Hoi An summer guide: best things to do in summer (June to August)

If you're wondering "Hoi An – what to do during summer?", you're not alone. As the sun shines brighter from June to August, many travelers hesitate to visit due to the heat. But in reality, summer reveals Hoi An at its most vibrant. Golden mornings, festive nights, cool ocean breeze, and cultural experiences fill every hour of your day — if you know how to time it right.

This guide helps you explore the very best of Hoi An during summer: what to do, where to go, what to eat, and how to beat the heat without missing the soul of this UNESCO-listed heritage town.

1. Is summer (June to August) a good time to visit Hoi An?

While many associate summer with sweltering heat, for Hoi An, this season is one of clarity, color, and cultural vibrancy. Let’s break down what makes summer in Hoi An both a challenge and a reward.

1.1. Weather conditions in June, July, and August

Hoi An’s summer season from June through August is defined by abundant sunshine, deep blue skies, and minimal rainfall. It's the peak of the dry season, perfect for outdoor activities like exploring the Old Town, riding basket boats, or relaxing at the beach.

However, midday temperatures can rise to 36–38°C (96–100°F). Smart itinerary planning is essential to avoid the hottest parts of the day while maximizing your experience.

1.2. Pros and cons of visiting Hoi An in the summer

Pros:

• Ideal weather for photography, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures.
• Vibrant festivals, cultural shows, and lively beach scenes.
• An Bang and Cua Dai beaches are at their most beautiful: calm seas, clean sands, and great for swimming.

Cons:

• The midday sun can be intense and draining if you're unprepared.
• Higher volume of tourists, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Hotel and service prices may slightly rise during peak periods.

1.3. Local summer-only experiences you might miss otherwise

Some Hoi An experiences truly shine only during summer:

• Morning dips at An Bang or Cua Dai beaches when the sea is peaceful and uncrowded.
• Outdoor workshops like lantern-making or cooking classes are most frequent in summer.
• Seasonal refreshments such as corn sweet soup, herbal tea and coconut candy.
• Hoi An Memories Show under starlit skies — an open-air theatrical masterpiece not to be missed.

2. What to do in Hoi An during the summer months?

Despite the heat, a full summer day in Hoi An offers a rich mix of serenity and excitement. From sunrise wanderings to late-night lanterns, every hour can hold something memorable.

2.1. Walk the Old Town in golden light: early morning or late evening

The magic of Hoi An’s Old Town is best captured when the sun is low. Between 5:30–7:00 AM or after 4:00 PM, the light is soft, the streets are quieter, and the iconic yellow walls glow under cascading bougainvillea.

These hours are perfect for peaceful walks, scenic photos, or sipping local coffee at rooftops like Faifo or riverfront cafés.

2.2. Take a sunset boat ride with lanterns on the Hoai River

As the sun sets and the Old Town lights up, the Hoai River becomes a ribbon of reflections. Hop on a wooden boat, release a lantern, and drift through glowing waters under the evening sky.

This tradition is more than picturesque — it’s symbolic, meant to bring peace and good fortune. Whether with friends, family, or a partner, a lantern boat ride is an iconic Hoi An experience you won’t forget.

2.3. Join a cooking or craft class in cool indoor spaces

Looking for something hands-on and air-conditioned? Join a local cooking class to learn how to make Hội An specialties like cao lau or mi quang or attend a lantern-making workshop to craft your own souvenir.

These experiences often take place in shaded venues or villas with breezy courtyards, making them both culturally enriching and summer-friendly.

2.4. Enjoy basket boat rides and coconut forests before noon

Before the sun reaches its peak, take a trip to Bay Mau Coconut Forest, just outside the town center. Hop on a round bamboo basket boat, cruise through the shady palms, and enjoy folk singing, water stunts, and stories from local boatmen.

The best time to go is before 10:00 AM when it’s cooler and the breezes still flow through the forest. This activity is fun for all ages — especially families and groups looking for an authentic, lively outing.

2.5. Retreat to rooftop yoga, spa, or herbal steam during midday

From 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, it’s best to stay out of the sun but that doesn’t mean missing out. Use this time for self-care:

• Attend a rooftop yoga session or meditation class at one of the boutique hotels.
• Book a herbal spa treatment or foot soak with lemongrass, green tea, and ginger.
• Visit a cool café with AC, garden views, or river breezes perfect for journaling or people-watching with a refreshing drink.

This midday “pause” helps you recharge before heading back out for the evening.

2.6. Taste Hội An’s iconic summer snacks

Hoi An has no shortage of refreshing, seasonal treats to help you cool down. Be sure to try:

• Corn sweet soup made from young corn and lightly sweetened coconut milk.
• Herbal drinks a fragrant, iced blend of lemongrass, lotus leaf, and cinnamon.
• Coconut candy, mango cake, and sesame snacks - easy to find at market stalls and roadside vendors.

These snacks are not only delicious but also part of what makes Hoi An feel local, honest, and unforgettable.

3. Where to go in Hoi An to escape the summer heat?

Hoi An’s summer days can get intense around midday but don’t worry, there are many cool escapes within the city and along its coast. Whether you seek the sea breeze, shady gardens, or tranquil temples, these spots offer refreshing relief.

3.1. Swim, nap or chill at An Bang or Cua Dai beach

Hoi An’s two beloved beaches — An Bang and Cua Dai are perfect hideouts from the heat. Go for a swim at dawn or after 4 PM when the sun is gentle and the waves are calm. If you're there around noon, rent a shaded beach lounger, order a cold drink, and just relax to the rhythm of the sea.

Many beachfront cafés and resorts also provide comfy resting spots, drinks, and beach snacks, ideal for a slow summer afternoon.

3.2. Discover riverside cafés and resorts with pools

Scattered along the Hoai River and Thu Bon River are hidden cafés and boutique resorts with lush gardens and swimming pools. These places not only offer serene scenery and shaded patios, but also open their pools for non-staying guests (with a small fee or drink order).

It’s the perfect setup to cool down, unwind, and maybe even get a spa treatment or a light lunch without leaving the shade.

3.3. Visit shady temples and quiet craft villages

For a cultural and spiritual escape, visit one of Hoi An’s historic temples like the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge or the tranquil Phap Bao Pagoda. With thick tree canopies and ancient architecture, these spots feel cooler and quieter even in midday.

If you want something hands-on, explore local craft villages like Tra Que Vegetable Village, Kim Bong Carpentry Village, or Thanh Ha Pottery Village. These areas are often less crowded and offer a deeper glimpse into Hoi An’s heritage.

3.4. Cool down with natural herbal foot baths or spa soaks

After a morning of exploring, treat yourself to a herbal foot soak or full-body spa experience. Traditional Vietnamese wellness centers in Hoi An specialize in cooling, aromatic treatments using lemongrass, ginger, and green tea. It’s not only rejuvenating but also helps relieve any travel fatigue, making you feel fresh for your evening adventures.

4. The Hoi An Memories Show - must-see on summer nights

Summer nights in Hoi An bring a different kind of magic and there's no better way to feel it than by witnessing the Hoi An Memories Show. This spectacular open-air performance is a highlight of any visit, blending art, history, and modern production in one unforgettable evening.

4.1. What makes the show spectacular under summer skies

The show’s magic lies not just in its storytelling, but in how it unfolds under the starry, dry summer sky. With more than 500 actors, stunning choreography, and an enormous riverside stage, the Hoi An Memories Show dramatizes 400 years of local history from ancient merchants to wedding tales and cultural legends.

Summer’s clear skies, low humidity, and lack of rain ensure the lights, costumes, and effects truly shine. You'll be immersed in a breathtaking world where time seems to stand still.

4.2. When and where to watch it during summer

• Venue: Hoi An Memories Land, located on the nearby “Island of Memories” — just a 5-minute ride from the Old Town.
• Showtime: 8:00 PM daily, except Tuesdays.
• How to get there: Take a taxi, electric shuttle, or even a bicycle before dusk for a scenic ride.

The theater offers tiered seating with river views, wide open skies, and excellent acoustics best enjoyed on warm summer nights.

4.3. Tips for booking the best seats and combining with dinner or a night stroll

• Book your tickets in advance (especially on weekends and holidays) via the official website: https://booking.hoianmemoriesland.com.
• Arrive by 6:30 PM to enjoy the theme park area, dinner at nearby riverside restaurants, or photos at colorful lantern alleys.
• Pair the show with earlier experiences like a night market stroll or a lantern boat ride for a complete evening.

5. Travel tips for Hoi An in summer (June, July, and August)

Before you pack your bags, a few practical summer travel tips can make all the difference. These suggestions will help you enjoy Hoi An to the fullest without overheating or overpaying.

5.1. What to pack for Hoi An summer weather?

Hoi An’s summer is sunny and hot, so lightweight packing is key:

• Wide-brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, and breathable clothes (linen or cotton).
• Sunscreen SPF 50+ and lip balm with sun protection.
• Reusable water bottle or thermos to stay hydrated.
• Foldable umbrellas or light scarves that double as sun shields and photo props.
• Choose pastel, white, or vintage floral tones for outfits that pop beautifully in Old Town photos.

5.2. When to go out (best times of day to explore)?

• Morning (5:30–8:00 AM): Best for beach trips, market visits, and Old Town walks.
• Late afternoon (4:00–6:00 PM): Ideal for photography, boat rides, or quiet café time.
• Evening (after 7:00 PM): When lanterns light up the town and shows begin.

Avoid exploring from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, when the sun is strongest. Use that time to rest indoors, recharge, or enjoy spa treatments.

5.3. Booking tips: tours, shows, and stays in peak season

June to August is a high season in Hoi An. To avoid last-minute stress:

• Reserve accommodations, shows, and activities at least 2–3 weeks in advance.
• Look for combo packages that bundle hotels with experiences (like lantern workshops, foot soaks, or the Memories Show).
• Watch out for seasonal promotions from local tour agencies, hotels, and Hoi An Memories Land.

5.4. Stay healthy: hydration, sun protection, and local remedies

• Drink 2–3 liters of water daily, especially when walking or biking.
• Avoid heavy outdoor activity during midday heat — schedule smartly.
• Carry oral rehydration packets, cooling wipes, and mini fans.
• Use comfortable sandals or sneakers; skip leather shoes and high heels for daytime.

6. Sample 1-day summer itinerary in Hoi An

Have just one day in Hoi An this summer? Here’s a suggested itinerary that blends culture, cuisine, and cool escapes — perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers.

6.1. Morning in Hoian: local market + coconut forest or beach

6:00–7:30 AM: Start your day at Hoi An Central Market — see how locals buy their morning produce, and grab breakfast with banh mi, cao lầu, or mì Quảng.

8:00–10:00 AM: Choose one:

• Basket boat ride at Bay Mau Coconut Forest — enjoy fun folk singing, water stunts, and a breezy river tour.
• Beach morning at An Bang or Cua Dai — peaceful, clean, and beautifully lit at sunrise.

6.2. Afternoon: spa, workshop, or cool café retreat

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Light lunch at a traditional eatery — try com ga, white rose dumplings, or refreshing che bap.

1:00–3:00 PM: Escape the heat by:

• Joining a lantern-making or cooking workshop in a shaded indoor venue.
• Or, unwind at a herbal spa for a traditional foot soak or gentle massage.

6.3. Evening: riverside dinner and the Hoi An Memories Show

5:30–7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant like Mango Rooms, Cargo Club, or any lantern-lit patio along Nguyen Phuc Chu Street.

8:00–9:00 PM: Watch the Hoi An Memories Show — a stunning way to end your summer day.

After 9:00 PM: Take a slow walk through the lantern-lit Old Town, enjoy coconut ice cream, or shop for handmade souvenirs.

7. Conclusion

Summer in Hoi An is more than just sun and sand — it’s a season of golden moments, flavorful bites, peaceful mornings, and unforgettable cultural memories. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning again, this timeless town always has something fresh and inspiring to offer.

This Hoi An summer guide has given you all the essentials: from must-do activities to secret cool-down spots and expert tips for traveling smart. Now it’s time to plan your trip and let Hoi An’s charm sweep you away.

For help with bookings, tickets, or insider updates, visit hoianmemoriesland.com or call us at 1900 63 66 00 – 0904 636 600 for friendly, local support.