Thailand in August: What to Know Before You Go
Visiting Thailand in August is usually not recommended as it is an off-season for Thailand characterized by widespread rainfall throughout the country. Paying less for lodging and visiting tourist attractions is another advantage of traveling off-peak. In this article, we'll help you plan your preparations for a trip to Thailand in August.
How is Thailand in August?
Thailand’s weather in August is characterized by incessant rains throughout the country, and the trend continues as the month progresses. These August rainfalls are spread throughout the country and are intense. The average temperature of Thailand in August varies from 26°C to 33°C. In Thailand, it rains for at least 18 to 23 days on average. There are no discernible changes across the country as Thailand experienced widespread rainfall in August. The general variation across regions of Thailand can be split into three major zones,
- Northern Thailand- Receives most of its rainfall in August.
- Central Thailand- Receives heavy rainfall especially in the afternoon and evenings, despite the hot days.
- Southern Thailand- The western coast is characterized by tropical monsoon winds and hence receives heavy rainfall. Whereas, the eastern coast is well-protected and dry.
What Season is it in Thailand in August?
Thailand's climate in August is typically characterized by widespread rainfall given that they are in the midst of their rainy season. In August, tropical downpours can occur, but they usually begin later in the day. In most parts of the country, there is still pleasant weather to be had, and it doesn't rain all day every day. The humidity in Thailand in August is also usually higher, and this trend continues for the next few months too. The northern and southwestern parts of Thailand receive rainfall throughout the day. Southeastern Thailand receives a decent amount of sunlight and is still one of the best places to visit in Thailand during August.
- Weather in Bangkok in August- Increasing trend of Rainfall despite a few hot days.
- Weather in Phuket in August- Heavy rainfall and sometimes prone to floods.
- Weather in Pattaya in August- Considerably less rainfall compared to other cities.
- Weather in Chiang Mai in August- Receives most of its rainfall in August
- Weather in Koh Samui in August- Well protected from the monsoonal winds and is usually comparatively dry.
- Weather in Krabi in August - characterized by frequent rainfall throughout the province.
Places to visit in Thailand in August
Some of the popular places to visit in Thailand in August include Hua Hin, Bangkok, Koh Samui, and Pattaya.
Hua Hin
This is one of the amazing places to visit in Thailand in August. Hua Hin has long served as a retreat for the Thai Royal Family, despite the lack of a prominent tourist destination there. Due to its location on the eastern side of the Malay Peninsula, it enjoys good rain protection and is relatively dry. Buddhist temples, water parks, natural parks, beaches, and mountains could all be found. Hua Hin's renowned Monsoon Valley Vineyard, which creates some of Thailand's finest regional wines, is a must-see. You could also visit the local temples and shrines. This region is less impacted by Thailand's mass tourism and has largely preserved its traditional culture. Therefore, this location is worth a try if one is looking for reasonably priced tourist attractions to visit in Thailand.
Koh Samui
The second-largest island in Thailand, Koh Samui, is one of the best islands to visit in Thailand in August. Due to its location, it experiences less rain during the southwest monsoon winds and more sunshine during August. Koh Samui is the ideal place to stay if you're travelling to Thailand in August because there won't be much heavy rain. In Thailand's multitude of islands, Koh Samui stands out for its romantic vibe, stunning landscapes, luxury resorts, and crystal-clear waters. The Big Buddha Temple, Wat Plai Laem, markets, Grandpa and Grandma Rocks, island hopping to Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, as well as the close-by Chumpon Archipelago, are some of the top locations in Koh Samui that you could visit in August.
Bangkok
In August, the weather in Bangkok, Thailand, is generally hot, along with some rainfall late in the day. These rains might be intense, sometimes leading to floods. However, things will return to normal quickly. Most of Bangkok's top attractions are found inside or close to the city. These attractions are also well connected to a transportation network that includes trains, metros, buses, boat services, and many others. That’s the reason why, despite the rain, Bangkok is one of the best places to travel in Thailand in August. At this time, the cost of lodging and visits to tourist attractions is also less expensive. Chinatown, the Grand Palace, and Wat Arun are just a few of Bangkok's well-known attractions. In addition to tourist attractions, Bangkok offers a variety of shopping centers, world-class theatres, restaurants, night markets, cabaret shows, and more.
Pattaya
The luxurious resorts and exciting nightlife of Pattaya are well known. A popular time to visit Pattaya is during the high season, which lasts from November to February. However, if the rain is not an issue, then Pattaya is one of the best places to go in Thailand in August because of the availability of options when it comes to indoor or outdoor attractions. Also, when compared with other Thai cities, Pattaya receives less rainfall in August. There are numerous beaches in Pattaya where you can indulge in thrilling water sports and unwind in bars and restaurants. A few of Pattaya's well-known attractions include Jomtien Beach, Pattaya Beach, the Pattaya Floating Market, the Sanctuary of Truth, and Mini Siam.
Things to do in Thailand in August
A trip to Thailand to check out its southern islands and urban attractions is one of the best things to do in Thailand in August. It is also important to make sure that travel is reduced in the afternoon to avoid heat drain.
Explore the islands of the Gulf of Thailand.
While planning your Thailand August itinerary, if the beaches are your priority, then the islands of the Gulf of Thailand are ideal. The island-hopping tours around Koh Samui are popular here. The beaches of Koh Samui Island, like Lawai Beach, Maenam Beach, and Chaweng Beach, are among the best beaches in Thailand in August. Known for its clean beaches, fine white sand, and towering coconut trees, Koh Samui has some of the most idyllic beaches in Thailand in August. You could explore the museums, temples, and other attractions of Koh Samui or attend parties on the beaches. The island of Koh Phangan is also popular for its full moon parties in Thailand in August. The Chumpon Archipelago and Ko Tao are other popular islands in the Gulf of Thailand.
Explore the urban attractions
One of the best things to do in Thailand in August is to take a tour of the urban attractions in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Krabi. Malls, zoos, historical sites, temples, museums, and other recreational facilities constitute some of these urban attractions. Around this time, as crowds start to thin out, hotel and rental rates start to decline. Even though the cities experience August rain, their proximity to popular tourist destinations and well-connected transportation systems make them the perfect locations for exploring Thai culture. For a cheaper experience of Thailand's culture, travel to its cities in August.
Festivals in Thailand in August
Attending events and festivals in Thailand in August is one of the most underrated things to do while visiting the land of smiles.
- To celebrate the birthday of Queen Sirikit the government observes a day holiday in Thailand in August. It is also celebrated as Mother’s Day in Thailand.
Frequently Asked Questions on Visiting Thailand in August
Is August a good month to visit Thailand?
If you aren't concerned about the frequent afternoon rains, then going to Thailand in August is recommended. August is a good month to visit Thailand because airfare and hotel rates are at their lowest during the rainy season.
What is the best spot for diving in Thailand in August?
The best diving locations in Thailand in August are in the Gulf of Thailand, like Koh Samui and the nearby islands.
What’s the weather like in Thailand in August?
The month of August falls in Thailand's rainy season when most of the country can expect rain.
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