Weather in Vietnam in August and the Best Places to Visit

Planning to visit Vietnam this August? You’re probably wondering what the weather will be like and which places are unmissable. In this article, we’ll provide all the essential tips, along with our top recommendations for must-see destinations to make the most of your August trip to Vietnam.

Written by Jade NGUYEN, (local expert) Updated on 23-04-2025

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Table of contents

Weather in Vietnam in August
Top 7 Best Destinations to Visit in Vietnam in August
Suggested Itineraries for Vietnam in August
Explore the neighboring country of Vietnam in August!
FAQs

Weather in Vietnam in August

Before planning your trip to Vietnam, it's essential to consider the weather. Known for its tropical climate, Vietnam experiences heat and humidity year-round. The country, shaped like a dragon and stretching over 2,000 km, has three distinct regions with varying weather conditions. While one region might be wet or cold, another could be sunny and warm, which perfect for travel year-round.

*Vietnam is divided into three distinct regions: the North, the Centre and the South*

In August, the summer season in Northern Vietnam starts to wind down, bringing cooler temperatures ranging from 28°C to 35°C. Monsoons bring brief, intense rains, cooling the air. In the highlands, areas like Sapa and Ha Giang become lush and green as rice starts to grow, with stunning rice terraces stretching out as far as the eye can see.

Meanwhile, in central Vietnam, the summer heat is in full swing, making it perfect for a beach holiday and soaking up the sun.

Down south, it’s the rainy season, but the showers are short, usually lasting only an hour or two, leaving the rest of the day sunny and ideal for outdoor activities.

With the diverse weather across the country, many travelers ask, "What should I do in Vietnam in August?" Here are our top recommendations for the best places to visit during this time

Top 7 Best Destinations to Visit in Vietnam in August

Hanoi Capital (25 - 34°C)

Hanoi the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam — *Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam*

Located in the heart of the north, Hanoi, the capital of the country, is considered the starting point for a trip to Vietnam. No one can deny its authentic charm and unusual contrasts! In August, Vietnam's thousand-year-old capital is usually sunny. Visiting Hanoi in August is a good opportunity to take advantage of the beautiful days to take a leisurely stroll through the city center.

August also marks the special atmosphere of autumn. Hang Ma Street in Hanoi's Old Quarter begins to buzz with the build-up to the Vietnamese Mid-Autumn Festival in September. Upon arrival there, you will be able to see the traditional toys sold that capture the essence of the festival. Rows of bright lanterns in a range of colors are also a must, creating a vibrant and colorful environment that characterizes this season. Discover the different facets of Hanoi that reside in colonial and ancestral legacies!

The festive atmosphere of the Trung Thu or Mid-Autumn Festival on Hang Ma Street, Hanoi's Old Quarter

The capital is also famous for its refined gastronomy. It is a paradise for a street food tour, where it is nice to sit on the terrace of a café to taste some of Hanoi's specialties, including Egg coffee, Pho, Bun Cha while mingling with the locals.

*Hanoi Train Street Attracts Tourists Because It Offers A Unique Experience*

💡 Prepare as much as possible for your next visit to Hanoi with our ultimate guide: Things to Do in Hanoi by a Local Guide!

Sapa & Ha Giang (20 - 30°C)

For those visiting Vietnam in August and wanting to see rice terraces, Sapa and Ha Giang are the best options. In August, Vietnam's rice fields are filled with green. If you come in September or October, you will have the opportunity to contemplate this beautiful region, colored by yellow rice terraces as far as the eye can see.

It's a great once-in-a-lifetime experience! Also, you will admire the magical charm of the white clouds, alternating between the fields and the mountain villages of Sapa. These picturesque landscapes will appeal to all travelers in search of authentic culture, photographers, and nature and hiking lovers. More information: Sapa Vietnam Travel Guide

Ha Giang in August is also of interest to many people. If you don't mind the crowd, you can come here if you really enjoy it. Conquer long, winding, and challenging paths. It is one of the best road trips in Southeast Asia and will be unforgettable during your trip.

You will have the opportunity to hike through traditional villages of minority ethnic groups such as the Hmong, the Tay, the Dzao, or the Black Lolo. You can also visit colorful weekly markets and spend a few nights with locals.

Halong Bay - UNESCO World Heritage Jewel (27 - 29°C)

Halong Bay, which is one of the 7 wonders of the world and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is always worth a visit, regardless of the period or type of trip. The climate of northern Vietnam throughout the month of August in general, and in Halong Bay in particular, not only allows you to immerse yourself in discoveries but also enjoy swimming and kayaking to explore every corner of the bay.

The activities and program aboard the junk may vary depending on the route and weather, but they are always entertaining, giving you the best experience possible! After a stopover in the northern mountains, nothing is more enjoyable than resting or enjoying fun activities in the sumptuous Halong Bay.

To make the most of this visit, we recommend opting for a Halong Bay cruise that includes at least one night aboard a traditional junk. The latter navigates between atypical limestone rocks of all shapes, covered with lush vegetation.

It glides over beautiful turquoise waters and slowly moves toward the horizon. At the end of the day, the magical moment occurs: a sunset falling on the huge sugar loaves. A sumptuous panoramic view that will leave you speechless!

Phong Nha Ke Bang - National Park with Magnificent Caves (25 - 33°C)

Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park is located in Quang Binh, a province in the central region of Vietnam. It is the narrowest land in the country (50 km between Laos and the Pacific Ocean). If the country resembles the silhouette of a pretty woman, this province would surely represent her slender waist.

Despite its small size, the region has a wide variety of landscapes, with grandiose mountains, a complex of many spectacular caves, and underground rivers that stretch for tens of kilometers; a national park with exceptional flora and fauna, beautiful rivers, and paradisiacal beaches. Quang Binh is on its way to becoming a must-visit site for nature lovers.

August in Vietnam is probably the best time to visit Quang Binh, as it is always hot, less humid than other regions, and there is almost no bad weather. Once you arrive in Quang Binh, Phong Nha National Park – Ke Bang awaits you!

If you are sporty, adventurous, and want to discover a unique place in the world, take an excursion to explore the largest natural cave in the world, Son Doong. Inside, you can admire its own network of rivers and jungles, known as the largest underground gallery on our planet. Read more: Son Doong: 6 Key Questions to Ask to Explore the World's Largest Cave.

Hoi An - Old Town, colorful lanterns and dreamy beaches (25 - 34°C)

*Hoi An has always remained the most charming city in Vietnam*

Located 30 kilometers from Danang, on the banks of the Thu Bon River, the historic Old Town of Hoi An is famous for its beautiful traditional wooden houses with Chinese and Japanese influences, as well as its charming streets, decorated with a multitude of Vietnamese lanterns. You can visit all the sights of the city on foot or by bike.

Dusk is considered one of the most spectacular times during a trip to Vietnam in August. All the beauty of the city is revealed under the lighting of multicolored lanterns. It is highly recommended to stay in Hoi An on the 14th day of the lunar month when the Lantern Festival takes place. On that day, the streets are lit up with hundreds of luminous lanterns, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

hoi an beach — *Hoi An is not only Vietnam's most beautiful ancient city but also a place with dream beaches*

As for the weather in August, the sunny and warm conditions will allow you to enjoy the fine sandy beaches of Hoi An and visit the unique views of the Old Town. Find out all about: What to see and do in Hoi An?

Da Nang (26 - 34°C)

*The famous Hand Bridge is located in Ba Na Hills*

Da Nang, a beautiful city located near Hoi An in central Vietnam, is a great choice for an August vacation. Upon arrival in Da Nang, you will be immersed in one of the most enchanting beaches in the world: My Khe Beach. The feeling of security and the pleasant pace of life in this city are undeniable.

In addition to the beautiful coastline and exciting adventures and activities, Da Nang is home to other world-famous attractions, such as the Hand Bridge, Marble mountain, Ba Na Hills, among others. You can't miss the culinary experience with the signature dishes of the central region in Da Nang, such as banh xeo, Quang noodles, fish salad, avocado ice cream, and more. Let’s explore the ultimate guide: What to see in Da Nang?

Mui Ne - Vietnam's dream spa (24 - 35°C)

200 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Mui Ne – the Sahara of Vietnam – has always been an important and privileged seaside resort in southern Vietnam. It attracts tourists with its beautiful tropical beaches. If you're looking to enjoy a beach holiday in the southern area of Vietnam in August, Mui Ne is the unique option we recommend. Why? Its warm climate lasts almost all year round. Indeed, its average temperatures are around 27°C, and the sea temperature, between 25° and 29°C, is very pleasant.

Meanwhile, Phu Quoc, an equally attractive place in the south, is in the peak rainy season. After a trip from the North to the South of Vietnam, enjoying a moment of leisure by the sea and the transparent waters is perfect in this place!

This destination is also a favorite meeting point for enthusiasts of water sports, such as windsurfing, kayaking, surfing, and kitesurfing. Kitesurfing in Mui Ne is listed as one of "5 experiences to be absolutely experienced by adventure seekers in Asia." In the high season, it is not difficult to see the sea dotted with multicolored lights. Explore more: TOP Beaches in Vietnam from north to South!

Mekong Delta – Canals, Fruit Trees, and Floating Markets

The rainy season in the Mekong Delta lasts from May to mid-October, so there is a risk of bad weather in mid-August. However, don't worry; rainfall is brief and usually occurs in the afternoon, which shouldn't affect your trip. This region, located in the extreme south of the country, is a unique world, half terrestrial and half aquatic. Here, you can enjoy picturesque boat tours on the Mekong, navigating among canals, coconut palms, and other fruit trees.

*A boat trip in the heart of the Tra Su Cajuput Forest*

A trip to Vietnam in August will surprise you with a visit to a floating market, which reflects the life of the Delta's inhabitants. This is an impressive spectacle, full of colors and animation, with boats full of fruits, vegetables, and other products. It is a unique opportunity to discover the "river trade" of the Mekong Delta.

More details about each must-see destination in this place:

Suggested Itineraries for Vietnam in August

Vietnam's Heritage from North to South in 10 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi - Halong Bay
Day 3: Halong Bay - Hanoi - Evening Flight to Hue
Day 4: Hue - City Tour
Day 5: Hue - Countryside Tour
Day 6: Hue - Hoi An
Day 7: Hoi An - Full Day Tour
Day 8: Hoi An - Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh City
Day 9: Ho Chi Minh City - Cai Be - Can Tho
Day 10: Can Tho - Ho Chi Minh City - Departure

[col-image15] north to south heritage vietnam in 10 days

Vietnam Cultural Heritages: A 2-Week Itinerary for Seniors

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi
Day 2: Hanoi - City Tour
Day 3: Hanoi - Ninh Binh
Day 4: Ninh Binh - Halong Bay
Day 5: Halong Bay - Hanoi - Night Train to Phong Nha
Day 6: Phong Nha - Hue
Day 7: Hue - City Tour
Day 8: Hue - Hoi An
Day 9: Hoi An and My Son
Day 10: Hoi An - Free Day
Day 11: Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City
Day 12: Ho Chi Minh City - Mekong Delta
Day 13: Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh City
Day 14: Ho Chi Minh City - Departure

[col-image15] Vietnam Cultural Heritages: A 2-Week Itinerary for Seniors map

Explore the neighboring country of Vietnam in August!

Vietnam shares a border with Cambodia, a country small in size but large in terms of civilization, being one of the most powerful in Southeast Asia. Although it disappeared like others with the collapse of the Khmer Empire, it is still clearly visible through the mythical and impressive temples of Angkor. This tourist-religious attraction, of great importance worldwide, is the pride of the Cambodian people and is deeply marked in its recent history.

We suggest you take advantage of the proximity of both countries to explore them together. You can easily reach Cambodia by river (via the Mekong River) or by air from southern or central Vietnam. Here is a collection of trips to Vietnam and Cambodia.

💡If you want to learn more about the weather in these two countries (What is the best time to travel to Vietnam and Cambodia?)

FAQs

Is it safe to travel to Vietnam in August?

Vietnam is a safe country with a stable policy, so you don't need to worry about events that may affect your trip. However, as in any other country, it is important to take precautions at all times. Keep your belongings safe in crowded places and avoid areas that are too desolate. If you plan to get around on your own, it is recommended to use ride-hailing apps instead of taking random taxis off the street to avoid scams. In addition, it is advisable to get vaccinated against rabies or dengue before traveling as a preventive measure. More details: Is it safe to travel to Vietnam?

Does it rain a lot in August?

August is one of the rainy months in Vietnam, but it is not the rainiest month of the year. As we mentioned in section 1, rainfall occurs in the north and south of the country, while the center experiences the dry season with little precipitation. This means that although there is rainfall, it is not as intense as in other months, especially in the central regions where the climate is drier.

What to wear to Vietnam in August?

Light clothing: Opt for cotton t-shirts and linen or cotton shorts or long pants to stay cool in the heat and humidity.
Comfortable shoes: Sandals or sneakers are ideal for walking, perfect for exploring tourist attractions.
Accessories: Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, an umbrella or raincoat, and a small backpack for excursions.
Respectful clothing: To visit temples, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, such as light tops and long pants.

How many days is it advisable to go to Vietnam?

For the trip to Vietnam, the most chosen duration is 10-14 days. You can check out our collection of tours in Vietnam.

Is a visa for Vietnam necessary?

It is important to check the specific requirements according to your nationality before traveling to ensure that you comply with current regulations.
More information: All information about the Vietnam Visa.

*Our travellers visit Hue in central Vietnam in August*

Conclusion

Vietnam is a great choice for a trip in August. With all this practical information on the weather and the top 7 places to visit during this period, we hope you have everything you need to shape your dream trip to Vietnam! If you have any questions, feel free to contact us!

>>> Traveling with family this summer ?