Is February a good time to visit Thailand? For most travelers, it's actually one of the best. Days are warm (25–33°C / 77–91°F), skies stay dry and clear across nearly the entire country, and beach conditions are near perfect.
However, the ideal weather also brings some crowds and higher prices, especially if the Lunar New Year falls in February. Compared to the rush of December and January, February offers a more relaxed pace and better availability.
We've done multiple field visits in February over the past few years—across Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Khao Sok, and the southern islands—and we can confidently say it's one of the most rewarding months to explore Thailand.
Below, you'll find our expert breakdown of what the weather's really like, how it varies by region, where to go based on your travel style, and how to make the most of February.
What's the Weather Like in Thailand in February?
As one of the best months in Thailand, February brings Thailand at its most photogenic—sunny, dry, and blissfully warm without being sticky. On our field visits in February, we didn't encounter any rain showers, even over a 2-week trip.
Daily highs range from 30–34°C (86–93°F) across most of the country, while northern mornings and evenings stay cooler, around 15–21°C (59–70°F).
What to Expect in Top Destinations
On the southern islands (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui), calm seas, 29°C water, and excellent diving visibility (20 m+) make snorkeling, boat tours, and scuba diving ideal. Even the seasonal Similan Islands—closed for half the year—are fully open and spectacular now.
In Khao Sok, this is the driest time of year—making jungle trekking, canoeing, and floating stays on the lake more enjoyable and less muddy than usual.
In the central region, rainfall is minimal, so you'll have sunny days for long walks through Ayutthaya's ruins, open-air markets & temples in Bangkok, and riverside stays in Kanchanaburi.
Up north, it's the last cool, clean-air window before the smoky season. The crisp mornings and blooming hills make hiking and cycling around Chiang Mai and Pai especially rewarding.
What Are the Best Places to Visit in February?
For first-timers, stick to the essentials for iconic experiences, easy logistics, and a wide range of activities for all ages.
- Bangkok: vibrant city life, temples, food tours, and floating markets
- Chiang Mai: mountain charm, temples, elephant sanctuaries, night bazaars, and cooler weather.
- Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Samui: palm-lined beaches, sunset cocktails, and water activities—all with solid infrastructure and frequent flights.
If you prefer fewer crowds:
- Swap Phuket for Khao Lak—more laid-back but still has access to top dive sites like the Similan Islands.
- Choose Koh Yao Noi over Krabi for a peaceful, upscale island vibe with fewer tourists but easy boat transfers from Phuket.
- Pair Chiang Rai with Chiang Mai for an artistic, slower-paced loop with temples, tea plantations, and a gateway to the Golden Triangle.
- Add Khao Sok as a middle stop for jungle trekking and tranquil lake experiences.
Here's the route we took in February. We checked out all the must-see spots in Bangkok and Chiang Mai while also escaping crowds in Chiang Rai, Khao Sok, and Khao Lak. Staying overnight in a floating bungalow in Khao Sok in early February was a highlight for me—no signal, just still water and a few fellow guests kayaking at sunrise.
If you're interested, feel free to follow our itinerary; it's perfect for couples and families alike. For a customized travel experience, check out our article on how to plan a trip to Thailand!
Is Thailand Crowded in February?
Yes, February is still part of Thailand's high season—expect popular spots to be busy and prices to stay elevated. As many TripAdvisor reviews note, cultural landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho are "beautiful but crowded." Visiting early or late in the day helps, but only to a point.
Outdoor activities tend to feel less crowded. Trekking in Chiang Mai, exploring Khao Sok, or visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries (which often limit daily visitors) remains peaceful and rewarding.
Compared to December and January, February is slightly calmer—especially after the Lunar New Year. However, school holidays in neighboring countries like Malaysia and China often extend into mid-February, so if you prefer quieter travel, aim for the latter half of the month.
What to Pack for a February Trip to Thailand
February is warm and mostly dry, but there are a few regional differences:
- Bangkok & Central: Light layers, breathable clothes, and sun protection.
- Chiang Mai & North: T-shirts for the day, a sweater or light jacket at night; long pants for hikes.
- Southern Beaches: Swimwear, sandals, sunhat, and beach gear.
- Temples & Festivals: Bring respectful outfits—covered shoulders and knees.
Are there any festivals in February?
Yes. Lunar New Year sometimes falls in February, with big celebrations in Bangkok's Chinatown and beach towns—expect parades, dragon dances, and fireworks.
The Chiang Mai Flower Festival is another highlight in early February, filling the city with colorful displays and floral parades. In Bangkok, the Kaset Fair is a lesser-known but lively agricultural expo with food stalls, plants, and music—popular with locals.
Average Temperatures and Rainfall in Thai Cities in February
| Destination | Min–Max Temp (°C/°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangkok | 24–33 / 75–91 | 9.6 | 1.8 |
| Ayutthaya | 23–34 / 73–93 | 7.8 | 1.4 |
| Kanchanaburi | 23–34 / 73–93 | 8.7 | 1.3 |
| Chiang Mai | 17–32 / 62–90 | 5.6 | 0.8 |
| Chiang Rai | 15–31 / 58–87 | 6.3 | 0.9 |
| Sukhothai | 21–34 / 70–94 | 7.2 | 1.2 |
| Phuket | 24–33 / 75–91 | 20.9 | 2.6 |
| Krabi | 22–34 / 72–93 | 23.2 | 2.9 |
| Khao Sok | 22–32 / 72–90 | 27.8 | 3.1 |
| Koh Samui | 26–31 / 79–87 | 36.6 | 3.1 |
Data source: Weather Spark.
FAQs About Visiting Thailand in February
Q: What are the best islands to visit in Thailand in February?
For a more comfortable, well-serviced experience, stick with popular spots like Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Samui (expect some crowds); for something quieter and more secluded, consider lesser-known gems like Koh Yao Noi, Koh Lipe, or Koh Kood. See more information about how to choose between these islands.
Q: Can I swim or snorkel in February?
Absolutely. Water temperatures are ideal (27–29°C), and visibility is great, especially in the Andaman Sea.
Q: Is Thailand expensive in February?
Yes, February is still high season, so prices for flights and hotels tend to stay high—especially in popular beach destinations and around Lunar New Year. That said, it's usually a bit cheaper than the peak weeks around Christmas and New Year.
Q: Is February a good time to visit Thailand for couples?
Absolutely. You'll enjoy clear blue skies for your couple photos, romantic beach sunsets, and fewer crowds than in December and January.
Q: Is it family-friendly?
Yes. Calm seas, safe beaches, cultural shows, elephant sanctuaries (book ethical ones away from riding), and easy sunset strolls make it a great family time.
Q: Can we combine with Vietnam or Cambodia?
Definitely. A popular route we often recommend is flying from Bangkok to Siem Reap, then ending in southern Vietnam—the weather aligns beautifully for a smooth, sunny trip across all three. Get to know more planning tips from How to Visit Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
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.
Tour Thailand with Us
Are you planning a February getaway to Thailand? If so, make sure to get in touch with us now, and we will put together a detailed itinerary for you to make sure that you get the most out of your trip to paradise. Check some popular Thailand tours for inspiration.
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