If you’ve ever dreamt of strolling glowing lantern-lit streets, stepping back in time in a charming riverside city, and catching rays on Vietnam’s central coast — May in Hoi An might just be calling your name. As someone who lives nearby in Da Nang and regularly travels to Hoi An, let me spill the (iced) tea on what to expect when visiting this magical little town in May.
Grab a sunhat and some optimism, because we’ve got all the weather, crowd, hotel, and event details you need to make your trip unforgettable.
So, Is May a Good Time to Visit Hoi An?
Gliding down the Thu Bon River in Old Hoi An — May magic!
Short answer? Yes — with a few caveats.
May is one of those “in-between” months. The rainy season hasn’t hit yet, so you’ve got mostly clear skies and little-to-no rain. But — and this is a sweaty but — the heat? She’s showing up and showing off. Daytime highs often hover around 33°C (91°F), and the humidity doesn’t exactly help.
Still, if your vibe is: “Give me sunshine, beach time, and poolside cocktails,” May is your sweet spot.
Want jaw-droppingly beautiful days and fewer potential puddles? February through April gives you that Goldilocks weather. More about Hoi An’s best weather months here.
Pro tip:
Pack lightweight clothes, but keep it respectful — many temples and historic sites have dress codes. So leave the spaghetti straps and mini shorts for the beach!
What’s the Weather Really Like in May?
Beach life in full swing at An Bang Beach – Hoi An in May
Expect full-on summer vibes. Sunshine? Check. Heat? Double-check. Rain? Maybe a sprinkle or two, but you’ll mostly avoid the soggy mess that signs in mid-September.
Here’s a handy comparison:
| Month | Avg. High | Avg. Low | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🧊 Jan | 25°C (76°F) | 20°C (67°F) | 4 |
| 💐 Mar | 28°C (83°F) | 22°C (72°F) | 2 |
| ☀️ Apr | 31°C (87°F) | 24°C (75°F) | 3 |
| 🔥 May | 33°C (91°F) | 25°C (78°F) | 7 |
| 🔥🔥 Jun | 34°C (93°F) | 26°C (79°F) | 7 |
Sure, 33°C doesn’t sound wild on paper, but the humidity in central Vietnam turns it up a notch. You’ll want shaded cafes, those little water misters that feel like magic, or better yet — a hotel pool.
Is Hoi An Crowded in May?
In a word: Yesish.
As May slips toward Vietnam’s summer months, families from both Vietnam and abroad start trickling in. I popped by yesterday (mid-May), and yeah, it was definitely buzzing — but not unbearable.
You’ll notice that from around 11 AM to 2 PM Old Town gets a bit quieter (thank the heat), but by mid-afternoon, bikes are swapped for pedestrians, shops fill up, and the streets get that romantic lantern glow that Hoi An is known for.
🎥 Oh — and those iconic cyclo tours? They’re extra cute during dusk when the lights come on. Perfect for people-watching or snapping dreamy pics for your feed.
Where to Stay in Hoi An in May
Old Town charm in full swing — location, location, location
May’s heat means two things matter most when choosing where to stay: (1) proximity and (2) pools.
🏡 Best for Exploring Old Town:
- 🛎️ Hoian Central Hotel – Quaint, cozy, inside the Old Town itself. Smaller pool, but unbeatable location.
- 🌟 Allegro Hoi An – Fabulous pool, spa (hello foot massage), and a short stroll to the lanterns.
🏖️ Best for Beach Vibes:
- 🌴 Linh Seaside Villa – Perfect for beach bums chasing salty air.
- 🧘♀️ CHiEM Hoi An – A breath of fresh seaside air with chilled-out vibes.
👉 Take a peek at my full guide on where to stay in Hoi An: it breaks down the best neighborhoods based on what kind of trip you’re dreaming of.
Events & Festivals in Hoi An During May
May might not be bursting with major festivals, but there’s one glow-up moment that’s worth timing your trip around:
🎉 The Hoi An Lantern Festival
Held on the 14th day of the lunar month (yep, lunar — not your calendar’s 14th), this enchanting evening sees the Old Town switch off electric lights in favor of soft, floating lanterns.
Imagine walking along the river with glowing lights in every direction. It’s peaceful, romantic, and honestly, it gives off movie-scene energy.
Starts around 6 PM, wraps up by 10 PM. Don’t expect parades, just vibes.
Final Thoughts: Yay or Nay for Hoi An in May?
✅ Yay — If you’re fine with a little heat, enjoy sunshine, and love beachy escapes with culture on the side.
⛔ Maybe Not — If you’re sensitive to heat or hate humidity. In that case, February through April is your golden window.
Whether you’re sipping fresh coconut under bougainvillea trees, getting lost along ancient yellow streets, or diving into a bowl of mi quang — Hoi An in May offers something real, raw, and (yes) a little hot.
Need help planning the perfect trip? Slide into our Hoi An Travel Guides for everything from itineraries to foodie tips.
🙌 Happy travels, and don’t forget your sunscreen!