Climate and region of Hoi An
Hoi An is located in Central Vietnam, along the central coast, and has 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 enters its rainy season and Ho Chi Minh City remains hot and humid, Hoi An continues to experience dry and sunny weather in May, making it a great time for outdoor activities and beach visits.
Weather in Hoi An in May
May is one of the hottest months of the year in Hoi An, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 34°C (79°F to 93°F). The heat is more intense than in April, with higher humidity levels, making the afternoons feel even warmer.
Rainfall remains low, as May is still in the dry season, but occasional short showers may occur, usually in the late afternoon or evening. These showers are brief and do not significantly impact travel plans. The evenings stay warm and humid, so lightweight clothing is recommended throughout the day.
Beach holiday in Hoi An in May
May is one of the best months for a beach holiday in Hoi An. The dry season is in full swing, with hot temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rain, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The sea is calm, and the water temperature is warm, ideal for activities like snorkeling and paddleboarding.
Beaches such as An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach are great spots to relax, while remote beaches near Da Nang offer a quieter alternative. The strong midday sun can make the beach uncomfortably hot, so it’s best to visit in the morning or late afternoon.
For a beach-focused holiday, staying at a beachfront resort is a good option.
Is Hoi An worth visiting in May?
Yes, Hoi An is worth visiting in May, as it offers hot and sunny weather, making it ideal for both beach activities and exploring the town. The low chance of rain means visitors can comfortably enjoy walking, cycling, and boat trips without disruption.
Hoi An’s Ancient Town remains one of the most beautiful destinations in Vietnam, often listed among the top places to visit in Asia. Its well-preserved streets, colorful lanterns, and riverside setting create a unique atmosphere, especially in the evenings.
Although the heat can be intense, especially in the afternoons, staying hydrated, wearing sun protection, and planning outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon helps make the most of the visit. If you’re looking for a combination of cultural experiences and beach relaxation, May is an excellent time to visit.
Best things to do in Hoi An in May
May is a great time to explore Hoi An, with hot temperatures, clear skies, and little rain. Outdoor activities such as walking through the ancient town, cycling in the countryside, and enjoying the beaches are all ideal in this month. Since the midday sun can be strong, it’s best to plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon and take breaks in shaded areas or indoor spots during peak heat hours.
1. Walking through the old town
Hoi An’s ancient town is one of Vietnam’s most picturesque areas, featuring Japanese bridges, Chinese temples, and colonial-era buildings. May’s clear blue skies make it a great time for photography, but the midday heat can be intense, so wearing sunscreen and a hat and exploring in the morning or evening is recommended.
2. Cycling through the countryside
Hoi An’s flat landscape and quiet backroads make cycling a fantastic way to explore the countryside, rice paddies, and fishing villages. In May, the warm but dry weather allows for comfortable rides to places like Tra Que Vegetable Village and Cam Thanh coconut forest. Renting a bike from a hotel or local shop is easy, and guided cycling tours provide insight into local culture and farming traditions.
3. Relaxing at Hoi An’s beaches
May is one of the best months for beach activities in Hoi An, with warm sea temperatures, little rain, and clear skies. An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach are great for swimming and sunbathing, while more secluded beaches near Da Nang provide quieter alternatives. Since the midday sun is strong, it’s best to visit the beach in the morning or late afternoon for a more comfortable experience.
For more details, check out the best beaches in Hoi An.
If you’re planning a beach-focused trip with just a few visits to the ancient town, staying at a beachfront resort is a convenient option.
4. Basket boat trip through the mangrove forest
May is a great time to take a basket boat ride through the coconut palm forest in Cam Thanh. This activity allows visitors to navigate through the waterways in round bamboo boats, often with fun demonstrations from local boatmen. Since it can get hot around midday, it’s best to go in the morning or late afternoon.
5. Day trip to Cham Island
Cham Island is one of the best destinations for a day trip in May, as the weather is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the island’s beaches. The calm sea conditions make the boat ride smooth, and visitors can enjoy clear waters and vibrant marine life. While it’s possible to stay overnight, accommodations are basic, making it more of a day-trip destination.
For more details, check out the Cham Island travel guide.
6. Explore local life around Hoi An
Hoi An’s surrounding villages offer a chance to see traditional crafts, fishing communities, and rural life. This can be done by cycling, renting a motorbike, or taking a car for more comfort. Popular spots 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 an ancient Cham temple complex, often compared to a smaller version of Angkor Wat. May is a good month to visit, but since the midday heat can be intense, it’s best to go early in the morning or in the late afternoon. The visit typically takes half a day, making it easy to fit into a travel schedule.
For more details, check out the My Son Sanctuary travel guide.
Events and festivals in May
Reunification Day and International Labour Day
Although Reunification Day falls on April 30, it leads directly into International Labour Day on May 1, creating a national holiday period in Vietnam. This is one of the busiest times for domestic travel after Tet, and Hoi An sees an influx of Vietnamese tourists. The town can feel more crowded than usual, especially in the ancient town and along the beaches, but the crowds usually last just a few days before things return to normal.
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 May, creating a beautiful atmosphere all month long.
Travel tips for May in Hoi An
What to bring
May is part of the hottest period of the year in Hoi An, so packing light, breathable clothing is essential. Since the sun is strong and there is little shade in some areas, it’s important to bring:
- Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from sun exposure.
- Lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the heat.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Swimwear if you plan to visit the beach or Cham Island.
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the ancient town or countryside by bike.
Since evenings remain warm, there is no need to pack extra layers. A light shawl or long-sleeved shirt may be useful for sun protection or cooler evenings by the river.
Accommodation availability
May is part of the high season, so booking accommodations in advance is recommended, especially for beachfront resorts and boutique hotels in the ancient town. While crowds are not as intense as during Tet or summer school holidays, early May can still be busy due to Reunification Day and International Labour Day travel by domestic tourists.
