Knowing the best time to visit Phuket can elevate your holiday experience on the island. Phuket lays close to the equator meaning that there isn’t much difference in the weather here barring the amount of rainfall every month, however, the months between December to March are regarded as the most suitable time for a vacation with January being the best month to visit Phuket.
Steal Deal: Simon Cabaret Show, Phuket (Flat 33% Off).
There are three seasons in Phuket – the high season that comprises the month of December till March and sees mostly sunny days with very little rainfall, the shoulder season comprising the months of April, May, August, November with considerably higher precipitation, and the low season comprising June, July, September, and October that sees heavy downpour and thunderstorms.
Best Deal: Phuket Dolphin Show Ticket With Transfers (Flat 25% Off).
That being said, the high season is considered as the best season to visit Phuket when the skies are clear and the sea condition is perfect for swimming, diving, and other such activities. This is also the best time of the year to visit Phuket irrespective of what’s on your list of to-do.
Steal Deal: Simon Cabaret Show, Phuket (Flat 33% Off).
There are three seasons in Phuket – the high season that comprises the month of December till March and sees mostly sunny days with very little rainfall, the shoulder season comprising the months of April, May, August, November with considerably higher precipitation, and the low season comprising June, July, September, and October that sees heavy downpour and thunderstorms.
Best Deal: Phuket Dolphin Show Ticket With Transfers (Flat 25% Off).
That being said, the high season is considered as the best season to visit Phuket when the skies are clear and the sea condition is perfect for swimming, diving, and other such activities. This is also the best time of the year to visit Phuket irrespective of what’s on your list of to-do.
Best Time to Visit Phuket
Best time to visit Phuket for Sightseeing
The months between December and March are regarded as the best time to visit Phuket if sightseeing is on your mind. These months are also considered the driest months of the year and see the maximum number of tourists on the island. With the wet season gone and Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year, as well as Lantern festival holidays coming up, tourists love their time exploring the island during these months.
Expect the entire island to be drunk on an exhilarating party environment with brilliant nightlife all around. December is also considered as the best time to go diving around the various hotspots on the island. March is the last month before the shoulder season begins and is a good time to enjoy walking around the old town and explore the many hidden beaches on the island.
Best time to visit Phuket for Honeymoon
Enjoying your dream honeymoon vacation with your beloved on the dreamy island of Phuket with majestic mountains, surreal caves, and glistening seas is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. And, to ensure that you have the time of your life, it is best if you plan it between the months of December to April. By all means, some travellers consider January to be the best month to visit Phuket as the entire island is lit up and celebrating the New Year with full pomp and show.
Also, due to the high season, all tourist businesses are operating in complete order with various holiday and sightseeing packages. This is also a great time for you and your partner to add some adventure to your honeymoon trip by taking a diving or snorkelling tour or just enjoying a swim and lying by the beach.
Best time to visit Phuket for Enjoying Beaches
Phuket beaches are spectacular throughout the year, but some of these may be inaccessible during the wet months. To fully enjoy the beaches of this paradisiacal island, it is best to visit between December and March. These months are usually dry with only a handful of rain shower days.
The humidity is at its lowest and waters are perfect for swimming, diving, taking boat tours, and other such water activities. This is also the time when you get the maximum sunshine, stunning blue skies, and lots of activities to choose from.
Best Season to Visit Phuket
High Season (December through March)
Phuket sees its peak during the months of November till March. Though the tourist season starts in November, it isn’t until December when Phuket starts getting swarmed by travellers from all around the world. These few months are also the driest time of the year on the island with plenty of sunshine, quieter seas, and picturesque blue skies. Due to the rise in tourist footfall during these months, the prices for everything on the island is high.
The high season is also considered the best time of the year to visit Phuket due to the overall party vibe throughout the island. With Christmas and New Year holidays on the cards, the nightlife on the island is on full throttle. It is good to note that January is also the costliest month on the island for hotels, airfares, as well as shopping.
Shoulder Season (April through May, August, November)
Thailand celebrates one of its biggest festivals, Songkran, in April. This is also when the shoulder season kicks in. The shoulder season encompasses the months of April, May, August, and November. The density of tourists is comparatively lower during these months as the island prepares to welcome the rainy season.
Though the rainfall heightens with days passing by, the island still sees considerably good weather until the mid of May, with some days of good sunshine. The beginning of November is when the rain starts slowing down and the tourist season starts to pick up the pace.
Low Season (June, July, September, October)
The low season consists of June, July, September, and October and is the time when the island receives heavy rainfall, combined with sporadic thunderstorms. This is the best season to visit Phuket if you are on a budget and would love to have the island almost all by yourself. A good thing about traveling to Phuket during the time is the extremely low costs of everything and friendlier service.
Though the beaches aren’t swimmable and it is not an ideal time for diving, you still get a fair share of warm days and sunshine. The weather during these months on the island is pretty much the same as it is in August, except that August sees a lot of European tourists in Phuket.
Best Time to Visit Phuket By Month
January
January is by far considered the best month to visit Phuket. The temperature in January ranges from 33?C to 24?C with approximately five or six days of rainfall. The average maximum temperature during the day reached 33?C while the average precipitation level stays at only 35 mm.
With extremely pleasant weather, tourists on the island invariably enjoy bright, sunny days with clear skies and warmer and calmer seas. January is the most ideal time for swimming, snorkelling, diving, and boat tours.
Temperature Range - High 33?C, Low 24?C
Average Maximum Temperature - 33?C
Average Precipitation - 35 mm
February
With the lowest recorded rainfall in the year, February also falls into the peak season category. Though less busier than January, the tourist crowd is still at its prime during the month. The average temperature on the island in February is recorded to be 28?C with the average maximum temperature at 34? and the average precipitation level at 30 mm.
February is considered to be the driest month with only four days of rainfall. The beaches during this time of the year are more crowded, but it’s a great time to enjoy swimming in the calm waters of Phuket and also enjoy sunbathing.
Temperature Range - High 34?C, Low 25?C
Average Maximum Temperature - 34?C
Average Precipitation - 30 mmMarch
Though the hottest time of the year, March is the last month to enjoy Phuket at its peak. If you have missed the fun and frolic of the island in January and February, this is perhaps your last chance to enjoy the best season to visit Phuket. The skies remain clear and bright blue throughout the month with an average temperature of 29?. Expect 40 mm of average precipitation with rainfall over six to eight days.
The average maximum temperature during the month rises to 34?C. The latter half of the month can get unbearably hotter meaning it is best to stay inside your AC hotel room during the day, except in the morning and post sunset. This is a good time to indulge in swimming and snorkelling to keep yourself cool.
Temperature Range - High 34?C, Low 25?C
Average Maximum Temperature - 34?C
Average Precipitation - 40 mm
The month of April falls under the shoulder season implying that the weather on the island is fairly hotter and wetter. The heat starts to swell and the precipitation level starts increasing to a whopping 150 mm with rainfall over almost half of the month. The average temperature stays at 29?C with the average maximum temperature rising up to 34?C. Though April sees the onset of rainfall, it doesn’t rain throughout the day and doesn’t stay for too long at once.
If you don’t mind the heat and the rain and love participating in experiencing cultural activities on your travels, April is perhaps the best time of the year to visit Phuket as the entire nation gears up to celebrate Songkran, also known as Thai New Year.
Temperature Range - High 34?C, Low 26?C
April
The month of April falls under the shoulder season implying that the weather on the island is fairly hotter and wetter. The heat starts to swell and the precipitation level starts increasing to a whopping 150 mm with rainfall over almost half of the month. The average temperature stays at 29?C with the average maximum temperature rising up to 34?C. Though April sees the onset of rainfall, it doesn’t rain throughout the day and doesn’t stay for too long at once.
If you don’t mind the heat and the rain and love participating in experiencing cultural activities on your travels, April is perhaps the best time of the year to visit Phuket as the entire nation gears up to celebrate Songkran, also known as Thai New Year.
Temperature Range - High 34?C, Low 26?C
Average Maximum Temperature - 34?C
Average Precipitation - 150 mm
The month of May is very similar to that of April, except that the amount of rainfall increases more than double to a precipitation level of 350 mm. The rains occupy over more than half of the month, meaning that you can expect a higher level of humidity. Phuket is at the highest peak of rainfall during May which makes it a less popular time of the year among tourists.
The average temperature during the month is recorded at 29?C with the average highest temperature rising up to 33?C. Though swimming, diving, and snorkelling remain out of bounds due to rough seas, this is the best time to visit Phuket for surfers as surfing season officially starts on the island in May.
Temperature Range - High 33?C, Low 25?C
May
The month of May is very similar to that of April, except that the amount of rainfall increases more than double to a precipitation level of 350 mm. The rains occupy over more than half of the month, meaning that you can expect a higher level of humidity. Phuket is at the highest peak of rainfall during May which makes it a less popular time of the year among tourists.
The average temperature during the month is recorded at 29?C with the average highest temperature rising up to 33?C. Though swimming, diving, and snorkelling remain out of bounds due to rough seas, this is the best time to visit Phuket for surfers as surfing season officially starts on the island in May.
Temperature Range - High 33?C, Low 25?C
Average Maximum Temperature - 33?C
Average Precipitation - 350 mm
June is considered among the low season months of the year in Phuket with the average temperature almost the same as May at 29?C and the average maximum temperature rising to 32?C. The precipitation level stays at 240 mm with about 19 days of rainfall and rougher sea conditions.
Interestingly, despite the weather conditions, June is considered as the best month to visit Phuket during the low season, with rains pouring mostly towards the end of the month and during evenings, leaving the day to explore the island in its natural canvas. Surfers really enjoy the weather in Phuket at this time of the year, although the same may not be true for swimmers and divers.
Temperature Range - High 32?C, Low 25?C
June
June is considered among the low season months of the year in Phuket with the average temperature almost the same as May at 29?C and the average maximum temperature rising to 32?C. The precipitation level stays at 240 mm with about 19 days of rainfall and rougher sea conditions.
Interestingly, despite the weather conditions, June is considered as the best month to visit Phuket during the low season, with rains pouring mostly towards the end of the month and during evenings, leaving the day to explore the island in its natural canvas. Surfers really enjoy the weather in Phuket at this time of the year, although the same may not be true for swimmers and divers.
Temperature Range - High 32?C, Low 25?C
Average Maximum Temperature - 32?C
Average Precipitation - 240 mm
Much like June, July is also considered a low month on the island meaning that the tourist inflow is very low and the days are usually hot and humid. Phuket sees about 300 mm of average precipitation with rainfall over 18-19 days. The monsoon season is on a flow even though it’s not at its peak.
If you are a budget traveller and/or a pro surfer, July is the best time to visit Phuket as hotels, airfares, and shopping are at its lowest and the island’s west coast is extremely rough making it apt for bodysurfing and surfing. The average temperature during the month is 28?C with an average maximum temperature rising to 32?C.
Temperature Range - High 32?C, Low 25?C
July
Much like June, July is also considered a low month on the island meaning that the tourist inflow is very low and the days are usually hot and humid. Phuket sees about 300 mm of average precipitation with rainfall over 18-19 days. The monsoon season is on a flow even though it’s not at its peak.
If you are a budget traveller and/or a pro surfer, July is the best time to visit Phuket as hotels, airfares, and shopping are at its lowest and the island’s west coast is extremely rough making it apt for bodysurfing and surfing. The average temperature during the month is 28?C with an average maximum temperature rising to 32?C.
Temperature Range - High 32?C, Low 25?C
Average Maximum Temperature - 32?C
Average Precipitation - 300 mm
Considered as a shoulder season month, August marks the official time just before the rain hits the island of Phuket in all its glory. With low costs around, less tourists, and sunny skies every now and then in between rains, many travellers consider August as a good time to visit the island.
The average temperature stays at 28?C with average maximum temperature during the day rising up to 32?C and average minimum temperature during the night not falling below 25?C. August sees about 19 days of rainfall with an average precipitation of 260mm.
Temperature Range - High 32?C, Low 25?C
August
Considered as a shoulder season month, August marks the official time just before the rain hits the island of Phuket in all its glory. With low costs around, less tourists, and sunny skies every now and then in between rains, many travellers consider August as a good time to visit the island.
The average temperature stays at 28?C with average maximum temperature during the day rising up to 32?C and average minimum temperature during the night not falling below 25?C. August sees about 19 days of rainfall with an average precipitation of 260mm.
Temperature Range - High 32?C, Low 25?C
Average Maximum Temperature - 32?C
Average Precipitation - 260 mm
September is regarded as the wettest month of the year with average precipitation level rising over 400 mm with rainfall over 21 days and humidity soaring up to 85 to 90%. Also considered the coldest month in Phuket, September sees very few tourists and the beaches are mostly empty due to rough waves and treacherous water conditions.
The average temperature during the month stays at 27?C with the average temperature being recorded as 31?C. Rain occurs in short, periodic intervals, and sunshine is expected in between. Greater winds make beaches imperfect for swimming and diving. On the brighter side, you can expect to find luxury resorts and hotels at rock bottom prices.
Temperature Range - High 31?C, Low 24?C
September
September is regarded as the wettest month of the year with average precipitation level rising over 400 mm with rainfall over 21 days and humidity soaring up to 85 to 90%. Also considered the coldest month in Phuket, September sees very few tourists and the beaches are mostly empty due to rough waves and treacherous water conditions.
The average temperature during the month stays at 27?C with the average temperature being recorded as 31?C. Rain occurs in short, periodic intervals, and sunshine is expected in between. Greater winds make beaches imperfect for swimming and diving. On the brighter side, you can expect to find luxury resorts and hotels at rock bottom prices.
Temperature Range - High 31?C, Low 24?C
Average Maximum Temperature - 31?C
Average Precipitation - 410 mm
October usually marks the end of the low and wet season. Though there is still a considerable amount of rainfall during the month, the downpour starts to retreat towards the end of October. The precipitation level falls substantially to 280 mm with rainfall over 23 days. Heavy downpours are still expected but not without sunshine every now and then.
The average temperature of Phuket in October has been recorded at 28?C with an average maximum temperature rising up to 32?C. Most beaches remain shut for swimming and surfing due to unstable weather conditions but the humid days and the end of rainfall marks the perfect time to try fishing.
Temperature Range - High 32?C, Low 24?C
October
October usually marks the end of the low and wet season. Though there is still a considerable amount of rainfall during the month, the downpour starts to retreat towards the end of October. The precipitation level falls substantially to 280 mm with rainfall over 23 days. Heavy downpours are still expected but not without sunshine every now and then.
The average temperature of Phuket in October has been recorded at 28?C with an average maximum temperature rising up to 32?C. Most beaches remain shut for swimming and surfing due to unstable weather conditions but the humid days and the end of rainfall marks the perfect time to try fishing.
Temperature Range - High 32?C, Low 24?C
Average Maximum Temperature - 32?C
Average Precipitation - 280 mm
Though the precipitation level falls to an average of 200 mm with rain showers over 16 days of the month, November is considered as the gateway to the high and dry season in Phuket. Short but heavy downpours can be expected once in a while, but they seem to subside by the end of the month. The seas are noticeably calmer during the month and the climate is less humid.
The average temperature during the month stays at 27?C with the average maximum temperature rising up to 32?C during the day. Diving and snorkelling possibilities start popping up around the island again. With the high season knocking and prices still considerably low, some may consider November to the best time to visit Phuket.
Temperature Range - High 32?C, Low 25?C
November
Though the precipitation level falls to an average of 200 mm with rain showers over 16 days of the month, November is considered as the gateway to the high and dry season in Phuket. Short but heavy downpours can be expected once in a while, but they seem to subside by the end of the month. The seas are noticeably calmer during the month and the climate is less humid.
The average temperature during the month stays at 27?C with the average maximum temperature rising up to 32?C during the day. Diving and snorkelling possibilities start popping up around the island again. With the high season knocking and prices still considerably low, some may consider November to the best time to visit Phuket.
Temperature Range - High 32?C, Low 25?C
Average Maximum Temperature - 32?C
Average Precipitation - 200 mm
Officially the beginning of the high season in Phuket, December sees very less rainfall and usual warm and sunny days with calmer seas and perfect touristy conditions. The precipitation level droops down to just 50 mm with light showers spread over eight to ten days. As a result, the humidity level also sees a dramatic change by falling down to 68%.
The average maximum temperature during the day is recorded to be 32?C while the night time average temperature doesn’t go above 24?C maintaining an average temperature of 27?C throughout the month. Travelers can start enjoying a swim in the shimmering waters of Phuket again.
Temperature Range - High 32?C, Low 24?C
December
Officially the beginning of the high season in Phuket, December sees very less rainfall and usual warm and sunny days with calmer seas and perfect touristy conditions. The precipitation level droops down to just 50 mm with light showers spread over eight to ten days. As a result, the humidity level also sees a dramatic change by falling down to 68%.
The average maximum temperature during the day is recorded to be 32?C while the night time average temperature doesn’t go above 24?C maintaining an average temperature of 27?C throughout the month. Travelers can start enjoying a swim in the shimmering waters of Phuket again.
Temperature Range - High 32?C, Low 24?C
Average Maximum Temperature - 32?C
Average Precipitation - 50 mmBest time to visit Phuket for Events and Festivals
New Year’s Day
January 1st is celebrated as the fresh start to a fresh year all around the world, including Thailand, the ‘land of smiles’. It is observed as a public holiday across the country. As residents and visitors gear up to welcome the New Year with festivities, feasts, and among family and friends, the island of Phuket dresses up in bright colours.
Phuket International Boat Show
Held every year in January, the Phuket International Boat Show is considered as one of the most intriguing celebrations of its kind. Expect to encounter some of the most fabulous collections of globally renowned yachts, marine equipment, watercrafts, diving and sailing charter boats from multiple prominent shipyards worldwide.
Also known as PIMEX (Phuket International Marine Expo), the four-day event is the most popular event of its kind in Asia.
Phuket Old Town Festival
Celebrated in the month of February, Phuket Old Town Festival is held in the heart of the Old Town in Phuket to promote development and conservation of the historic center of Phuket.
During the festival, all the streets along the Old town, including Thalang, Phang Nga, and Krabi turn into walking streets with a myriad of cultural shows and parades, free boat rides, and food stalls.
Lantern Festival
Not to be confused with Yi Peng Festival that is celebrated across the country in November, Phuket Lantern Festival was started in 2016 and is held annually in the month of February. Celebrated alongside Chinese New Year, the festival is aimed at raising awareness towards Phuket’s culture and heritage and welcoming tourists to explore the traditional aspects of the island.
Thao Thepkasattri -Thao Sri Suntorn Festival
Mostly celebrated during the former half of March, Thao Thepkasattri -Thao Sri Suntorn Festival is a two-week-long event often considered as one of the most revered festivals in Phuket.
The festival is held to commemorate a glorious victory brought on by Phuket’s ‘two heroines’ against the Burmese army. Bicycle racing, mini-marathons, tug o’ war, and a Buddhist consecration ceremony are some of the activities to be experienced during the festivities.
National Thai Elephant Day
The majestic elephant is worshipped as a highly respectful symbol according to Thai culture. And, to honour the stature of these highly intelligent and highly revered creatures, Thailand celebrate March 13th as the National Thai Elephant Day.
To make it even more special, most elephant parks and zoos in Phuket and the rest of the country treat their resident elephants to a lavish spread of fruits and sugar canes. Some places also organize Buddhist ceremonies to bring luck and prosperity to elephants and their mahouts.
Halloween
Celebrated on October 31st, Halloween is a very popular celebration in Phuket though the same cannot be said about the rest of the country. Due to the density of expats and tourists on the island, several tourist businesses across the island organizes Halloween-themed parties, costume contests, and more.
Christmas Day
Although a Christmas Tradition, Christmas is celebrated in Phuket on December 25th following the Christmas eve celebrations a day prior. The white, sandy beaches of Phuket turn into party hotspots with nightlife buzzing all around the island.
Live entertainment, beach barbecues, extravagant fireworks, and gala dinners are at its peak during the time. Go to Sanam Chai for a colourful countdown or Patong beach for the largest free celebration.
