Phuket is a traveler’s haven, with its breathtaking beaches, lush parks, and cultural attractions. But deciding on the best time to visit Phuket will largely depend on your personal preferences, whether you want to avoid the peak tourist crowds or enjoy the best weather for exploring the outdoors!
At Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve, we see countless visitors from all around the world as they join us for one of our Phuket Elephant Tours and Activities. As leaders in ethical elephant tourism in Thailand, we’re always happy to guide guests on their journey to this magnificent country!
Keep reading to find out the best time to visit Phuket, along with things to do and what to pack during each season. If you have any questions for us about our tours, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
The Climate in Phuket
Like most places, the best time to visit Phuket is often determined by the weather. Phuket experiences a tropical monsoon climate, which can be divided into the dry season between November and April and the wet season between May and October. While Phuket has consistent average temperatures year-round, it experiences its highest rainfall in the wet season.
Dry Season in Phuket
The dry season is the most popular time to visit Phuket. With minimal rainfall and warm days, visitors flock to the region to soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and go island hopping. Thanks to the blissful weather, this is peak season in Phuket, so you’ll also experience larger crowds and higher accommodation prices. But if you’re hoping to hit the beaches, you certainly won’t go wrong with visiting in the dry season!
Average Monthly Temperatures in the Dry Season
November and December offer idyllic conditions right after the wet season has ended, with moderately high temperatures. Keep in mind that Phuket typically experiences its hottest temperatures in March and April.
- November: 88.3°F / 31.3°C
- December: 88.7°F / 31.5°C
- January: 90.3°F/ 32.4°C
- February: 91.9°F / 33.3°C
- March: 92.8°F / 33.8°C
- April: 92.6°F / 33.7°C
Things to Do in the Dry Season in Phuket
The dry season in Phuket is the time to be outside! Ocean temperatures average around 84°F / 28.9°C, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. The clearer water visibility also makes this an optimal time for scuba diving. Read our guide to the 7 Most Beautiful Beaches of Phuket for more information on which you should visit!
Inland, Phuket promises even more adventures. You can strap on your boots and go walking through lush landscapes, with the help of our Guide to Hiking and Trekking Trails in Phuket. Or, expand your horizons by taking a boat tour to nearby islands like Phi Phi Islands and Phang Nga Bay.
What to Pack for Phuket’s Dry Season
With so much to see and do outside, there are a few essentials to pack for when visiting Phuket in the dry season:
- Swimsuit
- Flip-flops/beach shoes
- Hat and sunglasses
- Waterproof bag
- Walking shoes/hiking boots
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
Wet Season in Phuket
While the wet season in Phuket is characterized by higher rainfall, you’ll often experience short, intense showers with periods of dry weather in between. This means it’s still enjoyable to visit Phuket during the monsoon season, with the added advantage of fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. The ocean is choppier, but the forests are lush and green with flowing waterfalls.
Average Monthly Temperatures in the Dry Season
Despite the rain, temperatures still remain high during the dry season in Phuket with some more humidity.
- May: 90.5°F /32.5 °C
- June: 89.7°F / 32.1°C
- July: 89.1°F / 31.7°C
- August: 89.16°F / 31.7°C
- September: 88.1°F / 31.2°C
- October: 88.5°F / 31.3°C
Things to Do in the Wet Season in Phuket
The wet season in Phuket is the perfect time to acquaint yourself with the local culture. Whether you spend your time dining on Thai cuisine, visiting cultural attractions, or treating yourself to a spa day, there are plentiful things to do indoors. For more ideas, check out our blog: What to Do on a Rainy Day in Phuket?
Phuket is also teeming with galleries showcasing local artists across a diversity of mediums. Check out our Guide to Galleries and Cultural Centres in Phuket for inspiration on where to visit! And if you’re missing seeing the ocean, the Aquaria Phuket will allow you to dive into the underwater world as the largest aquarium in Thailand!
What to Pack for Phuket’s Wet Season
It’s always best to come prepared for the rain, but if you don’t manage to bring any of the items below, you can always stop at one of Phuket’s numerous markets!
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Umbrella
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Closed-toe shoes
- Quick-dry clothes for the humidity
Visit the Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve
Come rain or shine, you can visit Phuket Elephant Nature Reserve! Whether you want to join us for a Private Guided Adventure Hike in Phuket or our Half-Day Elephant Adventure in Phuket, we have activities year-round. Our ethical elephant encounters also include a Thai cooking demo and lunch, giving you both a wildlife and cultural experience. No matter the season, we’ll be here to welcome you! If you have any questions about our tours, feel free to get in touch.
