Longtail boat on calm turquoise water near Phuket's limestone cliffs

Phuket in May

Monsoon starts, prices drop

The short answer

May is a good time to visit Phuket.

Lower rates and fewer visitors as monsoon season starts.

7/10 overall26–33°CLow crowds€€ (Low)
Weather6/10
Crowds8/10
Prices8/10
Events7/10

May in detail

What May actually feels like

Weather
26–33°C
Hot and humid with increasingly frequent showers.
Crowds
Low
Lower after high season.
Prices
€€ (Low)
Much lower than winter.

+Lower rates and fewer visitors as monsoon season starts.

–Rain and rougher seas become more common.

My tip for May

Prioritize flexible plans and sheltered activities.

  • Value
  • Surfing
  • Diving
  • Spas

How May compares

Against the other eleven months

7th of 12 overall in Phuket, 7th for weather, 3rd for space, 2nd for value. The emptiest month is September; the best value is September.

See all twelve months for Phuket

Plan around

What’s on in Phuket in May

Southwest monsoon

May–October

Rainfall and sea conditions become more variable. Red flags can restrict swimming and boat trips.

Not set on May?

Even stronger months in Phuket

Ready to book May in Phuket?

Lower rates and fewer visitors as monsoon season starts.

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