Krabi: weather, climate and seasons
Current weather in Krabi
If the forecast above is showing rain, don't despair! The weather in Krabi changes frequently: if you click on the 'forecast' button, you will see the real time weather - often different from the day's original prediction shown above.
When to visit Krabi
Weather-wise, the ideal time to visit Krabi is in late January and February, when you will enjoy nearly perfect conditions: calm, glassy seas; clear blue skies; moderate temperatures; and only a tiny chance of shower burst. By coming at this time, you also avoid the peak season hotel supplements charged around Christmas and New Year.
This time is, naturally, extremely busy here, so you may find popular hotels and beaches full. Some people prefer to visit Krabi in the 'rainy' season, despite the risk of showers, as it is cooler, cheaper and much less crowded - it is even possible to have a whole island to yourself!
Booking a holiday in May-October remains, however, a gamble: while the typical rainy season pattern is of sunny days punctuated by short, heavy afternoon showers, you could just as easily end up with ten days of straight rain - or sun!
For more information about the rainy season, see our guide to the tourist low season in Krabi.
General climate in Krabi
Krabi is in a tropical climate zone, only 8 degrees above the equator. There are two seasons here: hot and dry; and 'cool' and wet - although the temperature rarely drops below 27C year round. These weather seasons roughly correspond with the tourist high season (from November to April) and low season (from May to October) - most people prefering to visit during the hotter, drier months.
But, unfortunately, the monsoon winds that control Krabi's weather do not switch direction on time every year, which means that the rain (like last year) can start late in June, stop for a couple of months and continue well into January.
So there can be rain during the 'dry' season, particularly at the start, as well gloriously sunny spells for sometimes weeks at a time during the 'rainy' season. The only weather that can be almost guaranteed during the year is a dry heatwave in March and April (up to 37C) and prolonged rainy spells in September and October.
Yearly temperatures in Krabi average around 28-32C during the day, with a maximum of around 36C during March and April and a minimum of 20C - a temporary drop during a big rainstorm. During the night, the temperature drops around 5-10C and you may feel chilly if you have been out in the sun all day - you should pack a light, non-woolly sweater or shawl for the evenings.
Humidity levels are high throughout the year, from 75% to 100% - if you are sensitive to humidity, avoid going on any jungle treks or visits to National Parks where the greenery makes things worse.
The sea temperature is a very pleasant 28-30C all year round.
To commemorate the 5th anniversary of the Indian Ocean tsunami that devastated the coast of Krabi on December 26, 2004, The Sriphong Phukaoluan Foundation has produced a DVD to raise funds to sponsor children orphaned in the disaster.
The average Thailand guidebook has only a couple of pages dedicated to Krabi. We've created a whole book about the province, its attractions and where to stay. You'll find everything you need to plan your holiday and comprehensive maps and information for when you are here. Order your copy now!