Hoi An is a charming ancient town in central Vietnam with well-preserved architecture, delicious food, and a laid-back atmosphere. However, August is in the rainy season in Hoi An, and visitors may encounter heavy rain and occasional flooding, which could limit outdoor activities. Despite the weather, Hoi An can still be worth visiting in August if you enjoy fewer crowds, lower prices, and don’t mind a bit of rain.
Your options for traveling Hoi An in August
Weather in Hoi An in August
August is one of the wettest months in Hoi An, with an average of 296mm (11.6 inches) of rainfall. The rain usually comes in short, heavy bursts, which can cause flooding in some areas of the town. The humidity is high, with an average of around 80%, which can make it feel hotter than it actually is.
Despite the rain, August is still a warm month in Hoi An, with average high temperatures around 33°C and lows around 24°C . The sea temperature is also warm, at around 28°C, which makes swimming a pleasant activity.
Eventually, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, and there is a possibility of a typhoon hitting the region. However, this is rare, and you can plan your activities around the rain by checking the weather forecast. Furthermore, the rain can provide a welcome break from the heat and humidity, and it creates beautiful reflections on the streets of Hoi An, famous for its lanterns.
What to do in Hoi An in August
There are a few special events that take place in Hoi An in August:
- Full Moon Festival: In Hoi An, the monthly Full Moon Festival is a popular event held on the 14th day of the lunar calendar. In August 2023, the festival will be on August 5th. The old town’s streets are closed to traffic, and the town is lit up by lanterns, with visitors able to enjoy traditional activities such as releasing lanterns on the river, folk performances, and street food.
- Mid-Autumn Festival: The Mid-Autumn Festival is a harvest festival celebrated in Asia, and in Vietnam, it falls on September 10th, 2023, on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. Although, in Hoi An’s old town, the festival is celebrated throughout August, with activities like lantern-making workshops.
Keep in mind that the dates of these events may vary from year to year, and some events may be affected by the weather. It’s a good idea to check with local tourism authorities or your hotel to confirm dates and locations of events if you plan to attend.
Travel tips for Hoi An in August
If you plan to visit Hoi An in August, here are some items you may want to consider bringing:
- Comfortable shoes: Hoi An’s old town has narrow streets and uneven pavement, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes that you can walk in for an extended period.
- Sun protection: The sun can be strong in Hoi An, so be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s rays.
- Medications: If you take any medications, be sure to bring enough for your trip and keep them in your carry-on luggage. It’s also a good idea to bring any over-the-counter medications you may need, such as pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, or motion sickness medication.
