Koh Samui, located in the Gulf of Thailand just north of Koh Phangan, has a unique weather pattern that’s slightly different from other Thai islands. It features a distinct rainy season peaking in November, a long sunny season from December to April, and a generally warm, tropical climate year-round. While it shares similarities with Koh Phangan, Samui’s rainfall can sometimes extend later into December, and its size means microclimates exist across the island.
Koh Samui Weather at a Glance
- Driest months: January–March (especially February)
- Wettest peak: November (rainiest), with spillover into late October and early December
- Hottest stretch: March–May (humid and hot)
- Sea temperature: ~28–30 °C year-round
- Clearest skies: late December–March
- Wind: breeziest November–January; calmest April–May
Seasons on Koh Samui
Dry & Sunny (mid-December to April)
The skies clear after the monsoon, humidity drops, and this becomes the peak beach season. January to March is the most reliable stretch for sunshine, with calm seas perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Hot Season (March to May)
Temperatures rise and humidity climbs. Quick showers may start in late April, but most days remain hot and bright. April is especially lively with Songkran celebrations.
Shoulder Months (June to September)
Expect a mix of sunshine and tropical downpours. These months still offer good beach days, especially July–August, when Samui remains a popular summer escape in Thailand.
Rainy Season Peak (October to November)
November brings the heaviest rainfall, with frequent storms and occasional flooding in low-lying areas. Seas can be rough, and ferry services are sometimes disrupted. By late December, conditions typically improve quickly.
Weather by Month
Here’s what you can expect month by month:
- January: Dry, sunny, and excellent for beaches
- February: Sunniest, driest month of the year
- March: Warm, bright, and mostly dry
- April: Hot, humid, some brief showers
- May: Hot, more showers and humidity
- June: Mix of rain and sun, still good beach days
- July: Similar to June, busy tourist season
- August: Cloudier at times but plenty of sunshine
- September: Wetter, especially later in the month
- October: Monsoon builds, frequent rain
- November: Wettest month, seas rough, ferry delays possible
- December: Early month can be wet; late month brightens into dry season
Best Time to Visit by Activity
- Beach holiday & snorkeling: mid-December to April
- Budget travel with fair weather: June–August
- Diving: Great year-round except peak monsoon (Oct–Nov)
- Waterfalls & jungle treks: Best from October–December when streams flow strongly
- Kite & wind sports: November–January best winds; April–May calmest
- Songkran (Thai New Year): mid-April, hot, lively, and festive
What to Pack
- Light cotton clothing and beachwear
- High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen
- Flip-flops and waterproof footwear
- Compact rain poncho or umbrella
- Dry bags for valuables on boat trips
- Mosquito repellent and bite relief
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
FAQ: Koh Samui Weather
When is the rainy season?
October–November is the peak rainy period, sometimes stretching into early December.
What’s the best month for sunshine?
February is the clearest and driest, with January–March being reliably sunny as well.
How warm is the sea?
The water stays a pleasant 28–30 °C all year, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
Is July–August a good time to visit?
Yes. Though there are occasional showers, Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s better islands for summer holidays with plenty of sunny days.
Are ferries affected by weather?
Mostly during October–November, when rough seas can delay or cancel services. Allow flexibility in your schedule if traveling at this time.