Whereas August and September coincide with the wet season in lots of elements of Thailand, sure locations resembling Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, and Hua Hin nonetheless present favorable climate situations for a summer season vacation.
You’ll possible encounter some rain, however you might get fortunate and keep away from it altogether. Furthermore, the rain seldom lasts for lengthy in these locations right now of the 12 months. And, when it does bathe, it pleasantly clears the humidity – even when only for a short time.
Contents
Why August & September Holidays Are Cheaper in Thailand
Planning a vacation in late August or early September gives large financial savings on flights and resort lodging.
In reality, throughout a current comparability, I discovered that I might save over £3,000 on flights for a household of 4, if I took the journey in late August vs mid-July and early August. Flying again within the second week of September noticed charges drop by over 50% (on some days).
A number of elements contribute to decreased pricing throughout this era, together with the proximity to the rainiest months and the top of the summer season trip season.
1. Off-Peak Season
Late August and early September fall simply earlier than the height of the wet season in Thailand. Many vacationers choose to keep away from the wet months, leading to decrease demand for flights and lodging. Although, as talked about, there are just a few locations the place the rain is not as intense. We are going to talk about the the explanation why in a second.
Consequently, airways and motels have a tendency to supply discounted costs and promotions to draw vacationers throughout this era, making it an opportune time for budget-conscious vacationers.
2. Again-to-College
Because the summer season trip season involves an finish, households with youngsters begin to return dwelling for the beginning of the brand new college 12 months. This lower in vacationer exercise results in fewer crowds at fashionable locations. The decrease demand interprets to extra inexpensive costs for flights and lodging.
For these within the UK, US, and far of Europe, most youngsters return to high school within the first week of September. This implies a household will fly again the week prior. In the event you fly again after the primary week in September, which can imply the children miss just a few days of faculty, you possibly can safe a less expensive flight.
3. Aggressive Pricing
Airways and motels modify their pricing methods primarily based on provide and demand. In the course of the late August/early September interval, when there’s comparatively much less demand, these institutions have a tendency to supply extra aggressive charges and particular offers to draw prospects. This value competitors amongst airways and motels can work in favor of vacationers, offering alternatives for important financial savings.
4. Flexibility in Journey Dates
When planning a visit throughout late August or early September, flexibility in journey dates can additional improve value financial savings. Being open to flying on weekdays or contemplating different departure and arrival dates can probably result in higher offers and decrease fares.
Greatest Seashores to Go to in Thailand in August & September
As talked about beforehand, Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Tao, and Hua Hin are all good choices throughout these months, primarily based on climate patterns, good seashores, and transportation choices from Bangkok.
Observe that Hua Hin has decrease high quality seashores, however there are just a few first rate spots to be discovered. Personally, if you happen to’re travelling from overseas, and particularly in case you have children, I would go for one of many different choices.
At the moment of 12 months I would not danger visiting different seashore areas resembling Phuket, as you might be more likely to encounter numerous rain. The explanation for that is that Thailand’s east and west coasts expertise the wet season at barely totally different occasions resulting from variations in climate patterns and geographical elements.
Thailand’s climate is drastically influenced by the monsoon winds. The southwest monsoon, often called the “moist monsoon,” brings moist air from the Indian Ocean in direction of Thailand, leading to elevated rainfall. Nonetheless, the timing and depth of those monsoon winds can differ between the east and west coasts.
The geography of Thailand performs a job within the variation of rainfall patterns. The west coast, together with areas like Phuket, faces the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean. These coastal areas are extra uncovered to the southwest monsoon, which brings heavy rainfall between Could and October. The mountain ranges within the western a part of Thailand additionally contribute to greater precipitation ranges.
However, the east coast, dwelling to locations like Koh Samui, faces the Gulf of Thailand. The Gulf is sheltered by the Thai mainland and a number of other offshore islands, leading to totally different wind patterns in comparison with the Andaman Sea. The east coast experiences a milder wet season with decrease rainfall quantities from November to January, whereas the wettest months are sometimes from Late September to December.
1. Koh Samui
Climate Patterns
Throughout August and September, Koh Samui experiences some rainfall, however the showers are often short-lived, permitting for loads of sunshine. Temperatures stay heat and nice, starting from 25°C (77°F) to 32°C (90°F).
Common Seashores
Chaweng Seashore: With its powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters, Chaweng Seashore is the most well-liked and vibrant stretch of shoreline on Koh Samui. It gives a spread of water sports activities actions and a vigorous nightlife scene.
Lamai Seashore: Positioned south of Chaweng, Lamai Seashore gives a extra relaxed environment with a lovely shoreline framed by palm timber. It’s excellent for sunbathing, swimming, and having fun with tranquil beachside eating places.
Getting There from Bangkok
Fly from Bangkok to Samui Worldwide Airport, which receives common direct flights from the capital. From there, taxis or resort transfers can take you to your required vacation spot on the island.
+ Read things to do in Samui here
2. Koh Phangan
Climate Patterns
August and September witness occasional rainfall on Koh Phangan, however sunny days are nonetheless prevalent. Temperatures vary from 25°C (77°F) to 31°C (88°F), making certain a heat and tropical local weather.
Common Seashores
Haad Rin Seashore: Identified for its vibrant Full Moon Celebration, Haad Rin Seashore gives a vigorous environment with powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. Exterior of the Full Moon Celebration interval, the seashore transforms right into a peaceable haven.
Thong Nai Pan Noi Seashore: This secluded seashore boasts beautiful pure magnificence, that includes pristine sands, lush greenery, and calm waters. Backed by informal meals & drink institutions and outlets, it’s best for these looking for a relaxed, picturesque setting.
Getting There from Bangkok
Vacationers can take a flight from Bangkok to Samui Worldwide Airport, after which take a taxi to Thong Sala Pier. From there, common ferries or speedboats can be found to move you to Ko Phangan, which takes roughly half-hour.
3. Koh Tao
Climate Patterns
Koh Tao experiences minimal rainfall throughout August and September, making it a superb vacation spot for sun-seekers. Temperatures vary from 25°C (77°F) to 31°C (88°F), creating a nice and tropical local weather.
Common Seashores
Sairee Seashore: The longest and hottest seashore on Koh Tao, Sairee Seashore gives beautiful views, smooth sands, and a vibrant nightlife scene. It’s a hub for diving lovers and beachside rest.
Freedom Seashore: Tucked away in a secluded cove, Freedom Seashore is understood for its serene and untouched magnificence. It gives glorious snorkeling alternatives and a tranquil ambiance.
Getting There from Bangkok
Fly from Bangkok to Samui Worldwide Airport after which take a ferry from Bangrak Pier to Ko Tao. Ferry companies function commonly, and the journey takes roughly two hours.
+ Read on transport from Bangkok to Koh Samui
4. Hua Hin
Climate Patterns
August and September mark the wet season in Hua Hin, however the area nonetheless gives nice climate situations with intermittent showers. Temperatures vary from 25°C (77°F) to 31°C (88°F).
Common Seashores
Hua Hin Seashore: Stretching for a number of kilometers, Hua Hin Seashore is the principle seashore within the space, providing smooth sands and calm waters. It is an ideal setting for sunbathing and enjoying on the seashore, nevertheless it is not the very best water for swimming. Water actions are fashionable right here, assume kite browsing and paddle boarding.
Khao Takiab Seashore: Positioned simply south of Hua Hin, Khao Takiab Seashore gives a serene and relaxed environment. With its golden sands, light waves, and the well-known “Monkey Mountain” within the backdrop, it gives a singular seashore expertise.
Getting There from Bangkok
From Bangkok, probably the most handy strategy to attain Hua Hin is by taking a direct practice from Hua Lamphong Railway Station. The journey takes round 3-5 hours, if on time! Alternatively, personal taxis or buses are additionally accessible for transportation to Hua Hin, which take roughly 3 hours.
+ Find out more about Hua Hin here
Learn how to Keep Protected if It Rains
Being outdoors throughout monsoon rains in Thailand can pose important dangers. The rain is distinct from typical wet spells skilled in elements of Europe. You should not fear, however undoubtedly do not stand outdoors within the rain or stroll across the streets.
This is why:
Flooding
Monsoon rains are characterised by their depth and the big quantity of water they carry. The heavy downpours can lead to fast accumulation of water, resulting in flash floods . The sheer power of water throughout monsoons could cause harm to infrastructure, disrupt transportation, and pose threats to non-public security.
Whereas some areas could expertise torrential rainfall, others could obtain comparatively lighter showers or stay comparatively dry. This non-uniform distribution can result in localized flooding, with sure areas being extra liable to inundation and water-logging. Such situations will be hazardous for outside actions, as even seemingly shallow water can conceal hidden risks like open drains, particles, or sturdy currents.
Storms
Monsoon rains typically carry with them an elevated incidence of thunderstorms, which might result in frequent lightning exercise. Lightning strikes pose a major danger, particularly in open areas or close to tall objects. To mitigate the chance of lightning strikes, it’s important to hunt shelter in protected, enclosed constructions throughout thunderstorms. Keep away from standing underneath tall timber, close to steel objects, or in open areas.
Electrical energy
Monsoon rains also can result in electrical hazards, significantly in city areas with uncovered electrical infrastructure or insufficient upkeep. Flooding and heavy rains could trigger harm to electrical programs, resulting in uncovered wires, malfunctioning tools, or electrical surges.
To scale back the chance {of electrical} hazards throughout monsoons, it’s essential to train warning round standing water, as it could actually conduct electrical energy. Keep away from contact with electrical retailers, uncovered wires, or electrical home equipment if they’re moist or submerged in water. Do not swim a swimming pool through the rain.
Soiled Water
The elevated water quantity can overwhelm drainage programs, resulting in contamination of water sources. Stagnant water gives a breeding floor for mosquitoes and different disease-carrying bugs, elevating the chance of vector-borne ailments resembling dengue fever and malaria.
In Abstract
The wet season will be very predictable in Thailand, however greater than sometimes unpredictable, too. I as soon as visited Railay Seashore in Krabi for 4 days through the peak of wet season and had 4 days of solar and just about the entire seashore to myself!
I would not take a danger on an costly vacation although, because the wet season does carry flooding in lots of locations, and rain will be stable for a day or two at a time. Nonetheless, predictable patterns are likely to emerge whereby it rains at an identical time every day, and often not for lengthy.
Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Tao, and Hua Hin (not a lot a gem for seashores) supply pretty protected bets in August and September, regardless of the wet season in different elements of the nation.
That being stated, do count on some rain. My recommendation can be to ebook right into a resort right now of 12 months, so that you’ve issues to do if it does rain for the day. Having a restaurant on web site, a bar, a children membership, a health club, and many others., will see that you just aren’t caught in your room.
Tricks to Begin Planning Your Journey Now:
Don’t Neglect Journey Insurance coverage
Journey insurance coverage protects you towards sickness, damage, theft, and cancellations. I by no means journey with out it. I’ve been utilizing SafetyWing for years. You must too.