Da Nang & Hoi An Weather and Outfit Guide: Dry & Rainy Seasons

Hi! I’m Chie from the Hoian-Danang Travel Notebook team. 👋

Da Nang and Hoi An — two charming cities in Central Vietnam — offer both a tropical beach resort and a UNESCO World Heritage town, only about 30 km (1 hour) apart.

Many travelers ask:

Good news — you can visit year-round!
But your experience changes a lot between the dry and rainy seasons, so knowing what to pack will make your trip more comfortable.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• The climate overview of Da Nang and Hoi An
• What to wear in dry (Feb–Aug) vs rainy (Sep–Jan) seasons
• Must-have travel items
• Seasonal tips and how to enjoy your trip in any weather

Da Nang & Hoi An Climate Overview

Both cities enjoy warm weather year-round, rarely dropping below 20°C (68°F) — even in winter.

☀️ Dry Season (Feb–Aug)
Expect blue skies and long sunny days. From May to August, the UV index is high — sunscreen and hydration are essential. This is the best time for beach activities and sightseeing.

🌧️ Rainy Season (Sep–Jan)
Showers are frequent but usually short. While humidity rises, lower hotel prices and fewer crowds make it a relaxing time to visit.

Dry Season (Feb–Aug): What to Pack and Wear

The dry season is perfect for soaking in Da Nang’s tropical energy or strolling through sunny Hoi An streets.
However, the heat can be intense, especially for travelers coming from colder countries — take it easy and drink plenty of water.

What to Wear

Daytime:

• Light cotton or linen T-shirts, shorts, or summer dresses
• Breathable fabrics are best

Evening:

• Still warm and humid, but bring a light cardigan or shawl — many restaurants blast the A/C.

When Visiting Temples or Churches:

• Shoulders and knees should be covered
• A light scarf or long skirt is handy for modest dress codes

Must-Have Items

• Hat & Sunglasses – Strong tropical sunlight
• Sunscreen – Bring your preferred brand from home
• Rash Guard – For swimming and sun protection
• Quick-dry Sandals – Comfortable for beach and walking

Rainy Season (Sep–Jan): What to Pack and Wear

During this period, Central Vietnam experiences short but intense tropical downpours.
Don’t worry — it doesn’t rain all day! Most showers last less than an hour.

If the rain starts, simply take shelter in a cozy café and enjoy a cup of strong Vietnamese coffee — that’s part of the charm of Hoi An’s rainy season.

What to Wear

Daytime:

• Light, breathable, quick-drying clothes (T-shirts, shorts)
• Avoid denim or heavy fabrics

Evening:

• Still warm — no need for jackets unless indoors with A/C

Sightseeing:

• Bring casual outfits that can get a little wet
• Keep one clean outfit for nice dinners or indoor venues

Must-Have Items

• Foldable Umbrella – Also useful as sunshade
• Non-slip Sandals – Safer than sneakers on wet pavement
• Waterproof Pouch / Zip Bag – Protect your phone and passport from sudden rain

Recommended Travel Styles by Season

How to Enjoy the Dry Season

Da Nang:

• Swim or relax at My Khe Beach or Non Nuoc Beach
• Visit Ba Na Hills for stunning mountain views

Hoi An:

• Explore the Ancient Town on foot
• Enjoy the magical Lantern Festival under clear skies

How to Enjoy the Rainy Season

Da Nang:

• Visit beaches early, then retreat to cafés or spas when it rains
• Great time for indoor attractions like museums

Hoi An:

• The Old Town takes on a nostalgic charm in the rain
• Ideal for photography and slow café hopping

Summary

You can enjoy Da Nang and Hoi An all year round, but each season offers a different vibe.

Whether you love the energy of summer or the calm rhythm of the rainy season,
you’ll discover your own favorite way to enjoy Central Vietnam.