Southern Vietnam climate
Before looking at the weather specifics for February, it’s useful to understand the general climate of southern Vietnam. The region follows a tropical monsoon climate, meaning temperatures remain high throughout the year, but there are two clear seasons:
- Dry season (November – April): Characterized by little rainfall, plenty of sunshine, and comfortable humidity levels.
- Rainy season (May – October): Higher humidity with frequent, short-lived showers, mostly in the afternoon.
Travel Tip: While northern Vietnam is still experiencing cooler temperatures and central Vietnam is transitioning from its rainy season, southern Vietnam stays warm year-round. Unlike the central coast, where February may still see occasional rain, the seasons in the south remain more predictable.
Weather in South Vietnam in February
February is within the dry season, meaning warm temperatures, low humidity, and little rainfall. Average daytime temperatures range from 27–33°C (81–91°F), with nighttime temperatures between 21–25°C (70–77°F). Compared to earlier in the dry season, the heat starts to rise slightly, but conditions remain stable.
Rainfall is very limited, with an average of 5–20 mm (0.2–0.8 inches), making it one of the driest months of the year. Humidity remains moderate at 60–70%, which is lower than during the rainy season.
Most days are sunny with clear skies, and rain is uncommon. When showers do happen, they are short and light, unlike the heavy downpours of the wet season.
Beach conditions in South Vietnam in February
While South Vietnam is home to vibrant cities and lush landscapes, its beach destinations like Phu Quoc, Con Dao, and Mui Ne attract travelers looking for sunshine, warm waters, and sandy shores.
February offers perfect beach conditions across Phu Quoc, Con Dao, and Mui Ne. The dry season continues, bringing plenty of sunshine, warm temperatures, and calm waters.
Beaches in Phu Quoc and Con Dao are at their best for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with excellent visibility and smooth seas. Mui Ne is great for sunbathing and watersports, with ideal wind conditions for kitesurfing.
Is February a good time to visit South Vietnam?
February is a very good month to visit South Vietnam, with near-perfect travel conditions. The dry season continues, ensuring comfortable weather for city sightseeing, outdoor activities, and exploring the Mekong Delta. It’s also an ideal month for visiting the beaches, with calm seas and plenty of sunshine. If you’re visiting during Tet (Vietnamese New Year), some businesses may close, and transport can be busier, but the festive atmosphere adds a unique cultural experience. Overall, February is one of the best months to visit.
Best places to visit in February
February is another excellent month to explore South Vietnam, offering dry and sunny weather with comfortable temperatures. Below, we highlight some of the best destinations to visit this month, focusing on their seasonal advantages. If you want a complete list of must-visit places in South Vietnam, be sure to check out our full travel guide: Places to Visit in South Vietnam.
1. Phu Quoc – Ideal Beach Conditions in Peak Season
Phu Quoc remains one of the best destinations in February, with consistently warm temperatures, low humidity, and clear blue skies. The island’s beaches, including Long Beach, Sao Beach, and Bai Dai Beach, are at their best, offering excellent conditions for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Boat trips to the An Thoi archipelago allow visitors to explore vibrant coral reefs.
However, February often coincides with Tet, Vietnam’s biggest holiday, meaning a surge in domestic tourism. Prices for accommodation and flights tend to rise, and beaches and attractions may be busier than usual. Booking in advance is recommended to secure the best deals and avoid last-minute surprises.
Learn more in our dedicated guide: Phu Quoc in February.
2. Ho Chi Minh City – Bustling with Tet Festivities
Ho Chi Minh City is particularly lively in February, especially when Tet celebrations take place. The city is adorned with colorful decorations, and special Tet markets spring up across districts, offering flowers, traditional foods, and festive treats. While the period around Tet sees some closures, many cultural sites like the War Remnants Museum and Reunification Palace remain open. The cooler temperatures compared to later months make exploring the city’s streets, markets, and food stalls more comfortable.
Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a highlight, featuring vibrant floral displays and traditional performances. This is a unique time to experience local culture, but travelers should be aware that transportation and accommodation prices may be higher due to the holiday rush.
Learn more in our dedicated guide: Ho Chi Minh City in February.
3. Mui Ne – Reliable Sunshine and Perfect Winds for Kitesurfing
Mui Ne continues to be a fantastic destination in February, offering dry, sunny weather and predictable winds, making it an international hotspot for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The beaches are inviting, with warm waters perfect for swimming. Beyond water sports, visitors can explore the famous Red and White Sand Dunes, enjoy an ATV ride, or walk along the surreal Fairy Stream. The fresh seafood scene in Mui Ne is another highlight, with beachfront restaurants serving up delicious local dishes. As it’s peak season, early reservations for accommodations and tours are recommended.
Learn more in our dedicated guide: Mui Ne in February.
4. Con Dao – Tranquil Beaches with Some Windy Conditions
Con Dao is a peaceful and scenic island destination in February, with warm, dry weather and pristine beaches. Dam Trau Beach and Nhat Beach offer excellent spots for relaxation, with fewer crowds than Phu Quoc. However, the island is still affected by the northeast monsoon, meaning strong currents and rougher seas may limit diving opportunities.
While diving visibility can be hit-or-miss, the island’s rich history, including Con Dao Prison, and its lush hiking trails provide alternative activities for visitors. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination with a laid-back atmosphere.
Learn more in our dedicated guide: Con Dao in February.
5. Mekong Delta – Blooming Flowers and Floating Markets
February is an ideal time to visit the Mekong Delta, especially with the festive atmosphere surrounding Tet. The region’s flower markets, particularly in Sa Dec, are in full bloom, providing a stunning display of colorful blossoms being transported by boat. Can Tho’s Cai Rang Floating Market is lively, with vendors selling fresh produce, local delicacies, and Tet-themed specialties.
The dry season ensures comfortable conditions for boat trips through the delta’s narrow canals, where visitors can experience traditional village life. Homestays in the Mekong Delta offer a deeper cultural experience, allowing travelers to participate in cooking Tet dishes and exploring local farms.
Learn more in our dedicated guide: Mekong Delta in February.
Events and holidays in February
February is a festive and culturally rich month in southern Vietnam. The most significant event is Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) if it falls in February, bringing both vibrant celebrations and travel challenges. Other festivals like the Lantern Festival (Tet Nguyen Tieu) and Ba Thien Hau Temple Festival in Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown offer unique cultural experiences for travelers.
Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) (if it falls in February)
Tet, or the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is the most important holiday in Vietnam, marking the beginning of the lunar calendar. Families reunite, honor their ancestors, and welcome the new year with fireworks, dragon dances, and festive meals. The days leading up to Tet are bustling with flower markets and holiday shopping, while the first days of the new year are quieter as people visit temples or relax with their families.
For travelers: If you’re in Ho Chi Minh City before Tet, don’t miss the Nguyen Hue Flower Street, Cho Lon’s (Chinatown) markets, and the festive atmosphere at Ben Thanh Market. On Tet day itself, many businesses close, and the streets can feel empty. If you’re in the Mekong Delta, homestays may provide a great chance to experience Tet with a local family. Be prepared for increased transportation prices and fully booked accommodations around this time.
Tet Nguyen Tieu (First Full Moon Festival / Lantern Festival)
Taking place on the 15th day of the first lunar month, this festival is the biggest event of the year for the Chinese-Vietnamese community. It is sometimes referred to as the Lantern Festival and is celebrated in Cholon (Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown) with lion dances, firecrackers, and temple rituals. Many people visit temples to pray for good fortune in the new year.
For travelers: If you’re in Ho Chi Minh City, head to Thien Hau Temple and other temples in District 5 to see the celebrations. The streets of Chinatown are filled with dragon and lion dances, giving travelers a unique insight into Vietnam’s Chinese heritage. Expect crowds, noise, and a lively atmosphere!
Ba Thien Hau Temple Festival (if it falls in February)
This festival at Ba Thien Hau Temple in Ho Chi Minh City’s Cholon (Chinatown) is dedicated to Thien Hau, the sea goddess. Devotees bring offerings, burn incense, and participate in religious ceremonies. Traditional performances, such as lion dances and processions, create a lively atmosphere around the temple.
For travelers: If you want to witness a local religious festival, this is a must-see event in Ho Chi Minh City. Arrive early to get a good spot for watching the ceremonies. The incense smoke can be thick, so be prepared for a strong sensory experience.
Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival (if it falls in February)
While the main Bai Dinh Pagoda Festival takes place in the north, Buddhist temples across southern Vietnam, such as Vinh Trang Pagoda (My Tho) and Xa Loi Pagoda (Ho Chi Minh City), also see an increase in worshippers during this time. The festival marks the beginning of the Buddhist New Year and is an important time for prayer and offerings.
For travelers: If you’re interested in Buddhism and temple culture, this is a good time to visit major pagodas in the region. However, expect crowds, especially on the full moon day.
Travel tips for Southern Vietnam in February
February is a fantastic month to explore southern Vietnam, but knowing how to prepare can make your trip even smoother. Below are practical travel tips to help you get ready for the climate, accommodation demand, air quality, and other unique factors this month.
What to Bring
- Light and breathable clothing – Temperatures are warm, so pack summer-appropriate clothes made of cotton or linen.
- Sun protection – The sun is strong, so bring high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and light layers to cover your shoulders if you’re outside for long periods.
- A light jacket – Evenings can be slightly cooler in the Mekong Delta or on islands like Phu Quoc, especially if you take boat trips.
- Comfortable shoes – Essential for exploring cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Cu Chi Tunnels, where a lot of walking is involved.
Accommodations
- Peak season continues – February is still part of the high season, especially for beach destinations like Phu Quoc and Con Dao.
- Tet holiday impact – If the Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tet) falls in February, accommodations may be fully booked, and prices will be even higher than usual. Book well in advance.
- Higher prices – Expect increased costs for hotels and resorts, particularly in tourist hotspots. After Tet, demand eases, and you might find better deals.
Air Pollution
- Ho Chi Minh City air quality – February is a dry-season month, meaning dust and pollution levels can be higher in HCMC.
- Protect yourself – If you’re sensitive to air pollution, consider carrying a mask, particularly when walking through traffic-heavy areas.
- Coastal areas are better – Beach destinations and islands have fresher air and are a good escape from city pollution.
Heat-Related Tips
- Avoid midday sun – Plan sightseeing and outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of water, and if exploring outdoors, grab fresh coconut water or sugarcane juice to stay cool.
- Choose accommodation with air conditioning – While temperatures are not extreme, it’s still important to have a comfortable place to rest at night.
Visiting More of Vietnam
Weather conditions vary across Vietnam in February, so check guides for other regions if you plan to travel beyond the south:
- Central Vietnam – Still transitioning from the rainy season; Da Nang and Hoi An may have occasional rain but are drier compared to January. More info: Central Vietnam in February
- Northern Vietnam – February is still cool, especially in mountainous areas like Sapa, and can be misty in Hanoi and Halong Bay. More info: North Vietnam in February
- Overall Vietnam weather – For a countrywide weather overview, check this guide: Vietnam in February
