If you’ve spoken to friends or family that have visited Thailand, you’ve likely heard about the magic of Phuket. The largest of Thailand’s islands, it boasts close to 40 idyllic beaches, an incredible selection of hotels and resorts, authentic Thai dishes, and nightlife that embraces the tropical feel with beachfront parties and dancing under the stars. How’s that for a gorgeous destination wedding backdrop in Thailand?
If you’ve been inspired to plan your destination wedding in Phuket, you’ve likely been enticed by talk of scenic vistas, iconic cultural landmarks, and the vibrant and inviting locals. We’re here to tell you, it’s all true, and all you have to do is get there. This means knowing what to plan for, including the weather on a tropical island.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best time of year to get married in Phuket. We’ll run down tips about the weather, Phuket’s monsoon season, shoulder seasons, and the best wedding deals available to you.
What’s the best time of year for predictable weather in Phuket?
Weather falls into two primary seasons on Phuket: the dry season and the wet season. Running from December to March, the dry season is the most attractive to holiday makers, offering clear skies, low humidity, and temperatures that feel just right — think 20- 33°C (70-90°F).
If you’re planning a wedding in Phuket and want gorgeous weather for you and your guests, setting your wedding date during the months-long dry season is ideal. You’ll benefit from sunny days and far less chance of rain, giving you day after picture-perfect day to enjoy your wedding celebrations.
When is monsoon season in Phuket?
Phuket’s monsoon season runs from mid-May to October, with September usually taking the award for wettest month. During monsoon season, Phuket is frequented by rain showers and occasional storms, and if you plan your wedding during this time, you’ll want to make sure you have indoor options for every wedding event.
What are the shoulder seasons in Phuket?
If you can’t find any wedding dates that work during the dry season, Phuket’s shoulder seasons could be the next-best option, but keep in mind that the weather is usually in transition and much less predictable than the dry or wet months. In Phuket, the shoulder seasons are April-May, which brings hot temps and either little rain or lots of rain, and October-November, which is typically cooler and wetter.
These months offer a chance for those looking to make memories on a tighter budget, balancing affordability, and often enjoyable weather conditions. While you may experience the occasional rain shower, the shoulder seasons often deliver plenty of good weather days.
For affordability, choosing a wedding date during the shoulder season offers slightly more competitive pricing for flights, accommodations, and a variety of wedding venues and services, while still delivering on the weather Phuket is loved for.
For Australian couples planning their wedding in Phuket, the summer school holidays in January coincide with the peak season in Phuket. This means it’s advisable to avoid this period, ensuring a better chance of great deals on the dates you’d prefer.
When can you get the best deals on a Phuket wedding?
If you’re looking to save money on your destination wedding in Phuket, the shoulder seasons are your best bet, though they do come with the risk of inclement weather on your wedidng day. During these periods, resorts and wedding service providers tend to offer attractive packages and discounts that appeal to couples looking to plan a destination wedding on a budget.
For a handy tip to keep your spending on track, why not host multiple wedding events on the same site. This could be a welcome party or a post-wedding brunch. Doing this often gives you leverage when negotiating a better deal, allowing you to take advantage of bundled services from your chosen venue.
So, a Phuket wedding… sounds amazing, right?
While the ideal time to get married in Phuket is usually the dry season, many couples are happy booking in the shoulder seasons too. Budget and weather preference play a large part in booking a tropical wedding, so following the above tips should help you decide what works best for you.
Ultimately, a Phuket wedding is a magical experience regardless of the time of year. It allows you and your loved ones to celebrate together on one of the most stunning places on Earth. So, start planning today and make your Phuket wedding retreat a reality.