Krabi has a tropical monsoon climate. It's always warm, with a rainy season from May to October, due to southwest monsoon rains, and a dry season from November to April.
From February to April, before the arrival of the rains, there is a slight rise in temperature. In fact this is typically the hottest time of the year and temperatures often reach 37-38°C.
The best time to visit Krabi is during the northeast monsoon season, from November through April, when it isn't so humid, and cool breezes keep things comfortable.
Quick Facts
- Krabi is humid and warm all year round.
- A lot of rain falls in the months of May to October. September is the wettest month and should be avoided if you don't like too much rain!
- On average, the hottest month is April, while the coolest month is January.
- The dry season is the high season for tourism in Krabi.
- Travel with Asia Highlights to maximize your experience in Krabi.
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Bangkok and Chiang Mai
In Bangkok, our guide Ann and driver "Mr. Ot" (I don't know how to spell his name) were very friendly and professional. You simply can't underestimate the value of having an English speaking guide to show you around, and a driver with a comfortable, sizeable, air-conditioned van take you from place to place. Ann taught us so much about Thailand's history, food, and religion. Mr. Ot always opened our door with a smile, and had cool towels and ice-cold bottled water for us. More
, Apr 2024
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Very great experience our driver D was…
Very great experience our driver D was never late and always had waters and a cold towel for us and our tour guide Som was very informative and had amazing English I recommend them both highly for anyone else traveling More
Rylan Coache, Feb 2024
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Excellent guide in Siem Reap
Our recent time spent in Siem Reap was made even more memorable by our expert guide, Som Piseth. Som was knowledgeable, attentive, flexible and super helpful - we learnt so much about Siem Reap and Cambodia in our 3 days with him. His English was excellent and his knowledge of, and pride in, his country was outstanding. We would highly recommend Som for anyone wanting an excellent guide in Siem Reap! More
Sharon Townshend, Feb 2024
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Weather in Krabi
Krabi is in a tropical climate zone, only 8 degrees above the equator. Yearly temperatures average around 28-32°C during the day, with a maximum of around 38°C during March and April and a minimum of 24°C (usually a temporary drop during a big rainstorm), though the temperatures rarely drop below 27°C year round.
During the dry season, from November to April, Krabi is blessed with idyllic weather conditions: flat warm seas, clear skies with plenty of sunshine and a refreshing sea breeze, and relatively low humidity levels. This is the best time of year for underwater activities, as underwater visibility is at its best.
The wet season (May-October) is largely unpredictable in Krabi – you are just as likely to experience long periods of clear skies and sunny weather as you are to experience over a week of thick clouds and heavy rain. What is predictable is the soaring humidity, making the heat very uncomfortable.
Rainy Season in Krabi
The rainy season lasts from May to October. During the season, periods of sunshine are interrupted frequently by heavy downpours. The average high temperature is around 32°C in May and 31°C in October during the daytime, with night-time lows around 25°C and 24°C respectively.
Rainfall is particularly intense in September, when the province is subject to an average rainfall of 300 mm, making it the wettest month of the year.
There are some periods when it does indeed rain constantly for a few days. So monsoon-season visitors are indeed taking some risks with the weather. However, you can still experience 7-8 hours of sunshine if you are lucky, and the other advantages of visiting at this time of year are considerable.
If you come during the rainy season, unlike the peak season, there's hardly anyone to be seen. The prices are lower in the rainy season, making this is the most affordable time to plan a trip. But be prepared for heavy rainstorms that might occur all of a sudden.
Activities
You can still do lots of activities despite the weather, such as treating yourself to a spa package: the perfect rainy-day activity. Krabi's many spas are usually part of hotel complexes, but are all open to outside guests; many massage parlors also offer beauty treatments.
Head to a shopping mall or a local market and get huge discounts, because the prices are often lower during this season.
Can't go out to sea? Visit the "outdoor aquarium" at Ao Nam Mao. This government conservation centre breeds all kinds of tropical fish, from tiny clownfish (think Nemo) and seahorses to rays and turtles. Admission is free.
10-Day Thailand Rain Forest and Beach Escape:
Dry Season in Krabi
The dry season which lasts from November to April is the best time to visit Krabi.
November is one of the best months of the dry season, when the temperatures are relatively low. However, November is also subject to the tail end of the wet season's rain storms and therefore witnesses an average of over 200 mm of rainfall.
At the other end of the scale, January is the driest month of the dry season, when a miniscule 30 mm falls over about three rainy days. The temperatures are at an average high of 32°C in November which only climbs to 33-34°C in March and April. You will experience 8-9 hours of sunshine per day in this season and humidity levels are lower than usual.
The high season for tourism is from December to February. Krabi is especially packed at Christmas and New Year. Accommodation can be hard to find and is more expensive, and Krabi's diving sites are also very crowded. There's little you can do to avoid the crowds, so try to plan your vacation beforehand, or use a guided tour so you can skip the hassles.
Events and Activities
Visiting during this season, you can see some events and festivals like Krabi Boek Fa Andaman Festival, held annually from 16 to 18 November. This festival officially opens the tourist season in the province. It features magnificent parades, cultural and musical performances, sea kayak competitions, boat races, sales of local products and other activities.
You can join in with Krabi International Rock-Climbing, held annually in April. This event aims to publicize and promote rock-climbing in Krabi Province. Krabi is a "Rock-Climbing Destination".
Busiest Period of the Year in Krabi
Weather-wise, the ideal time to visit Krabi is from November to April. This is the coolest season in Krabi after the rains.
With the best weather, this is naturally also the busiest time, with most tourists planning their trips around this period. This is the perfect time to spend the day relaxing on one of the gorgeous beaches in Krabi and to enjoy water sports in the calm sea.
This time is extremely busy here, so you may find popular hotels and beaches full, especially around Christmas and New Year.
Prices for hotels and flights are most expensive during these months. If, however, you do a little planning and book early enough, you may just find some great deals. One of the reasons why you should plan a trip in April is to witness the Krabi Boek Fa Andaman Festival, Chak Phra Festival Krabi, etc.
What to Pack for a Beach Holiday
- The weather in Krabi is usually hot and humid, so thin and lightweight clothing is best.
- Packing essentials for travelers coming for the sun and the sea include beachwear, flip-flops, sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Other weather-related items you may like to bring are a packable poncho or rain jacket which, even if it is not raining, can be worn or used to cover valuables on boats to keep the spray off.
- If you plan to spend a lot of time in the water, you might want to bring your own snorkel and mask.
- You'll also want to bring insect repellant, since mosquitoes can become quite intense.
- Make sure you have ample amounts of Thai baht.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best things to do in Krabi?
A: Everyone has different tastes, but there are many things you can choose to do, such as: cave exploration, cycling trips, visiting hot springs or cold freshwater springs, making kayak trips on salt or freshwater, hiking up mountain peaks, etc.
Q: How far in advance should I book a trip?
A: It is not necessary to book tours and transfers weeks in advance, but it can make you feel more comfortable if you have reserved your seat. During the high season, however, and on Thai National Holidays, it's advisable to book your trip as early as possible, as seats sell out fast.
Q: Will tours be cancelled if it's raining?
A: If the weather conditions are considered unsafe, your tour operator will cancel.
Q: Do I need a guided tour to explore Krabi?
A: It's recommended to use a guided tour, so you can sit back and enjoy the trip. Drop us an email and explore Krabi like a local.
You might like to read
- Best Time to Visit Thailand
- The Most Beautiful Places in Thailand
- Top Attractions in Thailand
- How to Get in and Around Krabi
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