One of the most beautiful spots in the world is Koh Samui, Thailand. My sister struggled to bring herself home from here after travelling and volunteering on the island.

Koh Samui is the second-largest island and let's face it, a tropical paradise.

Well known for its stunning beaches, calm seas, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches with super clear water, explore local festivals, or indulge in water sports, the best time to visit depends on what you want from your trip.

So we've put together a guide to the seasons, weather, best areas in Koh Samui and activities to help you find the ideal time for a holiday.

Koh Samui’s Climate

Luckily there are many great times to visit Koh Samui, as the island has a tropical monsoon climate. This means there are three main seasons:

The Dry Season (December to February), the Hot Season (March to August) and the Wet Season (September to November). 

​There are warm temperatures year-round with minimal variations, meaning it’s always a pleasant time to visit and have a wonderful experience. Rather than worrying about adverse weather in the UK! 

Best Months to Visit

To give you a better idea of what each season feels like here's a breakdown of what to expect. 

Dry Season (December to February)

This is Koh Samui’s peak season, featuring sunny days, very little rainfall and clear skies. It’s the perfect time for outdoor activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and lounging on the beach. You'll find lovely weather for beach activities, plenty of sun soaked days and calm seas for boat trips and exploring nearby islands. 

Due to all this, of course it will be a bit busier and there are higher prices at luxury resorts. For fewer tourists, visit in early December or late February.

Hot Season (March to August)

The hottest months bring warm weather ideal for sun worshippers! While it’s not as busy as the dry season, it’s still a good time for water activities like jet-skiing and paddleboarding. Highlights include the Songkran Festival (Thai New Year in April) which is an exciting time to experience local customs. There will be stunning, lush greenery from occasional rain showers.

This period also features fewer crowds and lower prices on accommodation.

Wet Season (September to November)

As you can tell from the name, this is known as Koh Samui’s rainy season. This time of year has frequent showers and heavy rainfall. While the rain can disrupt plans, it often falls in short bursts during the late afternoon, leaving mornings for exploring but the temperature remains warm. 

This can be a great option for indoor attractions like Wat Plai Laem and Big Buddha Temple. You can make the most of the night markets and local cuisine. Plus the Loy Krathong Festival in November which is a beautiful celebration with floating lanterns. 

If you prefer fewer people, lower prices, and a quieter vibe, the low season might be a good idea.

Top Activities to Try by Season

We would recommend these activities depending on what time of year you book your trip. There is always something to do and explore. 

In the Dry Season give snorkeling a go, beach yoga, or explore Koh Samui’s beautiful beaches under the sun. For the sun lovers, in the Hot Season try walking in shady, lush landscapes and visiting Wat Phra Yai. To embrace the Wet Season enjoy spa treatments, Thai cooking classes, and exploring indoor attractions.

Tips for Planning Your Visit

We love a shoulder month for any travel. It makes every trip more enjoyable in our opinion. However, these are some tips for booking your visit.

The best deals should be booked way in advance and during the shoulder months like late October or early December.

To avoid crowds try the wet season or just after the summer vacation rush. 

If you love a bit of culture and actually learning about your destination, lovely months for local festivals are April for (Songkran) and November for (Loy Krathong).

Conclusion

Every trip is so individual it's up to you to decide what would make your party the most happy. Due to this the best time to visit Koh Samui depends on your preferences. Do you love a bustling beach or like to have the place to yourself? 

For sunny days and beach fun, the dry season is the ideal time. Looking for cultural experiences and fewer tourists? Go for the the hot season or wet season. If you want budget-friendly travel, visit during the low season when you can still enjoy the island’s tropical paradise.

One thing is for sure, no matter when you go, Koh Samui’s warm weather, local culture, and beautiful beaches guarantee an unforgettable trip. 

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.