Phuket in December: weather, sea, excursions, pros and cons of a vacation
December is one of the best months for a vacation in Phuket. It is at this time that the peak tourist season begins on the island: the rainy season is behind, the sea becomes calm, and sunny weather is established almost every day. It is not surprising that many tourists choose December to celebrate the New Year on the shores of the Andaman Sea and spend their winter holidays in the tropics.
However, the high season has not only advantages. Along with ideal weather comes increased demand for accommodation, higher prices, and a large number of vacationers. If you know these features in advance, you can properly plan your trip and get the most out of your vacation.
Weather in Phuket in December
In December, Phuket experiences one of the most comfortable weather conditions of the year. During the day, the air temperature is usually 30–32°C, and at night it stays at 24–26°C, making evenings particularly pleasant for strolls.
The water temperature in the Andaman Sea reaches 28–29°C. The sea at this time is calm, clear, and perfectly suited for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and boat trips. Strong waves, characteristic of the rainy season, virtually disappear, and most of the west coast beaches become safe for recreation.
Rainfall is possible, but it occurs rarely and usually happens at night or early in the morning. For most of the month, tourists enjoy sunny and dry weather.
Why choose Phuket in December for a vacation
The main advantage of December is almost perfect weather. Sunny days, warm sea, and the absence of prolonged rains allow you to enjoy a beach vacation without any restrictions.
This is one of the best months for sea excursions. Excellent underwater visibility makes December a great time for diving and snorkeling, and the calm sea ensures comfortable speedboat trips.
December is also ideal for exploring the island's nature and attractions. Comfortable temperatures allow you to visit viewpoints, national parks, Phuket Old Town, the Big Buddha temple, and other interesting places without intense heat.
The Christmas and New Year holidays create a special atmosphere. Hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers are decorated with festive decorations, and concerts, themed parties, and celebratory dinners are held.
Disadvantages of a December vacation
The main drawback of December is high tourist demand. It is one of the busiest months of the year, especially in the second half of December and during the New Year holidays.
Due to the large number of tourists, prices for airline tickets, hotels, car rentals and apartments, as well as some tourist services, increase significantly. If you are planning a trip for New Year's, it is recommended to book accommodation several months in advance.
Popular beaches such as Patong, Karon, and Kata, become quite crowded. Those who prefer a quiet vacation should consider less well-known beaches in the northern part of the island or small coves.
Another feature of December is very active sun. Even on cloudy days, UV radiation remains high, so it is recommended to use high SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and be careful during prolonged stays on the beach.
What excursions are available in Phuket in December
Almost all excursions offered by Phuket are available in December. Daily trips are made to Phi Phi Islands, Similan Islands, Surin Islands, James Bond Island, Racha and Coral Islands, as well as excursions to Phang Nga Bay.
For lovers of active recreation, sea fishing, diving, snorkeling, yacht and catamaran trips are available. Excellent weather conditions allow most sea programs to be carried out without restrictions.
Land excursions to national parks with visits to various elephant sanctuaries are no less popular.
Due to the high season, excursions with a limited number of spots may be fully booked several days before the date. This applies especially to trips to the Similan Islands, small group excursions, and individual programs. Therefore, it is recommended to book them in advance. If you want to avoid large crowds of tourists on popular islands, you should choose programs with an early departure.
Is it worth going to Phuket in December?
December is the ideal time for those who dream of exchanging winter frosts for a warm sea, sunny beaches, and the atmosphere of a true tropical resort. This month, Phuket offers the best weather conditions, a huge selection of excursions and entertainment, and the opportunity to celebrate the New Year in an unusual setting.
Despite higher prices and a large number of tourists, the advantages of December significantly outweigh its disadvantages. If you book accommodation, transport, and excursions in advance, your vacation will be as comfortable as possible and allow you to fully enjoy one of Thailand's most beautiful islands.
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