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 follows a dry and rainy season cycle.
- Dry season: February to August
- Rainy season: September to January
While Hanoi may still experience cool spring weather and Ho Chi Minh City remains hot and dry, Hoi An in April is fully into its dry season, offering warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine.
Weather in Hoi An in April
April is one of the hottest months so far in the year, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F). While this is not the peak heat of the year, it is noticeably warmer than March and can feel hot during midday.
Rainfall remains low, and the dry season is well underway, meaning mostly clear skies and minimal humidity. Evenings remain comfortable, but it is advisable to stay hydrated and wear sun protection during the daytime, especially for outdoor activities.
Beach holiday in Hoi An in April
April is one of the best months for a beach holiday in Hoi An. The dry season is well underway, meaning plenty of sunshine, minimal rain, and warm temperatures averaging between 24°C and 32°C (75°F to 90°F). The sea is calm, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities at An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach.
Since April is not yet peak summer, the beaches are not overly crowded, and the temperatures are hot but still bearable, especially in the mornings and late afternoons. If you’re planning to spend most of your time at the beach, staying at a resort or hotel along the coast is a great option.
Is Hoi An worth visiting in April?
Yes, Hoi An is definitely worth visiting in April, as it offers warm, dry weather, making it a great time for both exploring the ancient town and enjoying the beaches. With minimal rain and clear skies, it’s an excellent month for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and taking day trips.
Hoi An is widely considered one of the most picturesque towns in Vietnam, often ranked among the top travel destinations in Asia. The historic streets of the Ancient Town, with their yellow buildings, lanterns, and riverside charm, are perfect for walking, cycling, and taking boat trips. Since April is hot but not yet as intense as the peak summer months, it remains a comfortable time to visit.
With favorable weather conditions and fewer crowds compared to peak summer, April is a great time to experience everything Hoi An has to offer.
Best things to do in Hoi An in April
April is a fantastic month to explore Hoi An, with clear skies, warm temperatures, and plenty of sunshine. This is a great time for outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, beach trips, and boat rides. The low chance of rain makes it a stress-free time to visit, and the evenings are pleasantly warm, making it perfect for enjoying the town’s vibrant nightlife and lantern-lit streets.
1. Walking through the old town
Hoi An’s ancient town is a beautifully preserved historical area, featuring Japanese bridges, Chinese temples, and colonial buildings. In April, the clear blue skies make it a great time for photography, but as the temperatures rise during the day, it’s best to wear sunscreen and a hat. Exploring in the early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat.
2. Cycling through the countryside
Hoi An’s flat landscape and quiet rural roads make cycling a perfect way to explore the countryside. The warm, dry weather in April allows for scenic rides through rice paddies, fishing villages, and vegetable farms. Destinations like Tra Que Vegetable Village and Cam Thanh coconut forest are ideal spots to visit by bike. Many hotels provide bicycle rentals, and guided tours offer insight into local life and farming traditions.
3. Relaxing at Hoi An’s beaches
April is one of the best months for a beach holiday, with warm temperatures and minimal rain. An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach are great for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. If you’re looking for a quieter beach experience, some more remote beaches near Da Nang are good alternatives.
For a dedicated beach-focused trip, staying at a resort near the coast is a good option. For more details, check out the best beaches in Hoi An.
4. Basket boat trip through the mangrove forest
April is an ideal month to take a basket boat ride through the coconut palm forest in Cam Thanh. This activity allows visitors to navigate the waterways in traditional bamboo boats, often accompanied by fun demonstrations from local boatmen. The warm but not overly hot weather makes it comfortable to enjoy this activity in the morning or late afternoon.
5. Day trip to Cham Island
Cham Island is a great destination for a day trip in April, as the weather is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the island’s beaches. The boat ride to the island is generally smooth, and visitors can enjoy crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. While overnight stays are possible, accommodations are basic, making it more suitable for a one-day adventure.
For more details, check out the Cham Island travel guide.
6. Explore local life around Hoi An
Hoi An is surrounded by traditional villages where visitors can experience local crafts, fishing communities, and daily life. This can be done by cycling, riding a motorbike, or taking a car for more comfort. Popular stops include Thanh Ha pottery village and Kim Bong carpentry village, where artisans continue centuries-old traditions.
7. My Son day trip
The My Son Sanctuary is one of Vietnam’s most important Cham archaeological sites. April is a great time to visit, but it is best to go in the early morning or late afternoon, as midday temperatures can be hot. A visit to My Son typically takes half a day, making it easy to combine with other activities in Hoi An.
For more details, check out the My Son Sanctuary travel guide.
Events and festivals in April
Reunification Day
Reunification Day is celebrated on April 30, marking the end of the Vietnam War in 1975 and the reunification of North and South Vietnam. Combined with International Labour Day on May 1, this creates a public holiday period when many Vietnamese travel domestically. Hoi An, being a popular tourist town, can see an increase in local visitors during this time, making it busier than usual. However, the crowds only last for a few days, so it does not have to significantly impact travel plans.
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 April, creating a beautiful atmosphere all month long.
Travel tips for April in Hoi An
What to bring
April is one of the hottest months so far in the year, with strong sunshine and little rain. If you are spending time outdoors, it’s essential to bring:
- Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool in the heat.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially if cycling or walking.
- Swimwear if you plan to visit the beaches.
Even though the evenings are warm, it’s still a good idea to bring a light cover-up for boat rides or open-air restaurants near the river.
Accommodation availability
April is part of the high season, so it’s recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially around Reunification Day (April 30 – May 1) when domestic travel increases. Beach resorts and boutique hotels in the ancient town tend to fill up faster during this time.
