What is the Best Time to Visit Phuket?
Phuket, the beautiful, tropical destination located in the Andaman Sea off the coast of Thailand, is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a beach paradise. Although there’s no bad time to visit the island, some times of the year provide more favorable conditions for a perfect Phuket experience. In this guide, we’ll explain what the best time to visit Phuket is, featuring all necessary information about temperatures, seasonality and live weather data for each month of the year.
The Average Temperature of Phuket
The average temperature in Phuket is usually in the mid-80s Fahrenheit (30° Celcius). The coolest months of the year are December and January, when temperatures can drop to around 75° F (24° C). The warmest months are March through May, when temperatures typically hit the low 90s F (35° C). The typcal humidity of Phuket during most of the year tends to hover around 80%.
Phuket’s Weather: Seasonal Variations
Phuket experiences two weather seasons: the rainy or monsoon season, which runs from early May to mid-October; and the dry season, which runs from November to April. Of the two seasons, the dry season is typically the most popular time to visit. During the monsoon season, Phuket experiences heavy rains and strong winds. The rainstorms tend to be more intense during late August and early September. Even during the rainy season, though, there’s still plenty of sunshine to enjoy.
Month-by-Month Weather in Phuket
| Month | Temperature (F) | Typical Climate |
|---|---|---|
| January | 73º – 84ºF | Mild temperatures, low humidity. |
| February | 75º – 86ºF | Mild temperatures, low humidity. |
| March | 78º – 91ºF | Warm temperatures, moderate humidity. |
| April | 81º – 92ºF | High temperature, moderate humidity. |
| May | 83º – 93ºF | High temperature, moderate humidity. |
| June | 83º – 93ºF | High temperature, moderate humidity. |
| July | 82º – 91ºF | High temperature with occasional showers. |
| August | 82º – 90ºF | High temperature with occasional rainstorms. |
| September | 81º – 90ºF | High temperature with rainstorms. |
| October | 77º – 88ºF | Warmer temperatures with occasional rain. |
| November | 74º – 85ºF | Mild temperatures, low humidity.
Discovering Phuket: An Insider’s Guide to the Perfect Time to VisitIf you’re a tourist looking for an island escape, Thailand’s Phuket is probably already on your radar, thanks to the stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife and rich cultural heritage. However, you might be wondering the right time to visit and get the most out of your trip. Don’t fret, with this guide prepared by a local expert, you will discover the best time to visit Phuket, which will guarantee that you don’t miss out on anything. Overview of PhuketPhuket is the largest, surrounded by other small islands and located in the Andaman Sea. The city has significant historical and cultural significance, not to mention breathtaking natural landscapes, making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, iconic limestone cliffs, thrilling water sports activities, vibrant nightlife, and the vast array of culinary options available. Best time to visit PhuketThe best time to visit Phuket will depend on what you’re looking for, as the weather is different throughout the year. High Season (November – March)This is the most popular time for tourists to visit Phuket, due to the pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging between 23 to 30°C. As such, many activities such as snorkeling, diving, jet skiing, and island hopping are available during this time. While it’s best to book your accommodations ahead of time, it is a chance to experience the vibrancy of the city, as most nightspots and beach clubs are in full swing during this time, making it perfect for party-goers. Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October)The weather is starting to change during this time in Phuket, with the temperature ranging from 26-34°C. Although it’s not as crowded or as busy as the high season, you can still do plenty of fun activities, but at a lower price. Accommodation is still easier to find than in the high season, and you can expect to save money on the activities you do. Low Season (June-August)June to August during the monsoon season is considered the rainy season, but the rain often comes in short bursts, and the weather is still relatively warm. Attractions, activities, and accommodations, are at their lowest rates during this time – making it an excellent time to consider a budget-friendly trip to Phuket. Top Attractions1. Old Phuket TownOld Phuket Town is located in the city center and is an excellent representation of Phuket that was once a bustling trading hub. The streets are lined with colorful Sino-Portuguese shophouses, and pretty cafes and restaurants. You’ll also find a mix of specialty shops, art galleries that display local art, and antique shops. It’s the perfect setting for a leisurely walk in the afternoon. 2. Big BuddhaThe Big Buddha is an enormous statue of Buddha that stands at 45 meters high, and it takes only 30 minutes to get there from the town. Visitors can make their way up to the site and enjoy panoramic views of the island while appreciating the beautiful architecture. 3. Patong BeachPatong is one of the most famous beaches on the island, thanks to its crystal clear waters, stunning sunsets, and energetic party scene. You’ll find plenty of street vendors and seafood restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and day tours that vary from parasailing to kayaking and diving. Local CuisineOne of the best things about visiting Phuket is the incredible variety of food. With influences from Thai, Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures, Phuket offers a tasty assortment of dishes to please just about everyone. Chef Tan’s KitchenChef Tan’s Kitchen is one of the best restaurants in Phuket, serving up authentic Thai flavors in traditional setting. Chef Tan himself is known for cooking up an excellent red curry, and the pad Thai is worth a try. The interior of the restaurant is decorated in a traditional style evocative of old Phuket town, making it a great place to immerse yourself in the locality of the island. BaoliBaoli is a French restaurant that boasts a lovely tropical ambiance in the heart of Patong. The menu consists of French dishes inspired by traditional Thai flavors. Their cheese platter is famous, and their steaks are perfectly cooked to please. Cultural ExperiencesPhuket is rich in cultural heritage, and there is no better way to immerse yourself than engaging in cultural activities. Phuket Old Town Walking TourA walking tour through Phuket Old Town is an excellent way to understand the history and culture of the island. There are plenty of guided tours available which take you through the history of the city’s heritage houses and all of the hidden culture that comes with them. Phuket Elephant SanctuaryThe elephant population in Thailand is in dire need of conservation efforts, and this sanctuary works to improve their standard of living in a natural forest environment. Visitors can spend a day feeding and learning about the elephants, while understanding the role they play in Thailand’s culture. Off-the-beaten-path suggestionsFor those who enjoy exploring the less crowded parts of the island, you can visit a few of these local, off-the-beaten-path attractions. Koh Kaew IslandKoh Kaew Island, known locally as Coconut Island, is a small island located just 5 minutes away from Phuket mainland by boat. The island offers an escape with picturesque views, swaying coconut palms, and snorkelling opportunities without the crowds of Patong. Baan Teelanka and A-Maze GardenBaan Teelanka and A-Maze Garden is an excellent family-friendly attraction. The place contains a unique upside-down house and a garden maze that is perfect for kids who like puzzles. Visitors can also take on a mini-golf course, and enjoy lunch with lots of shade in the gardens. ConclusionPhuket has something for everyone and every season. From the clear blue waters and picture-perfect sunsets to the warm hospitality, mouth-watering cuisine, historical richness, and natural beauty, there is no wrong time to visit this beautiful island. Whether it’s for your honeymoon or on a solo backpacking trip, remember to carry your sunscreen, hats and shades, and prepare to have the time of your life. Table of Contents   What is the Best Time to Visit Phuket?Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today! |