Thailand Island Hopping - Best time to go?

by Michelle
(New Zealand)

Question: Hi Amanda, we are planning a backpacking trip around Southeast Asia from November to February, and want to go to several Thailand islands; including Koh Pha Ngan, Ko Phi Phi and Koh Samui. Is this a good time to go? Will the weather be sunny and warm?

There could be a possibility of staying around these areas over Christmas and New year (not confirmed yet)... What could you recommend?

Thanks! Michelle


Answer: Hey Michelle, I traveled in Koh Pha Ngan and Ko Phi Phi during those months, so I can tell you about the weather back then.

I think Nov to Feb is a good time to visit the islands, both Phangan and Phi Phi. When I stayed on Phangan in Dec 2007 (visited Koh Pha Ngan also in April 2010), the weather was variable but still warm during the day, maybe 28-30°. Other days the skies were overcast (but still warm). Spent Christmas on Koh Pha Ngan -- and it was perfect weather-wise. The same applies for Koh Samui since these islands lie in the same coast.

The weather condition in Ko Phi Phi was almost the same as in Koh Pha Ngan, but a lot more sunny (maybe 6 out of 7 days). Spent one week there Dec/Jan 2007/2008. I actually spent New Year's in Phi Phi and would recommend it to everybody.... We celebrated it right on the beach, drinking cocktails, and then took a night dip in the warm ocean. PS: I'm not asking you to drink alcohol and then swim :P

All in all, traveling to the islands in Thailand between November and February is a really good time because of the sunny and warm weather, and also lower humidity. But of course, you have to share the beaches with lots of other backpackers and tourists, since November to February is considered as the high season (dry season).

And just because it's the dry season, doesn't necessarily mean it will NOT rain at all. Some days will be overcast and maybe short rain showers once in a while, but mostly nice weather. I would definitely recommend it! :-)

More on Thailand weather

Amanda

Last updated: May 05, 2012

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