August can surprisingly be an excellent time to visit Phuket, Thailand’s largest island located in the Andaman Sea.
While it is still very much in “rainy season“, visitors can still enjoy plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures throughout the month, with a fair degree of humidity thrown in.
As tourism activity is in low season, visitors can expect to enjoy fewer crowds, lower prices, and a more relaxed atmosphere. August is a great time to experience Phuket’s natural beauty, with the lush green landscapes and crystal-clear waters making for an idyllic tropical setting.
Whether you’re looking to explore the island’s stunning beaches, indulge in the local cuisine and culture, or try your hand at some water sports, there’s something for everyone in Phuket in August.
In this blog post, we’ll examine why August is a great time to visit Phuket and highlight some of the top activities and attractions to visit while you’re there.
Jump back to the best of Phuket in July | Jump forward to see Phuket in September
Table of Contents
Average Climate in Phuket in August
August is one of the wettest months in Phuket, with an average rainfall of 270mm. The temperature during the day can still reach up to 31°C, with an average high of 29°C. The nights are slightly cooler, with an average low of 25°C.
The humidity is high, averaging around 80%, making it feel quite sticky and uncomfortable at times. The sea temperature remains warm, around 28-29°C, making it ideal for swimming and water activities.
Despite the rain, August can be a good time to visit Phuket for those who prefer less crowded beaches and lower accommodation prices.
Phuket Festivals and Events in August
Here are some interesting festivals and events that happen in Phuket in August:
- Queen Mother’s Birthday: August 12th is the birthday of H.M. Queen Sirikit, the King’s mother. This day is nationally recognised in Thailand, and celebrations occur throughout Phuket, including parades, fireworks, and cultural performances (not always marked as a Govt holiday)
- Por Tor Festival: Also known as the Hungry Ghost Festival, this Taoist event takes place in the 7th Lunar month and honours the ancestors. It involves food, flowers, and incense offerings at shrines and temples and a colourful street procession. the main events will happen around Por Tor Gong shrine in Phuket Town. (This event falls late Aug/Early Sept on the first day of the waxing moon, in the 7th lunar month – expect 22 August to 2 September 2024)
What to do in Phuket in August
It’s important to note whatever plans you make for August in Phuket, be prepared with a Plan B!
Whilst you can definitely still arrange day excursions and outdoor activities, you may want to play it by ear on the weekly (daily!) weather forecast to plan the perfect day for an outing and when an indoor activity may be preferred. Why not try:
- A day trip around the cultural side of Phuket. Start with a guided tour of Phuket Old Town, then tour Wat Chalong and finish with a visit to Big Buddha.
- Take a splash at the thrilling water park Andamanda, unless the weather is severe, they remain open rain or shine.
- Hire a private driver and choose up to seven activities from a list of 30 options with this great one-day package deal (available on Get Your Guide).
- Plan an educational visit to one of Phuket’s ethical elephant sanctuaries, where you can experience the elephants revelling in muddy weather.
- Rainy Day? Head to Central and the new Aquaria Phuket underwater experience, or try the small indoor theme park Tribhum
- Capture the sunset at one of the island’s beautiful viewpoints.
We have a complete guide to Phuket rainy day activities over here
A Note On Swimming At The Beach In Phuket During Wet Season
Swimming on Phuket’s beaches during the wet season (May to October) is generally not recommended due to the strong waves, currents, and occasional rough weather. Pay attention to the red warning flags on beaches and follow lifeguards’ instructions.
Most beaches on the Andaman Sea coast are closed to swimming during the rainy season due to safety concerns. However, some beaches in Phuket, such as Kata Noi Beach and Kamala Beach, are a little more protected from rougher waters and may be safe to swim in during the wet season – but please, only swim on patrolled beaches between the ‘Swim Here’ flags.
It is always best to exercise caution and stay informed about the local conditions when swimming at the beach in Phuket in August; too many deaths by drowning have already occurred in 2024.
For families, we recommend staying at a Phuket resort with a great pool in the rainy season for safe swimming.
What To Wear In Phuket In August
Being prepared for the likelihood of frequent rain showers and occasional thunderstorms, you will want to think about adding these items to your packing list for August travel to Phuket:
- Waterproof footwear: Choose waterproof shoes that can handle wet and slippery surfaces. Flip-flops and sandals can be slippery and uncomfortable during heavy rain.
- Light layers: Wear light layers that can be easily removed or added depending on the weather. Consider packing a lightweight rain jacket or poncho to keep you dry during unexpected downpours.
- Quick-drying clothing: Choose clothing made from quick-drying fabrics, such as polyester or nylon. This will allow you to stay comfortable even if you get caught in the rain.
- Mosquito-repellent clothing: During the rainy season, mosquito activity is higher, and it’s important to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Consider wearing clothing treated with mosquito repellent, such as permethrin, or spray mosquito repellent on your clothing and skin.
- Umbrella: Carry a compact and lightweight umbrella with you at all times to protect yourself from the rain.
- Waterproof bag: Use a waterproof bag or backpack to protect your belongings from the rain.
Remember that during the rainy season, humidity can be high, and temperatures can still be warm. Choose lightweight and breathable clothing that will keep you cool and comfortable in the heat and humidity.
We still recommend packing your beach vacation essentials, including sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and sun-protective swimwear. Although the UV index is lower in the rainy season, you can still burn after exposure to the sun’s rays in August.
If you will be visiting temples or other religious sites in Phuket, it is essential to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees in these places – we talk more about dress code here.
If you’ve forgotten any of your packing essentials, rest assured there are plenty of places you can go shopping in Phuket to pick up supplies.
Please note that we are not a travel agency. We cannot book your Phuket trip for you, but we do link on our website to our preferred suppliers. Clicking one of these links may earn us a commission on qualifying bookings or purchases. You can find our full privacy policy and website terms of use here.
© Mama Loves Phuket 2025