The Best Time To Visit Thailand

Thailand holidays provide opportunities to experience sights, scenery, culture, cuisine, luxury and spirituality that you’ll find nowhere else on the planet.

From the pulsating energy of Bangkok and the tropical delights of Phuket, to the castaway beauty of Koh Samui and the ancient city streets of Chiang Mai, this expansive destination has something to excite every traveller. To make the most of your holiday, planning the best time to visit Thailand is a must. Here’s our expert guide.

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Best time to visit Bangkok

A Bangkok city break offers the chance to explore ancient temples, enjoy sightseeing river cruises, discover rooftop dining delights and wander through lively local markets. If this is what you have planned, the cooler days and lower humidity of the time from November to February, would be perfect for you. Daytime temperatures ranging from around 24°C to 32°C allow for urban adventures, while in the evening the mercury drops a little, providing the perfect conditions to venture out and enjoy the city’s legendary nightlife.

Best time to visit Phuket

If you’re hoping to time your Phuket beach holiday just right, choosing to visit between December and March is advisable. During these months, you can expect warm, sunny days, perfect for relaxing on the sand. Calm seas and temperatures from around 28°C to 32°C, also allow for sensational boat trips and scenic island-hopping adventures. If your Phuket holiday plans include getting out and about, enjoying activities with family or friends, or visiting temples and attractions, travelling between December and February may be a good option. This will allow you to take advantage of the lower humidity during this period.

Best time to visit Koh Samui

The island paradise of Koh Samui, is a tropical destination perfect for beach fun and relaxation. If you want to make the most of your holiday, the best time to visit is from December to April, when the monsoon season has ended and temperatures range from around 27°C to 34°C. During this period you’ll enjoy dry, sunny weather, with the calm waters of the Gulf of Thailand perfect for water sports, boat cruises, snorkelling and scuba diving. If you wish to combine beach bliss with exploration and activities, the period from December to February enjoys lower humidity, which could be more suitable for your holiday plans.

Best time to visit Chiang Mai

The ancient city of Chiang Mai is the perfect destination if you crave an authentic taste of Thailand. The ideal conditions to explore can be found from November to February, when the weather is usually cool, dry and less humid than other times during the year. As well as exploring temples, monuments and markets, you’ll also be able to venture into the surrounding mountains. Time your visit right and you may even get to experience the joys of the Loy Krathong festival, which usually takes place in November, or the Chiang Mai Flower Festival, held in early February.

Best time to visit Krabi

Blessed with spellbinding natural beauty, Krabi can throw up a bit of a conundrum when it comes to deciding on the best time to visit. If you’re seeking sunshine, rejuvenation, and the soft sands of spots such as Railay Beach, the period between November and April is a must for your holiday. With minimal rain during this time, you’ll also have the chance to experience the thrill of a longtail boat tour and enjoy an assortment of outdoor activities. Those more interested in natural scenery and nature may, however, prefer to visit at a time when the region’s rainforests are flourishing and there’s a chance to discover cascading waterfalls and wonderful wildlife. This does mean visiting during the rainy season, between May and October, but the opportunity to snap up a bargain holiday may be too hard to resist.

Best time to visit Khao Lak

Beach holidays in Khao Lak are best when the weather is warm and sunny, and the waters of the Andaman Sea are calm. If this is exactly what you’re looking for, the time to visit is between November and April, when you can expect temperatures from around 25°C rising into the low 30s. Lazy days atop pristine sands await and you can swim in the refreshing sea waters, enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving expeditions and explore the idyllic Similan Islands on an unforgettable boat trip. If you hope to enjoy a little sightseeing and sample the active ventures on offer in Khao Lak, try to plan your visit between December and February. You’ll find the humidity is lower during this period, making conditions more comfortable for getting out and about.

Sunwing Bangtao Beach, Phuket, Thailand

Prepare for Thai luxury like you’ve never experienced before in this divine Phuket resort. Located on the mesmerising Bang Tao beach, start each morning with a stroll on the soft sand or a dip in the sea. On site, there’s plenty to keep you busy too, with swimming, aerobics, a spa, jacuzzi and fitness room all on offer. Kids can splash and play in the children’s pool or on the water slides, while there’s water sports like kayaking, windsurfing and diving available too.

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Centara Villas Samui, Koh Samui

The stunning Thai island of Koh Samui is a superb choice for an unforgettable beach holiday. Situated right on the shoreline of the blissful Natien Beach, you’ll have unlimited access to the Gulf of Thailand for some water sports fun. With 100 villas snuggled amongst verdant gardens, you can relax in nature and make use of the luxury facilities. Take a dip in the swimming pool, book a treatment at the SPA Cenvaree and get active in the fitness centre.

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ananea Beyond Khaolak

Beach bliss and heavenly days of relaxation await at this serene ‘adult-friendly’ sanctuary set right beside soft sands and turquoise waters in Khao Lak. Make yourself at home in your stylish living space and relax amidst enchanting tropical beauty. Mealtimes provide opportunities to enjoy dishes from near and far, while features such as an infinity-edge swimming pool, spa and fitness centre, as well as enriching activity sessions and workshops, will delight friends and couples alike.

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Eden Beach Khao Lak Resort & Spa

Days of tropical serenity await amidst exotic gardens and swaying palms at this heavenly beachfront sanctuary. Laid-back hours can be spent poolside or atop soft golden sands. You’ll also be able to enjoy soothing treatments and massages in the spa, take advantage of the fitness centre and discover Khao Lak and Bang Niang night market thanks to the resort’s complimentary shuttle bus. Other features include a games room and children’s playroom, while you’ll find restaurants serving flavours from Thailand and the Mediterranean, and exquisite accommodation, ideal for rest and relaxation.

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Barcelo Coconut Island

Find paradise just off the shores of Phuket with a taste of 5-star castaway living on enchanting Coconut Island. Here, Barcelo Coconut Island provides a tranquil haven where you can relax without a care in the world. Pools, water slides, tennis courts and a gym are among the leisure features to discover, while you can enjoy massages, yoga sessions, Muay Thai classes and much more. First-class accommodation can also be expected, as well as a choice of dining destinations serving dishes from Thailand, Japan, Italy and more.

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The Culture Samui

Enjoy a stylish slice of tropical beach life at The Culture, a 5-star sanctuary of relaxation and serenity on the captivating island of Koh Samui. Direct access to soft sands and warm waters awaits, as well as luxury amenities including an infinity-edge swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, a beachfront restaurant and an inviting bar looking out across the Gulf of Thailand. You can expect space and comfort in the modern rooms and villas, along with features such as private balconies, minibars, Wi-Fi and even private pools if you’re seeking extra indulgence.

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