When Is Low Season in Phuket? (It's Not All Bad)

Phuket has two main seasons. The high season, roughly November to April, is dry, sunny and busy. The low season, roughly May to October, is the southwest monsoon: more rain, rougher seas on the Andaman side and far fewer visitors. Many people write it off, but for flexible travelers it has real advantages, as long as you plan around the sea rather than hoping for flat calm every day.

When Is Low Season?

Low season, also called the green season or rainy season, usually runs from May to October. September and October are usually the wettest months, while May and June often bring a mix of wet and dry spells. The change between seasons never happens on a fixed date, and every year is a little different.

What It Is Really Like

• Rain comes in bursts. Heavy showers or storms, often in the afternoon or overnight, with sunny spells in between. Fully rainy days happen, but so do completely dry ones.
• It stays warm. Daytime temperatures are usually around the high 20s to low 30s Celsius, with high humidity.
• The west coast is rough. Swell rolls onto Patong, Karon, Kata and the other west coast beaches, bringing strong waves and rip currents.
• The east coast and Phang Nga Bay are calmer, sheltered by the mainland and islands.

The Real Advantages

Fewer people

Popular stops such as James Bond Island, Coral Island and the island's viewpoints are much quieter than in the December to March peak. You get more space on the beaches, shorter waits and easier photos.

Lower hotel rates

Many hotels and villas charge noticeably less than in the high season, and good rooms are easier to find at short notice. Flights can be cheaper too, depending on where you come from. The biggest savings are usually on accommodation.

Green scenery

The hills, jungle and karst islands are at their most lush after months of rain, and waterfalls have more water in them.

Easier booking

You can usually book tours a day or two ahead rather than a week ahead, which suits a flexible plan built around the forecast.

Festival season

Phuket's Vegetarian Festival is held in the ninth lunar month, which often falls in late September or October, with processions and food stalls around Phuket Town. The dates change every year.

Which Tours Run in Low Season

• James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay: the best bet. The bay is sheltered and runs in both seasons. See our Phang Nga Bay guide.
• Jet Ski 7 Islands: good on many days. It runs on the sheltered east coast, though heavy rain and wind can still stop it.
• White water rafting: made for this season. Rain fills the river. The water level varies with the season, and the guide decides on safety on the day.
• Raya and Coral Island: runs on many days. Coral Island is close and partly sheltered, while the crossing to Racha is more open and some days are cancelled.
• Phi Phi: the most weather dependent. It is the longest open-sea crossing, and Maya Bay usually closes for recovery around August and September each year, with the dates set by the national park.
• Similan Islands: closed. The national park is usually open from 15 October to 15 May. The Surin Islands also close during the monsoon.

Operators and the national park can change or cancel programs for weather and sea conditions. If a tour is cancelled for unsafe weather, our booking terms give you the choice of a full refund or a new date at no extra cost. Read what happens if it rains on your tour for the details.

Staying Safe in Low Season

• Respect the flags. Red flags on west coast beaches mean no swimming. Rip currents in the monsoon are dangerous even for strong swimmers. Only swim where there are lifeguards, between the flags.
• Swim on the sheltered side. East coast beaches, such as Ao Yon on Cape Panwa, are usually calmer, though the water is shallower and less clear.
• Take boat cancellations seriously. If a trip is called off for weather, there is a good reason.
• Cover up in the water. A rash guard helps with sun and with jellyfish, which can be more common in the water at times during the rainy months. Follow local advice and warning signs.
• Ride carefully. Roads get slippery in the rain, and motorbike accidents are one of the most common causes of injury for visitors.

How to Plan a Low Season Trip

• Stay flexible. Keep at least one spare day between boat trips.
• Book the most weather dependent trip first, early in your stay, so it can move.
• Use the mornings. Seas are often calmer, and storms more common in the afternoon.
• Have rainy day plans: Phuket Old Town, cafes, cooking classes, spas, temples and the rafting trip.
• Pack for rain: a light rain jacket, a dry bag, quick-dry clothes and sandals with grip.
• Get travel insurance that covers medical care and travel disruption.

For a closer look at individual months, see our rainy season tours guide and Phuket in July.

Who Low Season Suits

Low season suits flexible travelers, couples and families who value quieter beaches and better hotel rates over guaranteed sunshine, and anyone happy to swap a beach day for a jungle or Old Town day. If your trip is short, has fixed dates and is built around Phi Phi or the Similans, the dry season is the safer choice. Browse all tours to see what fits your dates.

Frequently asked questions

What months are low season in Phuket?

Roughly May to October, during the southwest monsoon. May and October are transition months.

Is it worth visiting Phuket in low season?

Yes, if you are flexible. Expect showers and some rough sea days, but also fewer crowds, green scenery and lower hotel rates.

Can you do island tours in low season?

Yes. Phang Nga Bay runs in both seasons, and many other trips run on most days. Some days are cancelled for safety, and the Similans are closed.

Can you swim in the sea in low season?

Only where it is safe: between the flags on lifeguarded beaches, and never when red flags are up. Sheltered east coast beaches are usually calmer.