Is a trip to Krabi, Thailand in August worth it? It’s the question we asked ourselves before heading to Thailand. August is low-season in Krabi and can be characterised by high temperatures and rainy days.
On the plus side, unlike a visit in January, the beaches aren’t packed, attractions are less crowded and prices lower. In the end, we decided to take the plunge, and spent a week in Krabi. We didn’t regret it. Let’s explore whether visiting visiting Krabi, Thailand in August a good option.
Weather
Before continuing, it should be pointed out that at this time of the year the weather is unpredictable. So whilst it is possible to be relatively lucky and experience little to no rain, it is also quite possible that you could be more unlucky and face a week of regular downfalls. As it was, for five of the seven days we were in Krabi we enjoyed the dry weather. Whilst the skies were often cloudy, we experienced a good amount of sun. Overall we didn’t feel the weather spoiled our plans. This said, if you do visit in August, there are some tips worth following.
Planning ahead
Firstly, try to arrange excursions on the day you want to travel. August is a quiet time, and in our experience boat trips and the like weren’t anywhere near capacity, This meant that it was always possible to book on the day of travel (but be prepared to get up early to do this, since many leave before 10am). The advantage to this is you can get an idea of what the weather will be like before you set out. Whilst the weather can change quickly, we found this method allowed us to more accurately work around the weather. For example, we booked our private boat to Kong Island just an hour before travelling.
Secondly, go prepared. If you want to go snorkelling, for example, be aware that the sea can be rough at this time of the year. This is again why it’s worth booking on the day if you can, so you can better evaluate the weather conditions at the time. This means too that you should be prepared for the possibility you won’t be able to do everything you’d like to do, or everything you’d be able to do at other times of the year. It’s a good idea to think about alternative ideas in this eventuality (cooking classes, Thai massages anyone?).
Cheaper prices
Thirdly, take advantage of the good deals. At this time of the year you can stay at 4 and 5 star resorts for far less than at other times of the year. Research before you go and try and stay at the best place your budget can afford. This way, you can make use of better hotel facilities when the weather isn’t so good, as well as being able to easily hop to the pool when the rain clears. We stayed at the Sofitel Krabi, and it wasn’t anywhere near full. As a result we were able to have a more relaxed experience than during peak season.
Most importantly, go with an open mind. Even if the weather turns out to be disappointing, you can still have a good time. Every night but one the weather was clear in the evening. We were able to visit some rather charming beach bars, and enjoyed authentic Thai food and a cocktail (or two…).
This was my second time in the region during the low season, and as with the last, on the whole, the weather was far better than it might have been, and I had no regrets – indeed, both Tiago and I agreed we would happily return in July or August again.
Video Insight
Feel free to take a look at our travel vlog from our trip to Thailand in August. You can see a bit about how it’ll be if you do choose to visit Thailand off-peak.
