Weather and sea in July

  • Temperatures: about 30 to 31 °C, humid air.
  • Rain: frequent, often in showers of one to two hours; a few all-day rain days.
  • Sea: swell and waves on the west coast, rip currents. Red flags are common: do not swim when they are up, this is the main cause of accidents in the season. Sheltered bays (for example in the south of the island) are calmer.
  • Similan park: closed, it reopens around mid-October.

See also the best time to visit Phuket and Phuket when it rains.

Boat trips in July

Trips to Phi Phi, Racha, Coral or Phang Nga do run, with cancellations or changed routes when the sea is too strong: choose an offer with free cancellation and keep a spare day. Sheltered Phang Nga Bay is often more workable than the open-sea islands. The Maya, Phi Phi and Bamboo trip with buffet (about 42 USD, rated 4.6 from more than 21,000 reviews on GetYourGuide in October 2026) remains the most booked, see Phi Phi from Phuket; how calm Maya Bay is depends on the sea and park rules.

What to do when it rains

Cooking, massage, spa, old town, temples, shows: see Thai cooking class, massage and spa, the old town and Phuket with kids. Land activities such as the elephant sanctuary also work in the rain.

Prices and where to stay

Hotels fall sharply compared with winter. Compare areas in where to stay in Phuket and the budget guide. On some Buddhist days (the start of Buddhist Lent, late July) alcohol sales may be restricted: check on the spot.

FAQ

Should I avoid Phuket in July?

Not necessarily: it is low season, with fewer people and low prices, but swimming is risky and the sea rough.

Can I swim in July?

Only when the flag is not red, preferably on a lifeguarded beach.

Are the Similan Islands open in July?

No, the park is closed from about mid-May to mid-October.

Do tours run?

Many do, but with cancellations depending on the sea. Pick a cancellable offer.

To go further: Similan Islands from Phuket and Snorkelling in Phuket.