Thailand weather in August is hot, humid, and rainy, but still travel-friendly if you plan around it.
Daytime temperatures usually range between 25–33°C (77–91°F). Rain showers are frequent, especially later in the day, but they're typically short rather than all-day downpours. Where you go matters more than the rain itself.
Thailand Weather in August: Quick Overview
- Average temperature: 25–33°C (77–91°F)
- Rainfall: Frequent short showers, mainly later in the day, with around 17–20 rainy days in most regions
- Humidity: High
- Sea temperature: Around 29°C (84°F)
What this means for you: mornings are bright, so plan your outdoor activities in the morning. And keep your itinerary flexibility, which is more important than trying to avoid rain entirely. This is especially helpful if you are travelling with kids.
Is August a Good Time to Visit Thailand?
August is still a good time if you're flexible and comfortable adjusting your plans around the weather.
It's less ideal if your trip depends on calm seas along the Andaman Coast, but a solid choice if you prefer greener landscapes, lighter crowds, and a slower, more relaxed travel pace.
For more planning guidance, see the best time to visit Thailand.
Weather in Thailand in August by Region
Bangkok & Central Thailand in August: Hot, Humid, Short Showers
Bangkok and central Thailand feel hot and humid, with frequent short showers. Sightseeing is most comfortable early in the day, with afternoons better suited to indoor attractions or a slower pace. Plan for around 16–18 rainy days in August, but most showers last under an hour, often in the late afternoon or at night. More details in Bangkok in August.
Northern Thailand in August: Cooler Nights, Lush Scenery
Northern Thailand, including Chiang Mai, is slightly cooler than the lowlands, usually by 2–4°C. August brings greener scenery and occasional heavy rain, with roughly 17–20 wet days, but travel is generally smooth if you avoid tightly packed daily schedules. For tips, see Chiang Mai in August.
Andaman Coast in August: Wettest, Rough Seas
Southern Thailand’s Andaman Coast (Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak, Koh Lanta) tends to see frequent afternoon and evening showers, with around 18-20 rainy days. The sea can be rough, so swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities are less reliable, and some boat trips may be cancelled at short notice.
Gulf Islands in August: Sunnier Mornings, Calmer Seas
The Gulf Coast islands (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao) usually have more stable weather in August. Rain tends to be short and mostly in the late afternoon, with about 12–14 rainy days, while mornings are generally sunny. Sea conditions are calmer, so swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities are usually safe. Learn more about Phuket vs Koh Samui.
My experience: I spent two weeks in central and northern Thailand in August 2025. Daytime was consistently hot, but evenings in Chiang Mai, Kanchanaburi, and Khao Yai were cooler and more comfortable. I only encountered one heavy shower in Bangkok and one in Kanchanaburi, both in the evenings and lasting under an hour; most other rain fell late at night while I was asleep. Overall, daytime activities were largely unaffected.
Late morning at Wat Arun in Bangkok in August, with bright sunlight and very few visitors.Where to Go in Thailand in August
If your main goal is beach weather and water activities, head to the Gulf of Thailand—Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. You can usually enjoy sunny mornings and calm seas, with only occasional afternoon showers.
If you're looking for culture and scenery, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai are ideal. The mountain areas provide a great escape from the heat, and the lush green landscapes feel refreshing after the rain.
Bangkok is also worth a visit, offering a mix of outdoor and indoor experiences. Nearby Ayutthaya and Kanchanaburi are especially peaceful after rainfall.
The only destination we don't recommend in August is the Andaman Coast, including Phuket and Krabi, where it rains frequently and the sea is rough. You can still visit, but expect some interruptions and plan mainly indoor or land-based activities.
For more detailed suggestions, check our Thailand itinerary.
Typical August Weather in Key Thai Destinations
| City | Low (°C / °F) | High (°C / °F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bangkok | 26 / 79 | 33 / 91 | ~130 | ~17 |
| Chiang Mai | 24 / 75 | 31 / 88 | ~180 | ~18 |
| Phuket | 25 / 77 | 31 / 88 | ~260 | ~17 |
| Krabi | 24 / 75 | 31 / 88 | ~240 | ~16 |
| Koh Samui | 27 / 81 | 32 / 90 | ~125 | ~16 |
Data Sources: Weather Spark and Thailand Meteorological Department (TMD) historical averages
Crowds and Travel Costs in August
August is within Thailand's low season, and flights and hotels are often 30–50% cheaper than in peak season. Hotels are easier to book on short notice, and adjusting plans around rain is simpler without peak-season pressure.
Major sights feel less rushed: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui still see visitors but never feel overcrowded. On the Gulf islands, availability can tighten, but rarely as much as in high season. The Andaman Coast experiences a significant drop in visitors, and many beaches are almost empty.
What to Pack for Thailand in August
Wear lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the heat and humidity. Quick-dry fabrics are helpful for sudden showers. Footwear that handles wet pavements and brief downpours, such as sandals or quick-dry shoes, will make moving around much easier.
A light rain layer is useful, but heavy waterproof gear is usually unnecessary.
Travelling to Thailand in August?
Thailand in August offers lush scenery, lighter crowds, and a slower pace, with the trade-off of high humidity and regular rain. With the right regions and beaches chosen, it can be a comfortable and rewarding trip.
Let us help you plan a Thailand trip to make the most of your visit, whether it's exploring cities, enjoying beaches, or following a custom itinerary.
You could also check out our Thailand tours for inspiration.
- 10-Day Classic Thailand Tour: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui
- 12-Day Thailand Wonders Tour: Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Chiang Mai, and Krabi
Monthly Weather and Travel Information for Thailand
Learn about the weather in Thailand for 12 months and find out the best places to visit each month.
Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries
At Highlights Travel, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.
