Things to Do in Phuket in August

August weather, activities, events & insider tips

August Weather in Phuket

32°C (90°F) High Temp

25°C (77°F) Low Temp

287mm (11.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is August Right for You?

Advantages

Lush green landscapes at peak beauty - waterfalls flow strongest, jungle trails most vibrant, perfect for nature photography
Significantly fewer crowds at major attractions like Big Buddha and Wat Chalong - 40-50% less busy than December-March peak season
Hotel rates 30-40% lower than high season, with luxury resorts offering rainy season packages including spa credits and room upgrades
Andaman Sea is warmest (28-29°C/82-84°F) with excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling when weather permits

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms 60% of days lasting 30-90 minutes, typically 2-5pm, can disrupt beach and outdoor plans
High humidity makes it feel 4-6°C (7-11°F) hotter than actual temperature - outdoor activities exhausting midday
Some island day tours to Similan Islands cancelled due to rough seas and monsoon conditions

Best Activities in August

Phang Nga Bay Sea Kayaking Tours

August's dramatic skies and lush mangroves create stunning scenery. Morning tours (8am-1pm) avoid afternoon storms and intense heat. The bay is sheltered from Andaman Sea swells, making it ideal when outer islands are rough. Limestone caves and lagoons stay accessible year-round.

Booking Tip: Book morning departures only (8am start) through licensed operators with covered longtail boats. Tours typically cost ฿2,500-3,500 per person including lunch and transfers. Book 3-5 days ahead - same-day cancellations common due to weather. Look for operators offering weather guarantees and rescheduling options.

Phuket Cultural Temple Tours

Perfect rainy season activity with covered temple complexes providing shelter. August is auspicious month for Buddhist merit-making activities. Early morning visits (6-9am) avoid heat and afternoon storms. Wat Chalong, Big Buddha, and Old Town temples less crowded and more atmospheric with dramatic monsoon skies.

Booking Tip: Self-guided or join cultural walking tours starting early morning. Temple entry typically free, guided tours ฿800-1,500 per person. Combine with covered markets and museums for full-day indoor-outdoor mix. Book through certified cultural guides for authentic experiences.

Thai Cooking Classes

Ideal indoor activity during August's frequent afternoon rains. Markets visits happen early morning (6-8am) when produce is freshest and before storms. August brings seasonal fruits like rambutan and mangosteen into recipes. Air-conditioned cooking schools provide comfortable escape from humidity.

Booking Tip: Half-day classes typically ฿1,800-2,800 including market visit and meal. Book classes with indoor markets backup plan for rainy mornings. Morning sessions (9am-2pm) preferred over afternoon due to storm patterns. Look for classes including seasonal fruit preparation.

Spa and Wellness Treatments

Peak month for spa visits as humidity and heat make massage and treatments especially refreshing. Traditional Thai massage helps with monsoon-related muscle tension. Many resorts offer extended rainy day spa packages. Indoor wellness activities perfect for storm periods.

Booking Tip: Resort spa packages typically ฿3,000-8,000 for half-day treatments. Book 2-3 days ahead for premium slots. Look for monsoon specials including body scrubs and cooling treatments. Traditional Thai massage shops in towns cost ฿300-600 per hour.

Patong Beach Water Sports

West coast beaches like Patong have manageable waves for jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides despite monsoon season. Activities operate morning hours (9am-1pm) before afternoon storms. Beach clubs provide covered areas for rain breaks. Water temperature perfect at 28°C (82°F).

Booking Tip: Water sports typically ฿1,500-3,000 per activity. Book morning sessions only - operators often close 2pm onwards. Pay per activity rather than day packages due to weather unpredictability. Licensed beachfront operators offer better weather flexibility than hotel bookings.

Elephant Sanctuary Visits

Ethical sanctuaries thrive in rainy season as elephants enjoy mud baths and shower activities. August's lush environment provides natural habitat experience. Morning visits avoid afternoon storms and heat stress for both elephants and visitors. Covered feeding and observation areas available.

Booking Tip: Half-day sanctuary visits ฿2,500-4,500 per person including transfers and lunch. Book morning programs (8am-1pm) with reputable sanctuaries offering covered facilities. Look for no-riding policies and transparent elephant care practices. Book 5-7 days ahead for ethical operators.

August Events & Festivals

August 12

Her Majesty the Queen's Birthday

National holiday on August 12th honoring Queen Sirikit with temple ceremonies, government building illuminations, and community merit-making activities. Temples throughout Phuket hold special prayers and offerings. Government offices and some businesses closed.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry synthetic clothing - cotton stays wet too long in 70% humidity and frequent rain

Lightweight packable rain jacket - afternoon storms last 30-90 minutes with little warning

Waterproof phone case and dry bag - essential for boat trips and sudden downpours

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days

Breathable walking shoes that dry quickly - leather and canvas stay soggy for days

Small travel umbrella - many covered walkways but gaps between buildings exposed

Moisture-wicking undergarments - synthetic fabrics essential in high humidity

Electrolyte supplements or powder - sweating and heat exhaustion common in 36-38°C (97-100°F) feels-like temperatures

Antifungal powder or cream - increased risk of skin issues in humid conditions

Waterproof sandals with good grip - surfaces slippery when wet, essential for temple visits

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodation with good covered walkways and lobby areas - you'll spend more time indoors than expected during afternoon storms

Eat at local markets early morning (6-8am) before heat peaks - best food selection and prices before tourist areas inflate costs

Use Grab taxi app during rain rather than waiting for tuk-tuks - surge pricing during storms but guaranteed dry transport

Pack backup indoor activities for every outdoor plan - successful August trips require flexibility with 60% chance daily rain

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities after 2pm - afternoon storms peak 2-5pm and ruins plans 60% of days

Bringing only cotton clothing - takes 24+ hours to dry in humid conditions and feels heavy when wet

Booking full-day boat tours - outer island trips frequently cancelled, shorter bay tours more reliable in monsoon conditions