Phuket is a popular tourist destination in Thailand known for its beautiful beaches, party atmosphere, and Thai culture. Over 6 million people visit Phuket every year. While there really isn’t a “bad” time to visit Phuket, there are certain times of year that are considered the worst for various reasons. Here is an overview of the worst times to visit Phuket and what you can expect during these periods.
Monsoon Season (May – October)
Increased Rainfall
The southwest monsoon season in Phuket runs from May through October and brings significantly increased rainfall during this period. While an occasional afternoon thunderstorm is normal even during the high season, during the monsoon season persistent rain and Greater flooding can occur island-wide. Some establishments may even close during the height of monsoon.
The rain causes muddier beaches and rough seas, limiting the ability to swim or enjoy other water activities. Boat trips to nearby islands are also frequently canceled due to choppy waters.
Lower Hotel Occupancy Rates
Hotel occupancy rates drop drastically during monsoon season, with some hotels reporting drops of 50-70%. This does mean cheaper hotel rates are easy to find. However, with fewer tourists, the island lacks the vibrant atmosphere Phuket is known for during high season. The party essentially moves indoors to the few bars still open.
Benefits of Visiting Phuket in Monsoon Season
While the weather is certainly worse during monsoon season, there are benefits to visiting during this time if you don’t mind a little rain. Hotels are cheaper, attractions are less crowded, and you’ll get to experience a quieter, more local side of the island. It’s also mango and durian season!
Chinese New Year (February)
Increased Prices
Chinese New Year occurs in February (sometimes early March) and is considered one of Phuket’s mini high seasons. During this time, occupancy rates and prices on hotel rooms increase drastically to take advantage of the influx of Chinese tourists visiting Phuket. Room rates can be twice as high as usual. Those on a budget may want to avoid traveling over Chinese New Year.
More Crowds
In addition to hotel price increases, the island sees far more crowds during Chinese New Year. Key tourist attractions become very crowded and the beaches see more visitors. You’ll also find traffic jams occurring more frequently around the island.
Festivities & Celebrations
While Chinese New Year brings more expensive travel costs, it also brings festive celebrations. Colorful street performances with dancers and dragons take place alongside fireworks shows. Phuket’s various Chinese temples host celebrations welcoming the Lunar New Year. So there are some cultural benefits to visiting during this time.
Songkran Water Festival (Mid April)
Everything is Wet!
Songkran is Thailand’s New Year held in mid-April. While it is an exciting festival, it does make touring around Phuket more challenging for tourists. The water fight aspect of Songkran means that everyone walking or driving around the island gets splashed, sprayed, or straight up soaked with water. So you can expect to get wet frequently as you explore the island.
Crowds & Traffic Jams
The crowds and traffic during Songkran can be intense, especially in the beach towns like Patong. It’s not unusual to sit through hour-long traffic jams trying to drive just a few miles. These delays can put a damper (pun intended) on your vacation schedule. Walking is really the only way to reliably get around.
Party Atmosphere
The lively parties and festive holiday atmosphere appeal to some tourists. But others find the nonstop water fights and club parties to be too chaotic. There are a few “no splash zones” designated for those who don’t want to participate. But in general, the energy is hard to avoid.
Peak Tourism Season (November – Early December)
Most Expensive Travel Times
November through early December is considered peak season due to ideal weather post-monsoon and hotel rates reflect this. While cheaper than Chinese New Year, hotel rates are at their 2nd highest during this season. Those wanting to save money on accommodations should avoid traveling in late November and early December if possible.
Crowds at Their Peak
Phuket sees the most tourists year-round during the weeks around late November and early December. So crowds at major attractions like Old Phuket Town and popular beaches reach their peak. This can make simply navigating around town more difficult compared to other times of the year with less traffic and crowds.
Difficulty Booking Hotels & Tours
The surge of visitors makes booking hotels and tours more competitive during this peak tourism season. Friends have shown up without hotel reservations at this time of year thinking they could wing it and ended up in difficult situations trying to find somewhere to stay. Popular tours also book out further in advance. So more pre-planning is required to visit Phuket during peak season.
Holidays in Thailand Bring Higher Prices
It’s important to note Thai holidays and long weekends which can drastically affect hotel rates and availability. Buddhism is Thailand’s official religion and Buddhist holidays impact tourism. Important dates include Chinese New Year, Chakri Memorial Day, Songkran, Labor Day, Chulalongkorn Day, New Year’s Eve and more. Traveling over one of these holidays means paying peak season prices.
Plan Around Thai Holidays to Save
If wanting to get good deals, you’ll generally find the cheapest rates and availability by planning your trip to Phuket between mini high seasons and avoiding Thai holidays. The exceptions would be visiting during monsoon season if you don’t mind rain or risking coming over Thai holidays without reservations lined up.
By carefully scheduling based on high/low season timing in Phuket and being mindful of special Thai holidays that increase tourist numbers, you can maximize the likelihood of an enjoyable trip without breaking the bank!