Thailand - When Should I Visit?
It feels a little too simple to say it’s a year round destination but in short, It is (well, at least it nearly is!), however knowing how the seasons work can make a world of difference to your Thai holiday experience.
Thailand’s tropical climate ensures the weather is hot year round, just some months are hotter than others, equally some months are wetter than others! The good news for beach levers is there are 2 quite distinct wet seasons in the south meaning there’s great weather to be had most of the year!
Whilst there are a whole host of Thai islands to choose from (and some with even more quirky seasons) the focus here is on some of the big hitters, the core of the Thai Islands.
West Coast (Andaman Coast) Islands and Beaches
What are the Islands?
Phuket Krabi Ko Phi Phi Ko Lanta Khao Lak
When should I go? The best of the weather here is generally from December – February, known as the cool, dry season. The weather normally remains dry through March and April but the temperature starts to rise with April typically the hottest month (there’s a reason they celebrate Songkran in April with water pistols!!). From May through to October the monsoon normally comes in and you’d expect rain most days - this is quite often a downpour in the late afternoon. November can be hit and miss as you come out of the rainy season but can be a great month to visit if the monsoon rains have finished early.
East Coast (Gulf Coast) Islands and Beaches
What are the Islands?
Ko Samui Ko Pha Ngan Ko Tao
When Should I Go?
The Gulf Coast typically receives a slightly higher annual rainfall than its west coast counterpart but outside of the monsoon season of October – December the weather here is pretty good for 8-9 months. The islands here make a perfect beach escape during the British spring and summer (when the monsoon is hitting the West Coast). Rainfall is also pretty low January – March giving you options in both the Andaman and Gulf at this time of the year.
So When Is The Best Time of Year To Go to Thailand?
Typically you have the most beach options open and the coolest, driest weather from January to March. Bangkok and Chiang Mai are also enjoying their cooler and more pleasant whether at this time. That said, in realty Thailand is more or less a year round destination (you might just struggle in October!). I'd suggest heading to the West Coast beaches during the British winter and the East Coast Beaches during our spring and summer. The East coast can make a fabulous honeymoon destination for those looking for an Asian adventure during our summer months. You're in for a treat whenever you decide it's right for you!
I’ve been lucky enough to travel around Thailand throughout the year and you can find a fabulous holiday here at almost any time. There’s some amazing discounts to be had out of season too! Whilst one can never guarantee the weather you can certainly hedge your bets!
If you’re thinking of a holiday in Thailand and want to talk to someone who’s spent considerable time here then please do get in touch. I’d be happy to put together a holiday that’s perfect for you (and we can have a good chat about the weather too!).