is all about sunshine and warmth.
| Month | Temp High (Avg. °C) | Rain Days (Avg.) | Key Weather & Activity Tips |
| February – April | 26°C – 31°C | 4−6 | This is the best time to visit. The weather is sunny, dry, and not too hot. Every activity, from exploring My Son Sanctuary to a boat trip on the river, is enjoyable. |
| May – August | 33°C – 35°C | 7−11 | These are the hottest months. The sun can be very intense, and the UV index is high. This is fantastic beach weather, but it requires you to take precautions like using lots of sun protection and staying hydrated. |
The rainy/wet season (September to January)
This season is cooler, wetter, and brings with it the risk of tropical storms.
| Month | Temp High (Avg. °C) | Rain Days (Avg.) | Key Weather & Risk Factors |
| September | 30°C – 32°C | 15 | This is the transition month. The amount of rainfall increases sharply, and you can expect more frequent showers. |
| October – November | 27°C – 29°C | 15−21 | These are the peak rainy months. This is when there is the highest risk of heavy rain, tropical storms (typhoons), and flooding. Be prepared for potential travel disruptions. |
| December – January | 25°C – 26°C | 10−18 | This is the coolest period, what we call the Hoi An “winter.” It can feel damp, overcast, and a bit chilly, especially in the evenings, though it’s not cold by Indian winter standards. |
Important traveler warnings: Typhoon, flood and UV risk
It’s very important to be aware of a few key weather risks when planning your trip.
Typhoon and Flood risk (Peak: October – November)
Does Hoi An experience typhoons? Yes, it can.
- Typhoon season: The peak season for tropical storms to affect our coast is from October to November. These storms can bring very strong winds and heavy rain, which may lead to travel delays, such as flight cancellations at the Da Nang airport.
- Flooding in Ancient Town: The beautiful, low-lying Ancient Town is located right next to the Thu Bon River and is prone to flooding during periods of heavy rain, especially in October and November.
- What to expect: Sometimes, the floods can be quite severe, and the ancient streets become waterways where locals travel by small boats (ghe). If you travel during this time, you must have a flexible itinerary and it may be wise to choose accommodation on higher ground. It is an interesting and unique sight, but it requires preparation.
Daily patterns and UV safety
- Daily patterns: Even in the rainy season, it usually doesn’t rain all day, every day. Often, the mornings can be clear, with heavy showers arriving in the afternoon or evening.
- UV safety: The UV index in Central Vietnam is consistently high, even on cloudy days. It is especially intense from May to August. Sun protection is not optional; it is necessary year-round. Always use high-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and seek shade during the peak sun hours of 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
READ MORE: Best places to visit in Hoi An
Practical tips for visitors
So, what should you pack and how should you plan for each season?
| Season | Clothing & Packing Tips | Activity & Planning Tips |
| Dry Season (Feb – Aug) | Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. A light rain jacket is a good idea for the occasional brief shower. | This is the time for all outdoor activities: relaxing on the beach, cycling through the countryside, and exploring the My Son Sanctuary. Many of Hoi An’s vibrant cultural festivals also take place during this period. |
| Rainy Season (Sep – Jan) | Pack clothes made from quick-dry fabrics (avoid heavy denim, which takes a long time to dry). A good waterproof jacket, an umbrella, and waterproof footwear are essential. For the coolest months (Dec/Jan), packing a light sweater or jacket for the evenings is a good idea. | This is the perfect season for indoor activities like visiting a tailor shop, taking a cooking class, or exploring Hoi An’s wonderful cafes. Always monitor the real-time weather forecasts for any typhoon warnings, and be prepared to use your travel insurance if needed. |
| General Tips | Stay hydrated! The high humidity can be draining, so drink plenty of water. It’s also always a good idea to carry cash, especially small bills, for local vendors. | If you are traveling during the typhoon season, it is very wise to book accommodation and transport with flexible or refundable policies. The cultural life of Hoi An continues, but event schedules may change due to the rain. |
Conclusion
Understanding the distinct seasons of Hoi An is the key to planning a truly memorable and comfortable trip. Whether you are seeking the glorious sunshine and beach days of the dry season or the quiet, moody, and romantic charm of the wet season, there is always something beautiful to experience in this ancient town.
At Vietnam Story, we specialize in curating Vietnam Tour Packages that are perfectly tailored to the weather and the seasons. We will help you plan an itinerary that maximizes your enjoyment and comfort, no matter what the forecast says.
Contact us today, and let us help you plan your perfect journey to the magical town of Hoi An