May in Thailand: What to Expect & Where to Visit
Intro
May isn’t the most popular time of year to visit Thailand, as many tourists are turned off by the start of the country’s rainy season. But, there are lots of benefits to planning a May trip to Thailand, and with fewer crowds, lower prices, and a more relaxed atmosphere, you’ll get to experience the country in a way that most peak-season tourists never do!
I’ll be honest… I was worried that more frequent rainfall would negatively impact my experience when I visited Thailand last May, but that couldn’t have been further from the truth! Visiting Thailand in May completely exceeded my expectations, and I genuinely think that it’s a fantastic time to explore the country.
Here is everything you need to know about visiting Thailand in May, including what type of weather to expect, the best regions to visit (and which regions to avoid), and my top tips for visiting during this time of year.
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May is the bridge between Thailand’s peak heat and the monsoon season.
Why you should visit Thailand in May
May is officially shoulder season in Thailand, meaning you’ll encounter fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation prices throughout your trip.
As you probably know, Thailand is an incredibly popular tourist destination, attracting more than 30 million international visitors every year 🤯. With that being said, most visit from November to March during the country’s peak season. In 2025, the average number of monthly visitors to Thailand dropped by over 1 million once peak season ended!
While accommodation in Thailand is generally affordable for Western tourists, prices drop by May, making it a great time to visit if you are on a backpacker budget or looking to get the most bang for your buck. If you are interested in staying in some of Thailand’s more luxurious hotels, their prices are more affordable this time of year, too, making luxury stays more accessible for those who typically travel on a tighter budget.
Also Read: Weather in Thailand during May
Okay, so May in Thailand brings fewer crowds and more affordable prices… but how’s the weather? 🤔
When I spent a month in Thailand last May, I loved the idea of experiencing popular attractions without the massive peak season crowds, but part of me was a little concerned that the weather would negatively impact our trip.
What season is it in Thailand in May?
May in Thailand marks the start of the country’s rainy season. Rainfall increases around mid-May, with the country getting much more frequent showers. With that said, it’s not the wettest time of the year, and showers are still more sporadic, so it’s very rare to get a day of nonstop rain.
Most rain showers you’ll experience in May will come in quick bursts that last no more than an hour, and occur more frequently in the afternoon, making it the perfect time to pop into a cafe for a cozy cup of afternoon coffee, take a lunch break at a local restaurant, or even enjoy an afternoon catnap to refuel your energy for the remainder of the day.
What’s the temperature like during May in Thailand?
May marks the end of Thailand’s hot season and the beginning of the rainy season, so while it can still be quite hot, increased rainfall leads to cooler temperatures. Early May is typically hotter, with highs up to 95°F (35°C) in places like Bangkok and Chiang Mai.
More rain brings higher humidity levels, with some regions reaching up to 80%. Needless to say, you WILL be drenched in sweat on a sunny afternoon, but everyone else will be too, so you won’t be alone!
While temperatures and humidity levels vary from year to year, during my visit to Thailand last May, the most uncomfortable conditions that I experienced were in the Gulf Islands, where it was the hottest and most humid. Keep in mind that these are beach destinations, so heat and humidity aren’t necessarily a bad thing. It’s the perfect opportunity to go beach hopping, relax by the pool, or enjoy the refreshing breeze as you motorbike around the island!
Where are the Best Places to Visit During May in Thailand?
Some regions are better to visit than others in May, so here’s a quick breakdown of the best regions to visit during a May trip to Thailand:
The Gulf Islands
If you don’t already know, Thailand is home to 2 sets of islands: The Gulf of Thailand islands and the Andaman Sea Islands. The Andaman Islands get a lot more rain during this time of year, and seas can be quite choppy, with frequent ferry cancellations.
Meanwhile, the Gulf of Thailand has a different climate from the rest of the country, and May is still the dry season there, making the Gulf Islands an ideal option for those looking to island hop and relax on some beautiful beaches without frequent rain showers.
The most popular Gulf of Thailand islands include Koh Samui (the largest and most popular), Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. Other, less popular (but just as beautiful) islands include Koh Chang, Koh Mak, and Koh Kood. Koh Kood is widely considered Thailand’s most beautiful island, though it is more remote and more difficult to get to, which is why it’s not as popular as the first 3 Gulf islands that I listed.
I’ll be honest, I still experienced a couple of downpours when I was in Koh Samui in May, but they mostly happened in the early evening or at night. Although the weather during the day was mostly sunny and quite hot and humid, keep in mind that even during an island’s dry season, it can still experience significant rain at times, though it won’t be as frequent as in the Andaman Islands.
If I had to choose between visiting the Gulf Islands or the Andaman Islands during May in Thailand, I’d definitely go with the Gulf Islands, since you are more likely to get favorable weather!
Northern Thailand
Northern Thailand is quite mountainous and sits at higher elevations, so temperatures there are slightly cooler than in the south. Cities like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai can still get quite hot this time of year, but the heat is more bearable than it was in the previous months.
Increased rainfall can make more remote areas and national parks harder to access due to flooding. Unfortunately, we had to miss Doi Inthanon National Park due to severe flooding during our time in Northern Thailand in May, but we still visited other natural sites like Doi Suthep and Buatong Waterfall National Park.
Bangkok
Locals joke that Bangkok can feel like an oven in May, but it’s still TOTALLY worth visiting that time of year! I suggest visiting outdoor attractions like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun first thing in the morning to avoid the intense midday heat (and crowds). When I visited the Grand Palace, I was dripping in sweat before 9 am! For some reason, these attractions feel even hotter than the rest of the city, so you’ll have the best experience if you go as early as possible to beat the heat.
There are plenty of indoor activities in Bangkok that are perfect for hot or rainy days, but the city truly comes to life after dark, once the scorching daytime temperatures have become more bearable. As you walk through areas like Yaowarat (Bangkok’s Chinatown) and Banthat Thong Road, you’ll pass by glowing neon signs that make the streets feel like something out of a cyberpunk movie. If you’re looking for a party atmosphere, Khao San Road buzzes with live music and street performers, while Soi Cowboy lights up with neon signs and eccentric nightlife.
Night markets are an essential part of Thai culture, and Bangkok has lots throughout the city. You’ll find stalls overflowing with handcrafted souvenirs, vendors cooking steaming street food, and locals socializing after a day of work.
Where to avoid in Thailand in May
As I previously mentioned, it’s advisable to avoid destinations on the Andaman Sea due to frequent rain showers and choppy water conditions. There is also a higher concentration of sea lice in the Andaman Sea this time of year, which are tiny jellyfish larvae that are impossible to see with the naked eye, but will leave you with itchy stings that can be quite uncomfortable!
I’m sure you’ll still have a great time if you visit this region in May, but expect bursts of rain throughout the day and be prepared for possible ferry cancellations.
I visited Phuket in early May and was surprised by how choppy the waters were. Phuket is the island with the biggest waves during the rainy season, and dangerous riptides are common. Not what you’d usually picture when you think of pristine Thai beaches and their crystalline turquoise waters!
What are Some Specific Activities or Excursions to Consider While Visiting Thailand in May?
There are plenty of amazing activities to do in Thailand during May! Potential rain will only affect water activities such as boat tours and jet skiing.
Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries
Visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary is one of the most popular tourist activities in Thailand and is a must when visiting the country, regardless of the weather! It rained on and off during my experience at an elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai, and while it was a minor inconvenience, we were provided with ponchos, umbrellas, and waterproof shoes, so we were still able to enjoy watching the elephants amidst the rain!
Thai Cooking Classes
Most cooking classes in Thailand take place indoors or in a covered outdoor kitchen, making them the perfect rainy day activity! I highly recommend that everyone sign up for one during their trip to Thailand, especially for those like myself who love to cook and want to learn how to make local dishes!
Food Tours
In my opinion, Thailand has some of the best cuisine in the world, and street food is some of the tastiest food you’ll try in the country! I know some people can be a little nervous about getting sick from street food (even though street food is generally safe to eat in Thailand), so a food tour is a fantastic way to experience only the best street food, recommended by a local guide.
Experience Muay Thai
Muay Thai is Thailand’s national sport, and watching a live Muay Thai match is an exhilarating experience perfect for rainy evenings, since it takes place in an indoor boxing ring! I’m not a big sports fan, but I had a BLAST at the Muay Thai Match that I attended. The energy was incredible, and I was in awe of the boxers’ strength and athleticism. Many Muay Thai studios offer 1-off Muay Thai classes for tourists, perfect for athletes at heart or anyone looking for a good workout and a unique cultural experience!
How does the rainy season in Thailand affect transportation and travel plans?
The rainy season in Thailand has the biggest effect on ferries and mountain roads. As I mentioned earlier, ferry cancellations are common, especially in the Andaman Sea, due to choppy water conditions. Cancellations in the Gulf of Thailand are far less likely, but still possible.
Remote mountain roads are sometimes washed away by severe flooding, but main roads and highways are completely fine. If you plan to rent a motorbike, use increased caution and be careful when driving in the rain, especially if you are inexperienced. Pack a poncho in case of showers, and stop along the roadside if a sudden downpour occurs.
Are there any cultural festivals or events happening in Thailand during May?
Yes, multiple cultural events occur every May in Thailand! Below are a few of the most famous:
- Visakha Bucha Day: This is the most important Buddhist holiday, and typically occurs in May! Chiang Mai is the best place to experience this holiday, especially at the Wat Phra That temple on Doi Suthep. Candlelit processions take place in the evenings in celebration of the Buddha’s day of birth, enlightenment, and death, which occurs on the sixth lunar month on the day of the full moon.
- Royal Ploughing Ceremony: This festival is held in both Thailand and Cambodia every May, in celebration of the start of the rice-growing season (AKA – the rainy season). The purpose of this ceremony is to predict the year’s harvest and pray for good growing conditions.
- Bun Bang Fai Rocket Festival: One of Thailand’s most exciting festivals that takes place in May is the Rocket Festival, which occurs in the Isan region of Thailand. This colorful festival is filled with parades, performances, and, of course, rocket launches, in offering to the Thai god of rain for a successful rice-growing season.
- Chiang Mai Inthakin City Pillar Festival: Every May in Chiang Mai, the week-long Inthakin Festival takes place at Wat Chedi Luang, one of Chiang Mai’s oldest and most important temples. You’ll encounter dozens of floral vendors, chanting monks, candlelit processions, and tents filled with various street food vendors!
Conclusion
May in Thailand might not be the most popular time of year to visit, but that comes with something special that you won’t experience during peak season. Fewer crowds mean more enjoyable experiences at tourist attractions. Already affordable accommodations for westerners become even more accessible, and luxury hotels become more reasonable. While it’s still considered Thailand’s “hot” season, the start of the rainy season brings lower temperatures, making it more comfortable than the previous month, which is the hottest month of the year.
I absolutely loved my time in Thailand last May, and I would absolutely visit this time of year again and again!
🇹🇭 Planning a trip to Thailand? Check out my other Thailand blog posts to help plan your trip!
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