Phuket & Andaman Coast, Thailand

Thailand's Andaman coast strings Phuket's Patong nightlife, Phang Nga Bay's James Bond Island and limestone cliffs, the Phi Phi Islands of Maya Bay, and Krabi's Railay rock-climbing peninsula accessible only by long-tail boat.

Highlights

When to Visit

Nov-Apr

Northeast monsoon dry season with Phang Nga Bay sailing at peak, Phi Phi Islands accessible without rough seas, and Christmas through New Year at peak resort demand.

May-Oct

Southwest monsoon brings afternoon storms and rough seas, Maya Bay closes during certain months for reef recovery, but Phuket west-coast hotels stay open with reduced rates.

Mar

Hot dry season with sea calmest, Krabi rock-climbing season at Railay's limestone walls at peak, and the Andaman dive sites at maximum visibility.

Apr

Songkran Thai New Year mid-April brings water-fight street parties to Patong and Krabi, with Phuket's beach culture continuing through the celebrations and the rains beginning to build.