Thailand Weather in August

There’s a reason they call it the rainy season: in August it’s likely to rain every day. Thankfully this also has its advantages, such as the lush green beauty of the north’s nature reserves or the many waterfalls flowing in full force. Simply spectacular! But if you’re looking for sunny climes, sea, and beaches, travel to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao!

Bangkok and the surrounding area

The rain in Bangkok is persistent, keeping the city stiflingly hot. Streets are known to flood in August after intense downpours. Bangkok’s surrounding area is wet and cloudy as well, though rainfall is usually limited to mornings and late afternoons.

Ayutthaya – Soak up the culture and visit historical temples.
Bangkok – Thailand’s capital blends old temples with ultra modern skyscrapers.
Kanchanaburi – Town brimming with nature and history.
Khao Yai National Park – The oldest nature reserve with wild elephants.
Koh Samet – White sandy beaches, only three hours from Bangkok.

Koh Samui and the southeastern Gulf of Thailand

Again Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao have the most chance of sunshine. In between showers – there is still heavy rainfall – there are plenty of moments of sunshine and gorgeous weather! So what are you waiting for?!

Koh Phangan – Serene island that hosts large beach parties.
Koh Samui – Popular island with long beaches and luxury accommodation.
Koh Tao – Thailand’s number 1 island for snorkeling and diving.

Chiang Mai and the North of Thailand

August is the wettest month in the north of Thailand. With a monthly average rainfall of 20 days, expect rain almost every day. The northern National Parks are stunningly green and a jungle hike will seem very tempting. In between showers, it’s sunny and there will be time to enjoy the gorgeous green rice fields.

Chiang Mai – A great city surrounded by nature and rich in culture.
Chiang Rai – Gorgeous natural surroundings and best known for the white temple.
Mae Hong Son – Mountain tribes and rice fields near the Burmese border.
Pai – Hippie-at-heart mountain village nestled in Thailand’s most beautiful valley.

Phuket and Krabi

Last month’s rainfall continues on into August. It’s likely to rain every day and the sea can be pretty rough. But remember: after rain comes sunshine and dry and sunny days do occur in Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and Krabi in August. It’s all down to luck!

Khao Sok National Park – Wake up in a straw cabin on a clear blue lake.
Koh Jum – Small-scale tourism near Koh Phi Phi.
Koh Lanta – Laid-back atmosphere and nice beaches.
Koh Phayam – Gorgeous but underdeveloped island.
Koh Phi Phi – Thailand’s number 1 tropical party island.
Koh Yao Yai – Big island with long and empty beaches.
Krabi (Ao Nang) – The perfect place to start your island-hopping adventure.
Phuket – Thailand’s largest island, best known for its beaches.

Koh Chang and the Eastern Gulf of Thailand

August on Koh Chang and Koh Kood is pretty rainy, so these islands are best avoided this time of year. There are sunny spells, but not nearly long enough if you’re looking for a tropical holiday. If on the other hand, you crave long and empty beaches and deserted islands, August is the perfect time to visit the Koh Chang Archipelago.

Koh Chang – Pleasant island with beautiful beaches and a laid-back atmosphere.
Koh Kood – A gorgeous, and partially unspoiled, island.
Koh Mak – Small-scale tourism, laid-back atmosphere.
Koh Wai – Snorkeling island between Koh Chang and Koh Kood.

Koh Lipe and the Trang islands

Although September and October are Koh Lipe’s wettest months, August is also quite rainy. Expect one heavy downpour a day and rough seas, especially when taking the ferry from Pak Bara Pier. The sunshine is scarce in this month, the peak of the low season.

Koh Lipe – Tropical island, home to Thailand’s most beautiful beaches.
Koh Mook – Small-scale tourism and a spectacular cave.
Koh Ngai – Long golden beaches and no roads.
Koh Tarutao – National park, a former prison island, and camping site.

Isan region

August is generally considered northeastern Thailand’s wettest month and both temperatures and rainfall will decrease only towards its end. So make sure you bring your poncho and umbrella – it will rain!

Pha Taem National Park – Ancient murals along the Mekong River.
Phimai – Thailand’s most beautiful Angkor Wat temples.
Ubon Ratchathani – Large city in Isan region with many sights.
Udon Thani – Large city near the Lao border, but famous mainly for its Red Lotus Sea.

Monthly weather overview