If you start dreaming about white sandy beaches and dazzling turquoise sea – it's time for a vacation! Even in the middle of your "home" winter or unusual summer. A trip to Phuket is always in season! The only difference in weather is the amount of rainfall, which not every tourist enjoys.
Not the most pleasant time for a tourist getaway to Thailand’s largest island is from June to October. Short tropical showers during the day, high air temperatures, and strong winds – all these factors together may spoil the vacation. But if you are not afraid of the rainy season in Phuket, traveling during this period can be incredibly budget-friendly.
Those visiting Phuket during the summer months will experience the highest rainfall. Around 19-22 out of 30-31 days tend to be rainy. However, there is no need to fear rain, as it usually falls in the evenings and lasts no more than 30 minutes. Rarely does it rain all day long.
Despite the rain, temperatures in the low season in Phuket remain at 26-30°C, and the sea can sometimes reach over 29°C.
And the best part is that after such a tough rainy season, a period of calm, luxurious beaches, a peaceful sea, and ultimate Thai relaxation arrives.
The high season is the most comfortable time to visit Phuket. From December to May, tourists from all over the world start flocking to Thailand. They willingly pay premium rates (30-40% higher than during the low season) just to experience the famous Thai beach holiday.
During this period, air and water temperatures remain steady at 28-33°C. The sea is at its calmest and clearest during the winter months.
The weather in Phuket is unpredictable in any season. You can visit the island during the so-called "transition" periods when air and water temperatures, wind conditions, and rainfall together create ideal conditions for a beach vacation.
Only in Phuket can you witness the true variability of nature. Before heading to this paradise island, try to assess the weather conditions for each month and choose the one that suits your preferred vacation style.
Water and air temperatures are nearly the same – 26-28°C. In rare cases, evening temperatures drop to 22-24°C. January is the driest month of the year in Phuket, with only about 5 rainy days.
The sea in January is calm and clear. Beaches are clean but packed with tourists.
More about Phuket in January →
You won’t survive this month without sunscreen! The sun heats the air up to 28-30°C, while the sea stays at a steady 28°C. There are no more than 3-4 rainy days.
Calm sea, clear skies, and crystal-clear water – the main highlights of February.
More about Phuket in February →
No more than 5-8 rainy nights. So, the chance of encountering rain is minimal.
Temperatures reach 33-35°C. The sea becomes as warm as the air. Humidity increases significantly, making it harder to breathe, especially for those with respiratory conditions and young children.
Humidity levels rise, and rainy days increase to about 11 per month. Air temperatures reach 33-35°C, while the sea turns into a warm 30°C bath.
During the day, tourists seek refuge under air conditioning, and in the evening, they come out for walks. The temperature drops to a comfortable 25-26°C.
This is not yet the low season. But the second half of the month already clearly hints at increasing humidity. The number of rainy days reaches up to 16. The air and water temperature remains the same as in April. Mosquitoes begin to be more active. Bring repellents and clothing that fully covers your body.
The air temperature in the first summer month gradually decreases to around 30-32°C. The sun is scorching, winds begin to raise small waves, and rainfall increases up to 18 days per month.
Although the sea is not calm, swimming is still possible. The sky is often covered with clouds.
The peak of the rainy season in Phuket. Heavy rains (at night), high waves (sometimes reaching 2-3 meters). Rainy days – up to 19-20 per month. The temperature remains the same as in June.
July marks the beginning of Phuket’s active surfing season, which lasts until October. The best place for such extreme activities is the island’s west coast. The calmer beaches are concentrated on the east side of Phuket.
Vacation and flight prices have noticeably dropped by up to 50%. However, air temperature has decreased by just 1°C. The sun appears less frequently. Clouds or rainy skies are more common. This month is great for land excursions, surfing, and relaxing beach days on Phuket’s east coast.
The highest amount of rainfall occurs at the beginning of autumn. It’s best to avoid swimming on the western beaches. In addition to waves, strong underwater currents become more active.
Air temperature – 30°C, while the water lags slightly at 29°C.
Surfers continue their active season and even organize competitions on Kata Beach.
More about Phuket in September →
A preparatory month before the start of the high season. The second half of October is marked by drier and sunnier weather. Tourists gradually start gathering along the Andaman Sea coast.
Humidity is still high, air temperature – 30-31°C, and the sea remains at September’s level.
There are only 15-20 rainy days in the month, but vacation prices have not yet increased.
More about Phuket in October →
The unofficial beginning of the high season. Humidity has stabilized, and the island starts "drying up." Air and water temperatures remain the same as in October.
More about Phuket in November →
At the beginning of the month, Phuket is officially opened for tourists, street carnivals are held, and travelers from all over the world arrive. Humidity has settled down, and the air temperature has reached a pleasant 27°C. "Wet" days take up no more than two weeks of the entire month.
More about Phuket in December →
Ask yourself: why do you want to visit Phuket? Find your answer and your ideal season:
- For beach and ocean adventures or simple relaxation, the best months are December to March.
- Minimal tourists, maximum sunshine, and calm seas await you in November, April, and May.
- The best time to explore Phuket’s underwater world through diving is from November to April.
- If you love low prices, lush greenery, powerful waterfalls, surfing, and affordable tropical fruits, visit during the low season from June to September.
Choose according to your taste, budget, and mood. No matter the weather, a trip to Phuket will pleasantly surprise you.
