Nha Trang in September: the first rains, but the sea is still open — what to do before the monsoon
September in Nha Trang is the start of the rainy season, but the monsoon with cancelled boat trips only arrives in October. What to fit in: the islands, the sea, the start of surf season. Where not to go in the rain, and Bai Dai beach.
September in Nha Trang is the first month of the rainy season, but not yet the monsoon. It rains more often than in summer, while the wind, swell and widespread cancellations of boat trips usually start in October. That makes September the last month to plan islands and sea trips with some confidence — with a spare day for the weather. Surf season starts too. Bai Dai already has big waves from September.
What is on in September?
| Activity | In September | More |
|---|---|---|
| Boat trips, islands | before the monsoon; keep a spare day | boat trips |
| Monkey and Orchid Islands | boats from Long Phú pier, 7:30–16:30 | Monkey Island |
| Diving | end of season: generally February–August, some centres until October | diving |
| Surfing | season starts: schools run September to May | surfing |
| Bai Dai Beach | big waves from September | Bai Dai |
| Ba Ho Waterfalls, Yang Bay Park | risky or closed in heavy rain | Ba Ho, Yang Bay |
| The city, mud baths | open in the rain | what to see |
Can I visit the islands and go to sea in September?
Yes — September comes before the monsoon, which in Nha Trang runs from October to December, when agencies start cancelling boat trips across the board. It already rains in September, so go to the islands in the morning and keep a spare day. Boats to Monkey and Orchid Islands leave from Long Phú pier, about half an hour north of the centre; the islands are open 7:30–16:30. Ask in advance whether a weather cancellation means a new date or a refund.
Is there diving in September?
It is the end of the season. Generally, Nha Trang’s diving season is February to August, with the clearest water in April–June. But seasons vary between centres: Delight Diving, for example, gives its season as May to October. If you are coming to dive, ask the centre when booking whether they go out in September and what happens if a dive is cancelled. Centres are in diving in Nha Trang.
Does surf season start in September?
Yes. Nha Trang surf schools give their season as September to May; in summer there are hardly any waves near the city and some schools leave. In September they come back, teaching mostly at Bai Dai. Ask what happens if there are no waves on the day. Schools are in surfing in Nha Trang.
Where should I avoid in September rain?
The Ba Ho Waterfalls in the rainy season: the streams rise without warning, swimming is dangerous, and it is best to leave by 14:00–15:00. Yang Bay Park closes some areas in heavy rain. Bai Dai has big waves from September to December — swim only at the main beach where lifeguards are on duty (Nha Trang beaches). In the rain, the pagodas, cathedral, Dam Market, Oceanography Museum and mud baths are all open.
What should I pack for Nha Trang in September?
Sunscreen and a light raincoat together: in September you can get both in one day. Shoes you don’t mind getting wet, and a waterproof phone pouch for the islands. Long-term weather averages are in the block above. What comes next is in Nha Trang in October.
Frequently asked questions
Is September a good time to visit Nha Trang? Yes, if you want the sea and islands before the monsoon and don’t mind some rain. The calmest sea is February to August.
Does the rainy season start in September? Yes, Nha Trang’s rainy season is September to December. The monsoon swell starts in October.
Can I visit the islands in September? Yes, boats to Monkey and Orchid Islands run from Long Phú pier, and the islands are open 7:30–16:30. Keep a spare day for the weather.
Is there diving in September? It is the end of the season; some centres run until October. Ask when booking.
Is it surf season? It is the start: schools run September to May.
Can I swim at Bai Dai in September? There are big waves from September — only at the main beach near the lifeguards.
Sources and checks
Sea, diving and monsoon seasons — our boat trip, diving and fishing guides (sources in each; Delight Diving’s season from its own page). Surf season — from the schools’ pages in our surfing guide. The islands, Ba Ho, Yang Bay and Bai Dai — “How to get there” pages, checked on 18 October 2026. Weather averages — Nha Trang weather station (QCVN 02:2022/BXD). The tips are ours. Updated 22.10.2026.