Is Phuket, Thailand Worth Visiting in Monsoon Season?

Visiting Phuket, Thailand, during the monsoon season (also called the rainy season), which typically spans from May to October, presents both challenges and advantages for travelers.

Here’s a detailed overview of what to expect if considering a visit during this time.

Weather Conditions

The monsoon season in Phuket is characterized by high humidity and frequent rain, particularly from July to September, which are often the rainiest months.

While rain can be heavy and persistent, it is not constant; sunny periods can still occur, allowing for enjoyable outdoor activities. Travelers should, however, always be prepared for sudden downpours, which may disrupt plans, especially for outdoor excursions like boat tours, which can be canceled due to rough seas.

Advantages of Visiting Phuket During Monsoon Season

1. Lower Costs: Accommodation and flight prices tend to be significantly cheaper during the monsoon season, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
2. Fewer Crowds: With many tourists avoiding Phuket during this period, visitors can enjoy a more tranquil experience at popular sites and beaches.
3. Lush Scenery: The rain contributes to the lush greenery of the island, enhancing the natural beauty of the landscape.
4. Cleaner Air: The monsoon rains help clear the air of pollution, resulting in fresher conditions compared to the dry season.

Disadvantages

1. Unpredictable Weather: Heavy rain can last for extended periods, limiting outdoor activities and possibly leading to tour and excursion cancellations.
2. Rough Seas: Swimming and water activities may be dangerous due to strong currents and waves, and some beaches may be unsafe for swimming during the peak of the monsoon.
3. Limited Activities: Certain attractions, especially those reliant on good weather, like island tours, may be less accessible, and some national parks may close during heavy rains.
4. If you are looking to buy a property in Phuket, this is perhaps not the best time, as you will have to deal with unpredictable weather when scheduling viewings, but on the other hand, you’ll also get to see how the property holds up in bad weather.

How do the prices for accommodations and tours in Phuket change during the monsoon season?

Accommodation Prices

During the monsoon season, accommodation prices in Phuket drop significantly compared to the high season:

• Hotels and resorts offer much cheaper rates, often 30-50% less than peak season.
• It’s possible to get great deals on 5-star beachfront hotels with amenities like pools by booking in advance.
• Booking further ahead allows you to take advantage of the lower prices.

Tour Prices

While tour operators continue running most tours during the monsoon season, prices are generally lower:

• With fewer tourists visiting, tour operators offer discounts to attract customers.
• Some tours may be canceled or altered due to rough seas, so checking weather forecasts is essential.

However, the rainy weather can make some tours less appealing, such as:

• Boat tours and scuba diving may be canceled due to choppy seas.
• Outdoor activities that are less enjoyable in the rain.

In summary, accommodation and tour prices drop significantly during the monsoon season in Phuket, making it a more affordable time to visit. However, the weather can impact the availability and enjoyment of certain activities.

Things to do in Phuket During the Rainy Season

1. Explore Old Phuket Town: Take a stroll through the charming streets of Phuket Town, admiring the Sino-Portuguese architecture and popping into local cafes and shops. The cooler, rainy weather makes for a pleasant walking experience.
2. Visit the Upside Down House: Baan Teelanka, the first and only upside down house in Thailand, offers a unique photo opportunity with its quirky, inverted interior design.
3. Indulge in a Spa Treatment: Take advantage of the rainy weather by treating yourself to a relaxing Thai massage, milk bath, or other rejuvenating spa experience. Many spas offer discounted rates during the monsoon season
4. Attend a Thai Cooking Class: Learn to prepare traditional Thai dishes like green curry, som tam, and tom yum goong at a hotel cooking class. It’s a great way to learn about the local cuisine.
5. Try Thai Boxing: Get a taste of Thailand’s national sport by taking a Thai boxing (Muay Thai) class. Many training camps cater to beginners and offer short introductory sessions.
6. Explore Phuket’s Museums: Visit educational and interactive museums like the Thai Hua Museum, Tin Mining Museum, Shell Museum, and Chinpracha House Museum to learn about Phuket’s history and culture.
7. Get a Unique Tattoo: With many talented tattoo artists on the island, the rainy season is a great time to get a new tattoo or cover-up. Studios like Siam Ink and Tropical Tattoo are known for their high-quality work.
8. Attend a Yoga Class: Unwind and rejuvenate your mind and body with a yoga class at one of Phuket’s many studios. Many resorts also offer yoga sessions for guests.
9. Enjoy Sunset Photography: Capture the stunning colors of a monsoon sunset over the Andaman Sea. The cloudy skies during the rainy season create unique lighting conditions perfect for photography.
10. Relax at Your Hotel: If the rain is heavy, simply enjoy the amenities at your hotel, such as the pool, spa, restaurants, and entertainment options. Many resorts offer a range of activities to keep guests entertained on rainy days.

Visiting Phuket during the monsoon season can be worthwhile if travelers are flexible with their plans and prepared for variable weather. While the potential for rain and rough seas exists, the benefits of lower prices, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to experience a different side of Phuket can make it an appealing choice for some.

However, those seeking guaranteed sunny beach days may want to consider traveling during the dry season instead.

Meet the Author

A. Nuno Isitemiz

With extensive expertise in Phuket’s property market and Thai property laws, as well as deep connections with local developers, Nuno co-founded one of the largest real estate agencies in the region. Recently, he launched his own venture, Storm Real Estate, specializing in a carefully curated selection of properties that meet his high standards. Unlike larger agencies where frequent staff turnover can disrupt client relationships, Nuno is committed to offering a stable, one-on-one experience with himself or a member of his team of experienced property consultants, from initial consultation through purchase and beyond. By prioritizing quality over quantity, he ensures that each client’s unique needs and budget are met, making dream homes a reality.

Contact Us

Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any further questions on the subject, or if you would like to know more about property in Phuket in general.