May is the in-between month between spring and summer in Vietnam, which could be really hot and humid in the area. But visiting Vietnam in May could be a perfect time for those who fall in love with the ripe rice season and charming beaches. Let’s begin the journey with Indochina Voyages to explore the best places to visit in Vietnam in May from North to South!
Is It Good to Visit Vietnam in May?
May is an excellent time to visit Vietnam, especially if you’re looking to avoid peak tourist crowds while experiencing the country at its most vibrant. May offers the perfect combination of golden rice terraces, pristine beaches, and fewer tourists, making it one of the best shoulder season months for visiting Vietnam.
How is the weather in Vietnam in May?
In May, Vietnam experiences warm and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) across the country. It’s important to note that May marks the beginning of the rainy season in South Vietnam, so you can expect occasional showers and increased humidity in this region. To make the most of your trip, it’s advisable to explore the northern and central parts of Vietnam, which offer pleasant temperatures and lower chances of rain during this time.
Here is the detail for each region in Vietnam in May:
The North
In May, North Vietnam experiences warm and dry weather. Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), making it an ideal time to explore this region. Expect pleasant and sunny days with lower chances of rain. It’s a great opportunity to visit mountainous destinations like Ha Giang, Tam Coc-Ninh Binh to witness the beauty of the rice terraces in full greenery and the Heritage of World UNESCO Halong Bay.
The Central
Central Vietnam also enjoys warm temperatures in May, ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). This region experiences dry and sunny weather, making it a fantastic time to visit beautiful beaches in Central at Danang or Nha Trang. With the dry season and sunshine, it is also an ideal time to stroll around Hoi An Ancient Town and explore wonderful cultures.
The South
May marks the beginning of the rainy season in South Vietnam, including areas like Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. Expect increased humidity, occasional showers, and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). However, if there is rain, it usually doesn’t last long in South Areas such as Ho Chi Minh City.
Best Places to Visit Vietnam in May
Vietnam in May opens up incredible opportunities to explore diverse landscapes, from golden mountain rice terraces to pristine coastal paradises. Here are the top destinations optimized for May’s weather conditions:
Ha Giang in May – The Golden Loop Adventure
Located in North Mountain Vietnam, Ha Giang is a breathtaking destination known for its stunning landscapes and ethnic minority cultures. In May, Ha Giang is at its most vibrant, with lush green rice terraces stretching across the mountainsides. Take a motorbike or trekking tour to explore the region’s picturesque valleys, visit local villages, and witness the fascinating way of life of the ethnic communities.
Tam Coc – Ninh Binh in May
Tam Coc in Ninh Binh province is a must-visit destination in May. This region boasts enchanting scenery with towering limestone karsts rising from vibrant green rice fields. Especially when visit Tam Coc in May, you will have a chance to explore the breathtaking landscape created by ripe rice fields when biking or taking a boat trip here.
Take a boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, passing through stunning caves and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the ancient temples and pagodas scattered throughout the area, and don’t miss climbing the steps to the top of Hang Mua for panoramic views of the landscape.
Halong Bay in May – UNESCO Wonder in Perfect Conditions
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is an iconic destination in Vietnam. May offers ideal weather for cruising through the bay’s emerald waters and admiring the limestone karsts that dot the landscape. Enjoy the panoramic views from the deck of a traditional junk boat, explore hidden caves, and indulge in fresh seafood. Witnessing the sunrise or sunset over the bay is an unforgettable experience.
Pu Luong, Thanh Hoa – Hidden Valley Paradise
Not too crowded and touristy like Sapa, For a tranquil escape, Pu Luong in Thanh Hoa province is a hidden gem in May. Visiting this rural area offers stunning landscapes with terraced rice fields, lush forests, and traditional stilt houses. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, go hiking through the picturesque valleys, and interact with the friendly local communities. The breathtaking beauty of Pu Luong is enhanced by the ripe rice season, when the fields come alive with golden hues.
Da Nang in May – Central Coast Beach Paradise
Located in Central Vietnam, Danang is a vibrant coastal city with beautiful beaches and a rich cultural heritage. Da Nang in May offers warm weather and is perfect for enjoying the sun, sand, and cool turquoise water.
Relax on the pristine beaches, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and indulge in delicious seafood. Don’t miss visiting the famous Golden Bridge, an impressive architectural marvel that provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
Hoi An in May – Ancient Town Without the Crowds
Just a short distance from Da Nang, Hoi An is a charming ancient town that transports you back in time. May is an excellent time to explore this other UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, as the weather is warm and the town is less crowded.
Walk through the narrow streets adorned with lanterns, visit the well-preserved historic buildings and temples, and immerse yourself in the bustling markets. Hoi An is famous for its tailors, so consider getting a custom-made outfit during your visit.
Nha Trang in May – Beach Resort Haven
Situated on Vietnam’s south-central coast, Nha Trang is renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life. Despite the beginning of the rainy season in May, Nha Trang still offers warm temperatures and occasional sunshine. Relax on the sandy shores, go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the colorful coral reefs, and indulge in fresh seafood delicacies. Don’t miss visiting the Vinpearl Land amusement park for a fun-filled day.
What about Ho Chi Minh City or Ha Noi in May?
After arriving at the main airports in Vietnam, such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), which are often the points of entry for travelers from countries like the US, Australia, Canada, and more, you may find that these cities can be quite hot in May.
Upon arrival, it might be a good idea to stay one night in either Ho Chi Minh City or Ha Noi, preferably in the late afternoon or evening when the temperature is not as high as it would be during the day. This will allow you to have a leisurely stroll around the charming Hanoi Old Quarter or experience the vibrant nightlife of Saigon.
By spending the night in one of these cities, you can also take the opportunity to rest and adjust to the local time zone before embarking on your journey to explore other highly recommended destinations the following morning. This way, you’ll start your trip feeling refreshed and ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Vietnam.
Cost & Crowd
Early May is a great time to enjoy the country’s beautiful beaches basking in glorious sunshine, and the advantage is that you’ll encounter fewer crowds compared to earlier in the year. May ranks among the months with lower visitor numbers, except for the period around April 30 to May 2, when many Vietnamese embark on sightseeing trips during the holiday season.
During May, Vietnamese families tend to stay at home, eagerly anticipating the upcoming school holidays in mid-June. As a result, popular beaches like Nha Trang or Quy Nhon won’t be crowded, and major tourist sites and museums in cities will be less busy as well, providing a more relaxed atmosphere. Moreover, this shoulder season presents an opportunity to negotiate better prices for tours and accommodations. However, it’s worth noting that the onset of the rainy season also means an increase in mosquitoes.
In summary, May in Vietnam offers a favorable balance of lower crowds, reasonable prices, and pleasant weather, making it an appealing time to explore the country’s diverse attractions.
FAQs
Is April or May better for Vietnam?
Both April and May are good months to visit Vietnam. April offers pleasant weather with low humidity, while May brings warmer temperatures. If you prefer milder weather, April might be a better choice. However, May provides an opportunity to witness the ripe rice season in various regions, which adds a unique charm to the landscapes.
How hot is Vietnam in May?
Regional temperature specifics:
- Mountainous areas (Ha Giang, Sapa): 20-30°C (68-86°F) – most comfortable
- Coastal regions (Da Nang, Nha Trang): 26-34°C (79-93°F) – sea breezes provide relief
- Cities (Hanoi, HCMC): 28-35°C (82-95°F) – hottest midday
Is May monsoon season in Vietnam?
May marks the beginning of the rainy season in South Vietnam, particularly in regions like Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. While rain showers are more frequent during this time, they are usually short-lived and shouldn’t significantly disrupt your travel plans. In North and Central Vietnam, May is generally drier with lower chances of rain. However, it’s always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
What are the best things to fo in Vietnam in May?
- Rice terrace photography: Capture golden fields in Ha Giang, Pu Luong, and Ninh Binh during the ripe season
- Beach hopping: Enjoy pristine Central Vietnam beaches (My Khe, An Bang, Nha Trang) in peak dry season
- Halong Bay cruise: Experience calm seas and excellent visibility on 2-3 day luxury cruises
- Ha Giang Loop motorbiking: Navigate Vietnam’s most spectacular mountain roads in ideal conditions
- Hoi An Ancient Town exploration: Wander lantern-lit streets in comfortable evening temperatures
- Tam Coc boat tours: Row through caves surrounded by golden rice paddies in Ninh Binh
- Ethnic minority homestays: Live with local families in Ha Giang or Pu Luong
- Water activities: Snorkeling, diving, kayaking in crystal-clear Central Vietnam waters
- Street food tours: Explore Hanoi Old Quarter or Saigon on evening food adventures
Is it good to visit Vietnam in May?
May can be a great time to visit Vietnam, especially if you enjoy warm weather and want to admire the stunning ripe rice season and beautiful beaches in Vietnam. The northern and central regions offer pleasant temperatures and lower chances of rain, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
However, if you plan to visit South Vietnam, be prepared for occasional showers and increased humidity. Overall, May offers a good balance between weather conditions and crowd levels, making it a favorable month to experience the diverse attractions of Vietnam.
Conclusion
Vietnam in May offers an unbeatable combination of golden landscapes, perfect beach weather, authentic cultural experiences, and excellent value for money. By focusing your itinerary on North and Central Vietnam while being strategic about South Vietnam visits, you can experience Vietnam at one of its most beautiful and comfortable times of year.
Our travel experts at Indochina Voyages specialize in crafting personalized itineraries that maximize the best of Vietnam’s May conditions. Contact us here or drop us an offline message on the screen for a free quote, no obligation required!
Read more: When is the best time to travel to Vietnam?
From Hue Nguyen – Travel Consultant and Indochina Voyages Team
