Koh Phangan sits in the Gulf of Thailand and follows an east-coast weather pattern that’s different from Phuket and the Andaman side. Expect a short, intense rainy season peaking in October–November, a reliably dry and sunny window from mid-December to April, and mostly warm, swimmable seas year-round. The island’s climate is tropical: hot, humid, and generally beach-friendly, with micro-showers possible any month.
Koh Phangan Weather at a Glance
- Driest months: January–March (especially February)
- Wettest peak: October–November (November is typically the rainiest month)
- Hottest stretch: March–May (hot and humid)
- Sea temperature: ~28–30 °C year-round
- Clearest skies: late November–March, especially February
- Wind: strongest around December–January; calmest in April
Seasons on Koh Phangan
Dry & Sunny (mid-December to April)
After the monsoon eases, skies clear and humidity drops. This is the classic beach season with frequent sunshine and low rain risk, especially January to March.
Hot Season (March to May)
This is the hottest period of the year. Showers may start in late April, but beach days are still excellent.
Shoulder Months (May to September)
Short tropical showers appear more often, but long sunny spells are still common. July and August are busy months with plenty of workable beach weather.
Rainy Season Peak (October to November)
The northeast monsoon brings the heaviest rain and cloud cover. Seas can be rough and ferry services sometimes disrupted. By December the weather improves quickly.
Weather by Month
Here is the typical pattern you can expect:
- January: Dry, bright, excellent beach weather
- February: Driest and clearest month
- March: Warmer, still mostly dry
- April: Hot, with occasional short showers
- May: Start of wetter period, more humidity
- June: Humid with mixed sun and showers
- July: Similar to June, still good for the beach
- August: Cloudier at times, but many usable days
- September: Rain risk increases
- October: Monsoon builds, high chance of rain
- November: Wettest month, ferry disruption possible
- December: Improving weather, sunnier toward late month
Best Time to Visit by Activity
- Beach holiday & snorkeling: mid-December to April
- Budget with good weather: late January–March or June–August
- Diving: Generally good year-round outside the monsoon peak
- Waterfalls & jungle hikes: October–December when rains revive streams
- Kite & wind sports: November–January breezier, April calmest
- Songkran (Thai New Year): mid-April, hot and festive
What to Pack
- Light, breathable clothing and a sun hat
- High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen
- Flip-flops and waterproof sandals
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Dry bags for valuables during showers and boat trips
- Insect repellent and after-bite cream
- Reusable water bottle and electrolyte sachets
FAQ: Koh Phangan Weather
When is the rainy season?
October–November is the peak rainy season. Early December can still be wet, but conditions improve rapidly.
What’s the best month for sunshine?
February is the sunniest and driest, though January to March are generally reliable.
How warm is the sea?
The sea stays around 28–30 °C year-round, comfortable for swimming in all seasons.
Will rain ruin my trip in July–August?
No. While showers occur, many days are still great for the beach. The Gulf of Thailand islands are usually a good choice for summer holidays.
Are ferries affected by weather?
Yes, mostly in October–November when rough seas sometimes delay or cancel services. Always allow some flexibility in travel plans.
