Heading to Phuket in February? Here's what to know

Cristal Dyer

3 min read

A woman in the water surrounded by fish in Thailand

Phuket in February is as good as it gets. Warm sun, barely any rain, and water so clear your friends will think you’ve mastered Photoshop. Whether you’re chasing a tan, a dive trip, or just a solid pad thai with a sea view, this is the time to go.

The trade-off for all this great weather is that you should get used to crowds and higher prices. But, if you plan ahead and don’t mind sharing paradise with a few others, February delivers the kind of island escape most people dream about.

Is February a good time to visit Phuket?

Absolutely. February delivers what most travellers picture when they think of a Thai beach holiday. The dry season is in full swing with stable weather that makes it easy to plan your days. Underwater visibility peaks at over 25 metres, which means it’s prime time for divers and snorkellers. The sea stays calm and inviting, whilst humidity drops to its annual low of around 65-75%.

The trade-off is that you'll share paradise with plenty of others. February marks peak tourist season, so beaches get crowded, and prices climb. Traffic around popular areas like Patong can test your patience. The Lunar New Year also creates an extra surge of visitors and a noticeable jump in costs.

Is February a cheap or expensive time to visit Phuket?

We’re not going to lie; if you’re travelling to Phuket in February, you’ll definitely be reaching into your wallet more often than in the low season. Accommodation, tours, and flights reach their annual peak prices. Luxury resorts can set you back AU$415 per night, whilst mid-range hotels range from AU$50 to AU$150. The Lunar New Year brings price surges that rival Christmas and New Year rates.

Smart moves can soften the blow. Hostels in Patong Beach offer budget-friendly stays. The Phuket Smart Bus costs around AU$5 for airport transfers compared to pricey taxi fares. Book accommodation and tours well ahead to lock in better rates before last-minute travellers drive prices even higher.

Weather in Phuket in February

February is historically Phuket's driest month. You'll see only 3 - 4 rainy days across the entire month, with clear skies that dominate. Daytime temperatures hover between 30 - 33°C and cool to a comfortable 24 - 27°C at night. The water temperature sits at a bath-like 28 - 30°C.

Low humidity makes outdoor activities far more pleasant than in other months. You won't feel that sticky, oppressive heat. The calm seas and excellent visibility create ideal conditions for water sports.

Where to go in Phuket in February

Patong Beach: The island's busiest beach delivers non-stop action with beach clubs, restaurants, and Phuket's most famous nightlife scene.

Kata and Karon beaches: Family-friendly alternatives with gentler waves, cleaner sand, and a more relaxed vibe than Patong.

Bang Tao, Surin, and Nai Yang: Head north to escape the masses. These beaches offer quieter stretches of sand with fewer tour groups.

Phuket Old Town: Wander through the Sino-Portuguese architecture, pop into heritage museums, and grab coffee at lively cafes in the historic quarter.

Similan and Surin Islands: February offers peak conditions for visits to these protected marine parks, usually only accessible during the dry season.

Festivals and events in Phuket in February

Chinese New Year (usually late January/early February): Celebrate with dragon dances, fireworks, and red lanterns at Jui Tui Shrine in Phuket Town.

Phuket Old Town Festival (mid-February): The historic district transforms into a pedestrian zone with light shows, rickshaw rides, and traditional Peranakan costume parades.

Wat Chalong Fair (late January/early February): Catch the tail end of this large carnival with rides, games, and local food stalls.

Valentine's Day (14 February): Restaurants and resorts roll out romantic dinner packages and special decorations for couples.

Best things to do in Phuket in February

Scuba dive and snorkel: February delivers the year's best dive conditions with calm seas and visibility that often exceeds 25 metres.

Island hop to Phi Phi Islands: Depart early (by 6am) to reach Maya Bay before the tour crowds arrive. The calm seas make boat trips much more comfortable.

Hike to Black Rock Viewpoint: Lower humidity makes treks far more pleasant. This hike rewards you with 360-degree views of the southern coastline.

Explore James Bond Island: Take a day trip to Phang Nga Bay when the waters are at their calmest and clearest.

Beach hop to hidden spots: Seek out Banana Beach, Sai Kaew Beach, or Ao Sane Beach for quieter alternatives to the main tourist beaches.

Ready to explore Phuket? Here’s all the basics you need to know before booking your trip.

Flights to Phuket | Hotels in Phuket | Activities and attractions in Phuket | Best time to visit Phuket | Best islands near Phuket

Written by: Cristal Dyer

Cristal Dyer is a writer for Traveloka with more than a decade of travel writing experience that' has taken her to more than 70 countries. She travels full-time, sharing insider tips on her favourite cities, must-try food spots, and the best travel deals she can find.