Blog · · 7 min read

Andaman Coast vs. Gulf of Thailand: Which Thai Islands Are Best for Your Travel Month?

Why November–April belongs to Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi, and Koh Lipe—while May–September is prime sunny season on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao.

Two Coasts, Two Opposite Monsoon Seasons

Thailand's southern peninsula splits the monsoon in two. From November to April, the Andaman Sea (Phuket, Krabi, Railay, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe) is calm and crystal clear. From May through September, the southwest monsoon brings swells to the Andaman, while the sheltered Lower Gulf (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao) enjoys bright summer sun. Check ferry and DNP park fees in our Island Ferry & National Park Calculator.