What the weather is like in December
December is dry across most of Thailand. Andaman beaches in peak season. On the Gulf coast, Koh Samui is still wet (263mm) but drying out. Bangkok cool (23°C low) and very dry. Christmas/New Year sees a sharp price spike, especially in beach destinations.
Against November, December runs 1°C cooler with 33mm less rain and 0.4 hours more sun a day.
These December averages are station normals for Bangkok (NOAA / Thai Meteorological Department, via Wikipedia, 1991-2020); other parts of Thailand vary. Full sources below.
Thailand in December, on the ground
December is peak dry season across most of Thailand: sunny, lower humidity, and cool mornings in Chiang Mai and the mountains. The Andaman Sea is calm and clear, ideal for island-hopping.
Crowds and prices in December
December is high season, and prices on the islands and beaches climb steadily to a peak over Christmas and New Year. Book popular islands and boat transfers early.
What to do in December
- Mark King Bhumibol’s birthday on 5 December, also Thailand’s Father’s Day.
- Island-hop around Krabi, Koh Lanta and the Phi Phi islands in calm seas.
- Trek in the hills around Chiang Mai in the cool, dry weather.
Before you book: Gulf islands such as Koh Samui can still see heavy rain early in the month.
What to pack for Thailand in December
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Sun hat & high-SPF sunscreen
- Swimwear
Is December the right month?
Thailand's best month, January, is one month after December; the toughest, September, is three months before. See the full month-by-month breakdown for Thailand, or where else to go in December.
Where to stay in December
December is peak season in Thailand, so prices are at their highest. Book early for the best choice of rooms.
- Bangkok (Sukhumvit / Silom)$$Capital arrival, food, transit hubSukhumvit (Asoke, Phrom Phong) for sky-train access. Silom for business + Lumpini Park. Khao San Road for backpackers and Songkran chaos.See hotels in Bangkok for 12–18 Dec 2026
- Chiang Mai (Old City)$$Northern culture, temples, foodOld City inside the moat for walking access to temples. Nimman for cafes + cooking schools. Avoid March–April for burning-season haze.See hotels in Chiang Mai for 12–18 Dec 2026
- Andaman beaches (Phuket / Krabi)$$Beach trips Nov–AprPhuket has more flight options but is more developed. Krabi (Ao Nang, Railay) is quieter with better scenery. See our Krabi best-time guide.See hotels in Phuket for 12–18 Dec 2026
- Gulf coast (Koh Samui / Koh Phangan)$$Beach trips May–Sep (opposite monsoon)Koh Samui (Bophut, Chaweng) for boutique resorts. Koh Phangan for yoga retreats. See our Koh Samui best-time guide.See hotels in Koh Samui for 12–18 Dec 2026
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Before you go
Book the rest of your December trip
Tours and tickets
Day trips, attraction tickets and guided tours in Thailand.
Browse Thailand on KlookAirport transfer
A fixed-price car from your arrival airport to your hotel, booked before you land.
Book a transfer on KiwitaxiMobile data
An eSIM for Thailand installs before you fly, so you have data when you land. Check your phone supports eSIM first.
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Frequently asked questions
Is December a good time to visit Thailand?
How warm is Thailand in December?
Does it rain in Thailand in December?
What should I pack for Thailand in December?
How far ahead should I book Thailand for December?
Sources: Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) · NOAA / Thai Meteorological Department: Bangkok, 1991-2020 · U.S. State Department Thailand Travel Advisory · Thai Meteorological Department (TMD). Full provenance on the Thailand guide.
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