Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam has two rice harvest seasons each year, in May and September. The May harvest is mainly found in lowland destinations such as Mai Chau (Phu Tho), Tam Coc (Ninh Binh), and Pu Luong (Thanh Hoa), unlike the terraced rice fields in high mountainous areas.

This is also an ideal time to enjoy the rice season, as it falls just before the summer tourism peak and during the transition from spring to summer, when the weather remains cool and pleasant.

Beyond rice fields, visitors can head to Cuc Phuong National Park to witness the unique butterfly season, which begins in late April and lasts until nearly the end of May. Activities here include forest trekking, night wildlife tours, and camping.

Entrance fees are VND60,000 (US$2.40) for adults and VND10,000 (US$0.40) for children.

For beach lovers, May is also a great time to visit Co To and Quan Lan (Quang Ninh) or Cat Ba (Hai Phong), when the weather is sunny with little rain, ideal for swimming and kayaking.

Central Vietnam

In May, beaches and islands in central Vietnam become popular escapes from the heat, attracting travellers seeking both relaxation and fewer crowds. The weather is not yet at its peak intensity, with little rain and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

In addition to well-known coastal destinations such as Lang Co (Hue), My Khe (Da Nang), Ky Co (Quy Nhon), Nha Trang (Khanh Hoa), and Mui Ne (Lam Dong), travellers can explore islands like Ly Son (Quang Ngai), Phu Quy (Lam Dong), and Diep Son (Khanh Hoa).

Among them, Phu Quy - now designated as a special administrative zone - stands out for its combination of natural beauty, diverse experiences, and rich cuisine.

As Phu Quy remains relatively untouched with limited tourism services, accommodation costs are quite affordable, ranging from VND300,000 to VND500,000 per night (US$12-20). The island is also known for its fresh seafood at reasonable prices, including huynh de crab, moon crab, and a variety of shellfish.

Travellers seeking a more authentic local experience can visit fishing villages such as Nhon Ly, Phuoc Dong (Dak Lak), Ninh Van, and Son Hai (Khanh Hoa).

Southern Vietnam

May is an ideal time to explore southern Vietnam, with golden sunshine and blue seas perfect for beach getaways.

Travellers can visit Con Dao (Ho Chi Minh City), home to scenic spots such as Dam Trau Beach, Nhat Beach, Dam Tre Bay, and nearby islets like Bay Canh and Cau.

The island also offers historical and spiritual sites, including the Con Dao Museum, the prison system, Hang Duong Cemetery, Phi Yen Temple (An Son Shrine), and Nui Mot Pagoda (Van Son Tu).

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of local delicacies, including different types of sea snails, slipper lobster, and grouper.

May also marks the start of the fruit harvest season in the Mekong Delta. Travellers can explore orchard gardens and enjoy seasonal fruits such as mango, rambutan, and dâu da in areas like Cai Be, Thoi Son Islet (Dong Thap), Cai Mon, An Binh Islet (Vinh Long), and Phong Dien, My Khanh (Can Tho).