Weather in Phuket in May
If May is considered the last month of spring and the first truly warm — sometimes even hot — month in much of Europe, in Phuket it marks the transition from the dry to the wet season. Here’s what kind of weather to expect in Phuket in May, and whether you can still catch a bit of summer on the island. Spoiler: you can!
Air Temperature. May is considered one of the hottest months in Phuket. High humidity combined with high temperatures equals intense heat. Typically, daytime temperatures range from 32°C to 34°C, and at night from 25°C to 27°C. It may feel slightly cooler after rain, but temperatures rarely drop below 24°C — so you won’t be needing any warm clothes.
Rainfall. The beginning of May is usually quite dry and sunny, but around the middle of the month, the monsoons arrive, bringing heavy clouds and downpours. On average, May has about 12–15 overcast days, while the rest are sunny or partly cloudy.
Rain in May is typically short but intense, and it often falls in the afternoon or evening. A typical pattern: clear skies in the morning, followed by a strong shower lasting 1–3 hours later in the day, and then sunshine again.
The Sea. The changing weather in May also affects the Andaman Sea — but not its temperature. The water remains very warm, around 30°C, and doesn’t provide much refreshment. However, the sea starts getting rough. Wave height gradually increases from 0.5–1 meter at the start of the month to 1–2 meters by the end. Underwater visibility decreases, and dangerous currents become stronger.
The sea is especially rough along the island’s west coast — on beaches like Patong, Karon, Kata, and others. Red flags are often posted there, so be sure to pay attention to the warnings.
In May, swimming is still possible in calmer areas like the Panwa coast, Ao Yon Beach, Tri Trang, and Coral Island nearby. You can read more about wave-free beaches during the low season here.
General Weather Trends in May
- The amount of rainfall has been gradually increasing year over year
- The average temperature has risen by approximately 0.5°C
- The number of days with heavy rainfall (more than 50 mm per day) has increased
- The average daily sunshine duration has decreased by about 30 minutes
Weather in Different Parts of Phuket
May can feel quite different depending on which part of the island you’re on. Phuket is large enough that while it may be raining in one area, it can be completely dry in another.
- The west coast is more exposed to monsoons — expect higher waves and more frequent rain.
- The east coast is more sheltered, generally receiving less rain.
- The north of the island is a mix — about 50/50, but often windier.
- The south coast is also windy, though it tends to get slightly less rainfall.
3 Advantages of Visiting Phuket in May
- Lower prices — Accommodation (and sometimes flights) can be 2–3 times cheaper than during peak season. If you’re looking to enjoy Phuket without paying airplane-wing prices, May is the time to go.
- Fewer tourists — Compared to the peak of high season (like January), May brings a noticeable drop in tourist numbers. Popular beaches that are usually packed become much more peaceful.
- Lush vegetation — Nature flourishes in May. Everything is fresh and green again, and waterfalls that dried up in the heat begin to flow once more.
3 Disadvantages of Visiting Phuket in May
- Unpredictable weather — May weather is moody and changeable, making it hard to plan outdoor activities. It’s as unpredictable as a hormonal teenager.
- High humidity — The air feels heavy, which can be uncomfortable, especially for elderly travelers or families with small children.
- Limited swimming and sea excursions — The waves may already be too rough for safe swimming, and tours to more distant islands are often canceled. Some spots may simply be inaccessible in May.
Tips: It’s smart to have a backup plan in case of extended rain. We’ve put together ideas for what to do on rainy days in Phuket — check that out! And honestly, we’ll never stop saying this: we love Phuket in any season. There’s always something to do, no matter the weather. Find the best places to visit on our website and our Telegram channel: https://t.me/phuket_insider_bot
