By Kylian DevNorth
MixedChiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Pai
Still hot, with the first rains usually arriving during the month and refreshing the landscape after the dry season.
Thailand in May
Thailand in May: switch coasts for the green season
In May the southwest monsoon arrives on the Andaman coast and the rainy season begins further north. The Gulf islands, however, are often still sunny. Low season means fewer tourists and better prices.
- Good with the right region
- Low season
- 5 ideal destinations
Good with the right region
Our verdict for May
May is a transition month. The Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi) turns stormy and many marine parks there close from mid-May. The Gulf islands (Samui, Phangan, Tao) are usually the smarter choice, with mostly dry weather. In Bangkok and the north, the heat stays high and afternoon storms become regular, bringing green landscapes back.
Bangkok & centre
MixedBangkok, Ayutthaya, Hua Hin
Hot and humid with increasingly frequent afternoon downpours; mornings are usually fine for sightseeing.
Andaman coast
RainyPhuket, Krabi, Phi Phi, Lanta
Start of the monsoon: rougher seas, more rain and some boat trips cancelled. National marine parks such as the Similan and Surin islands close on 15 May.
Gulf islands
GreatKoh Samui, Phangan, Tao
The best coast this month: mostly dry, calm seas and warm water around Samui, Phangan and Tao.
Region by region
Weather in Thailand in May, by region
The bar shows how many of our destinations in each region are in their ideal season. The strip shows the whole year, with this month outlined.
North
Mixed
0 of 6 destinations ideal
Central & Bangkok
Mixed
1 of 5 destinations ideal
Gulf of Thailand
Great
3 of 3 destinations ideal
Andaman Sea
Rainy
1 of 9 destinations ideal
East (Koh Chang)
Rainy
0 of 5 destinations ideal
Method: each destination has a list of ideal months in our data; a region is rated from the share of its destinations in their ideal window. It is a planning guide based on typical seasons, not a forecast.
Where to go
Best places to visit in Thailand in May
Our data puts these destinations in their ideal window in May: the Gulf islands lead the way.
Central & BangkokHua Hin
Royal elegance, sea breeze and a pavilion in a cave
29°C€35 - 75 / day
Gulf of ThailandKoh Tao
The mecca of scuba diving and sea turtles
29°C€28 - 50 / day
Gulf of ThailandKoh Phangan
Two faces: legendary parties and zen yoga sanctuaries
29°C€30 - 65 / day
Gulf of ThailandKoh Samui
The island of coconut palms, exceptional spas and Ang Thong marine park
30°C€50 - 120 / day
Andaman SeaKoh Lipe
The Maldives of Thailand: powdery sand and coral reefs
30°C€40 - 85 / day
Doable, off peak (10)
BangkokChiang MaiChiang Rai & the Golden TrianglePaiSukhothaiAyutthayaKanchanaburi & ErawanKhao YaiMae Hong SonNan
Outside their ideal window but usually fine to visit: expect some showers, heat or rougher seas.
Rainy season (13)
Koh ChangKhao SokPhuketKrabi & RailayKoh Phi PhiKoh LantaKoh KoodKoh MakKoh SametPattayaKhao LakKoh Yao NoiTrang Islands
In their rainy season according to our data. Still possible if you are flexible, but plan indoor options and check boat schedules.
Typical conditions
What the weather is like in May
Temperatures stay high, often in the low to mid-30s °C, but the air becomes heavier. On the Andaman coast and inland, rain usually comes as intense afternoon or evening storms rather than all-day drizzle, with plenty of sunny spells in between. The Gulf coast remains mostly dry.
What to pack in May
- A light rain jacket or poncho for sudden downpours
- Quick-dry clothing and sandals that can get wet
- A dry bag for boat transfers
- Mosquito repellent: they multiply with the first rains
Crowds & prices
Crowds and prices in May
Low season
Low season. Tourist numbers drop, beaches are quieter and accommodation is often noticeably cheaper than in winter, especially on the Andaman coast. Some smaller resorts and boat services may reduce their operations.
Tourist season through the year
JFMAMJJASOND
Taller bar = busier and usually pricier. Based on typical tourist seasons, not live prices.
Festivals
Festivals in Thailand in May
Lunar festivals shift from year to year: check the exact date before you book.
Visakha Bucha
Full moon of May, sometimes June (lunar)
The holiest Buddhist day, marking the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha.
Chiang Mai (Doi Suthep), temples nationwide
Full Moon Party
Every month, on or around the full moon
The monthly all-night beach party at Haad Rin, Koh Phangan.
Haad Rin beach, Koh Phangan
FAQ
Thailand in May: your questions
Is May a good time to visit Thailand?
It can be, if you choose the right coast. The Gulf islands (Samui, Phangan, Tao) are usually sunny in May, while the Andaman coast enters its rainy season. Prices are lower everywhere.
Is it rainy in Phuket in May?
May marks the start of the monsoon on Phuket and the Andaman coast. Expect showers and storms, often in the afternoon, with rougher seas, but also sunny spells. See Phuket weather by month.
What is the Visakha Bucha holiday?
The most important Buddhist holy day, usually on the full moon of May (sometimes June). Temples hold candlelit processions and alcohol sales are normally banned that day.
Keep planning