Traveling to Hoi An during the rainy season is something not many people consider. The unfavorable weather might make it challenging for visitors to capture beautiful photos or have ideal experiences. However, for some, this is actually the perfect choice. If you’re in this group, prepare yourself with the following tips for an ideal rainy-season trip to Hoi An!
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When is the Rainy Season in Hoi An?
The rainy season in Hoi An typically lasts from September to December, with an average rainfall of around 2,000 mm. During this period, the ancient town often experiences prolonged heavy rain, accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms. The heaviest rainfall usually occurs from October through November, with levels reaching up to 3,000 mm.
The rainy season poses various challenges for both locals and visitors. However, on days when the rain isn’t too intense, you’ll have a chance to experience Hoi An’s unique charm. The cooler, refreshing atmosphere created by the rain adds to its appeal. With fewer tourists around, you can quietly take in the town’s poetic beauty while sitting cozily in a small café.
You can read more in detail about the most beautiful travel seasons in Hoi An through the article: What is the most beautiful season to go to Hoi An.
What to Prepare for Traveling During the Rainy Season in Hoi An
Some travelers enjoy the unique experience of exploring a different side of Hoi An during the rainy season. For them, a rainy-season trip to Hoi An is a memorable adventure. However, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s essential to prepare:
Umbrella and Raincoat
These are the most important items when visiting Hoi An in the rainy season. Bring a large umbrella and a raincoat that covers both you and your luggage. Additionally, you might want to carry a thin inner rain jacket to stay warm on cooler, rainy days.
Waterproof Bag and Backpack
A waterproof bag or backpack will protect your belongings from getting soaked in the rain, especially if you carry electronics like phones, laptops, film cameras, or other equipment. Opt for bags with high water resistance and durable materials for better protection.
Clothing
Choose comfortable, lightweight clothing that allows easy movement. It’s wise to pack extra outfits, as rainy weather means clothes will take longer to dry. Bring a light jacket to keep warm during cooler, rainy days.
Footwear
Waterproof, non-slip shoes or sandals are ideal for navigating wet streets. Avoid high heels, as they’re impractical in slippery conditions. It’s also a good idea to bring flip-flops for indoor use at your hotel or guesthouse.
Medications
Prepare a basic supply of medications, such as cold medicine, headache relief, allergy medicine, and motion sickness tablets. While these are usually easy to find at local pharmacies, it’s best to have them on hand. During the rainy season, Hoi An can sometimes experience flooding, making it challenging to access stores.
Should You Travel to Hoi An During the Rainy Season?
It’s hard to give a definitive answer, as it depends on your preferences and needs. If you want to experience a peaceful, cool, and less crowded Hoi An, the rainy season is an ideal time to visit. However, if you’re looking to explore outdoor attractions, the rainy season in Hoi An may present some inconveniences.
Advantages of Traveling to Hoi An During the Rainy Season
Cool, Pleasant Weather: Hoi An’s rainy season usually has an average temperature of 26–28°C, which is cooler than the dry season. This makes for a refreshing and comfortable atmosphere, ideal for sightseeing and getting around.
Fewer Tourists: The rainy season is a low season for tourism in Hoi An, giving you the chance to enjoy a peaceful experience without the usual hustle and bustle.
Lower Costs: This period also tends to offer more affordable prices for tourism services in Hoi An. You can enjoy various services and taste local specialties at a reasonable price.
Disadvantages of Traveling to Hoi An During the Rainy Season
Hoi An’s rainy season often features heavy, prolonged rainfall accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms. This can lead to various inconveniences for sightseeing, transportation, and participating in outdoor activities.
Due to the impact of storms, some tourist attractions in Hoi An may temporarily close.
Heavy rains can also cause flooding in certain areas of Hoi An, so it’s essential to exercise caution when navigating these regions.
Exciting Experiences When Traveling to Hoi An During the Rainy Season
Explore the Ancient Town by Boat or SUP
The rainy season is the perfect time to enjoy the unique experience of moving through the narrow streets of Hoi An by boat or stand-up paddleboard (SUP). When it rains, Hoi An’s ancient town becomes more tranquil and picturesque than ever. You can leisurely admire the historic architecture, charming narrow streets, and the shimmering lanterns under the rain.
If you’re interested in trying out SUP, you can rent boards at local sports rental shops. The rental prices for SUP typically range from 100,000 to 200,000 VND per hour.
Sip Coffee and Enjoy a High View of Hoi An
From a high vantage point, you can take in the panoramic view of Hoi An’s ancient town, featuring vibrant red rooftops, quaint streets, and twinkling lanterns. This is a fantastic experience to appreciate Hoi An’s beauty from a different perspective.
Here are some ideal spots to enjoy coffee with a view of Hoi An:
- Rooftop bar at La Maison de Tam Tam Hotel
- Rooftop bar at La Boutique Hotel
- Rooftop bar at Hoi An La Siesta Hotel
Additionally, you can find other lovely cafes in Hoi An, as compiled in our article: Top 10 Hoi An Coffee Shops with Beautiful Views and Delicious Drinks.
Unique Check-In Opportunities
This is the perfect time to capture unique check-in moments against stunning backdrops. You can take photos in the rain, pose with colorful umbrellas, and capture the enchanting lanterns shimmering in the rain.
Admire and Explore Unique Architecture by Boat in Hoi An
While paddling in a boat or on a SUP, take the opportunity to discover Hoi An’s unique architecture. You can visit landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Old House, and Duc An Old House to appreciate the beauty of these architectural marvels. It’s worth noting that the experience will be vastly different compared to visiting on sunny days.
Conclusion
Above are all the experiences to explore the rainy season in Hoi An that you should try at least once if you have the chance. PrivateCarTransferHoiAn.com hopes that this guide has shown you a different side of Hoi An—peaceful and romantic. If you’re looking to use private car rental with driver in Hoi An, don’t hesitate to contact us for the best rainy-day trip experience in Hoi An.
