Koh Samui is located off the east coast of Thailand. The subequatorial climate has turned almost every season on Koh Samui into a beach season: eternal summer reigns here. Keeping this in mind, it’s a bit difficult to answer, when is the best time to go to Koh Samui.
Even in the coldest months, the air temperature does not fall below 23 degrees Celsius. But visiting the island from May to September is not the best solution. It’s time for rainy season, with showers that can last for several days. So when is the best time to visit Koh Samui?
This is the only travel guide you need to check to get all necessary information about best time to go to Koh Samui, weather by month, rainy season and other important details.
Peak season on Koh Samui
Period from mid-December to February is super busy in Koh Samui. At this time, the amount of precipitation on the island is minimal, with the average temperature + 28 degrees.
During this time hotels are fully booked, street cafes and restaurants are opened, and nightclubs await fun lovers.
It’s also best time to visit Koh Samui to explore the beaches and try out different water activities. The weather is ideal for swimming: low humidity, refreshing east wind, mild sun, warm water (from +26 to +28 degrees).
If you would like to explore one of the most iconic landmark on Koh Samui – Ang Thong Marine Park during this season, join day tour by speedboat. Click here to make your reservation.
In winter and early spring, it’s time for Chinese and Thai New Year, as well as Buddhist celebrations and festivals. So, if you’re looking for some authentic experience, visit Koh Samui during this time.
Hot Season on Koh Samui
This is the period from March to August. The air temperature and humidity levels are very high. There are enough hours of sunshine and almost no cloud cover.
This is perfect time to try out different water sports, like snorkeling or diving, as well as kayaking. It is also a period, when whale sharks come close to Koh Samui coast.
Koh Samui’s Rainy Season
Rainy season usually lasts from October to November.During this time there are thunderstorms and pouring rain. Tropical storms and rough sea conditions make it impossible to enjoy almost any type of water sports.
No diving tours or snorkeling, as well as trips to nearby islands. Ang Thong Marine Park is also closed for visitors.
But monsoon season in Koh Samui has its advantages, like low airplane tickets are nearly empty beaches, fewer people on the streets and hotels, plenty of accommodation options with up to 50 percent discount.
Koh Samui Weather Month By Month
Due to tropical climate and great weather, Koh Samui can be called year round destination. But each month has its own weather peculiarities and it’s better to know about them in advance.
January
In January on Koh Samui is the most gorgeous weather and sunny days, even though it is called the coolest month. In the meantime, it is a peak season with very comfortable average temperatures 20+. The sea is calm with clear water, so you can enjoy swimming and diving.
By the end of January, the number of tourists from China increases significantly, as many come to celebrate the Chinese New Year. As a result, hotels are fully booked, cafes and restaurants are busy. If you have an option, it’s better not to visit Koh Samui during this time.
- Temperature: + 29 Celsius
- Water Temperature: +26 Celsius
- Humidity: 83%
February
February in Ko Samui is the best month for beach vacations, so go ahead to Chaweng beach if you’re looking for lively atmosphere or move to Maenam for calm family vacation. You can spend the whole day at the beach without worrying about the afternoon showers.
The temperature is perfect for any types of outdoor activities, there are so many interesting places to visit. Once Chinese New Year celebrations are done, Koh Samui becomes emptier.
- Temperature: + 28 Celsius
- Water temperature: +27 Celsius
- Humidity: 82%
March
March can be called a transitional month, its still the best time to visit Koh Samui and enjoy warm weather. It’s time for lightest rainfall and median cloud cover. Already in April it will be really hot on Koh Samui, so you can enjoy water activities or sightseeing in Koh Samui.
It is worth remembering that March is a time for school holidays, be ready to meet big companies of students at the beach.
- Temperature: +32°C
- Water temperature:
- Humidity:
April
One of the hottest months not only on Koh Samui, but thoughout Thailand. Average temperatures don’t fall below +32 °C, in addition to that there is very high humidity level. It’s really hard to stay outside for very long time, make sure to plan some activities in air conditioned places.
The celebration of Thai New Year known as Songkran takes places in the mid-April. It’s time for huge street water fights, which is one of the ways to cool off a bit from the hot Koh Samui’s weather.
May
Occasional shower is normal for May, which is the hottest month. Due to rain and high humidity, a large number of mosquitoes appear. Don’t forget to stock up on repellents. Walking in the evening might not be so pleasant due to constant bites.
June
Compared to other parts of Thailand, Koh Samui remains dry in June. Water and air average temperatures are nearly the same +30 C/ +29 C. Swimming in such water will not bring any relief.
July
While many other tropical resorts, for example, Phuket, are suffering from heavy rain showers, Koh Samui weather pleases visitors with sunny days and blue skies. But sometimes intense short showers happen.
School summer holidays are in full swing. So, you’ll meet many parents with children on Koh Samui beaches as well as honeymooners.
August
In many countries August is a period of summer breaks. Koh Samui’s weather is nice and sunny, with little rain in the late afternoon, so, there are many visitors during this time.
September
Most travelers leave Koh Samui in September, as school starts. Even noisy Chaweng beach becomes quiet, which means that low season has come. Rainy days are replaced by sunny ones. It’s also a time for great deals and huge discounts.
October
Rainy season officially starts in October, but till the mid of the month you can still enjoy good Koh Samui weather. By the end of the month, rainy season is gaining momentum with more rain and bad sea conditions.
November
November is Koh Samui’s wettest month. While the temperature remains high, humidity level is about 85%.Visit Koh Samui in November and participate in “festival of light” or “Krathong”.
December
It’s better to visit Koh Samui in the second half of the month, when there will be more sunny days. Humidity is still very high, the amount of rainy days and precipitation decrease substantially.
