Phuket is warm all year, with temperatures usually between 25 °C and 33 °C. What changes through the year is the rain and, more importantly for island tours, the sea. Here is how the seasons work and when to plan your boat trips.
Phuket’s two seasons
Dry season: November to April
This is high season. Skies are mostly clear, rain is rare and the Andaman Sea is calm and clear. It is the best time for snorkeling, beach days and speedboat trips to Phi Phi. December to February is the coolest and most popular period, so book tours a few days ahead. March and April are hotter but still dry, with excellent water visibility.
Rainy season: May to October
The southwest monsoon brings showers and stronger winds. Rain usually comes in short, heavy bursts, often in the afternoon, with sunny spells in between. The open sea can be rough, which means some boat trips are changed or cancelled for safety. The upside: fewer crowds, greener landscapes and lower hotel prices.
Month by month at a glance
| Months | Weather | Sea | Best tours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov – Feb | Dry, sunny, slightly cooler | Calm and clear | All tours, ideal for Phi Phi |
| Mar – Apr | Hot and dry | Calm, very clear | All tours, great snorkeling |
| May – Jul | Showers, sunny spells | Can be choppy | James Bond Island, City Tour |
| Aug – Sep | Wettest months | Often rough; Maya Bay closed | James Bond Island, City Tour |
| Oct | Rain easing | Improving; Maya Bay reopens 1 Oct | James Bond Island, Phi Phi on calm days |
Which tours work best in each season?
James Bond Island runs well almost all year because Phang Nga Bay is sheltered from the open sea. It is our top pick for the rainy season.
Phi Phi Islands are at their best from November to April, when the crossing is smooth and the water is crystal clear. Remember that Maya Bay closes every August and September.
Phuket City Tour is a great choice in any season and the perfect plan for a day when the sea is too rough for boats. Promthep Cape, the Big Buddha and Old Town are on land, and our air-conditioned vehicle keeps you dry between stops.
Tips for travelling in the rainy season
- Keep one or two flexible days in your plan, in case a boat trip is moved.
- Pack a light rain jacket and a dry bag for your phone.
- Swim only on beaches with lifeguards and obey red flags: rip currents are common on the west coast during the monsoon.
- If we cancel a tour for safety, you can choose another date or receive a full refund. See our cancellation policy.
So, when should you go?
For perfect beach and snorkeling weather, visit between November and April. For lower prices and quieter islands, the rainy season can be excellent too, as long as you stay flexible and choose sheltered tours like James Bond Island.
Not sure which tour suits your travel dates? Message us on WhatsApp and we will check the forecast with you.