When is the best time of year
to visit Phuket?

You'll hear many opinions about the best time of year to visit Phuket - and, in fact, it is probably quite a personal question.

Since weather is the biggest issue for many people - just for a start - you might want to check our Phuket Weather page.  Some people really like low season (summer and the rainy season) as the island is quieter and traffic is easier - and resort and hotel fare drop by 1/3 to 1/2. 

Some people though are put off by the rougher seas and some beaches will have a strong undertow.  It is not always safe to swim as the sea reacts to the weather. Swimming for children in particular is probably not safe unless you seek protected waters on the bay side of the island.

  October to April (cold weather season in the northern hemisphere) is high season as people escape their harsh winters and flock to nicer climates.   Some people suggest November to February as the high high season - when the island is at its very busiest. If you enjoy the nightlife and crowds, it's a good time to come.  If you are a people watcher, it is also a fun time to just sip a beer and watch people walk by.  Winter is also the time of year when the sea is much calmer and clearer and so perhaps better for scuba diving, snorkeling and swimming in the sea.

In truth, there is no bad time to visit Phuket - do your research and you'll not likely be disappointed.