As one of Vietnam’s most beloved destinations, Hoi An captivates visitors with its ancient charm, romantic ambiance, and stunning beaches. If you’re planning to explore this ancient town in March, don’t miss out on the detailed insights about the weather and exciting activities provided in this article to ensure your trip is as fulfilling as possible!
Weather in Hoi An in March
March is an ideal time to visit Hoi An due to its cool, dry, and pleasant weather, making it a popular answer when tourists wonder which season is the best to visit Hoi An. Below is a comprehensive table summarizing the key weather factors for this month:
| Weather Factor | Detailed Description |
| Temperature | Average temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C. Daily highs rise from 27°C to 30°C, while lows increase from 21°C to 23°C. |
| Rainfall | March falls within Hoi An’s dry season, with low rainfall. Monthly averages increase slightly from 8mm early in the month to 19mm by the end. |
| Humidity | Relative humidity averages between 60-70%, creating a comfortable environment for tourists. |
| Sunshine Hours | Each day offers an average of 7 to 9 hours of sunshine, providing ideal lighting for outdoor activities and sightseeing. |
| Sea Water Temperature | Average sea water temperature is around 23-24°C, suitable for swimming and water sports. |
Best Things to Do in Hoi An in March
If you’re planning a trip to Hoi An in March, don’t miss the chance to dive into the most exciting experiences this ancient town has to offer. Below are some standout things to do in Hoi An March that you simply cannot overlook, perfect for shaping your Hoi An March itinerary.
Participating in Local Events and Festivals
Here are two standout Hoi An March festivals happening during the month, offering visitors unique and meaningful cultural experiences that showcase the town’s vibrant traditions.
Thu Bon Lady Festival
The Thu Bon Lady Festival is a significant event for the people of Quang Nam, held annually from the 10th to the 12th of the second lunar month, which typically corresponds to mid-March on the Gregorian calendar. In 2025, it’s expected to take place from March 10th to 12th. The festival is centered in Thu Bon village, Duy Tan commune, Duy Xuyen district, Quang Nam province, approximately 25km from central Hoi An.
This is an occasion for locals to express their reverence for Bà Thu Bồn, a deity revered as a protector, praying for favorable weather, bountiful harvests, and prosperous lives. The festival features solemn rituals, including the procession of the royal decree, a water procession, and a grand ceremony. The festive side comes alive with vibrant cultural and sporting activities such as boat racing, bài chòi singing, folk opera performances, and the release of flower lanterns on the Thu Bon River.
Lantern Floating Festival
Lantern Floating Festival is a beautiful cultural tradition of Hoi An, held on the 14th and 15th of each lunar month. In March, this event typically falls around the middle of the month. During these days, Hoi An’s ancient town transforms into a magical spectacle with thousands of colorful lanterns and floating flower lanterns illuminating the streets and waterways. Locals and tourists alike release small, charming floating lanterns onto the Hoai River, sending wishes for health, luck, and peace.
For a complete experience, arrive early to secure a good spot, purchase floating lanterns for about 5,000 – 10,000 VND each, and consider renting a boat to release lanterns from the middle of the river. This allows you to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and enjoy a unique perspective of the ancient town.
Explore Hoi An Ancient Town
Hoi An Ancient Town, located on the lower reaches of the Thu Bon River in Quang Nam province, Vietnam, is an ancient urban area with over 400 years of history. During the 17th and 18th centuries, it thrived as a bustling international trading port, hosting merchants from Japan, China, and the West. In 1527, when Mac Dang Dung seized power from the Le dynasty, the region was deeply affected by political upheavals in Dong Kinh.
By 1570, Nguyen Hoang and his son Nguyen Phuc Nguyen took control of Quang Nam, focusing on economic development and fortification. Under their leadership, Hoi An rapidly emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s leading trading ports by the late 16th century, marking the formation and growth of the renowned ancient town we know today.
In 1999, UNESCO officially recognized Hoi An Ancient Town as a “World Cultural Heritage,” cementing its status as a prominent tourist destination and a symbol of historical preservation. The town is also famous for its unique architecture, blending Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese styles. Visitors shouldn’t miss the Japanese Covered Bridge, the city’s iconic symbol, built in the 17th century with distinct Japanese architectural influences.
Participate in Hoi An Lantern Festival
The Hoi An Lantern Festival takes place on the full moon night of each month, turning the ancient town into a dazzling sea of light. This tradition traces back to the 16th century when Chinese and Japanese merchants hung lanterns outside their homes to pray for peace, gradually becoming a defining cultural feature of Hoi An.
During the festival, from 5 PM to 10 PM, the ancient town prohibits vehicles, shops turn off electric lights, and thousands of colorful lanterns light up the streets, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere. Each lantern is not only a work of art but also carries wishes for peace and good fortune, enhancing the enchanting and serene experience for visitors.
Relax at Hoi An’s Beaches
Hoi An isn’t just renowned for its ancient town—it also boasts beautiful beaches perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Here are some standout beaches you shouldn’t miss:
An Bang Beach
Located in Cam An ward, Hoi An city, about 4 km east of the ancient town, An Bang Beach features fine white sand, clear blue water, and a tranquil atmosphere, earning it a reputation as one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches.
In 2014, TripAdvisor ranked An Bang among the top 25 beaches in Asia, and in 2024, it was honored in the top 10, thanks to its natural beauty and quality tourism services. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, kayaking, or relaxing under coconut trees. The area also offers numerous seaside restaurants, cafes, and bars serving fresh seafood and a variety of drinks, ensuring a well-rounded experience.
Here are some notable restaurants at An Bang Beach:
- The DeckHouse – End of the western beach, An Bang Beach, Hoi An City
- Tuyet Restaurant – Lot 3, An Bang Beach, Hoi An City
- Shore Club An Bang Beach – An Bang Fishing Village, An Bang Beach, Hoi An City
- Hung An Bang Beach Restaurant – Lot 6, An Bang Beach, Hoi An City
- Nam Gia Restaurant – Lot 2, An Bang Beach, Hoi An City
Cua Dai Beach
Situated about 5 km east of Hoi An’s ancient town in Cam An ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam province, Cua Dai Beach is one of Central Vietnam’s most stunning beaches. With its fine white sand, clear blue water, and peaceful setting, it attracts both domestic and international tourists. Cua Dai is the confluence of three major rivers—Thu Bon, Truong Giang, and De Vong—before they flow into the East Sea, offering striking natural landscapes and abundant seafood.
A highlight of Cua Dai Beach is its smooth, ivory-white sand, distinct from famous beaches like My Khe or Mui Ne. The sea water shifts colors throughout the day, from deep blue in the morning to an enchanting jade green in the afternoon. March’s dry and warm weather in Hoi An makes it perfect for beach activities like swimming, kayaking, or savoring fresh seafood at seaside restaurants.
Here are some popular restaurants near Cua Dai Beach:
- Sen Restaurant – Lot 12 Lac Long Quan, Cua Dai, Hoi An
- Khai Restaurant – Lot 3 Lac Long Quan, Cua Dai, Hoi An
- Van Phi Seafood Restaurant – 99 Lac Long Quan, Cam An, Hoi An
- Nhung Ot Seafood Restaurant – 432 Hai Ba Trung, Hoi An
- Be Nhi Seafood Restaurant – Au Co Street, Phuoc Trach Block, Cua Dai, Hoi An
Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village
Located about 3 km northeast of Hoi An’s center, Tra Que Vegetable Village is a must-visit spot in March. Spanning roughly 40 hectares, this lush green village not only supplies fresh produce to the Quang Nam – Da Nang region but is also deeply tied to local culture and life. March’s cool, low-rain weather makes it an ideal time for experiential activities.
Visitors can join cooking classes, starting with harvesting vegetables, learning about traditional organic farming methods, and preparing Hoi An specialties. With over 20 types of organically grown herbs and leafy greens, Tra Que’s produce boasts a distinctive flavor thanks to unique fertilizers from pond algae, making it a standout ingredient in local cuisine.
Join Cooking Classes in Hoi An
Hoi An’s cuisine is celebrated for its diversity and richness, particularly dishes like cao lau, Quang noodles, and banh xeo. In a cooking class, professional chefs guide participants through every step, from selecting fresh ingredients at local markets to mastering authentic cooking techniques.
Cooking Class at Hoiana Resort & Golf
Located at Aroma Restaurant on the ground floor of New World Hoiana Hotel, Hoiana Resort & Golf offers in-depth cooking classes on Vietnamese cuisine. Under the guidance of expert chefs, guests learn to prepare traditional dishes with two menu options. The program includes:
- Cooking alongside a professional chef
- Non-alcoholic refreshments
- Lunch featuring dishes prepared by guests and the chef
- A souvenir apron from Hoiana
The cost is 888,000 VND++ per person, including a drink package and a special gift. A minimum of 4 participants is required. Hoiana provides free daily shuttle service from Da Nang airport and Hoi An to the resort. For more details or to book, visit the Hoiana Cooking Class or call +84 (0) 235 858 6666.
Other cooking classes in Hoi An include:
- Tra Que Water Wheel – Cam Ha, Hoi An, Quang Nam
- Red Bridge Cooking School – Hamlet 4, Hoi An, Quang Nam
- Anfarm Hoi An Cooking Class – 633 Nguyen Tat Thanh, Thanh Ha, Hoi An
- Thuan Tinh Island Cooking Tour – Thanh Nhut Hamlet, Cam Thanh Commune, Hoi An
Visit My Son Sanctuary
March’s cool, dry weather makes it a perfect time to explore My Son Sanctuary, located about 45 km west of Hoi An in Duy Phu commune, Duy Xuyen district, Quang Nam province. This complex of Champa kingdom temple towers, recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site in 1999, was built from the 4th century under King Bhadravarman.
Once a vital religious and political center, it features over 70 temple towers, with about 32 still preserved. These towers reflect strong Hindu influences, particularly the worship of Shiva, and are uniquely constructed with baked bricks stacked without mortar, showcasing the ancient Cham’s advanced techniques.
Details:
- Address: Duy Phu commune, Duy Xuyen district, Quang Nam province
- Operating Hours: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
- Entrance Fees: 100,000 VND for Vietnamese visitors, 150,000 VND for international visitors
Experience Cycling Tours to Explore Hoi An
March is an excellent time for cycling tours through Hoi An’s countryside, with cool temperatures (22°C – 28°C) and low rainfall creating ideal conditions for leisurely rides. The journey takes you along shaded coconut-lined paths, vast green rice fields, and ancient villages.
A highlight is Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you can explore organic farming and enjoy a refreshing basil drink. Other stops include Kim Bong Carpentry Village, known for traditional woodworking, or Thanh Ha Pottery Village, where artisans preserve 500-year-old pottery techniques. Tours range from 300,000 to 700,000 VND per person, depending on the route and services. Reputable providers include:
- Heaven and Earth Bicycle Tours – In-depth tours with knowledgeable guides
- Grasshopper Adventures – Routes blending nature and local cuisine
- Hoi An Cycling Tours – Combines village visits and coconut forest exploration
Where to Stay When Traveling to Hoi An in March
March’s delightful weather makes it a fantastic time to explore Hoi An, and choosing the right accommodation can elevate your experience. Hoiana Resort & Golf, with its luxurious setting and top-tier services, is an ideal choice for a March getaway.
Situated along a pristine 4 km beach in Central Vietnam, Hoiana Resort & Golf was named the World’s Best Integrated Resort in 2024 by the World Travel Awards, a testament to its excellence. Near two UNESCO sites—Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary—it offers over 1,200 luxurious rooms across four premium hotels: Hoiana Hotel & Suites, New World Hoiana Beach Resort, New World Hoiana Hotel, and Hoiana Residences.
A standout is the Sky Pool Suite, a 190m² haven with a private pool on a high floor, offering panoramic East Sea views—perfect for a lavish March escape.
Just 15 minutes from Hoi An Ancient Town and 45 minutes from Da Nang International Airport, Hoiana’s location is ideal for exploring March highlights like the poetic Bay Mau Coconut Forest, verdant Tra Que Vegetable Village, or traditional Thanh Ha Pottery Village.
In particular, the Hoiana Express service – a free shuttle connecting Da Nang Airport, the city center, and Hoi An Ancient Town – offers maximum comfort, allowing you to freely experience Hoi An’s beauty in the pleasant March weather.
Additionally, Hoiana Resort & Golf enriches your Hoi An March travel journey with unique experiences. You can join special March tours in Hoi An, such as admiring Hoi An Ancient Town at night with its gentle spring ambiance, experiencing Hoi An basket boats amidst the Bay Mau Coconut Forest, or visiting the Sampan distillery workshop.
Relaxing activities like cooking classes with fresh spring ingredients or treatments at a premium spa will also help you fully enjoy your vacation, elevating your Hoi An March trip into a memorable experience.
Tips for Visiting Hoi An in March
To fully enjoy your March trip to Hoi An, consider these essential Hoi An March travel tips and experiences to make the most of your journey:
Booking Accommodation in Advance After Tet Holiday
Post-Tet, tourist numbers drop from peak months, offering more space to explore Hoi An. However, with March’s ideal weather and outdoor activities, booking accommodation 2-3 weeks in advance is wise. Hoiana Resort & Golf stands out with its online booking convenience, modern amenities like an international golf course and infinity pool, and diverse dining options. Reserve early for promotions and a stellar Hoi An vacation!
Ideal Time to Visit Hoi An’s Tourist Attractions
Maximize your trip by timing your visits:
- Early Morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM): Cool weather and soft light make it perfect for exploring Hoi An Ancient Town, photography, and local breakfast specialties.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Great for visiting craft villages like Thanh Ha Pottery or Kim Bong Carpentry, or cycling through the countryside’s fresh air and calm scenery.
- Evening (after 6:00 PM): The ancient town glows with lantern light, ideal for strolling, cultural activities, and street food.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this article has equipped you with valuable information to plan your March trip to Hoi An. For a complete and relaxing vacation, consider Hoiana Resort & Golf—an internationally acclaimed resort with luxurious accommodations, convenient services, and stunning sea views. Book now for attractive offers and an unforgettable Hoi An getaway!
