Top Places to Watch the Sunset in Hoi An: Best Locations for 2026

The sunset in Hoi An is not overwhelming or flashy; instead, it is beautiful in a very slow and romantic way. As the last rays of the day gently fall, the mossy rooftops, the calm river, and the pace of life in the old town all seem to slow down together. This exact moment has made Hoi An one of the most loved sunset spots in Central Vietnam, especially for photography lovers, couples, and those seeking peace.

1. Hoi An Memories Land - A Scenic Spot for Sunset in Hoi An by the Hoai River

Located along the Hoai River, Hoi An Memories Land is one of the rare places in Hoi An where visitors can watch the sunset while feeling the depth of culture and art. As the sun begins to set and the sunlight dyes the water gold, the two iconic bridges connecting the island to the old town create a very cinematic scene, especially beautiful between 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM.

A big plus of Hoi An Memories Land is its open space, which is less noisy than the center of the old town. Visitors can stroll along the river, take sunset photos, and enjoy afternoon art minishows before entering the vibrant atmosphere of the evening outdoor visual arts show. For those who love photography or want an "iconic" sunset corner, this is a top priority choice.

2. Experience the Sunset in Hoi An on a Traditional Boat Along the Thu Bon River

If watching the sunset from the shore feels peaceful, watching it from a boat on the Thu Bon River is a very "Hoi An" experience—slow, deep, and full of emotion. The Thu Bon River winds through the old town, opening up a wide view where the sky, water, and ancient houses blend together in the twilight.

The ideal time to get on a boat is usually from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM, when the sunlight hasn't completely faded and the river surface starts reflecting signature orange and purple hues. Sitting on a traditional wooden boat, drifting with the current, you will clearly feel the pace of life in Hoi An slowing down, away from the crowds on shore. This is a very suitable choice for couples, small families, or travelers who want to enjoy the sunset in a private and gentle way.

3. Ideal Beaches to Catch the Sunset in Hoi An

It’s not just the river and the old town; the sunset in Hoi An also has a very different beauty when viewed from the beach. The open space, wide horizon, and clear color shifts in the sky make the coastal sunset experience feel relaxing and free.

• An Bang Beach: Loved for its peace and "chill" atmosphere, An Bang is the perfect place to sit on a bean bag, sip a cocktail, and watch the sun slowly sink behind the waves. The sunset here is usually best between 5:15 PM and 6:15 PM, especially during the dry season.
• Cua Dai Beach: With its long stretch of sand and wide views, Cua Dai offers an expansive sunset scene where the Thu Bon River meets the East Sea. It is suitable for groups of travelers who want to combine seafood dining with afternoon sightseeing.
• Ha My Beach: Less crowded and more focused on a quiet experience. The sunset at Ha My is gentle, perfect for those who want to escape the old town crowds.

Hoi An's beaches are especially beautiful from March to September, when the sky is clear, the golden sunlight is sharp, and there is little rain.

4. Rooftop Cafes with Panoramic Views in the Ancient Town

If you want to watch the sunset while getting those signature old town "check-in" photos, rooftop cafes are the perfect choice. From above, the yellow-brown roof tiles, the Hoai River, and the twilight glow create a very unique picture of Hoi An.

- Faifo Coffee: Known for its balcony view overlooking the old town's rooftops. Located on Tran Phu Street, you can see the entire landscape of Hoi An's roofs and the winding Hoai River. The best time for the sunset here is around 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM. Address: 130 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

Viewing the old town from above at Faifo Coffee

- The Chef: Offers a spacious terrace decorated with lanterns. The Chef combines a rooftop space with a dining experience. The view isn't too high but is wide enough to fully capture the old town at dusk. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a light snack while watching the sunset in a quieter atmosphere. Address: 166 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

Watching the twilight and dining at The Chef

- 92 Station: Provides a high-angle perspective of the entire heritage area. If you’re looking for a gentle, less noisy place to watch the sunset, 92 Station is a great suggestion. The cozy space and view towards the Hoai River help you feel the slow pace of Hoi An as the day fades. Address: 92 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An.

You may also be interested in: 9 rooftop venues to enjoy a truly chill sunset

5. Bridges Offering Expansive Views of the Sunset in Hoi An

If you want an open sunset view without obstructions, the bridges around Hoi An are worth considering. From here, you can fully observe the moment the sun sets over the water and the horizon.

- Cua Dai Bridge: The highest point to observe the river mouth and the horizon. Connecting Hoi An to the coastal area, this bridge offers a massive view. The sunset here feels vast and is perfect for landscape photography lovers.

- Cam Nam Bridge: A convenient location near the center to watch river activities at dusk. It is an ideal spot to see the sunset reflecting on the Thu Bon River. In the late afternoon, the sunlight turns the water gold, creating a very poetic and photogenic scene.

6. Ideal Sunset Times for the Best Sunset in Hoi An Throughout the Year

The sunset time in Hoi An changes slightly by season. Knowing the best hours will help you plan your schedule and pick the perfect light for sightseeing or photos.

• Dry season (February – August): The most beautiful sunsets with clear skies and few clouds. The ideal time is around 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM, especially from April to July.
• Autumn (September – November): The sunlight is softer, sometimes with thin clouds creating romantic color effects. The sunset usually comes earlier, around 5:15 PM – 6:15 PM.
• Winter (December – January): The weather is chilly, and the sunset isn't too vibrant but very gentle, suitable for those who like a quiet, somber atmosphere.

No matter the season, you should arrive at your viewpoint about 30 minutes before sunset to fully enjoy the sky's color change.

You may also be interested in: A complete guide to Hoi An weather for a perfect trip

7. Important Tips for Photographing the Sunset in Hoi An

To fully capture the beauty of the sunset in Hoi An and easily get great photos, keep these practical tips in mind:

• Arrival time: should arrive 30–45 minutes before the actual sunset. This is when the light starts to change color, helping you pick a good spot and capture the whole process from golden light to the purple glow at the end of the day.
• Focus on foreground composition: Wooden boats, old town roofs, window frames, bridges, or silhouettes of people will give your photos more depth and that "Hoi An vibe" instead of just shooting the sky.
• Use backlighting: Shooting against the sun will create beautiful silhouette effects, especially with people rowing boats, cycling, or walking by the river.
• Adjust settings accordingly: If using a camera, lower the EV to avoid overexposure; with a phone, turn on HDR or Night Mode as it gets dark.
• Weather check: How to monitor cloud density for the best light. During the rainy season (around Sept–Dec), sunsets can come early or be hidden by clouds, so check the forecast to avoid a wasted trip.
• Equipment: Recommended gear for low-light photography. Prepare your battery and memory card. Sunset happens fast, so you usually need to take continuous shots to catch the best moment.

8. Frequently Asked Questions About Watching the Sunset in Hoi An

Here are some common questions to help you choose the right time and place for the best sunset in Hoi An.

8.1. Which season offers the most beautiful sunset in Hoi An? 

The dry season from February to August is the most ideal time, especially the period from April to July with clear skies and sharp golden sunlight.

8.2. What is the average price for a wooden boat rental to watch the sunset? 

Prices typically range from 30,000 to 100,000 VNĐ per person, depending on the duration and type of boat. Going in a group is usually more economical.

8.3. Which locations are less crowded for a quiet sunset experience? 

You can prioritize Hoi An Memories Land in the late afternoon, the Cam Nam area, or beaches like An Bang and Ha My—they are both spacious and quiet.

Conclusion

The sunset in Hoi An is not just a moment in the day; it is a part of the old town's soul—where time seems to drift slower. Whether you choose to watch the sunset by the Hoai River, on a Thu Bon boat, from the beach, or a rooftop cafe, every angle brings a very unique emotion.

If you have the chance to visit Hoi An in 2026, don't rush. Spend at least one afternoon to fully enjoy the sunset, because that is when Hoi An is at its most beautiful and "real."

See more:

>>> A complete guide to the weather in Hoi An for a perfect trip

>>> Essential tips on where to stay in Hoi An for first-time visitors

>>> Beyond sunsets, explore the night markets — exploring Hoi An Night Market, a gem in the heart of the ancient town