Magical sunset Hoi An: Ideal time and best places to enjoy

by Bliss Hoi An July 8, 2025 74

When the sun begins its gentle descent and golden light bathes the ancient rooftops, sunset Hoi An becomes one of the most enchanting experiences in Vietnam. The peaceful Thu Bon River shimmers, lanterns start to glow, and the entire town slows into a poetic, dreamy mood. Witnessing sunset Hoi An is a moment you’ll never forget. Let’s discover the most beautiful places and best tips to fully enjoy this magical time of day.

The ideal time to watch sunset Hoi An

In Hoi An, as the midday sun softens and gives way to golden hues spreading across the sky, the ancient town takes on a whole new charm that feels quiet, dreamy, and irresistibly poetic. That fleeting moment, the sunset, is when Hoi An reveals one of its most beautiful faces. To fully savor this scene, however, you need to catch it at just the right time.

*Golden hour by the Thu Bon River — Sunset Hoi An at its most peaceful (source: Vietnam tourism)*

The best time of day to enjoy the sunset is between 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM. This is when the sun slowly sinks behind the distant hills and the golden light reflects off the mossy tiled rooftops of the old town. As the minutes pass, the sky keeps changing colors, shifting from soft gold to fiery orange and eventually fading into deep purple. This is the perfect time to capture stunning photographs or simply lose yourself in the peaceful beauty all around you.

The best season to experience a perfect sunset in Hoi An is during the dry months, from February to August. During this time, the skies are usually clear, the sunlight is gentle, and the air feels crisp and bright. After a light afternoon shower, the atmosphere often becomes even cooler and fresher, the sky turns crystal clear, and the sunset appears even more radiant.

The rainy season, which lasts from September to January, often brings thick clouds and sudden showers that can obscure the view. However, if you are lucky enough to catch a clear evening during this time, the sunset often takes on a softer, more delicate beauty that feels just as special in its own way.

Sunset in Hoi An lasts only a short while, but the memory of those golden moments will stay with you long after the sun dips below the horizon. Do not miss this unforgettable experience during your journey!

Best places to watch sunset Hoi An

If there is just one moment in the day to fall even more in love with Hoi An, it has to be at sunset. Hoi An has no shortage of little corners where you can admire the moment the sunset descends. To truly embrace this beauty, you should head to one of these spots, each with its own charm, but all equally unforgettable.

*Sunset Hoi An at its most magical (source: Vietnam)*

Along the Thu Bon river

Walking along the banks of the Thu Bon River, especially the stretch near Hoi An Market and the ancient town, is one of the most natural and authentic ways to enjoy the sunset. You can sit on the stone steps by the water, lean against the wooden railings, feel the gentle breeze, and watch the river gradually turn golden-orange.

In the late afternoon, the riverside also comes alive with simple coffee and tea stalls, where you can sip a warm drink while watching the old town shift into evening colors. Around 5:30 PM, when the light is just right, the river is at its most magical and perfect for capturing stunning photos.

Read more: Discover Thu Bon River – An unforgettable experience in Hoi An

An Hoi Bridge and the lantern area

Spanning the Thu Bon River, An Hoi Bridge is not only a link between the two banks but also one of the most iconic spots to watch the sunset. From here, you can look toward the setting sun and see both the river and the ancient town glowing in golden hues. As the sun dips lower, the colorful lanterns along the banks and on the bridge light up, casting shimmering reflections on the water and creating a dreamy, romantic atmosphere.

The bridge is also right next to the night market, so after enjoying the sunset, you can easily join the lively crowd, taste some local street food, and pick up a few lovely lanterns as souvenirs.

Rooftop cafes and bars

For a more panoramic perspective, choose one of the many rooftop cafés scattered throughout the old town. From up here, you can take in the entire landscape of red-tiled roofs, winding alleys, and the meandering river. At sunset, golden light filters through the rooftops, bathing the town in a warm glow that feels both grand and serene.

*Rooftop views, a cool breeze, and the perfect Sunset Hoi An moment (source: Vincom)*

Some rooftops loved by visitors include: Faifo Coffee, with its famous 360-degree view, The Chef, which offers a cozy atmosphere and a varied menu, or The Deck Hoi An, which is a more upscale option with cocktails and European-style bites. Sitting on a rooftop with a cool drink in hand, chatting with friends, and watching the sun disappear beyond the horizon is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Sunset boat ride on the river

If you’re looking for something truly unique, consider renting a small wooden boat and drifting down the Thu Bon River as the day ends. From the middle of the water, you’ll see the old town recede into the distance, the lanterns on both banks light up one by one, and the last rays of sun sparkle across the rippling surface. Many boatmen will even prepare colorful floating lanterns for you to release into the river, adding to the magical feeling.

A calm ride on the Thu Bon River as sunset Hoi An lights up the water (source: Trekking - Camping) — *A calm ride on the Thu Bon River as sunset Hoi An lights up the water (source: Trekking – Camping)*

This experience is especially popular among couples for its privacy and romance, but it’s just as lovely to share with family or friends while enjoying the fresh evening air and tranquil surroundings.

Watching the sunset by the sea in Hoi An – An Bang Beach, Cua Dai Beach

Just 4 to 5 kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town, the beaches of Cua Dai and An Bang offer two different but equally memorable ways to experience the sunset.

Cua Dai is perfect for those who love peace and quiet. As the sun sinks lower, the sky above the sea turns into a canvas of golden, orange, and pink hues that shimmer across the gentle waves. The beach here feels serene, with soft white sand, a calm sea, and a refreshing breeze that washes away the day’s worries. You can stroll barefoot along the shoreline, feeling the cool water lap at your feet, or simply sit on the sand and soak in the tranquil beauty of nature as day turns to night.

*Watching the sunset by Cua Dai beach (source: Tico Travel)*

On the other hand, An Bang offers a more lively, youthful vibe. Lining the beach are countless bars, lounges, and small restaurants, with sun loungers set right on the sand. Here you can sip a chilled cocktail, listen to soft music, and watch the sky blaze with color as the sun sets over the ocean. The sound of waves and wind mingles with cheerful chatter and laughter from other visitors, creating a vibrant yet still enchanting atmosphere.

Whether you choose the calm charm of Cua Dai or the vibrant energy of An Bang, the moment the sun dips below the horizon will leave you in awe. An afternoon by the sea, breathing in the salty air, listening to the waves, and watching nature’s show unfold is sure to become one of the most treasured memories of your journey through Hoi An.

Read more: An Bang Beach in Hoi An

Binh Minh Beach — The perfect sunrise to complete your trip

A special suggestion to round out your journey is to also visit Binh Minh Beach, located farther out and much more secluded. True to its name and its position on the eastern coast, Binh Minh is famous for its breathtaking sunrises rather than sunsets. If you’re an early riser, head here at dawn to watch the sun rise slowly over the ocean, casting golden light across the shimmering waves.

*Waking up early to catch the first light at Binh Minh Beach (source: VnExpress)*

For those who want a truly complete experience of Hoi An in one day, consider combining the sunrise at Binh Minh Beach with the sunset in the ancient town. It’s a way to fully embrace the beauty of both ends of the day.

To make the most of both moments, you can stay at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness, a luxurious beachfront retreat that’s still just a short drive from the old town. Here, you can wake up to the sunrise by the sea and then return to the ancient streets in time for sunset, making your trip as memorable and fulfilling as it can be.

Tips for enjoying and photographing sunset in Hoi An

Watching the sunset in Hoi An is not just about being in the right place, it’s also about knowing how to fully savor and capture the beauty of the moment. Here are some useful tips to make your sunset experience even more memorable.

*Rowing into the glow of Sunset Hoi An, one peaceful moment at a time (source: Bao Tien Phong)*

Arrive early and choose your spot

Hoi An’s most popular sunset spots can get crowded, especially along the river or on rooftop cafés. Try to arrive at least 20 to 30 minutes before sunset so you have enough time to pick the perfect spot, settle in, and relax as the light starts to change. If you’re planning to take a boat ride, it’s also best to book it in advance and let the boatman know you’re there for the sunset so they time the trip just right.

Check the weather

Hoi An’s sunsets are at their most stunning when the skies are clear. Before heading out, check the local weather forecast to make sure there are no heavy clouds or rain that could block the view. During the rainy season, you may get lucky with a dreamy, cloud-framed sunset, but it’s less predictable, so keep that in mind.

Bring a light jacket or scarf

Evenings in Hoi An, especially by the river or sea, can feel cooler as the sun goes down and the breeze picks up. Bringing a light jacket, scarf, or shawl will help you stay comfortable so you can enjoy the moment longer without feeling chilly.

Prepare your camera settings

If you love photography, sunset is the perfect time to play with light and shadow. Bring your camera or smartphone and clean the lens beforehand. Use HDR mode if available to capture both the bright sky and the darker foreground. For a more artistic shot, try including silhouettes of boats, rooftops, or lanterns against the sunset backdrop. Don’t forget to take a few minutes to put the camera down and just enjoy the view with your own eyes too.

Whether you choose to watch from the riverbank, a lively rooftop, or the quiet embrace of the sea, each view offers its own charm. Make sure to slow down, soak in the atmosphere, and let the beauty of sunset Hoi An become one of your most treasured memories of this ancient town.