Things to Do in Phuket in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Phuket

31°C (88°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

85mm (3.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Peak season begins - attractions, tours, and restaurants operate full schedules with longest hours and complete menus after slower months
Transitional weather means morning/evening outdoor activities in 24-26°C (75-79°F) temps, while afternoon rain cools temperatures by 3-4°C (5-7°F)
November festivals create authentic cultural experiences - Loy Krathong floating lanterns mid-month and pre-high season rates still available until Thanksgiving week
Ocean conditions ideal for diving/snorkeling - 28°C (82°F) water temperature, 20-25m (65-82 ft) visibility, and tour boats resume full Similan Islands schedules

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms 60% of days between 2-5pm lasting 30-45 minutes, requiring indoor backup plans or flexible scheduling
Humidity peaks at 85% mid-day making 31°C (88°F) feel like 36°C (97°F) - outdoor activities become uncomfortable between 11am-3pm
Tourist influx accelerates after November 15th - accommodation rates jump 40-60% for December bookings and popular restaurants require reservations

Best Activities in November

Similan Islands Diving and Snorkeling Expeditions

November marks the official reopening of Similan Islands after monsoon closure. Water visibility reaches 20-25m (65-82 ft), water temperature holds steady at 28°C (82°F), and marine life is most active after months of undisturbed waters. Morning departures at 7am avoid afternoon storms completely.

Booking Tip: Book 10-14 days ahead through licensed operators - November is first month of 6-month season so availability is good but quality operators fill up. Day trips typically cost ฿3,500-4,500, liveaboards ฿8,000-12,000. Look for operators with marine park permits and safety certifications. See current tour options in booking section below.

Temple and Cultural Site Cycling Tours

Early morning temperatures of 24-26°C (75-79°F) make cycling comfortable, and reduced rainfall compared to October means 70% chance of dry mornings. Wat Chalong, Big Buddha, and Old Town Phuket routes showcase architecture in perfect lighting conditions before 10am heat buildup.

Booking Tip: Join group tours departing 6:30-7am or rent bikes for ฿150-250/day. Routes typically 15-25km (9-16 miles) taking 3-4 hours including temple stops. Book through hotels or licensed tour operators offering helmets and insurance coverage. Current cycling tour options available in booking section below.

Cooking Class and Food Market Experiences

November brings seasonal ingredients - young coconuts, fresh durian, and post-monsoon vegetables. Morning market tours (6-8am) showcase local life during coolest hours, followed by indoor cooking classes during afternoon storm periods. Perfect weather-independent activity for cultural immersion.

Booking Tip: Half-day experiences typically cost ฿1,800-2,800 including market tour, cooking instruction, and meal. Book classes that include transportation from hotels and focus on southern Thai cuisine unique to Phuket region. See current cooking class options in booking section below.

Phang Nga Bay Sea Kayaking Adventures

November's calmer seas and stable weather patterns create ideal conditions for exploring limestone karsts and hidden lagoons. Morning tours (8am-2pm) typically finish before afternoon storms, and 28°C (82°F) water temperature makes capsizing comfortable rather than shocking.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost ฿2,200-3,200 including lunch and hotel transfers. Choose tours departing early morning to avoid afternoon weather. Look for operators providing dry bags and safety briefings. Small group tours (8-12 people) offer better experience than large boat operations. Current sea kayaking tours available in booking section below.

Sunset and Evening Food Tours

November evenings cool to comfortable 26-28°C (79-82°F) with offshore breezes. Street food tours capitalize on perfect outdoor dining weather while showcasing local night markets at peak operating season. Post-storm air clarity enhances sunset viewing from viewpoints.

Booking Tip: Evening tours typically 5:30-9:30pm costing ฿1,500-2,500 covering 6-8 food stops and drinks. Book tours that include transportation between venues and focus on local street food rather than tourist restaurants. Current food tour options available in booking section below.

Wellness and Spa Retreat Experiences

High humidity and afternoon storms make November ideal for indoor wellness activities. Traditional Thai massage, spa treatments, and yoga retreats offer perfect respite during 2-5pm storm periods while taking advantage of pre-high season pricing and availability.

Booking Tip: Day spa packages typically ฿2,000-4,000 for 3-4 hour experiences. Multi-day wellness retreats cost ฿8,000-15,000 including accommodation. Book treatments during afternoon hours when outdoor activities are limited by weather. Current wellness experience options available in booking section below.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November (full moon night - November 15-16, 2025)

Loy Krathong Festival

Thailand's most romantic festival where locals float decorated lotus-shaped baskets on water under full moon. Beach celebrations at Kata, Karon, and Patong feature traditional music, food stalls, and hundreds of flickering candles on ocean waters. Participate by purchasing krathong (฿50-150) and making wishes.

Late November

Phuket Lobster Festival

Annual celebration of local seafood featuring lobster preparations by island's top restaurants. Fresh Andaman lobster served at special prices (typically 30-40% below regular rates) with cooking demonstrations and cultural performances at participating venues across the island.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight waterproof rain jacket - afternoon storms produce heavy downpours lasting 30-45 minutes, not light drizzle

Quick-dry clothing fabrics (avoid cotton) - 70% humidity means clothes stay damp for hours in regular materials

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index of 8 causes burns in 15 minutes, and many marine parks now prohibit chemical sunscreens

Waterproof phone case and dry bag - essential for boat trips and unexpected downpours during outdoor activities

Comfortable walking sandals with grip - wet temple steps and pier walkways become slippery during/after rain

Electrolyte supplements or oral rehydration salts - high humidity and sweating requires active salt replacement

Light sweater for air-conditioned spaces - restaurants, malls, and tour buses often set AC to 18-20°C (64-68°F)

Insect repellent with DEET - post-monsoon mosquito activity peaks in November, especially during dawn/dusk hours

Portable umbrella (compact) - provides shade during sunny periods and rain protection during sudden storms

Breathable hat with chin strap - protects from intense UV while staying secure during boat trips and windy weather

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations by October 15th - rates increase 40-60% after November 15th when international flights resume full schedules for high season

Schedule outdoor activities for 6-10am and 4-7pm - locals avoid midday humidity and afternoon storms using this timing

Carry ฿1,000 in small bills daily - many local vendors, tuk-tuks, and food stalls don't accept cards or large denominations, especially after weather disrupts ATM networks

Download offline maps before boat trips - cell service is sporadic around islands and GPS becomes essential for sea kayaking and diving locations

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning beach days for 11am-3pm when UV index peaks and afternoon storms typically begin - locals head to beaches at sunrise or after 4pm

Booking ground floor accommodation without checking flood drainage - some areas experience temporary flooding during heavy November storms

Expecting consistent weather patterns - November is transitional month with unpredictable daily variations requiring flexible itineraries rather than rigid schedules