Climate and region of Hoi An
Hoi An is located in Central Vietnam along the central coast, with a climate similar to Hue and Da Nang. Unlike northern and southern Vietnam, which have distinct summer and winter monsoons, Hoi An experiences a dry and rainy season cycle.
- Dry season: February to August
- Rainy season: September to January
This means that while Hanoi might still be experiencing winter and Ho Chi Minh City is deep in the dry season, Hoi An is just entering its dry season, making it a great time to visit.
Weather in Hoi An in February
February marks the beginning of the dry season, bringing less rain and more sunshine compared to previous months. The temperatures range between 19°C and 26°C (66°F to 79°F), making it warmer than January but not yet as hot as the peak summer months.
Rainfall drops significantly, and while occasional light showers can still occur, they are rare and short-lived. Humidity levels decrease, making the weather more comfortable for outdoor activities. Evenings can still feel slightly cool, so a light jacket might be useful, but overall, February offers some of the best weather of the year for exploring Hoi An.
Beach holiday in Hoi An in February
February is getting better for a beach holiday, as it marks the start of the dry season. While it is not yet peak beach season, the weather is generally warm and pleasant, with more sunshine and less rain compared to previous months. However, temperatures can still be a bit mild (19°C to 26°C / 66°F to 79°F), and occasional cool breezes from the northeast may make swimming less appealing for some travelers.
The sea is calmer than in January, but it might still have some waves from the tail end of the wet season. If you are looking for a dedicated beach holiday, southern destinations like Phu Quoc or Mui Ne are better options. However, if you simply want to relax by the sea and enjoy the coastal scenery, Hoi An’s beaches, such as An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach, are already a good choice in February.
Is Hoi An worth visiting in February?
Yes, Hoi An is definitely worth visiting in February. The weather is drying up, and temperatures are comfortable, making it one of the best months for exploring the town. Unlike in January, rain is minimal, and the town’s charming streets are pleasant to walk around all day.
Hoi An’s Ancient Town is considered one of the most picturesque destinations in Vietnam, often ranked among the top places to visit in Asia. February’s mild temperatures and lower humidity make it ideal for sightseeing, photography, and outdoor activities. While the beach is improving, the main draw of Hoi An remains its historic atmosphere, lantern-lit streets, and cultural experiences.
If you’re looking for a comfortable and scenic destination in Vietnam, February is one of the best months to visit Hoi An.
Best things to do in Hoi An in February
February is a great month for exploring Hoi An, as the dry season begins and the weather becomes warmer with minimal rain. The mild temperatures make it perfect for walking, cycling, and taking boat trips, while the beaches are improving but not yet at their best. This month is also ideal for cultural experiences, such as visiting craft villages or getting tailor-made clothing.
1. Walking through the old town
Hoi An’s Ancient Town is a UNESCO-listed site filled with historic houses, lantern-lit streets, and charming cafes. February’s mild temperatures make it one of the best months for walking around without the discomfort of high heat or humidity. The town is beautiful throughout the day, but evenings are especially atmospheric when the lanterns are glowing along the streets and river.
2. Cycling through the countryside
The flat landscape around Hoi An makes cycling an easy and enjoyable way to explore the area. In February, the cooler, dry weather is perfect for cycling to Tra Que Vegetable Village, rice paddies, or the nearby fishing villages. The roads are generally quiet, and you can easily rent a bike from hotels or rental shops.
3. Relaxing at Hoi An’s beaches
February is not the main beach season, but conditions are improving. The weather is mostly dry, though it can still be a bit windy with occasional clouds. For a dedicated beach holiday, places like Mui Ne or Phu Quoc are better, but Hoi An’s beaches are still worth visiting. An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach offer peaceful spots to relax, and the waves start to calm down compared to previous months.
If you’re planning to spend most of your time at the beach, consider booking a hotel or resort near the coast for easy access. For more details, check out the best beaches in Hoi An.
4. Boat trip over the Thu Bon River
A boat trip on the Thu Bon River offers a relaxing way to see Hoi An from the water. In February, the dry weather makes boat rides more comfortable, and covered boats ensure you stay shaded from the sun. Along the way, you can visit craft villages like Thanh Ha Pottery Village or Kim Bong Carpentry Village, where traditional artisans continue their centuries-old trades.
5. Join a cooking class
Hoi An is famous for its culinary scene, and a cooking class is a great way to experience it. Many classes include a visit to the local market before heading to a kitchen to prepare classic Vietnamese dishes like cau lau, pho, and fresh spring rolls. Some classes also feature outdoor activities like a boat ride or a trip to Tra Que Vegetable Village, which are enjoyable in February’s mild and dry weather.
6. Create some tailor-made clothing
Hoi An is one of the best places in Vietnam for custom clothing, with hundreds of tailors offering affordable and high-quality tailoring services. February is a good time to get fitted for new clothes, especially if you’re looking for light summer outfits for the upcoming warmer months. Most tailors can complete your order within 24 to 48 hours, making it an easy addition to your trip.
7. My Son day trip
The My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO-listed site, is one of Vietnam’s most important Cham ruins. February is a great month for a day trip, as the weather is cooler and dry, making it comfortable to walk through the ancient ruins. The best time to visit is in the early morning, when the temperature is lower, and crowds are smaller. For more information, read the My Son Sanctuary travel guide.
Events and festivals in February
Lantern festival
Hoi An’s lantern festival takes place every full moon when the town turns off its electric lights, leaving the streets illuminated only by lanterns. While the full moon night is slightly more special, lanterns light up the streets every evening throughout February, creating a beautiful atmosphere all month long.
Tet – Vietnamese New Year
Tet, or Vietnamese New Year, is the most important holiday in Vietnam, celebrated between late January and early February, depending on the lunar calendar. In the weeks before Tet, restaurants, hotels, and shops put up festive decorations, and the town feels livelier with preparations for the celebrations.
During Tet, many businesses in Vietnam close, but Hoi An remains one of the few places where many restaurants and hotels stay open, as it is more of a tourist town than a local residential area. On New Year’s Eve, there are fireworks and cultural performances. For a full guide, check out Vietnamese New Year in Hoi An.
Travel tips for February in Hoi An
What to bring
February is part of the dry season, but as it is still close to the rainy months, there can be occasional light rain. The days are mostly sunny, so bringing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses is recommended. A light rain jacket can be useful for the occasional shower.
Even though it is not cold, evenings and early mornings can feel a bit cooler, especially for those not used to tropical climates. A light sweater or long-sleeved shirt may be helpful, especially if planning a boat trip or staying out late.
Accommodation availability
February is low season, so hotels and accommodations are generally easy to find, and prices are lower compared to peak months.
