What To Do When It Rains in Phuket | Rainy Day Guide

When my friend and I arrived in Phuket last October, it was raining cats and dogs (not literally, but the rain was super heavy). My friend looked really disappointed because she wanted a nice sunny tropical holiday, I told her not to worry. I remembered from my last few visit that the rain usually doesn’t stick around for too long.

Some people might think that rain in Phuket would spoil their trip (much like my friend). But in reality it’s actually not that much of a big deal. There’s plenty to do and see even when it’s raining . Personally, I prefer going to Phuket during the wet season. Let me tell you why in this article.

Wondering what to do when it rains in Phuket? Phuket offers plenty of activities that are perfect for those rainy days. From exploring underwater world at Phuket Aquarium to stepping into the upside-down world of Baan Teelanka.

Your trip to Phuket will be unforgettable, come rain or shine. This article will guide you through a variety of activities to enjoy when the skies turn gray and rainy.

Benefits of visiting Phuket during the wet season

As I mentioned above, I love travelling to Phuket in the rainy season, in fact I was in Phuket in October 2023. let’s take a look at the benefits:

Traveling to Phuket in the rainy season from May to October can have some benefits for travellers. Firstly, the wet season sees fewer tourists, which means you can enjoy the island’s attractions without the hoards of people.

Secondly, prices for Phuket accommodation, tours, and some activities are often a lot lower during this time. You can save money on your trip and still enjoy everything Phuket has to offer. Making this time great for travellers on a budget or travellers wanting to enjoy Phuket without the crowds.

The wet season also brings out the natural beauty of Phuket. The rain makes the forests and landscapes green and full of life. Waterfalls, in particular, are more beautiful and powerful after the rain.

Despite the rain, there are still plenty of sunny periods throughout the day. The weather can be quite warm and pleasant, allowing for beach visits and outdoor activities. Moreover, short, heavy bursts of rain typically occur, followed by clear skies.

While I was in Phuket in October, there was only 1 full day of rain in my 2 week trip. The majority of the time, there were only a short showers and plenty of sun! It was nice to grab a cocktail and sit on my balcony watching the evening storms and lightning!

Indoor Adventures

Phuket Aquarium is a fantastic place to start. Here, you can wander through tunnels surrounded by colorful marine life. Step into another world, full of fish and other sea creatures, without having to get wet. This activity is perfect for families, the kids will love the colourful fish and interactive feedings.

Baan Teelanka, or the Upside Down House, is another must-visit. It’s exactly what it sounds like – someone flipped a house on its roof! Walking through this house is a quirky experience, offering great photo opportunities of you walking along the ceiling and lots of laughs.

For travellers who want to enjoy a spot of shopping, Jungceylon Shopping Mall in Patong is the place to be. A mega mall, where you can find everything from clothes and gadgets to Thai food. A great way to spend a few hours away from the rain.

Cultural Experiences

Thai Cooking Classes are a great way to dive into the culture of Thailand and it’s delicious dishes. Learn how to make Thai food from scratch. These classes are fun, informative, and you get to eat what you make! It’s a great thing to do on a rainy day, starting at a market and finishing with a bowl full of yummy Thai food. 

Wat Chalong is Phuket’s most famous temple complex and well worth a visit, even in the rain. The temple complex is mostly covered, so you can explore the beautiful structures and learn about Thai Buddhism without getting wet. To fully experience Phuket in a day, most people opt for a tour that includes Wat Chalong. 

Muay Thai, or Thai boxing, is Thailand’s national sport. Watching a Muay Thai fight is an adrenaline pumping experience. There are several places in Phuket where you can catch the latest fights, including a large complex on Bangla Road. Some venues even offer classes if you’re interested in learning the basics.

Relaxation

A spa treatment is another great way to relax on a rainy day. Phuket offers a wide range of spas where you can enjoy traditional Thai massages and other spa treatments.

The perfect way to unwind and enjoy your holiday, even when it’s pouring outside. If your hotel doesn’t have a spa on site, there are plenty of options within the streets of every neighbourhood.

If you aren’t put off by getting wet, you can have a great time at Splash Jungle Water Park. A fun day out, especially for kids. You can enjoy slides, wave pools, and much more regardless of the weather, making it a fantastic option for kids and adults.

Exploring Phuket Town

Phuket Town, itself is a great place to explore during the rainy season. The colourful streets and Sino-Portuguese architecture make for a lovely day of wandering around and sightseeing. You can visit museums, art galleries, and cozy cafes where you can try some delicious Thai food.

Venturing Out

If you’re feeling adventurous, a trip to Phang Nga is a great option. Tours still run in the rainy season to this beautiful place, which is known for its tall limestone cliffs and emerald-green waters. It can be a bit of a drive from Phuket, but well worth it for the breathtaking scenery.

Phuket’s Nightlife

Bangla Road comes alive at night, even in the rain. This road is the heart of Phuket’s nightlife, with bars, clubs, and street performances.

It’s a fun place to spend your evening, soaking in the island’s nightlife and you’ll get to see some very interesting sights. (Tip: Please avoid any street sellers than have animals such as lizards and loris’. Please don’t support this cruelty).

Final Thoughts: what to do in phuket when raining

Rainy days in Phuket offer a chance to see a different side of the island. In Phuket, there are plenty of indoor (and outdoor) activities to enjoy. You can visit cultural sites, get spa treatments, and explore the Old town. These activities can be done even when it’s raining or on a sunny day.

Phuket wet season might just surprise you, with how much fun it can be. So, don’t let the rain keep you inside; there’s a whole island waiting to be discovered, rain or shine.