How do you imagine the coldest month of the year? Most likely, snowy and frosty. On many islands in Thailand, a severe cold means +20°C because the thermometer rarely drops below this mark. And the most uncomfortable month on Phuket is considered to be September. It is the peak of the rainy season and cooler weather. But even the whims of the weather won’t spoil the vacation for positively minded tourists.
September is considered the rainiest month on Phuket. The weather forecast is filled with cloud and rain icons, and it’s true – downpours happen often. But in most cases, they begin closer to the evening – that’s just how it works in this tropical paradise; even bad weather doesn’t try to stop the daytime hustle and bustle.
Daytime temperatures in this season do not drop below 30°C, at night they can go down to 26°C or lower, but even such “cold” does not bring relief due to high humidity, provoked by heavy rainfall and constant heat.
The weather in Phuket in September will not be pleasing to those who love bright sunny days. The sky is mostly covered with clouds, even if it is not raining. Walking is comfortable, but due to the lack of direct sunlight, many let their guard down and stop using sunscreen. This is a mistake because even through gray clouds, the sun emits ultraviolet rays that can cause burns. The September sun in Thailand is just as dangerous as in any other season!
If the weather is not great, you might think a beach vacation is impossible. But that’s debatable because you won’t be able to swim in the calm waters of the Andaman Sea, but it’s the perfect time for surfing!
Phuket’s beaches in September are still open, but the crowd changes significantly. Instead of traditional sunbathers, active surfers and kite surfers arrive, surf instructors set up, and rental stations fill up with wave-riding equipment. So, if you happen to be on the island during this time and the high waves won’t let you swim, grab a surfboard and ride them! Don’t know how? This is the perfect chance to take a lesson with a professional and learn this exciting sport.
There is also room for families with children or those who prefer a relaxed vacation. For a peaceful stay, tourists go to beaches like:
- Panwa
- Tri Trang
- Ao Yon
- Laem Ka
- Nai Yang
These beaches are shallow, even strong winds cannot create huge waves. The sea is calmer, and the beaches are clean and white – an amazing place to relax!
Skeptics reading about the weather conditions in September on this picturesque Thai island might wrinkle their noses. Yes, the weather is not the best, and the sea is not very welcoming. But who cares about that when the cost of vacation packages drops so sharply? Phuket offers such low prices in September that everything else seems insignificant. After all, the sea is still blue, the beaches are white, the locals are still friendly, and the occasional rain will go unnoticed with a basket of juicy tropical fruits.
Discounts, promotions, sales, and “happy hours” are everywhere. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in fresh fruits, and spend your evenings in local cafes (Thai cuisine is worth trying).
The monsoon season in Phuket is not a reason to cancel excursions. Locals happily offer tourists many sightseeing trips and journeys to nearby islands, except for Similan and Rok Ha (closed until October 15 due to dangerous high waves).
Some of the best excursions include:
- Rafting on the river - at this time of year, the rivers are full, making the adventure extreme and unforgettable
- Sightseeing tour showcasing stunning viewpoints, temples, and the island’s breathtaking nature
You can also explore the island on your own by renting a car. The nature is vibrant, museums are open, and temples welcome visitors. In the evening, be sure to visit Phuket’s markets to buy delicious exotic fruits. Tourists can brighten a rainy evening by attending one of the famous Thai shows.
A vacation in Thailand is often associated with festivals – the locals love celebrations and organize interesting events every month. In September, the island eagerly awaits sweet tooth enthusiasts as it hosts the Mooncake Festival. Bakeries, markets, and stores are filled with fragrant mooncakes, whose aroma makes it impossible to resist a bite. At Swensen’s cafes, guests can even try ice cream mooncakes.
Another unique event is the Vegetarian Festival, held at the end of September and early October. No, it’s not about promoting a healthy lifestyle or giving up meat. Tourists rarely eat meat here anyway, as they indulge in seafood and fruit desserts. The festival is dedicated to spiritual practices and mystical self-mortification, where people in a trance pierce their bodies with various objects. The event is quite intense, and not everyone may find it enjoyable. Travelers with children or those who are faint-hearted may prefer to skip it and instead spend a pleasant evening in a café with a bowl of Tom Yum soup.
A trip to Phuket in September is an opportunity that not everyone will appreciate. The main advantage is that vacation packages during this time are incredibly cheap compared to the high season. But if this is the only time you can take a vacation and you’ve been dreaming of visiting Thailand – go for it! Phuket loves bold and positive travelers, and it will reveal its best side even in rainy weather.
