Phuket in December: Weather, Travel Info & More
Are you planning a trip to Thailand and wondering what visiting Phuket in December is like?
Several important factors must be considered if you plan to visit the island during December. Before spending a week in Phuket in December, I wondered what the weather would be like, whether it’d be busy, and more questions.
Phuket is the largest of Thailand’s islands, located at the southern end of the country in the Andaman Sea. This vibrant destination is home to beautiful beaches, a charming old town, temples, and bustling nightlife.
To assist you with your trip, this post will review the weather, what to wear, activities, and more travel info for visiting Phuket during the month of December.
Now, let’s jump into it!
Is December a Good Time to Visit Phuket?
December presents a prime time to explore the island of Phuket. During December, Phuket experiences warm temperatures and plenty of sunny days.
Falling within the cool season, December enjoys heightened tourist activity, offering a favorable climate with minimal rainfall. In return, this allows visitors to enjoy the many outdoor activities. Whether relaxing on the beach or taking a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands is on your itinerary, December is the perfect time!
Phuket Weather in December
December graces Phuket with some of its driest and warmest weather, a departure from the heat of the hot season and rainy conditions from the wet season.
The month boasts an average high of 88°F (31°C) and a low of 76°F (24°C), delivering an ideal climate for exploring different activities. The absence of the wet season makes December one of the optimal months for visiting Phuket.
The inviting warmth and dry conditions in December provide the perfect environment for discovering the gems around the island and its lush landscape. With December registering as one of the peak tourist season months, various activities and festivities will occur.
This is the perfect opportunity to visit beaches, take day trips, or enjoy one of the various water activities. In addition, it is an excellent time to experience the Phuket Big Buddha and night markets.
As mentioned, you’ll steer clear of the wet season in December. Thailand’s climate has three principal seasons: the hot season spanning March to May, the rainy wet season encompassing May through October, and the refreshing cool season spanning November to February.
What To Wear in Phuket in December
The weather in Phuket during December promises milder temperatures and a reduction in humidity. Given those conditions, light and breathable clothing, including shorts, dresses, and short sleeves, are ideal for the weather. Fabrics that are best suited for this weather are linen, cotton, and rayon.
A popular clothing item you’ll notice people wearing in Thailand is harem pants. These comfortable, lightweight pants still feel great in warm temperatures. Pashminas are also ideal for comfort and if you need a covering for religious sites.
One of the most important clothing items to remember will be swimwear and beach attire. This will allow you to enjoy Phuket’s beautiful beaches and water activities comfortably. Additionally, packing coverups will be great when moving from the beach to a restaurant or store.
👉TRAVEL TIP: You must dress modestly when visiting religious sites like temples in Thailand. If The Big Buddha is on your list to visit, ensure your shoulders are covered, and your bottoms are at least knee length.
Regarding shoes, sandals and water shoes will be perfect for beach and water-related excursions. Bringing sneakers also comes in handy when doing sightseeing activities. If you forget these shoe types, there are plenty of shops to purchase from.
Although the weather in Phuket is pleasant for most days during the month, there is a chance for rainfall. Consider packing an umbrella, lightweight poncho, or rain jacket to prepare best. In addition, bringing clothing that dries fast will be helpful.
The dry weather of the cool season is also characteristic of the hot season. However, as the name suggests, the hotter conditions during this period can be a struggle for certain outdoor activities. Take April, for example, where temperatures can reach highs of 93°F (34°C) highs!
Things To Do in Phuket in December
As December offers some of the best weather of the year in Phuket, it’s an optimal time to enjoy the different activities on and around the island.
With so many different options for things to do in Phuket, it can be challenging to decide what to do. To help with your itinerary, here are some top things to do in and around the “Pearl of the Andaman.”
1. Relax on the Beach
Visiting one of the many beaches is among the best things to do in Phuket.
With warm temperatures, dry conditions, and sunny skies, this is the perfect environment for beach enthusiasts. Various activities are available at the beaches, including jet skiing, snorkeling, and water sports.
The most popular and lively beach in Phuket in December is Patong Beach. Its lively atmosphere makes it the perfect location for its diverse offerings to entertain visitors. Whether you want to jet ski, paraglide, or enjoy the nightlife, this beach has it all!
In addition to Patong Beach, other beaches, including Freedom Beach, Karon Beach, and Kata Beach, are well worth a visit. Freedom Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket, with its white sand and crystal-clear waters. You will have a great time no matter which beach you visit in Phuket.
There are also a variety of beach clubs to visit where you can enjoy trendy music, refreshments, and culinary delights. Some of the best beach clubs in Phuket to visit are Café del Mar, KUDO Beach Club, and Catch Beach Club. Regardless of which one you choose, you will have a great time!
2. Phi Phi Islands Tour
Undoubtedly, one of Phuket’s most popular day trips is going on a Phi Phi Islands tour. These six islands are home to white sand beaches, clear-emerald waters, and lush landscapes. As a result of the surroundings, some of the best views you can find in the country are here.
The Phi Phi Islands are home to the famous Maya Bay, one of the best beaches in Thailand. Notably, Maya Bay was featured in the 2000 movie, The Beach, largely contributing to its fame. To continue the preservation and beauty of Maya Bay, there are strict rules against swimming in the water.
You can only reach the Phi Phi Islands by boat from Phuket, which can be done by booking a ferry or tour. Thankfully, many day trips from Phuket visit the Phi Phi Islands. The tours are perfect if you can’t add an overnight stay to the Phi Phi Islands to your Thailand vacation.
In addition to the highlight of Maya Bay, tours also visit other landmarks and destinations. These include Monkey Beach, Pileh Bay, and Loh Samah Bay. You will have the chance to snorkel, swim, and paddleboarding at different stops.
➡️This is the Phi Phi Islands tour that I recommend!
3. James Bond Island Tour
Another one of the best day trips from Phuket is taking a tour of James Bond Island, also known as “Ko Ta Pu.” As the name suggests, it’s derived from the 1974 James Bond movie, The Man with the Golden Gun. Due to its stunning nature, this is a must-see for any trip to Thailand.
The limestone islet has quickly become one of Thailand’s most popular attractions! Standing in emerald water, the islet is so picturesque it almost looks unreal! In addition to James Bond Island, more surrounding islands add to the breathtaking beauty.
You can only reach James Bond Island by boat. Luckily, there is no shortage of options for tours visiting Phang Nga Bay’s natural wonder! The boat will stop at Khao Phing Kan island, where you can then appreciate the beauty of James Bond Island.
As James Bond Island does not have much to do, tours, including the one I recommend, include additional activities. You can get the ultimate bang for your buck by visiting Lawa Island and receiving a delicious buffet lunch.
➡️Book this Phang Nga Bay Sea Cave Canoeing & James Bond Island Tour before it sells out!
4. Ma Doo Bua Cafe
Looking for a unique cafe or restaurant during your time in Phuket? Then make sure a visit to Ma Doo Bua Cafe is on your itinerary! This charming cafe is a gem, combining creative design and a serene ambiance.
Stepping into Ma Doo Bua Cafe is almost like entering a wonderland. Upon entering, you instantly greet with the artistic design of the dining area, which then opens up to the top attraction, the lotus pond. The generous menu offers an array of different Thai dishes and refreshments.
The picturesque lotus pond is decorated with beautiful lily pads and the surrounding traditional-design buildings. The cafe even offers a drone service for memorable aerial pictures from the lotus pond.
You can choose from a single person, two persons, three persons, or a family-size photoshoot. The photoshoot prices are on the website here.
It’s important to note that this place is not a hidden gem and is quite popular. Make sure you have a reservation for anything, whether for dining or the pictures.
If you’re staying in or around Patong, you will need transport as the cafe is around a 40-minute drive away. The cafe is open daily from 9:00 AM until 8:00 PM.
5. Phuket Big Buddha
One of the most popular things to do in Phuket is visit the Phuket Big Buddha. This outstanding 145-foot (45-meter) tall Buddhist statue is one of the most significant landmarks in Phuket. Impressively, it’s the third tallest of Thailand’s statues.
As you climb up the hill to the statue, there are restaurants and other statues. While taking in the beauty of the white marble statue, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the island’s coastline and lush landscape. The Phuket Big Buddha provides the perfect opportunity to reflect and appreciate the island’s beauty.
👉TRAVEL TIP: You may encounter monkeys on the way to the statue. They can be aggressive, and bringing minimal belongings is recommended since some monkeys try stealing items. Be careful with water bottles, jewelry, etc.
Ladies must be dressed modestly for visiting the Phuket Big Buddha. If you forget the dress code, you may purchase appropriate coverings to enter.
This landmark can become very busy with tourists throughout the day. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, arriving in the morning will be the best.
➡️Check out this Phuket City Tour that visits the Big Buddha!
FAQs: Phuket in December
Now you know what’s in store when visiting Phuket in December, here are answers to some commonly asked questions concerning the subject.
Is Phuket Crowded in December?
Since December is one of the peak tourist months in Phuket, the beaches and vibrant streets will be decently busy.
Since this is some of the best weather during the year, domestic and international travelers flock to admire the sun-drenched shores, stunning waters, and clear skies. As a result, beaches, lively nightlife, and tourist attractions experience higher foot traffic during this period.
If you visit during the Christmas and New Year’s Eve holidays, you can expect Phuket to be very crowded. Places like Bangla Road and Patong Beach will be busy and full of festivities and entertainment to celebrate the holiday season.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a quieter getaway from the crowds and rowdiness, Phuket is still a great option. Exploring lesser-known beaches like Laem Singh Beach or opting for calmer attractions can offer a reprieve from the bustling atmosphere. In return, you can still enjoy the beauty of Phuket without the crowds.
What Is the Best Time To Visit Phuket?
The optimal time to visit Phuket is generally from November to February, aligning with the cool season. The same goes for other regions in Thailand, such as Chiang Mai. The weather in these months provides pleasant conditions, allowing you to explore the island’s tourist attractions and outdoor activities comfortably.
Visiting Phuket during the cool season also provides the opportunity to experience the Patong Carnival and the Loi Krathong festival. These exciting events offer further cultural immersion and a lively experience.
The subsequent hot season, spanning March to May, presents higher temperatures and slightly fewer crowds, making it a viable alternative for those seeking even warmer conditions. Lastly, the wet season, spanning from June to October, offers the twin benefits of lower prices and diminished crowds, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious travelers.
To Sum Up: Phuket in December
Well, there it is! A complete guide on what to expect when visiting Phuket in December.
December is one of the best times to visit this southern Thailand destination. With the end of the wet season, the weather will bring sunny skies and warm temperatures. You can take advantage of the weather by visiting the beach, visiting cultural sites, and taking a day trip to the Phi Phi Islands.
In addition, the festive period provides the opportunity to experience a new way of celebrating and the opportunity for cultural immersion in local holidays.
I hope that this post assists you with organizing your Thailand vacation and that you have the best time possible!
