When to go to Koh Samui and what to do besides the beach

Many people choose Samui precisely because its rainy season starts later than Phuket's. When heavy rain is already falling on the west of the country, Samui still has good weather. But there are months when another destination is a better pick. Here is how the weather works and what to do on the island when you want more than lying on the beach.

When Samui is at its best

Samui is in the Gulf of Thailand, so the rain arrives from the other side of the sea and at a different time.

• December, January, February, March, April: the driest period and the main season. Little rain, a calm sea and bright sun. December and January are the most expensive.
• May, June, July, August: hot, with short downpours but plenty of sun between them. Prices are lower and there are fewer people. Many consider this period the best balance of price and weather.
• September: more frequent rain and a less calm sea, but the weather is still bearable.
• October and November: the rainiest months. Some sources name November as the wettest. If you plan a trip at exactly this time, leave room for bad weather and book accommodation with flexible cancellation.

For comparison: in Phuket the rain starts in May and the hardest period falls in September and October, covered in when to go to Phuket. When it rains in Phuket, Samui is sometimes the fallback.

What to do on Samui

The Big Buddha and temples. The Big Buddha statue near Bophut and Wat Plai Laem with its colorful figures. It is better to go in the morning while it is not hot. Clothing must cover shoulders and knees.

Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks. By Lamai beach, a free and quick stop.

Fisherman's Village market. A Friday evening market with food and souvenirs.

Waterfalls. Especially impressive in the rainy season, with less water in the dry season.

Ang Thong Marine Park. A group of islands with lagoons and viewpoints. Excursions leave from Samui, but they are cancelled in heavy weather.

Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. The neighboring islands. Koh Tao is known for diving and snorkeling, Koh Phangan for full moon parties. You can go by fast catamaran, usually for a day or a night. See Koh Phangan or Koh Tao for the difference.

Massage and cooking classes. A good option for a rainy day.

How to plan the trip

1. 5-7 days on the island: enough to relax and see the main things.
2. Bangkok plus Samui: 3-4 days in the city, then the island. A review of the city is in where to stay in Bangkok and Bangkok in 3 days.
3. Getting to the island: different options, prices and times in Koh Samui: how to get there and which beach to choose.

Flights and prices

Flights to Thailand are easiest to find with a connection or to Bangkok, and then you choose how to reach the island. Check prices in the HotTrip flight search. Take out insurance in advance.

Frequently asked questions

When is the rainy season on Samui?

Mainly in October and November. The wettest month is most often November.

Can I go to Samui in summer?

Yes, from May to August it is usually warm, the rain is short and prices are lower than in winter.

Which month is the best?

December to April: little rain and a calm sea. If you want it cheaper, look at May and June.

Is a week enough for the island?

Yes, a week suits a calm holiday and a couple of excursions.

What can I do on a rainy day?

Go for a massage, to cafes and museums, to malls, or to the waterfalls. Excursions to the sea islands are often cancelled on such days.

Cover: photo by Julito Elizalde on Pexels