Tropical monsoon weather prevails in Phuket. Although it is always warm, April to May and September to October are the warmest months. Due to the south-west monsoon, the months of September through October are also the wettest.
The best months to visit Phuket are November through April, when the weather is perfect for beach activities like swimming and boating. The monsoon season lasts from May to October, and while lodging costs are significantly lower during this time, the water quality can be hazardous.
Best Time to Visit Phuket
With its tropical climate, Phuket generally experiences three seasons: warm, cool, and rainy. It never really gets that cold.
The best time to visit Phuket is between November and February because it is the coolest season during that time. Given that the monsoon season is over, the temperature at this time ranges from a more comfortable 23°C to 30°C and is drier. It’s a great time to unwind on the beach and take part in some water sports.
On the other hand, the summer season, which lasts from mid-March to mid-May, can be very hot and is therefore not the ideal time to visit the city. This is especially true if you want to travel or visit the beach.
If you’re willing to put up with some rain, Phuket’s monsoon season, which lasts from May to October, is also a good time to visit. It doesn’t happen often, making travel on the island quite bearable, that the island experiences continuous, heavy rainfall. The attraction is enhanced by lower prices and fewer crowds.
What is Spring Like in Phuket?
The low season continues into September and October because monsoons can sweep through the area. Surfing competitions are frequently held at Kata Beach around the middle of September, undeterred. The peak travel period in Phuket resumes in November. Wear appropriate clothing, including rain boots and jackets. Remember to bring hats and sunscreen, as September and October are frequently the hottest months.
What is Summer Like in Phuket?
The Phuket high season runs from November to February, coinciding with the Australian summer. These tropical islands feel a little less humid because of the cool breezes that blow through them. A few showers of rain might fall while you’re there, though monsoons are unlikely to occur during this time. Swimsuits on the beach; a shirt and shorts while exploring the city. Don’t forget that an umbrella can be used for both rain and sun protection.
What is Autumn Like in Phuket?
The islands slow down from March to May as Phuket warms up to highs of 34°C. While the sea is calmer and before the thunderous, rainy season arrives, you can still go snorkeling until April by making your trip now. When visiting temples, it is best to wear loose-fitting, conservative clothing. Remember to stay hydrated by purchasing cold bottled water from convenience stores.
What is Winter Like in Phuket?
The off-season in Phuket begins in June and lasts until about October. The seas are a little rougher and the beaches will be less crowded at this time. Keep out of the water when red flags are flying, just like in Australia. Carry a lightweight jacket with you so you can layer up if you suddenly start to rain. Remember to use waterproof cases for your electronics.
Hottest Time in Phuket
The hottest Phuket weather is from April through May, with temperatures ranging from 27°(80°F to 95°F) between C and 36°C. Since there is a lot of humidity right now, the days may feel even hotter. The heat is occasionally slightly reduced by brief, thunderous showers. Additionally, you might get doused in cold water during the mid-April Thai New Year festival of Songkran.
June, July, and August are popular tourist months for locals. In general, Phuket experiences nice weather, and the island’s top attractions are still relatively empty. The usual pattern is for short but intense downpours, with plenty of sunshine in between. During this time, temperatures typically range between 20°C and 33°C (70°F and 90°F).
Low Season in Phuket
The weather in Phuket is usually at its worst in September and early-October. The heaviest rains and roughest seas occur during these months. Nevertheless, this makes it the ideal time for surfers to travel there. The roads, attractions, restaurants, and beaches are all fairly quiet. You can typically anticipate lengthy sunny periods in between the showers even at this time of year.
Dry Season in Phuket (November to February)
- Phuket’s high season, which lasts from November to February, features some of the year’s best weather. The weather is most comfortable right now.
- The wettest month of the year is December, and February sees the lowest levels of humidity.
- With 7–9 hours of sunlight each day, you can engage in more activities.
- Since December and January have the best weather of all, this is the busiest time of year in Phuket.
- The week surrounding Christmas and New Year’s is the most expensive, so be sure to reserve your hotel well in advance during that time.
What to Do
This time of year is ideal for swimming, as well as for diving and other ocean sports, as the sea is calm and warm. >>>The Top 10 Places to Scuba Dive or Snorkel in Thailand
There are always plenty of alternatives if you would rather not engage in sports and would rather relax on the beach, take a cooking class, or receive a spa treatment. A sand sculpting festival is held on Karon Beach in December, so you could participate in that as well.
You could explore and take in the Patong Carnival and Seafood Festival in addition to engaging in sports or unwinding on the beach. One of the most popular holidays in Phuket is this annual week-long festival in December.
Increasing Crowds
As Christmas and New Year’s Eve approach, crowds gradually start to build up starting in December, though they remain lower than during the upcoming peak months. The high season’s height occurs in January.
Just after the rainy season and before the busy tourist season, the month of November is a good time to take advantage of nice weather and fewer people.
During the busy season, it is advised to stay at the less crowded beaches of Bang Tao, Karon, and Kata.
Rainy Season in Phuket (May to October)
- The wettest months (August, September, and October) have afternoon downpours that last for about an hour and a half.
- The majority of downpours occur in May, June, July, and October, typically lasting 30 minutes or less.
- The rest of the day is mainly cloudless after a brief shower. Rain will not significantly affect your trip.
- Rain has benefits because it lowers the temperature and makes beaches more peaceful and prices more affordable during the rainy season.
- During the rainy season, it won’t rain constantly. Even the rainy days are mostly dry even though they are cloudy, and it is still possible to have some calm, sunny days.
What to Do
The monsoon winds cause the sea to be choppy and wave-like. Scuba diving is not recommended during this season. However, it’s a great time of year for surfing! Surfing requires a wave that has been whipped up by the wind. However, you should avoid surfing during bad weather. The top surfing beaches are Naiharn, Kata, Patong, Kalim, Kamala, Surin, and Naiyang.
In May or June, you might have the opportunity to participate in Visakha Bucha, a day dedicated to commemorating the Buddha’s conception, enlightenment, and demise. At dusk, you’ll see worshippers forming candle-lit processions inside the temples. Participation by guests is warmly encouraged.
During this time, there are also large sales that begin in mid-June and spread across the nation. It’s the perfect time for consumers to benefit from fantastic discounts on a variety of goods and services.
Hot Season in Phuket (March to April)
Even though the dry season officially ends in March, the days are typically still sunny and clear, and the moderate level of rainfall doesn’t arrive until April.
Phuket experiences its warmest weather in April. It might be extremely hot. The monsoon gradually starts to affect April, and humidity levels rise.
Swimming and diving are still enjoyable water sports at this time.
From April 13 to 15, you can celebrate the Thai New Year (also known as the Songkran Festival) and enjoy getting splashed with water.
FAQs
Is August a Good Time to Visit Phuket
The average humidity in August is about 85%, and there will be about 19 rainy days. In general, August is an ideal time to visit Phuket, as the temperature is comfortable and the rainfall is not too much. August’s rains won’t last very long and will probably start in the morning.
When is the Worst Time to Visit Phuket
The worst time to visit Phuket is from June to October. This is when the monsoon season blows and reaches its height.
What Should I Pack for Phuket?
December to March is the best time to visit Phuket when the sky is clear and the sea quiet and blue. The peak season lasts from November to April. The sea is calm and turquoise blue, and the sky is clear, with a tropical island climate. The island gets quite busy during those times, and hotel rates go up.
