Wondering what Phuket weather in April is really like?
This guide spills the tea on heat, humidity, surprise rainstorms, what to pack, where to chill, and how to survive (and love) Songkran season. Whether you're planning beach days, island hopping, or just trying not to melt—I've got you covered with everything you need to know about Phuket weather in April.
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Thinking of coming to Phuket in April?
You’ve probably Googled something like “Is it too rainy?” or “Will I melt?”—am I right?
Look, April in Phuket is a bit like that unpredictable friend: hot, dramatic, sometimes moody, but always ready for a good time.
And yes, it’s one of my favourite months to be here.
Let me walk you through what it’s actually like—from sweaty beach mornings to spontaneous rainstorms and full-blown water fights during Songkran.
How Hot Does It Get in April?
Spoiler alert: very.
April is one of the hottest months of the year in Phuket.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Daytime highs: Around 33°C (and it feels like more)
- Evenings: Sticky but breezy—about 26°C
- Humidity: Basically 80% on average (hello, glowing skin)
- Rain: A handful of days, but it comes in short tropical bursts—not all-day drizzle
So yes, it’s steamy. But the kind of steam that makes the beach extra tempting.
My take? Don’t panic about the rain. It usually crashes the party for 20 minutes and then disappears like nothing happened.

What’s Actually Fun To Do in April?
Just because it’s hot doesn’t mean you need to hibernate in your hotel room (unless it’s got a pool and killer aircon… then maybe).
Here’s what I love doing in April:
Early Beach Mornings
You want to beat the sun? Hit Freedom Beach or Kata Noi before 10am.
The light is gorgeous, the sand is cool, and there’s almost no one around.
Pack:
- A quick-dry towel
- Big floppy hat (go full drama)
- Water bottle with electrolytes (trust me on this)
Island Hopping Before Lunch
April mornings are calm = perfect for a boat day.
- Phi Phi, Racha Yai, or Coral Island are top picks
- Book tours that offer free cancellation—rain likes to crash the party sometimes
Wandering Around Old Phuket Town
I always say this is where Phuket hides her soul.
The shophouses? Adorable.
The cafés? Life-saving aircon.
The iced coffee? Stronger than my willpower.
Pop into the temples and vintage shops when you need to escape the heat.
Sunset Cocktails & Night Markets
Once the sun chills out, head to:
- Chillva Market for quirky shopping and snacks
- Rawai Seafood Market if you’re feeling fancy-hungry
- A beachfront bar with a cold mojito and no regrets

Songkran: Welcome to the Wildest Water Fight of Your Life
If you’re in Phuket between April 13–15, get ready for Songkran, aka Thai New Year, aka wet chaos with cultural flair.
Here’s what goes down:
- The streets? Flooded with smiles and Super Soakers
- The energy? Absolute madness in the best way
- Your clothes? Wet. All of them. All the time.
Lara’s Songkran Survival Kit:
- Quick-dry shirt or swimsuit top
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Flip-flops you don’t mind sacrificing
- A good attitude—because you will get soaked
For wild street parties, head to Patong.
For a more chill vibe, go south to Rawai or inland to local temples.
What to Pack (And What to Leave Behind)
Don’t pack like you’re going to London. Phuket in April demands tropical smarts.
Bring:
- Light, loose clothing (cotton, linen—nothing clingy)
- A compact umbrella or poncho
- Flip-flops and a pair of decent sandals
- SPF 50+ (April sun doesn’t play)
- Sunglasses, wide hat, waterproof bag
- A couple of swimsuits—you’ll wear them a lot
Lara tip: Don’t bother overpacking. You can buy cute beachwear, rain gear, and even SPF at 7-Eleven or a night market.
So… Is April a Good Time to Visit Phuket?
Short answer? Yes. If you’re not precious about a bit of sweat or the odd rain burst.
Let’s get real:
Why It’s Fab:
- Hotels are cheaper (hellooo, boutique beach resorts for half the price)
- Fewer tourists (yes, you can get that perfect Insta beach shot)
- Songkran is unforgettable
- Lush green landscapes post-rain
Why It’s Tricky:
- Humidity is intense—like walking through soup
- Weather is a little moody
- You’ll need to reapply sunscreen a lot
But if you’re adaptable, curious, and not afraid to sweat a bit? April in Phuket is magic.
Can You Still Swim?
Yes! And you should.
The water’s warm and calm—especially in the first half of April.
Lifeguards are around, and most beaches have flag systems (green = go, red = nope).
Stick to the west coast for safe swimming: Karon, Kata, Nai Harn.

What To Do If It Rains?
Honestly? I love when it rains.
It cools everything down and gives you an excuse to:
- Sip something sweet at Bookhemian or Wilson’s Cafe
- Wander the aisles at Central Festival
- Visit Wat Chalong and learn something
- Treat yourself to a Thai massage (or two)
Rain’s a vibe here. Embrace it.
What the Locals Say About April
If you ask the people who live here?
They’ll tell you:
- April is when things slow down a little—and it’s bliss
- Rain is part of the rhythm
- Prices drop, beaches open up, and the island breathes
And they’ll also say: Don’t trust the forecast. Just look at the sky.
Fair enough.
Phuket Weather in April vs Other Months: What’s the Difference?
One of the biggest questions I get:
“Is April better or worse than other times to visit Phuket?”
So let’s break it down—April vs March vs May.
Each month has its own thing going on.
Here’s what to expect from Phuket’s weather if you’re choosing when to fly in:
Month | Weather Vibe | Rainfall (avg) | Temperature (avg) | Sea Conditions | Highlights & Notes |
March | Dry, sunny, classic tropical holiday | Low (30–50 mm) | 27–32°C | Calm & clear | Peak season prices. Busy beaches. Ideal for diving. |
April | Hot, humid, random rain bursts | Medium (130–170 mm) | 28–34°C | Still good, early April is best | Songkran Festival. Fewer crowds. Cheap stays. |
May | Monsoon knocking at the door | High (200–350 mm) | 27–31°C | Choppier, swimming caution needed | Green season kicks in. Expect rainstorms. Quiet vibes. |
Lara’s verdict?
If you want a good balance—hot weather, party energy, but fewer tourists—April’s a winner.
March is postcard-perfect but pricey.
May is peaceful, lush, and cheaper—but rain becomes a main character.
So if you’re asking “Is April the sweet spot?”
I’d say it’s got that unpredictable charm: sun, sweat, and just enough rain to keep things interesting.
How to Survive Humidity During Phuket Weather in April
Humidity in Phuket in April is thick.
Not “oh, it’s a bit muggy” but full-blown “my thighs are sticking to this plastic seat” kind of thick.
But I’ve lived through it—and here’s how you can too:
Wear this:
- Loose cotton or linen tops
- Floaty dresses or light shorts
- Sandals that don’t rub when wet
Pack this:
- A small fan (yes, I use one on the regular)
- Face blotting sheets
- Hydration tablets (game-changer after beach days)
And honestly, I duck into cafés in Old Phuket Town whenever I start to melt. Places like Bookhemian have cold air, strong coffee, and no judgement if you’re drenched in sweat.
Health Things No One Mentions About April in Phuket
Let’s chat about staying well when the Phuket weather in April turns your body into a salty raisin.
Dehydration is sneaky here. Even when you’re sipping coconuts, you can still crash by 2pm if you’re not careful.
Lara’s quick fix tips:
- Start your day with a litre of water
- Avoid heavy booze before beach hopping
- Eat fruit with high water content (pineapple, watermelon, papaya)
Also, don’t brush off heat rash or sunstroke. If you feel weird, go chill at your hotel or pop into one of the local health clinics in Phuket—you’ll find solid care without breaking the bank.
What Foods Work Best with April Weather in Phuket
Some foods hit better when it’s sticky-hot and your flip-flops are sloshing.
Top eats in humid April:
- Som Tam (papaya salad): spicy, salty, sour—cooling AF
- Tom Yum Soup: sounds wrong in the heat, but it’s a local go-to
- Fresh spring rolls: not deep-fried = no food coma
- Coconut ice cream: obviously
If you want to taste the wild side of Phuket street food, head to the Chillva Market or check out our list of weird exotic foods worth trying
Songkran Survival Guide: Wet Season Energy, Max Fun
I won’t lie—Songkran during Phuket weather in April is absolute madness.
Like, happy chaos on steroids.
If you’re doing the water fight thing, you need to prep like a local.
Don’t wear:
- Anything white
- Denim (you’ll be carrying five kilos of wet jeans by noon)
- Suede sandals—don’t ask me how I learned that one
Do bring:
- Waterproof case for your phone
- Cash in a zip bag (most stalls won’t take cards mid-splash)
- A dry change of clothes if you’re headed to dinner after
Want a more local experience? Skip Patong and head to Rawai or Chalong temples. There’s more tradition, fewer frat vibes.
Also: read the Phuket Songkran guide before you leave your hotel soaking wet and wondering what just happened.
Where to Chill When the April Rain Hits Phuket
Rain doesn’t ruin your trip—it resets it.
One minute you’re at the beach, next minute you’re in the beach bar, dodging sideways rain and chatting with strangers over banana pancakes.
Here’s my go-to list when the skies open:
1. Jungceylon in Patong
- Huge, air-conned, and full of iced coffee spots
- Pop into SF Cinema if you want to dry off with popcorn
2. Central Phuket Floresta
- Trendier mall with Thai and international shops
- Great place for browsing and escaping downpours
3. Phuket Aquarium
- Actually super calming and kid-friendly
- Right by the sea, so you can walk along the pier when it clears up
→ Guide here

Best Sunset Spots in April (Yes, Even With Clouds)
Some evenings in April, you’ll get that soft post-rain golden hour that makes every photo look filtered.
My picks:
- Promthep Cape: most dramatic, best for panoramic views
- Karon Viewpoint: easy access and fewer crowds
- Catch Beach Club: grab a cocktail, pretend you’re a celebrity
Want a full list? Head to Phuket’s best sunset spots for more dreamy optionspost-sitemap Phuket Com….
How Locals Pack for Phuket Weather in April
If you ask people who live here what’s in their bag, it’s always the same staples:
- Dry bag (essential during Songkran + boat trips)
- Sarong (beach, temple visits, towel replacement)
- Mini fan or cooling towel
- Tiger Balm (bug bites, heat rash, random headaches)
Also—don’t underestimate a good pair of cheap sunnies. I’ve lost three in April alone.
FAQs People Ask Me in DMs About April Weather in Phuket
“Will I still get a tan if it’s rainy?”
Yes. I’ve burned in cloudy April skies. UV index is still wild.
“Can you wear makeup in this humidity?”
Honestly? Tinted sunscreen and lip balm. Anything else melts off.
“What’s the vibe—is it worth it?”
100%. It’s like the island is extra green, extra alive, and you feel like you’re in on the secret season.
“Is April a good time to visit Phuket?”
Yep, if you can handle the heat and a few random rainstorms, April is lush. You’ll get sunny beach mornings, fewer crowds, cheaper hotels, and the madness of Songkran.
“How rainy is it in Phuket in April?”
Not constant. Expect short, heavy showers—mostly in the late afternoon. Think tropical drama, not day-long gloom.
“Does it rain every day in Phuket in April?”
Nope. Some days stay totally dry. But most days have at least one rain burst that comes and goes fast. Don’t cancel your beach plans—just bring a poncho and carry on.
“Is the sea rough in April?”
Early April, you’re golden—especially at beaches like Kata or Nai Harn. But towards the end of the month, it can get a bit choppy depending on how early the monsoon winds roll in. Always check the beach flags.
“Can I still swim in the ocean in April?”
Definitely. Most west coast beaches are still swimmable in April. Look for green flags, stay within lifeguard zones, and you’re good to go.
“Is April too hot for outdoor activities?”
Not if you plan around the heat. Start early (before 10am) or go out late (after 4pm). Midday is best spent eating noodles or napping somewhere air-conditioned.
“What should I wear in Phuket in April?”
Keep it light. Loose cotton or linen, flip-flops, swimsuits, and maybe a hat you won’t mind getting soaked. Leave the denim and tight black tops at home unless you fancy slow-cooking yourself.
“Can I hike or explore nature in April?”
You can, just start early. Trails like the Big Buddha walk or viewpoints in Khao Rang are fab in the morning. Bring water, wear proper shoes (not beach sandals), and check the weather forecast before you go.
“Is Songkran safe for kids?”
It’s chaotic but fun! In areas like Rawai or Old Town, it’s more family-friendly than the full-blown water battle in Patong. Waterproof everything and avoid late afternoons when things get rowdier.
“Will mosquitoes be a problem in April?”
They’re around—especially after the rain. Spray up in the evenings and wear light long sleeves if you’re heading into nature. Most cafés and restaurants will have citronella or fans running.
“Can I do boat tours or island hopping in April?”
Absolutely. Just stick to early-day trips and pick a tour operator with a flexible cancellation policy in case the weather changes. You’ll find options in our best island hopping guide
“Is the Phuket weather in April suitable for spa days?”
Honestly? Perfect spa weather. Humid days = even more reason to check into a cool room with aircon, essential oils, and no obligations. Check out the top day spas in Phuket if you want proper pampering.
“Where’s best to chill indoors if it pours down?”
- Central Phuket for aircon and coffee
- Phuket Aquarium if you’re feeling educational
- Movie theatres for popcorn + dry clothes
- Or just find a cute café and wait it out with an iced Thai tea
“What do locals do when it rains in April?”
They carry on. Grab a poncho, tuck your phone in a ziplock, and ride the wave—literally. Rain is part of life here. The sky clears quick, and everything smells fresher after.
Planning for rainy season instead? Here’s how to survive the secret season like a local.
Final Thoughts from Lara
If you’re wondering whether to book that trip to Phuket in April?
Do it.
Just pack smart, stay chill (literally and figuratively), and lean into the island energy.
April in Phuket is a beautiful mix of sun, sweat, showers—and unforgettable memories.
And honestly?
Getting caught in a tropical rainstorm feels kinda magical when you’re already barefoot on the beach.