Best time to visit Koh Samui

Traveloka Team

15 Sep 2024 - 2 min read

If your idea of a good time involves sand, seafood, and staying in thongs all day, Koh Samui ticks every box. It’s warm pretty much all year, but January to March really nails the vibe. The weather’s steady, the ocean’s clear, and the island’s full of energy without feeling packed. It’s the best time to go if you want the weather to work with you, not against you. Less rain, more beach.

That said, the rest of the year still has plenty going for it. Whether you’re chasing cheaper stays or don’t mind a bit of rain, there’s always a good time to go.

Visiting Koh Samui in the rainy season (June – September)

What’s the weather like? Hot, humid, with quick afternoon showers. Days usually sit around 28–33°C.

Notable events:

Asana Bucha Day (usually July): A Buddhist holiday marked by candlelit processions and peaceful ceremonies at local temples.

Full Moon Parties (monthly): Massive beach parties on nearby Koh Phangan, with DJs, fire shows, and sunrise swims.

Recommended time to visit? Yes.

Even with short bursts of rain, you’re still looking at long beach days and warm nights. Everything’s still open and running, and flights are easy to find, though prices might be a bit higher in August. Perfect if you like things busy but not overly hectic.

Visiting Koh Samui in the monsoon season (October – November)

What’s the weather like? These are the wettest months of the year. Temps hover around 27–30°C, and you can expect strong winds.

Notable events:

Vegetarian Festival (September/October): Local temples host colourful processions and food stalls go fully meat-free.

Loy Krathong (November): Locals float flower offerings on the water under the full moon — it’s a chilled, photogenic night.

Recommended time to visit? No.

Rain can stick around for days, and the sea can get rough. But if you’re after peace and cheaper stays, it’s worth considering.

Visiting Koh Samui in the dry season (December – February)

What’s the weather like? Dry and breezy. Daytime temps are around 27–30°C, with less humidity.

Notable events:

New Year’s Eve beach parties: Big names, big crowds, and fireworks lighting up Chaweng.

Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb): Parades, firecrackers, and temple visits bring the island to life.

Recommended time to visit? Yes.

It’s the best time for beach holidays, with clear skies and smooth sailing all around. Book early, though, as it gets busy.

Visiting Koh Samui in the hot season (March – May)

What’s the weather like? Starts dry, gets hotter, and ends sticky. Expect highs of 33–36°C by late April.

Notable events:

Songkran Festival (13-15 April): Thailand’s New Year, better known for street-wide water fights and non-stop fun.

Samui Regatta (late May – early June): Watch pro sailors race it out just off Chaweng Beach.

Recommended time to visit? Yes, especially March and early April.

It’s still dry, and the water’s perfect for swimming or snorkelling. Just plan for early starts or shady arvos later in the season.

When are the warmest and coolest months in Koh Samui?

April and May are the hottest. If your plans involve pools, fans, and coconuts, you’ll be right at home. Just don’t forget sunscreen.

December and January are the coolest. Still warm, but you won’t be sweating through your shirt. Good for outdoor stuff like hiking or island hopping.

When are the wettest and driest times in Koh Samui?

October and November bring the most rain. The island’s quiet, the air’s fresh, and you’ll get lush jungle views; just maybe pack a poncho.

December to February are the driest. You can count on sunny days and calm seas, with barely a raincloud in sight. Perfect for beach trips, boat tours, or just doing nothing under a palm tree.