Hoi An is one of those magical places that feels timeless, but its weather doesn’t always play by the rules.
I visited in March (which is technically dry season)and still ended up dodging puddles and watching misty skies every morning.
The weather was supposed to be calm and sunny, but the clouds had other plans.
Let’s talk about what Hoi An weather really looks like, how to stay one step ahead, and what to wear no matter what the skies bring.
What the Forecast Doesn’t Tell You
First, don’t rely too heavily on global weather apps. Trust me, I checked them daily, and they all promised clear skies.
In Hoi An, people trust Zalo’s weather updates or even NCHMF (National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting). They’re more accurate because they track regional conditions, not just broad forecasts.
Zalo Weather
- Platform: App only (part of the Zalo messaging app, Vietnam’s most popular local app)
- How to access:
- Why locals use it: It often includes real-time alerts and regional updates shared by community groups or government agencies.
NCHMF (National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting)
- Why it’s trusted: It’s Vietnam’s official weather forecasting body and offers detailed, region-specific forecasts.
- Website: https://nchmf.gov.vn
- Language: Mostly in Vietnamese, but you can use browser translation.
Rain can sneak in even during the dry season, and the sun can blaze during the rainy season. You need to be flexible when visiting Hoi An.
Hoi An Weather by Month
To help you plan better, here’s a quick month-by-month guide to Hoi An Vietnam weather. Expect it to shift slightly each year, but these are useful averages.
| Month | Avg Temp (°C/°F) | Rainfall (mm/cc) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 21 / 70 | 70 mm / 70 cc | Cool mornings, scattered rain |
| February | 22 / 72 | 40 mm / 40 cc | Supposedly dry, but unpredictable |
| March | 24 / 75 | 30 mm / 30 cc | Supposedly dry, but unpredictable |
| April | 27 / 81 | 34 mm / 34 cc | Warmer, still pleasant |
| May | 30 / 86 | 90 mm / 90 cc | Hotter days, some afternoon rain |
| June | 31 / 88 | 110 mm / 110 cc | Start of the wet season |
| July | 31 / 88 | 120 mm / 120 cc | Humid, with heavy bursts of rain |
| August | 31 / 88 | 150 mm / 150 cc | Rain continues, plan indoor stops |
| September | 29 / 84 | 250 mm / 250 cc | Wettest month starts here |
| October | 27 / 81 | 510 mm / 510 cc | Heavy rain, potential flooding |
| November | 24 / 75 | 400 mm / 400 cc | Rainy, but slightly cooler |
| December | 22 / 72 | 200 mm / 200 cc | Cool, breezy, some showers |
Vietnam Tips
- Water Safety: Tap water is not safe to drink. Opt for bottled water. Some venues will offer filtered water for free.
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
- Bring Cash: Many local eateries will only take cash. However many stores and restaurants will take credit cards. ATMs dispense up to 3 million dong at once.
- Language: Vietnamese, however many locals speak English. Use Google Translate when needed.
- Visa: Many tourists do need a visa. Check your requirements here.
- Dress Modestly in Temples: Do not show your shoulders or knees at places of worship.
- Bathroom Etiquette: Do NOT put toilet paper in the toilet! Most venues do offer tissues and trash cans as needed.
- Food Etiquette: Food comes out fast but not always at the same time.
- Tipping Etiquette: It is not expected however it is typical to round up the bill as a tip.
What to Wear in Each Season
Knowing the weather helps, but knowing what to wear is just as important when packing for Hoi An.
In February, I needed pants and a long-sleeved shirt at night. During the day, shorts were ok as it was hot enough.
Dry Season (February – April)
Pack light layers—think breathable cotton, short sleeves, and something to cover up for cool evenings. Sandals are fine, but bring walking shoes for longer days.
Here is what people wore in March in Hoi An:
Hot Season (May – August)
It’s sticky and hot. Tank tops, linen, and dresses work best. A hat and sunscreen are a must. Expect to sweat and shower often.
Rainy Season (September – December)
Pack a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes. You can buy cheap ponchos locally if you forget. Flip-flops are great for puddle-hopping, and a quick-dry outfit will save you from discomfort.
Don’t forget bug lotion—the mosquitoes love the wet weather. My favorite is Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent.
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Things to Do in Hoi An When It Rains
Rain doesn’t mean ruin. Some of my favorite experiences happened when the skies opened up!
Join a Cooking Class
Many classes are run by locals who share family recipes and stories while you cook, which makes the experience personal and unforgettable.
I enjoyed this Hoi An traditional cooking class, even though it was raining and we still went to the market and stayed dry!
Take a Lantern-Making Workshop
These cozy studios are dry, colorful, and the perfect way to connect with Hoi An’s heritage. You’ll leave with a handmade souvenir. I enjoyed this Hoi An Lantern Making Class.
Sip Coffee or Tea in a Hidden Café
Hoi An is full of charming cafés with rooftop views and warm interiors. Order a Vietnamese egg coffee and watch the world slow down.
My favorite tea shop had a hidden speakeasy upstairs. Check out Mộng Nguyệt (Secret Bar).
Visit the Tailors
Rainy days are ideal for fittings. Spend time choosing fabrics and getting measured without rushing. Most tailors are indoors and offer tea while you wait.
I went to Be Be Tailors, it was a little more expensive than other locations but they had a larger variety of fabrics.
Relax with a Spa Day
Hoi An has incredible spas. You’ll find everything from budget-friendly foot massages to full-on herbal treatments. Rainy weather is a great excuse to unwind.
Check out my full guide on Hoi An and Hoi An Beach for your next visit!
More Things to Do in Hoi An
Final Thoughts on Hoi An Weather
Hoi An weather isn’t something to stress over, but it’s definitely something to prepare for. Each season brings its own personality, and even in the rain, this town has a way of shining through.
If you’re headed there, check what locals check, pack like a traveler, not a tourist, and keep your plans flexible.
And if the sky turns gray? Just grab a poncho, take an indoor class, and make a memory!
Hoi An Weather FAQ
What is the best month to go to Hoi An?
April is one of the best months—dry, sunny, and not too hot. Check out my Hoi An weather by month guide above.
What is the rainiest month in Hoi An?
October typically sees the heaviest rainfall of the year.
What month does it flood in Hoi An?
Flooding often happens in October and sometimes into November.
Is Hoi An worth it in the rain?
Yes—lantern workshops, cooking classes, cafés, and spas make it just as magical indoors.
Can I trust Vietnam weather apps for Hoi An?
Not always—global apps are often wrong; locals use Zalo or NCHMF for better accuracy.
What should I pack for Hoi An weather?
Pack light, breathable clothes, a rain jacket, and waterproof shoes—what you need changes by season, not just the forecast.
Visiting Vietnam? Here are my Guides:
- Is Visiting Ba Na Hills Vietnam Worth It?
- Complete Guide to Visiting Da Nang, Vietnam
- Da Nang Airport Guide – Everything You Need to Know
- Do You Need to Be Fit to Visit the Marble Mountains?
- An Bang Hoi An Beach: What to Know Before You Go
- 14 Cool Things to do in Hoi An (Besides Lanterns!)
- 5 Ways to Get from Da Nang to Hoi An
- Explore the Da Nang Beach called My Khe
- Hoi An Weather: How to Check it and When to Go
- Da Nang Bridge Fire Show Times
