Climate and region of Ho Chi Minh City
Understanding the weather in August in Ho Chi Minh City is easier when you first look at the region’s climate. As part of southern Vietnam, the city has a tropical monsoon climate, which keeps temperatures high throughout the year and divides the weather into two main seasons.
- Dry Season: December to April
- Rainy Season: May to November
Travel tip: How August weather differs across Vietnam
South Vietnam in August continues to see frequent rain showers, but other regions of Vietnam experience different conditions. While central Vietnam remains in its dry season, with hot and sunny days, northern Vietnam is still dealing with heavy summer rains and occasional storms. This variation makes August a better time for certain regions than others.
Weather in Ho Chi Minh City in August
August continues the rainy season in Ho Chi Minh City, meaning high humidity, frequent rainfall, and warm temperatures. Daytime highs reach 31°C (88°F), with nighttime temperatures around 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is similar to July, averaging 270 mm (10.6 inches), with heavy showers mostly occurring in the afternoons. Mornings and evenings tend to be drier, making it possible to plan activities around the rain.
Although the rain can be intense, it rarely lasts all day, and the city remains busy. The Mekong Delta and coastal areas like Phu Quoc also experience wet weather, sometimes affecting boat trips. While August isn’t the driest time to visit, those who don’t mind occasional rain showers can still explore comfortably.
If you are looking for less rainy weather, read our guide to best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City.
Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting in August?
August is not the most ideal month to visit Ho Chi Minh City, as the rainy season is still in full swing. Showers are frequent, usually in the afternoons or evenings, and humidity remains high. However, like in other rainy months, the rain tends to come in short, heavy bursts rather than lasting all day. Mornings and early afternoons often remain dry, allowing time for sightseeing before the rain arrives.
Despite the wet weather, Ho Chi Minh City still functions as normal, and unlike beach destinations, where storms can disrupt activities, the city remains accessible. There are also plenty of indoor attractions, such as museums, markets, and hidden cafés, that provide great alternatives when the rain hits. With proper planning, you can still experience the best of the city.
Did you know?
If you’re visiting Vietnam in August, you’ll find excellent beach weather in central Vietnam, with Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Hoi An enjoying sunny days. In the north, the rice fields of Sapa, Ninh Binh, and Pu Luong are stunningly green, and by the end of the month, the first signs of the harvest season in Sapa may appear.
Are you still in doubt if it is worth visiting? Read our guide about Ho Chi Minh City in the rainy season with tips, what to expect, and things to do.
Special events & festivals in August
August is still part of Vietnam’s summer school holiday, which lasts until mid-August. Many families continue their vacations, leading to increased domestic travel, particularly to beach destinations and the countryside. Ho Chi Minh City may feel slightly quieter, as some families take trips outside the city, but overall, the city remains busy with daily life.
While there are no major public holidays in August, the Southern Fruit Festival continues, providing one of the few cultural experiences available this month. Additionally, the expat and international communities keep Ho Chi Minh City lively with various food festivals, concerts, and social events.
Southern Fruit Festival
The Southern Fruit Festival takes place in August at Suoi Tien Theme Park, just outside Ho Chi Minh City. It is a celebration of Vietnam’s tropical fruit culture, where visitors can see fruit displays, taste fresh seasonal produce, and watch fruit carving competitions. The festival also includes cultural performances showcasing traditional farming practices.
While this is not a must-see event, it offers an interesting look at Vietnam’s agricultural heritage and is a good stop for those interested in local food culture.
Best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City in August
August continues the rainy season, bringing high humidity, frequent showers, and occasional thunderstorms. While this may sound challenging, most rain falls in the late afternoon or evening, leaving mornings and early afternoons mostly dry—a great time to explore historical sites, temples, and street markets.
With unpredictable weather, indoor attractions like the War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace, and bustling markets such as Ben Thanh and Binh Tay are excellent choices. The city’s vibrant street food culture thrives year-round, making August a great time for a food tour or café-hopping experience. Day trips to the Cu Chi Tunnels are still possible, but for the Mekong Delta, it’s best to check conditions, as rising water levels may affect boat tours.
For a complete list of sights, activities, and travel tips, read our Ho Chi Minh City travel guide.
Destinations around Ho Chi Minh City to visit in August
Ho Chi Minh City is often just a starting point for exploring southern Vietnam, as many travelers continue to beach destinations, the Mekong Delta, or the Central Highlands. Understanding what August offers in these destinations can help determine whether Ho Chi Minh City is worth visiting this month. Below are the four most popular places to visit from the city.
Mekong Delta weather in August
August is deep into the rainy season in the Mekong Delta, meaning frequent afternoon showers and high humidity. However, unlike beach destinations, rain does not significantly affect travel here, as the region’s floating markets, boat trips, and cycling tours continue as usual.
This is one of the most vibrant times to visit, as the high water levels allow boats to navigate smaller canals that may not be accessible in the dry season. It’s also peak fruit season, with orchards full of mangosteens, longans, and durians, making it a great time to visit local fruit farms. While rain showers are common, they are usually short and intense, leaving plenty of time for exploration.
Phu Quoc in August
August is not a great time to visit Phu Quoc, as it remains in the rainy season, with frequent storms, rough seas, and strong winds. The weather is unpredictable, and many boat tours and snorkeling trips are often canceled due to poor conditions.
For travelers looking for a beach holiday, central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An, and Nha Trang) is a much better option in August, as it is in its dry season. If visiting Phu Quoc during this month, expect a quieter atmosphere but be prepared for rain and limited activities.
Mui Ne in August
August is still part of the rainy season in Mui Ne, meaning higher humidity and afternoon rain showers. However, Mui Ne receives less rainfall than Phu Quoc, and mornings often remain dry and sunny.
Although Mui Ne is not the best destination for a dedicated beach holiday in August, it can still be a decent stopover for travelers heading between Ho Chi Minh City and central Vietnam. The sand dunes remain a popular attraction, but for beachgoers, Nha Trang or Da Nang offer better conditions this time of year.
Dalat in August
Dalat remains a great alternative to beach destinations in August, as it has cool temperatures (16-24°C / 61-75°F), making it a refreshing escape from the southern heat. However, like other months in the rainy season, frequent showers occur, especially in the afternoons.
Despite the rain, Dalat is one of the best places to visit in southern Vietnam during this time, as many activities remain enjoyable in wet weather. The waterfalls are at their most powerful, making it one of the best months for canyoning and waterfall trekking. While beach destinations may feel restricted in the rain, Dalat still offers plenty to do, from coffee farm visits to exploring colonial-era villas and bustling local markets.
Travel tips for August in Ho Chi Minh City
These tips will help you prepare for visiting Ho Chi Minh City in August, taking into account the seasonal conditions.
What to pack
Pack light, breathable clothing, a small umbrella or rain jacket, and water-resistant footwear. If you plan to explore the city on foot, quick-drying clothes will be more comfortable if you get caught in the rain.
Accommodations
August remains low season for international travelers, but domestic travel still sees moderate activity as school holidays continue into early August. There is no shortage of hotel availability, and prices remain relatively affordable compared to high-season months.
Getting around Ho Chi Minh City
Rain is still frequent, so Grab cars are the most reliable way to get around. If using motorbike taxis, expect occasional delays during heavy downpours. Walking is manageable in dry periods, but with hot and humid conditions, carrying water, a rain jacket, and an umbrella is advisable.
Health and safety
Air Pollution – Similar to July, rainfall helps clear the air, so pollution is less of an issue this month.
Heat – The humidity makes it feel hotter than the actual temperature, so plan outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon and take breaks indoors when necessary.
