Weather in Phuket in December

December is one of the best months to visit the island. The high (or dry) season begins ☀️ The rains stop, the waves calm down, and stable sunny weather sets in. What is the weather like in Phuket in December? Exactly the kind that tourists dream of: dry, sunny, and comfortable.

✅ The perfect sea – calm and crystal clear
✅ Comfortable temperature (+28–32°C)
✅ Minimal rain (only 8–9 days)
✅ All activities available
✅ New Year in the tropics!

Rainfall ☔️

Although it does occasionally rain, it’s rare and mostly happens at night. On average, about 70 mm of rainfall is recorded in December, with around 8–9 rainy days throughout the month.

Air Temperature 🌡

December marks the start of the dry season. The average temperature ranges from +24°C at night to +32°C during the day. The water temperature in Phuket in December is also delightful: the sea warms up to +28°C, making it perfect for swimming.

Sunny/Cloudy Days 🌥

The number of sunny and cloudy days is roughly equal. Fully overcast weather is rare.

Sea 🌊

The sea is warm, free of the seaweed often washed ashore during the rainy season, with clear water heated up to +28°C. Most importantly, the waves subside across all the island’s beaches, making every beach suitable for swimming.

MYTH 1: “It never rains in December.”
REALITY: It does rain (8–9 days), but the showers are short (15–30 minutes).

MYTH 2: “If it’s cloudy, you don’t need sunscreen.”
REALITY: Dangerous! You can still get a sunburn through the clouds.

MYTH 3: “The sea is always calm in December.”
REALITY: Mostly yes, but there are exceptions. Watch the flags! Learn more in the article What Different Flags on Phuket Beaches Mean?

MYTH 4: “December = cheap.”
REALITY: December is one of the most expensive months in Phuket.

MYTH 5: “You can book a hotel a week before New Year’s.”
REALITY: You need to book in advance — demand is huge in December.