Rain in Phuket: the basics
Many days start sunny and cloud over in the afternoon: plan outdoor visits for the morning. Do not swim where the red flag is flying, and expect agencies to cancel or move boat trips. For the month-by-month picture, see the best time to visit Phuket.
Museums and indoor visits
The Thai Hua Museum and Chinpracha House tell the story of Phuket Town's Sino-Thai community, the Thalang National Museum the history of the island. The Phuket Aquarium and the Trickeye Museum suit families. Hours and prices are on each page.
Shopping malls
Central Phuket, near Phuket Town, is the biggest; Jungceylon, in Patong, is the most convenient if you stay on the west coast. Shops, restaurants, a supermarket and a cinema: enough for half a day under cover.
Evening shows
Muay Thai and the Simon Cabaret take place indoors: a good option when the rain settles in for the evening.
A covered stroll in the old town
The Sino-Portuguese houses of Phuket old town offer arcades and cafés in which to wait out a shower. See also the Phuket Town guide.
A plan for a rainy day
Morning: museum or aquarium. Lunch: the food court at Central Phuket. Afternoon: old town and cafés during the shower, beach or viewpoint if the sky clears. Evening: Muay Thai or cabaret. For a short stay, see Phuket in 2 days.
FAQ
Does it rain all day in the wet season?
Rarely: showers are often short, with long dry spells, but they can be very heavy. There are also a few days of continuous rain.
Can you swim when it rains?
Only where there is no red flag. During the monsoon the sea can be dangerous even on a fine day: follow the lifeguards' instructions.
Do boat trips still run?
Not always: the agency decides according to the sea. Ask about cancellation or rescheduling terms before booking.
