Things to Do in Phuket in January

January weather, activities, events & insider tips

January Weather in Phuket

31°C (88°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

25 mm (1 inch) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is January Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with only 25 mm (1 inch) of rainfall across the entire month - perfect for beach days and outdoor activities
Ideal wind conditions for sailing and island hopping - northeast monsoon creates steady 10-15 knot winds without rough seas
Crystal clear water visibility reaches 25-30 m (82-98 ft) around offshore islands - best diving and snorkeling conditions of the year
Comfortable sleeping temperatures of 23°C (73°F) at night mean lower air conditioning costs and better rest

Considerations

Peak tourist season means accommodation prices increase 40-60% compared to shoulder months and popular beaches become crowded by 10am
Strong UV index of 8 combined with reflected sunlight from sand and water creates high sunburn risk - many tourists underestimate this
Persistent northeast winds create choppy conditions on east coast beaches like Kata Noi - better for surfing than swimming

Best Activities in January

Similan Islands Day Trips

January offers the calmest seas and clearest water visibility of the year for the Similans. The islands are only open October-May, and January represents the sweet spot with 25-30 m (82-98 ft) visibility and minimal wave action. Morning departures encounter fewer crowds than later in high season.

Booking Tip: Book 14-21 days ahead as boats fill quickly in January. Tours typically cost ฿3,500-4,500 including transfers from Phuket. Look for operators with speedboats under 3 years old and certified dive masters. See current availability in booking section below.

Phang Nga Bay Sea Kayaking

January's dry conditions and stable weather create perfect kayaking through limestone karsts and hidden lagoons. The northeast monsoon provides cooling breezes without dangerous swells. Low rainfall means crystal clear water and comfortable cave exploration.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours run ฿1,800-2,800, full-day ฿3,200-4,200. Book tours that depart before 8am to avoid afternoon heat and crowds at James Bond Island. Choose operators with sit-on-top kayaks for easier entry/exit. Current tour options available in booking widget below.

Sunset Sailing Around Phuket

January's consistent northeast winds create ideal sailing conditions with 10-15 knot winds and calm seas. The dry season means 90% clear sunset views with dramatic colors reflecting off calm water. Temperatures drop to comfortable 26°C (79°F) by evening.

Booking Tip: 3-hour sunset sails typically cost ฿2,200-3,500 per person including drinks and light meal. Book catamarans for stability or traditional Thai boats for authentic experience. Reserve 7-10 days ahead for weekend departures. See current sailing options in booking section.

Motorcycle Tours Through Rural Phuket

January's dry roads and minimal rainfall make motorcycle touring safe and enjoyable. Cool morning temperatures of 23°C (73°F) are perfect for riding through rubber plantations and local villages before afternoon heat builds. Clear skies provide excellent mountain views.

Booking Tip: Full-day guided tours cost ฿2,800-3,800 including bike rental, fuel, and lunch. Semi-automatic bikes recommended for beginners. Book with operators providing proper helmets and insurance coverage. Morning departure essential to avoid afternoon heat. Check booking widget for current tours.

Big Buddha and Temple Circuit

January's lower humidity makes the 400 m (1,312 ft) climb to Big Buddha more comfortable, with spectacular 360-degree views on clear days. Temple visits are pleasant in cooler morning temperatures before tourist buses arrive around 10am.

Booking Tip: Organized temple tours cost ฿1,500-2,500 for half-day including transport and guide. Start before 9am to avoid crowds and heat. Rent motorbike for ฿250-350/day if exploring independently. Proper covering required - bring long pants and covered shoulders. Current tour options in booking section below.

Cooking Classes with Market Tours

January brings peak season for tropical fruits and vegetables, making market tours more interesting with exotic produce at its best. Indoor cooking classes provide air-conditioned relief during hot afternoons while learning authentic Thai techniques.

Booking Tip: Half-day classes including market tour typically cost ฿1,800-2,800. Book morning classes to experience markets at their freshest. Choose schools offering recipe books and ingredient sourcing tips. Small group classes (8 people maximum) provide better instruction. See current cooking class options in booking widget.

January Events & Festivals

Late January (varies by lunar calendar)

Chinese New Year Celebrations

Phuket's large Chinese-Thai community celebrates with elaborate temple ceremonies, dragon dances, and special vegetarian festival foods throughout Old Town. Red lanterns decorate Thalang Road and traditional lion dances occur at major shopping centers.

Early to Mid January

Phuket International Boat Show

Southeast Asia's largest boat show features luxury yachts, sailing demonstrations, and marine equipment exhibitions at Royal Phuket Marina. Includes test sailing opportunities and sunset cocktail events for visitors.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Reef-safe mineral sunscreen SPF 50+ - UV index reaches 8 and water reflection intensifies exposure during boat trips

Lightweight long-sleeve UV protection shirt - essential for all-day boat tours and motorcycle riding

Quick-dry shorts and swimwear - you'll be in and out of water multiple times daily with fast-drying January winds

Waterproof phone case - even in dry season, boat spray and water activities require protection

Comfortable walking sandals with good grip - temple visits and wet boat decks demand proper footwear

Light rain jacket or poncho - brief afternoon showers still occur 3-4 days per month

Insect repellent with DEET - evening outdoor dining and jungle tours require protection despite dry conditions

Electrolyte tablets - 70% humidity and 31°C (88°F) temperatures cause significant fluid loss during activities

Respectful temple clothing - long pants and covered shoulders required for Big Buddha and Wat Chalong visits

Waterproof day pack - protects belongings during boat transfers and unexpected weather changes

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations before October for January stay - prices increase 40-60% and availability becomes limited as early as November for beachfront properties

Visit popular beaches before 9am or after 4pm - tour groups and day-trippers dominate prime beach areas 10am-3pm during peak season

Eat at local markets early morning or late evening - midday food sits longer in heat and selection diminishes as vendors sell out

Use airport taxi meter or Grab app - tuk-tuk drivers quote inflated prices to tourists during high season, especially from airport and major hotels

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating sun exposure during boat trips - reflected UV from water causes severe burns even on overcast days, particularly for fair-skinned visitors

Booking accommodation in Patong expecting quiet beaches - January crowds make Patong extremely busy, consider Kata, Nai Harn, or Rawai for more space

Planning only beach activities - afternoon heat of 31°C (88°F) makes temple visits, markets, and cultural sites better in early morning or late afternoon