Exploring Vietnam in May: Top Destinations and Weather Tips

May, marking the transition from spring to summer, is one of the best months to visit Vietnam due to its favorable weather. Temperatures are warm and pleasant, without being too stifling, and rainfall is less frequent compared to the rainy season.
In this article, you'll find all the essential information about Vietnam's weather in May, along with top destinations to visit and exciting activities to enjoy. Don't miss the chance to experience Vietnam at its finest this May!

Written by Tieu Bao (Local Expert) Updated on 03-06-2024

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1. Vietnam weather in May

It is important to note that at this time of year, Vietnam still has notable weather variations across its three distinct regions. For this reason, we highly recommend checking out our comprehensive guide to Vietnam weather in May, which details the weather conditions to expect in each region, before you start packing your bags.

Northern Vietnam in May

• (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Land Halong Bay, Mai Chau, Pu Luong, Sapa, Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Ba Be)

The Northern region of Vietnam is an absolutely stunning destination to visit in May, with a dry and almost sunny climate all the time, unlike March and April, which can be a little more humid and foggy during this time of year.

In May, temperatures are very warm with an average of 30°C - 33°C during the day and around 25°C - 27°C at night. It always stays dry, which is ideal for enjoying all your outdoor activities.

The temperature in mountainous areas like Sapa, the weather is a little more pleasant, ideal for hiking in the rice terraces. Or at Halong Bay, as it is often sunny during this month, you can enjoy a wonderful cruise to Halong Bay under bright sunshine to admire the stunning scenery.

>>> Find out more about: Best Time to Visit North Vietnam in 2024? Top 10 Must-See Places

Central Vietnam in May

• (Phong Nha National Park, Hue Ancient Imperial Capital, Hoi An Ancient Town, Danang City)

The month of May in Vietnam is undoubtedly an ideal time to discover the wonderful paradise beaches of the center. However, it is also a hot period in the country, with average temperatures varying between 28 and 34°C.

It's also a relatively quiet time of year for tourism, with fewer domestic travelers than in June and July and fewer international travelers than in March and April. This means you can enjoy these beautiful beaches without being bothered by crowds.

Southern Vietnam in May

• (Nha Trang, Quy Nhon, Highlands, Mui Ne, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Con Dao and Phu Quoc)

May marks the start of the rainy season in Southern Vietnam, with increased rainfall throughout the month. Although it is the hot season with average temperatures varying between 28 and 36°C, the showers bring a certain cooling to the weather. Heavy but short-lived showers are expected in the afternoon, so it is advisable to take a raincoat or umbrella if you plan to go out.

However, beaches located in the north of the Southern region, such as Con Dao Island, Nha Trang, Quy Nhon and Mui Ne beaches, are not affected by the Southern monsoon and therefore remain in normal conditions. favorable for swimming and diving throughout the month of May.

On the other hand, beaches located in the far south, such as the island of Phu Quoc, are not recommended due to the unfavorable weather conditions at this time of year.

2. Where to go to Vietnam in May?

2.1 The water season in the northern mountains in May

The rice terraces of Hoang Su Phi, located at high altitude in Ha Giang province, stretch as far as the eye can see and seem to be close to the clouds. At the moment, they are in the height of poured water season, when farmers, like barefoot painters, work transplanting rice in these flooded fields which sparkle like an extended mirror. In this poetic atmosphere where man and nature meet, these rice terraces offer a magnificent panorama worthy of appearing on the most beautiful postcards. 

When you visit Hoang Su Phi in the North of Vietnam in May, you absolutely cannot ignore villages such as Ban Phung, Ban Luoc, Sa San Ho and many others where the Nung, Dao and La Chi ethnic groups live together. in peace in traditional stilt houses. Seen from above, these picturesque villages surrounded by rice fields and mountains offer a heavenly landscape. Hikers and nature lovers will be able to enjoy these magnificent scenes without losing a drop of sweat, thanks to the good weather in May in Northern Vietnam.

Still in the same spirit, but with greater fame than the rice fields of Hoang Su Phi in the far north of Vietnam, the rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai in the picturesque province of Yen Bai offer an incomparable change of scenery and beauty unparalleled in the month of May. Places like Khau Pha Pass, La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha, Tu Le are well-known and unrivaled spots for photography enthusiasts who, through their lens, immortalize these rice terraces that look like layers of coins of silver piled up, like emerald green silk ribbons flying freely to the horizon.

2.2 Mai Chau, an idyllic valley where tranquility reigns

Mai Chau is an idyllic valley not to be missed during a trip to Northern Vietnam in May. The incredible stilt houses of the Muong and Thai ethnic groups blend harmoniously with the green nature, which will not fail to delight travelers looking for a haven of peace and serenity.

To fully enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature, why not consider a walk along the river from Buoc village to Mai Hich village? You will be able to discover the wild landscapes of the region and meet the warm population, who might even invite you to drink a cup of tea in their traditional houses nestled at the foot of the mountains.

The weather in North Vietnam in May is also suitable for bike rides. We recommend taking a tour around Ban Lac towards the village of Van passing through that of Naphon, admiring the hills of bamboo as green as they are dense on the slopes around the rice fields as far as the eye can see.

It is also impossible not to mention the captivating rituals of the Thai ethnic group which take place every year in May. If you plan to visit Mai Chau during this period, don't miss this religious and cultural ceremony of the Thai ethnic group, which aims to invoke rain. This tradition is shared by many other ethnic groups living from rice cultivation in flooded land. The ceremony takes place in the 3rd or 4th lunar month in the commune of My Hoa, in Bai Tech Lim, not far from Mai Chau. Visitors are invited to participate in this festive atmosphere where popular songs and games combine in the company of the Thai ethnic group.

>>> You might like to read: Mai Chau, Vietnam: 7 Questions About the Beautiful Northern Valley

2.3 Halong Bay in May 

It is impossible to visit Vietnam in May without a stopover in this dazzling paradise on earth. Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Wonders of Nature, is a must-see which is even more splendid at this time of year. Junks glide between limestone peaks in the middle of crystal clear waters of unforgettable turquoise blue

Halong Bay is a true living museum, considered the largest of its category on our planet. In May, it abandons its famous mist to let the sun's rays shine through, offering a breathtaking spectacle. With favorable weather for visits and swimming, why not let yourself be tempted by a kayak trip to discover all the nooks and crannies of the bay? 

Paddle happily in the crystal clear waters which reach 30 degrees or take the opportunity to climb one of its 2000 islets and admire the panoramic view. You can also witness a magnificent sunset on the island's paradise beach.

2.5 Tam Coc-Ninh Binh in May for its rice harvest and its beautiful sugar loaves

You probably know Vietnam for its beautiful, idyllic landscapes of rice fields as far as the eye can see, but if you're looking to experience these vistas in an authentic atmosphere, Ninh Binh or Tam Coc - The Terrestrial Halong Bay in May is the ideal destination. Embark in a small flat-bottomed boat to explore these landscapes of rivers, ripe rice fields and limestone rocks. The shades of green of the lush mountain vegetation blend with the light yellow shades of the rice fields, while the region's hidden caves provide a complete change of scenery.

>>> Learn more about Tam Coc, Vietnam: 7 Essential Questions Before You Go!

At the end of the day, why not get on your bike to explore the picturesque surrounding villages and live a unique experience, perhaps even participate in the daily life of the inhabitants of the Vietnamese countryside in May, during the rice harvest season. You can end your bike ride with a visit to the Jade Pagoda, built inside a cave. This visit should be done at the end of the day to avoid the heat of the day and enjoy this magnificent pagoda in a peaceful environment.

>> Are you going with the family this summer? Check out: Family Tours to Vietnam & Vietnam Beaches Holiday

2.6 Hoi An and the Cham Islands – Heritage town and seaside stay

Hoi An is undoubtedly one of the most charming towns in Vietnam in May, with its unique architecture that reflects the marriage between Eastern and Western art. Although the climate is very pleasant, the old town can be very busy with domestic tourists in the afternoon, so it is advisable to visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful ambiance and quiet beauty of local life .

The surrounding countryside is just as charming. A bike ride in the beautiful organic village of Tra Que, known for its aromatic herbs, followed by a cooking session with vegetables harvested from the garden itself, is a must-do activity when visiting Hoi An in May.

It would also be a shame not to mention the beautiful beaches that border the city of a thousand lanterns. You have the choice of An Bang or Cua Dai, and off the town are the Cham Islands, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve an hour and a half boat ride from Hoi An. This important link in the Kingdom's ancient Silk Road Champa offers wild beaches, shellfish markets, visits to fishing villages and swimming in the crystal clear waters around the island.

>>> Discover the most beautiful city in Vietnam:  Hoi An: World top 7 must-see destinations!!

2.7 Nha Trang – A paradise for beach and diving lovers

Nha Trang is a seaside destination well-known for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and year-round sunny weather. Visiting Nha Trang in May, you can enjoy unforgettable moments of relaxation. Start your day with a visit to the Nha Trang Oceanographic Institute, founded by the French in 1922. This institute will provide you with valuable information on the marine species of Vietnam and the world.

Then, explore the country's history by visiting the archaeological site of Po Nagar, a vestige of the ancient Kingdom of Champa. A sea excursion will allow you to swim and dive on Whale Island to discover the seabed using masks. Nha Trang spa resorts also offer health-beneficial mud treatments. Finally, Long Son Pagoda, located on a hill overlooking the city, offers incredible panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Our last words

In conclusion, visiting Vietnam in May is an unforgettable experience for lovers of natural landscapes, culture and relaxation. So, pack your bags and set off to discover this country of a thousand wonders!