Going to Phuket in May can be quite affordable. While many European countries are just starting their holiday season, the islands of Thailand are already ending it, and the rainy season is approaching, which reduces the cost of tour packages to a minimum.
The weather in Phuket in May is as moody as a spoiled lady. One moment it joyfully gives tourists sunshine and warmth, and the next, it can suddenly burst into a short tropical downpour. All of this is accompanied by high humidity.
Humidity in May reaches 85%, as the number of rainy days increases to 18-20 per month. At the same time, the air temperature feels a few degrees higher than it actually is. If the thermometer usually does not rise above 32 degrees at the end of spring, then with humidity, it feels like all 35 degrees.
And the main feature of Thai weather this time of year is the rain. No, these are not just showers; these are downpours that literally come down like a wall. They start suddenly, usually last no more than half an hour, but if you get caught in the rain in the middle of the street, one minute will be enough to get soaked from head to toe.
Of course, you can carry an umbrella everywhere, but it is unlikely to protect you from torrents of water from the sky. It is better to buy a raincoat and waterproof cases for phones and other devices, just like the local Thais do. Your clothes will dry quickly, but gadgets might have problems.
The weather conditions in late spring make Phuket beaches in May less suitable for families with children. The reason is not even the tropical showers, as they usually happen at night and are mostly short-lived. The main issue is the monsoons, which bring waves to the western coast of the island. But if you enjoy surfing on waves, you will definitely love it.
You can try traveling around the island in search of calmer waters. It will definitely not be Kata and Karon beaches, which by mid-month show their displeasure and scare away cautious tourists. But you can still enjoy swimming in the Andaman Sea near Cape Panwa. There are no dangerous currents, high waves, and it is usually completely calm.
Red flags on the island’s beaches should not be ignored, even if the water surface looks deceptively calm. Safe swimming areas are marked with red-yellow flags. These are the places without rip currents, where you can swim under supervision.
Some people are put off by the waves, while others, on the contrary, are attracted to them. Tourists who enjoy windsurfing and kitesurfing try to book a trip to Phuket in May, eagerly waiting for the wave season with white crests over 3 meters and strong winds. More and more athletes arrive on the island by the end of the month when the waves get higher and the wind stronger.
The cost of a tour to Thailand in late spring pleasantly surprises everyone who wants to save money. Package tours are really affordable, which attracts budget tourists who have always dreamed of visiting this amazing tropical island.
However, it is important to understand that arriving in Phuket, you should not expect low prices in May in the stores. Tourists are always here, despite the changeable weather. Along with passive beachgoers, surfers and budget travelers join in, so market and store vendors are in no rush to lower prices. Discounts and promotions can be found in some shopping centers, and the season of cheap mangoes and rambutans also begins.
A vacation in Thailand is attractive not only because of the opportunity to relax on white sandy beaches by the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. There are so many beautiful places on Phuket Island that everyone who appreciates beauty must visit. Thanks to the tropical rains, nature in May comes to life, gets saturated with moisture, and takes on lush colors, making excursions even more fascinating.
At this time of year, nature reserve tours are very popular. Such trips have an element of adventure, as rain can start at any moment, but does that scare seasoned travelers, especially with good discounts on tours during this season?
Similan and Surin Islands are located on the west side of Phuket and are closed from May 15 to November 15 due to high waves.
Thanks to the rains, not only does nature bloom, but rivers and lakes also fill up. It’s the perfect time for rafting. You can also still admire the beautiful fish in the sea near the shores of Racha Island or Phi Phi. On the eastern side of Phuket, the sea is relatively calm and smooth, making it possible to visit nearby islands like James Bond Islands.
Rainy and windy May is no reason to cancel celebrations. There is always time for fun in Thailand, and nothing can stop it, not even the capricious tropical weather!
At the end of spring, Phuket celebrates three major holidays:
- Coronation Day in honor of the reigning king is marked with joyful festivities, concerts, and celebrations.
- The Buddhist holiday Visakha Bucha is observed with prayers and rituals, and in the evening, everyone is invited to witness a grand celebratory procession. It is truly beautiful!
- Rocket Festival – noisy and fun, as the Thais launch fireworks, shoot rockets, and set off firecrackers. This is done to attract rain, which already falls quite frequently.
A trip to Thailand in May is a perfect gift for travel lovers. The time of year doesn’t matter if your soul craves new experiences and unforgettable emotions. Short rain showers and waves don’t spoil the holiday, and sometimes even add a dose of adrenaline and unforgettable memories.
