Central Vietnam climate
efore looking at the specific weather conditions in December, it’s good to understand the overall climate of Central Vietnam, as it shapes travel experiences at this time of year. Central Vietnam’s two climate zones mean that weather patterns differ between the coast and the highlands:
- The Central Coast, home to Hoi An, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Hue, follows a seasonal monsoon cycle with wet and dry periods.
- The Central Highlands, including Dalat, Dak Lak, and Kon Tum, have a milder climate, often cooler than the rest of the country.
By December, the weather begins to stabilize in some areas, though coastal and inland regions still differ significantly.
Central Coast (Hoi An, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Hue)
The rainy season is coming to an end, but rainfall is still frequent, especially in northern coastal areas like Hue. Further south, in places like Nha Trang, conditions begin to improve with more dry days.
- Dry Season: January – August
- Rainy Season: September – December
Central Highlands (Dalat, Dak Lak, Kon Tum)
The dry season continues in the Central Highlands, bringing cool and refreshing weather. Dalat, in particular, experiences some of its coolest temperatures of the year, making it a great time to visit.
- Dry Season: November – April
- Rainy Season: May – October
Important: Central coast guide for December
As already mentioned, Central Vietnam consists of two distinct climate zones: the Central Coast, which features well-known destinations like Hoi An, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Hue, and the Central Highlands, home to Dalat, Dak Lak, and Kon Tum, where the climate is cooler due to the higher elevation. Because these regions experience completely different weather patterns, this guide will focus on the Central Coast, as that’s what most travelers are searching for.
The coastal region is the most visited part of Central Vietnam, where the weather has a direct impact on activities like beach trips and sightseeing. If we were to include both the coast and the highlands, this guide would become unnecessarily complex.
If you are planning a trip to the Central Highlands, check out our dedicated weather guides for detailed information:
These guides provide detailed weather insights for Dalat and other key destinations in the Central Highlands in December. By keeping this guide focused on the Central Coast, we ensure the information remains clear and relevant while still offering helpful resources for those heading inland.
Weather in Central Vietnam in December
December is still part of the rainy season, but rainfall begins to decrease compared to previous months. While showers are still frequent, prolonged downpours become less common as the region moves toward the drier months ahead.
Rainfall in Hue is around 150–300 mm (5.9–11.8 inches), while Da Nang and Hoi An receive 120–250 mm (4.7–9.8 inches). Nha Trang, being further south, experiences 80–200 mm (3.1–7.9 inches). Rain still occurs regularly, but dry days become more frequent compared to the peak rainy months.
Temperatures continue to cool slightly, with Da Nang and Hoi An reaching 23–28°C (73–82°F) during the day and nighttime temperatures dropping to 20–24°C (68–75°F). Hue follows a similar pattern, with highs of 22–27°C (72–81°F). Nha Trang remains warmer, with daytime temperatures between 25–30°C (77–86°F). Humidity remains high, but the cooler temperatures make it feel more comfortable compared to the hotter months.
Beach conditions in Central Vietnam in December
December remains part of the rainy season, making it a poor month for beach activities in central Vietnam. The sea is rough, and waves are high, making swimming unsafe on many days. In areas like Da Nang, Hoi An, and Hue, the beaches are often narrower or partially eroded due to strong waves and wind.
Rain still occurs frequently, though some dry days become more common toward the end of the month. Nha Trang experiences less rain than the northern central coast, but the sea can still be rough at times.
Travel Tip: If you’re looking for a beach getaway in December, southern Vietnam (Phu Quoc, Con Dao, and Mui Ne) offers much better conditions, with warm weather and calm seas.
Is December a good time to visit Central Vietnam?
December is an okay month to visit Central Vietnam, with improving weather but still not ideal for the beach. The rainy season starts to fade, and while there may still be some showers, they are less intense than in previous months. Beach conditions are slowly improving, though the sea can still be rough. Cities like Hue and Hoi An are pleasant to explore, with fewer crowds and a cooler atmosphere. Most of Phong Nha’s caves are again, making it one of the best places to visit during this time. If you’re not visiting specifically for the beach, December can still be a decent time to explore Central Vietnam.
Best places to visit in December
December is still part of the rainy season in Central Vietnam, but rainfall generally decreases toward the end of the month. While flooding is rare, strong winds and cooler temperatures make beach activities less appealing. Below, we highlight some of the best places to visit this month. For a complete list of must-visit places, check out our full travel guide: Places to Visit in Central Vietnam
1. Hoi An – Less Rain Towards the End of the Month
Early December can still see significant rainfall, though it gradually lessens as the month progresses. Flooding, which sometimes affects Hoi An in October and November, is rare in December.
While the cooler temperatures make walking and exploring the old town comfortable, the strong winds and chilly conditions mean the beaches are not ideal for swimming or sunbathing.
For more details about Hoi An’s weather in December, visit: Hoi An December Weather
2. Hue – Cool and Rainy, but Still Atmospheric
Hue experiences cooler temperatures and frequent rain in December. While outdoor exploration may be more challenging, the Imperial City, royal tombs, and pagodas remain open and are less crowded. The misty and moody atmosphere adds to the city’s charm.
For more details about Hue’s weather in December, visit: Hue December Weather
3. Da Nang – Windy and Not Ideal for the Beach
December brings strong winds, cooler temperatures, and frequent rain to Da Nang, making beach activities unsuitable. However, the city’s indoor attractions, such as Ba Na Hills and the Cham Museum, remain good options for visitors.
For more details about Da Nang’s weather in December, visit: Da Nang December Weather
4. Phong Nha – Some Caves Closed Due to Flooding
Phong Nha experiences high rainfall in December, and some water caves, including Phong Nha Cave and Dark Cave, may be closed due to rising water levels. However, Paradise Cave, which remains dry, is still accessible and offers an excellent alternative.
5. Nha Trang – Rain Decreasing, but Still Not Beach Season
While the rain starts to decrease later in December, Nha Trang is still not in peak beach season. The sea can be rough, and sunny days are not guaranteed. However, visitors can still enjoy mud baths, hot springs, and the city’s dining scene.
For more details about Nha Trang’s weather in December, visit: Nha Trang December Weather
6. Quy Nhon – Cooler and Windy
Quy Nhon sees strong winds and cooler temperatures in December, making it less ideal for beachgoers. However, the coastal scenery remains impressive, and it’s a quieter time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds.
Events and holidays in December
Events, holidays, and festivals can influence your travel experience in Central Vietnam, bringing unique cultural insights, local celebrations, and sometimes business closures. Below are some of the key events in December.
Hoi An Lantern Festival (Full moon of the lunar calendar)
The Hoi An Lantern Festival takes place every full moon, transforming the ancient town into a beautiful scene of glowing lanterns. Streets are illuminated by traditional lanterns, and visitors can take part in floating candle-lit lanterns on the river. For more details, visit: Hoi An Lantern Festival
Christmas (December 24th – 25th)
While not an official public holiday in Vietnam, Christmas is celebrated in major cities like Da Nang and Hoi An with festive decorations, lights, and church services. Travelers can enjoy the lively atmosphere, particularly in areas with a large expat or Christian community. Some hotels and restaurants offer special Christmas dinners.
New Year’s Eve (December 31st)
New Year’s Eve is celebrated with fireworks, concerts, and countdown events in larger cities like Da Nang. Beaches and riverside areas become gathering spots for locals and tourists alike. Travelers should expect busy streets and a festive atmosphere as people welcome the new year.
Travel tips
This section provides useful tips for traveling in Central Vietnam during December to help you prepare for your trip.
- What to bring – December brings cooler temperatures and strong winds, so pack light layers and a windproof jacket. Rain is still possible, especially early in the month, so a travel umbrella or waterproof jacket can be useful.
- Accommodation – As the year-end holiday season begins, hotel prices may increase in popular destinations like Hoi An and Da Nang. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for accommodations with festive celebrations.
- Outdoor activities – Sightseeing is comfortable as the weather cools down, but strong winds and rough seas make beaches less appealing for swimming. Trekking in Phong Nha is possible, though some caves may still be closed due to prior flooding.
- Christmas – Hoi An and Da Nang have the most festive Christmas atmosphere, with hotels, restaurants, and expat communities organizing celebrations. While not a public holiday, decorations, special dinners, and events can be found in major tourist areas.
- New Year’s Eve – Da Nang is the best place to celebrate, with large gatherings along the Han River and countdown events at bars. Fireworks are sometimes planned but can be canceled due to strong winds. Nha Trang and Hoi An also have celebrations in bars and hotels.
