What to Do in Phuket When It Rains or Is Too Hot

How the weather works

Rain in the wet season is often heavy but short, with sunny breaks between downpours, and it can be very local, so the next beach or town may be dry. In the dry season the problem is heat and humidity in the middle of the day. Plan outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon and keep the middle of the day for something indoors.

Culture and history

• Phuket Old Town: the Sino-Portuguese shophouses and covered walkways give shelter, and there are small museums, cafes and shrines within a short walk. The Thai Hua Museum is one of the best-known stops.
• Temples: Wat Chalong is the island's best-known temple complex, and the sheltered halls are worth a visit even when it rains. Dress modestly.
• Galleries, craft studios and small museums in Phuket Town and Rawai are good for a slow afternoon.

Food, markets and classes

• A Thai cooking class, often starting with a market visit, is a classic wet-day activity, and most classes run in all weather.
• Covered food courts and night markets give you plenty of choice under a roof.
• A long lunch at a good local restaurant is often the best use of a rainy hour.

Spas and wellness

Traditional Thai massage, foot massage and spa treatments are popular on wet and hot days, and you can find them at every price level. Check that the place is licensed and clean, ask the price before you start, and avoid deep-tissue pressure on any injury.

Families and children

• Phuket Aquarium at Cape Panwa is a sheltered option, though it is not huge, so allow a couple of hours.
• Indoor play areas, climbing walls, trampoline and laser-tag venues, and karting tracks operate in the rain. Many are in the Thalang and Kathu areas.
• Shopping malls such as those in Patong and Phuket Town have cinemas, food courts and play spaces.

Staying safe and comfortable

• On heavy-rain days, avoid mountain roads and flooded streets, and do not swim when the red flags are up, as the beach safety guide explains.
• Take care on a scooter. Wet roads, painted lines and tiles are slippery, so slow down or take a taxi.
• Heat: drink water often, wear a hat, use sun cream and take breaks in the shade or an air-conditioned place.
• Bring a light rain jacket or a compact umbrella, and dry shoes if you can.
• Be careful with electrical items in wet weather, and keep your phone and passport in a waterproof bag.

Where to stay for wet or hot weather

If you are choosing a base for the low season, areas close to a covered mall, cafes and a good road network, such as Phuket Town, Chalong or Kata, make wet days easier than a quiet beach at the end of a long road. Read the best time to visit page for the seasonal pattern before you book.