Thailand

Thailand in May:What to Expect & Where to Travel

30 April, 2025

With natural beauty at its peak, Thailand in May makes an enthralling travel destination for tourists around the world. The tropical flora and fauna are at their best, and the verdant vistas are at their most luscious. Although some regions of Thailand, especially the south, view May as the beginning of the rainy season, the showers usually occur in brief spurts, leaving behind refreshed and renewed surroundings. Because of this, it's a great time for nature enthusiasts to explore the colorful jungles, beautiful islands, and immaculate beaches. You can explore amazing marine life, snorkel among coral reefs, and go island hopping in the Andaman Sea.

Don't pass up the chance to visit national parks with breathtaking cruise rides, a variety of species, and excellent natural trails, such as Mu Koh Angthong National Park. The historic temples and interesting celebrations, like Samui Bike Week, provide a window into Thailand's rich past for those who enjoy culture. Savoring real Thai food is essential because the culinary scene is outstanding all year long. With pleasant weather in Thailand during May, it gets easier to explore the outdoor adventures of the country.

Thailand’s Weather in May

May marks the start of the rainy season in many parts of Thailand, so be prepared for a change in the weather throughout your Thailand trip. With slightly warmer temperatures in the southern regions, average Thailand temperatures in May fall between 28°C and 34°C. Thailand's southern regions are often more humid, while the country's center and northern regions provide a welcome break from the heat.

In the early stages, cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai may even experience some degree of urban flooding. Even with all of this, some people may still find the often warm and humid weather uncomfortable. In these situations, the rain can offer a much-needed break from Thailand's relentless heat. With few exceptions, it typically rains throughout the late afternoon and evening. As a result, the dry mornings are ideal for exploration and tourism.

What to Pack For Thailand in May?

Finding a balance between being ready for occasional rain showers and remaining comfortable in the heat is crucial when visiting Thailand in May.

You can combat the heat by dressing in breathable, light materials like linen or cotton.
Long-sleeved shirts and slacks that fit loosely can help shield you from annoying bugs and the sun.
When visiting temples and marketplaces, wear comfortable walking shoes.
For the occasional rainstorm, particularly in the southern regions, a lightweight, portable rain jacket or poncho is essential.

Naturally, bring swimsuits as well, as the beaches and water sports are still appealing.
Finally, your best friends for sun protection are sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
Thus, in the Land of Smiles, keep yourself cool, cozy, and prepared for any weather that may arise.

Reasons To Visit Thailand in May

The tourist numbers begin to decline when the monsoon showers intensify in Thailand in May. Travelers can readily locate lodging in otherwise sold-out (or unreasonably costly) houses because most cities are comparatively empty.

Additionally, the cost of local transportation drops significantly when there are fewer tourists. In actuality, the majority of hotels in Thailand offer a different set of rates or pricing for May, and accommodation rates are typically reduced by almost 50%.

Lastly, your experience in Bangkok, one of Thailand's most visited tourist destinations, will essentially be the same whether you go in May or December, unlike other Thai cities. This is because the majority of Bangkok's tourist attractions are indoors and are not impacted by the monsoon rains.

Festivals & Events in Thailand in May

1. Elephant Buffet and Jumbo Queen Contest

The Elephant Buffet and Jumbo Queen Contest in Thailand in May is a unique event where a beauty contest for "Jumbo" or "elephant-like" women is held alongside a feast for elephants. The contest, officially known as the "Miss Jumbo Queen Contest", is held at an elephant sanctuary or zoo and features contestants vying for the title while elephants enjoy a fruit buffet. Proceeds from the event often benefit elephant conservation efforts. The event is known for its unique nature and the unusual beauty contest that it hosts, drawing large crowds of spectators.

2. Samui Regatta

The Samui Regatta is a prominent annual sailing event held in Koh Samui, Thailand. It's considered one of the largest and most prestigious regattas in Asia, drawing international sailors and spectators. The world's top yachts come to compete in the Samui Regatta, which typically occurs in the final days of May. The regatta is also well-known for its lavish parties, which go well with the other vacation pursuits for which Koh Samui is well-known.
This event is a week-long thrilling experience for all tourists, making it one of the most beloved events in Thailand in May.

3. Ordination Parade On Elephant’s Back Festival

As the name implies, the ordination parade on an elephant's back is a procession of new monks being admitted into the order. From Wat Chaeng Tawang (Surin District), more than 100 elephants begin the procession, which ends at Don Buat, also called the Talu Palace. There are some ancient customs that you might observe both before and after the procession. The parade culminates at a sacred spot, often the confluence of two rivers, where the elephants are led into the river to bathe, symbolizing purification. Participating in this parade is one of the best things to do in Thailand in May, as it offers a perfect blend of fun, tradition, and culture.

4. Samui Bike Week

Samui Bike Week 2025 is an annual motorcycle event taking place in Koh Samui, Thailand, from May 2nd to 3rd, 2025. The event features bike shows, music, live entertainment, food stalls, and more, and is known for attracting a large number of bikers from across Thailand and beyond. The theme for this year's event is "Riding for Peace and the Environment. If you are a bike enthusiast, then this event is just perfect for your Thailand in May itinerary.

5. Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day

An old Brahman custom that dates back to the Sukhothai era is the Royal Ploughing Ceremony. Every year in May, before the planting season begins, the event is planned. The Rice Grains Blessing Ceremony, which is customarily held in the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, comes before the ceremony. The primary crop in Thailand, rice, is blessed each year through a Buddhist supplication rite in this ceremony. The Royal Ploughing Ceremony day was designated a public holiday in 1957 and National Farmers' Day in 1966 due to its importance to Thai farmers.

Places To Visit In Thailand In May

1. Bangkok

Even though Bangkok has intense rainstorms, unless the weather is exceptionally poor, tourists continue to visit the city. This is because Bangkok's tourist attractions are primarily indoors. Additionally, visitors have plenty of time to explore the city's outdoor attractions thanks to the sunny mornings and afternoons of Thailand in May. You can even enjoy various famous festivals that take place here in May, such as the Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day, where rice, the main grain of the country, is worshipped before ploughing.

2. Koh Samui

Compared to the rest of the country, the Gulf of Thailand coast receives significantly less rainfall. Because of this, beaches and islands like Koh Samui are perfect for a beach vacation. In addition to having some of the best nightlife in Thailand, Koh Samui hosts a few festivals, making it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand in May. Mornings are often sunny, making them ideal for beach time or exploring. Afternoons are great for visiting indoor attractions like temples or enjoying spa treatments.

3. Koh Tao

Koh Tao in May marks the beginning of the wet season, with the chance of afternoon rain showers, but also offers stunning scenery and vibrant greenery. The island of Koh Tao is the ideal beach getaway, with its opulent hotels, vibrant nightlife, gorgeous beaches, and charming beach villas. Koh Tao, Thailand's smallest island, is a tropical paradise that perfectly combines the laid-back atmosphere of Ko Pha Ngan with the bustling masses of Koh Samui. May is generally a quieter time to visit compared to the peak seasons, hence, you can enjoy various activities with fewer crowds, such as diving and snorkeling, making it among the best places in Thailand in May.

4. Ko Pha Ngan

Thailand's party island is Ko Pha Ngan, particularly in May when the rest of the nation gets hit by heavy rains. The island is well-known for its monthly Full Moon Party, which draws about 30,000 partygoers and makes it one of the best islands to visit in Thailand in May. The island is very well-liked by backpackers traveling to the nation and is filled with beach resorts and sand bars. The climate in Koh Phangan during May month is considered the most ideal time to visit for travelers. This is also the perfect time to enjoy trekking and swimming around the various stunning locations on the island.

5. Hua Hin

For some of the best beaches in Thailand in May, visit this beautiful island of Hua Hin, which is the ideal destination if you don't want to leave mainland Thailand. Originally a fishing community, the beachfront resort gained popularity as a vacation spot for Thailand's wealthy and well-known after the Royal Family built their summer palaces there. A variety of water activities are available for visitors to enjoy at the opulent resorts that line the Hua Hin beach. Enjoyable activities during May include sunbathing, swimming, horseback riding on the beach, golf, kitesurfing, and jet skiing.

Things To Do In Thailand In May

1. Enjoy Watersports In Koh Samui

Even though Koh Samui will experience some rain, if you plan ahead, you can still enjoy plenty of sun and the opportunity to partake in water sports like sea kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling. You can just spend your days in Koh Samui basking in the warm Thai sun in the morning and afternoon, when there is less possibility of rain, if none of these appeal to you in the weather of Thailand in May.

Location: Koh Samui, Gulf of Thailand
Timings: Watersports operators usually run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but exact times may vary by provider.
Price: Snorkeling and kayaking tours typically start from 1,000 THB per person, while scuba diving experiences range from 2,500–4,000 THB per dive, depending on the package and equipment

2. Take A Cruise Through The Mu Koh Angthong National Park

As previously said, the Gulf of Thailand is ideal for exploration because it receives significantly less rainfall than the rest of the nation. Because it provides breathtaking vistas of tiny islands spread across blue waters, a boat through Angthong National Park is a favorite pastime. The experience can be genuinely enjoyable when there are fewer people there, making it the best place in Thailand in May.

Location: Mu Koh Angthong National Park, accessible by boat from Koh Samui
Timings: Day cruises usually depart around 8:00–9:00 AM and return by 4:00–5:00 PM.
Price: Group cruises start from 1,500–2,500 THB per person, including lunch and equipment.

3. Learn About Thai History In One Of Its Museums

Thailand is home to numerous museums that celebrate its rich cultural legacy and can be found around various locations. The Museum of Contemporary Art in Bangkok, the Bangkok National Museum, and the Chiang Rai and Hill Tribe Museum in Chiang Mai are well-liked choices. Exploring the indoor activities like these museums is one of the most popular things to do in Thailand in May, as it saves you from rain sprinkles and showcases you a creative world to admire.

Location: Bangkok National Museum, Na Phra That Road, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Timings: It depends on the Museum you select.
Price: Entry is typically 200 THB for foreigners; it can vary depending on the museum you choose.

4. Visit The Wat Pho Temple

Another excellent approach to learn about Thailand's past and the culture of the Thai people is to visit temples. Your visit to well-known temples like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho will undoubtedly be enjoyable, offering the iconic Reclining Buddha, one of Bangkok’s most revered temples. Its serene atmosphere, intricate murals, and traditional massage school make it a must-visit, especially when the city is less crowded in May. You won't have to battle the weather to make the most of your time in Thailand, thanks to the indoor activities.

Location: 2 Sanam Chai Road, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Timings: Open daily, 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Price: The Entry fee is 200 THB for adults

5. Enjoy The Nightlife In Bangkok

Bangkok is known for its vibrant nightlife, which is unaffected by light rain. Neighborhoods like Sathorn and Thonglor, which are lined with bars, nightclubs, and street food sellers, are excellent places to experience Thai nightlife.

Location: Various districts in Bangkok (Khao San Road, Sukhumvit, Silom)
Timings: Most nightlife spots open from 6:00 PM until late (2:00–3:00 AM).
Price: Entry to clubs ranges from free to 500 THB; drinks typically start at 100–200 THB.

FAQs

1. Is it worth going to Thailand in May?

Ans: Yes, visiting Thailand in May can be worthwhile, especially if you're looking for lower crowds, potentially lower prices, and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere than the peak tourist seasons. However, be prepared for higher temperatures and the possibility of rain, especially in the southern regions.

2. Is Thailand better in May or June?

Ans: For most of Thailand, May is generally better than June due to lower rainfall and fewer crowds, according to a travel website. May is still part of the hot season, but it's a transitional period before the wet season fully sets in. June sees the start of the monsoon season, with increased rainfall and humidity, especially in the southern areas.

3. Is May the dry season for Thailand?

Ans: Yes, May is generally considered part of the dry season in many parts of Thailand, though the weather can become very hot and humid. While the dry season officially ends around late April or early May in the north and central regions, the southwest coast experiences a gradual transition into the wet season, with the wet season officially starting in late May.

4. Which are the best places to visit in Thailand in May?

Ans: In May, Thailand is generally warm and can experience increased rainfall, making it a shoulder season for travel. Popular destinations include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and the islands of Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Koh Phangan

5. Which part of Thailand to go to in May?

Ans: With little to no chance of rain, the best places to go for guaranteed sunshine are Hua Hin & Cha Am and the east coast beaches of Koh Samui, Khanom, and Koh Pha Ngan.