In the middle of the calendar summer in Thailand, the tropical rainy season begins. However, monsoons and downpours do not bother tourists at all, who still actively come here on vacation. This is not the most favorable time for a trip to Thai resorts, because who wants to get wet to the skin? But it is worth noting that the devil is not as scary as he is painted, and the weather in different regions of the Kingdom is significantly different.
On Koh Samui, summer is not at all the peak of bad weather. Yes, rains are possible during this period, but their amount is not as critical as they say on tourist sites. The greatest amount of precipitation on the island occurs from October to December. In this Kid Passage article, you will learn all the details of a July holiday on Koh Samui.
Holidays on Koh Samui in July: advantages and disadvantages of the resort
Despite the warnings of travel agents regarding the specifics of summer weather, positive comments prevail among reviews of vacations on Koh Samui in July. Travelers note that coming here during the rainy season is not only possible, but also necessary, because this period has numerous advantages. Let's tell you about the main ones:
- Weather conditions are quite favorable. The island is moderately warm, it rains, of course, but they are short-lived and most often spill at night.
- The Gulf of Thailand is great for swimming. The water is warm and the current is calm and gentle.
- Local markets offer a wide range of ripe exotic fruits.
- There are no crowds on the beaches, there are always free rooms in hotels, as there are few people coming.
- The best prices are offered during the low season , almost all tourist services are much cheaper than in winter.
During the summer, vacationers can afford to live in a five-star hotel, but pay for a room as in a hotel of the category ” ;three stars".
However, it is worth mentioning the consof holidays on Koh Samui in July:
- Although cloudy weather prevails on the island, it is very easy to get sunburn and heat stroke. Be sure to use sunscreen and wear a hat.
- Some beaches have pronounced low tides in summer. You can walk knee-deep in water for a long time, but never reach the optimal depth for diving.
- High humidity creates ideal conditions for insects. On vacation, an effective repellent is useful.
Weather on Koh Samui in July
Weather on Koh Samui in July — August is warm, humid and stuffy. Due to the large number of cloudy and overcast days, the heat does not bother the guests of the resort too much and is tolerated quite tolerably. But high humidity is not suitable for everyone, people with health problems should postpone their vacation to a more favorable time of the year.
The weather in early July is as comfortable as possible for sightseeing and beach pastime. Yes, it rains more often, but it mostly rains in the evening or at night and ends quickly.
The temperature on Koh Samui in mid-July often exceeds +30 °C. Long walks and open-air excursions are best moved to the morning and afternoon hours. At the same time, it is recommended to visit the beaches.
The weather on Koh Samui at the end of July remains consistently warm. It rains two or three times a week, mostly in the evening or at night, and lasts longer than half an hour. Dense clouds — It is not at all a barrier to ultraviolet rays, so you are guaranteed an even, beautiful tan.
Air and water temperature
The climate of Koh Samui is strikingly different from other regions of Thailand. In the tropics, it can rain at any time of the year, regardless of the season, but the greatest amount of precipitation, as we have already written, falls here from October to December. No matter what anyone says, but in summer the island has quite good conditions for both beach and sightseeing holidays.
Air temperature on Koh Samui in July
The average day and night temperature on Koh Samui in July is +32.4 °С and +28.7 °С, respectively. The figures are quite high. In addition, increased humidity adds discomfort. Be sure to choose an air-conditioned room, otherwise the nights will be unbearably stuffy.
Sea temperature
On average, the water temperature on the island reaches +29.5 °C. The indicator is very comfortable for swimming. A nice bonus: due to the reduced influx of tourists, the beaches are much cleaner than in the high season.
Precipitation
Compared to June, it becomes more rainy in July A bit more. However, they are short-term, most often fall out at night and do not cause big problems for tourists. The average rainfall in July on Koh Samui is 97.1 mm.
Sunny, cloudy, overcast days
Most often, tourists observe cloudy weather, which takes 47% of the time of the entire month. Clear days account for 30% (9 days). Cloudy weather dominates the remaining 23%.
Beach break
The main goal pursued by tourists on Koh Samui, — This is, of course, a beach holiday. All swimming areas are municipal, you only need to pay for renting umbrellas and sunbeds.
Lovers of comfort will find a developed beach infrastructure in the east and north of the island. For those who prefer “wild” recreation or nudism, it is recommended to go to the western and southern beaches. In general, each tourist will find a suitable corner of the coast, depending on their preferences.
Chaweng
Every tourist who has ever rested on Koh Samui knows about this beach. It was on the Chaweng the most noisy and fun parties are held. However, such youth activity does not mean at all that the beach is not suitable for families. Warm sea, gentle entrance to the water, an abundance of water activities, numerous cafes nearby, a mini-aqua park with inflatable slides — all this is liked by visitors with children. In addition, “Chaweng” boasts excellent infrastructure, which is also important for the comfort of vacationers.
«Maenam»
One of the most beautiful and calm local beaches is Maenam, which is more than 5 km long. Vacationers with children like to come here, as it is quiet here, there are no crowds of people and noisy merchants, the bottom is flat, the descent into the water is smooth and gentle. The infrastructure is practically undeveloped: you will not find showers and changing rooms here, and in order to use an umbrella and a sun lounger, you need to make an order at the beach cafe.
«Chong Mon»
This beach on the east coast is quite crowded, because it has a well-developed infrastructure, excellent service and incredibly beautiful landscapes. At “Chong Mon” a lot of entertainment: bananas and jet skis, parasailing and diving, boat trips and water skiing. There are massage areas, cafes and bars on the beach.
Sightseeing holidays on Koh Samui
If you think that only lazy beach relaxation is available on a Thai island, then you are deeply mistaken. It is impossible to resist the local attractions, because they are unique in their own way. Thai flavor is felt everywhere here, and tropical nature is amazing.
There are interesting places of various formats on Koh Samui: natural and man-made, religious and entertainment, family and youth, cultural and historical. It is better to make a list of locations that you would like to visit in advance so that upon arrival you will not get lost in a large selection of excursions offered by local agencies.
“Paradise Park”
The name of the reserve “Paradise Park” speaks for itself — This is truly a piece of paradise in nature. It is pleasant to walk among the sprawling green trees in early July. Walk along the hiking trail to the waterfall, and then climb to the very top of the mountain for a breathtaking panorama.
In addition to the exotic flora, Paradise Park you will also see representatives of the local fauna: iguanas, monkeys, parrots, rabbits and other inhabitants of this green zone. Don't forget to take your swimsuit, because the park has a swimming pool for visitors.
- Paradise Park on Koh Samui: author's description Kidpassage
Waterfall Hin Lad
Koh Samui — island of incredible nature. Its highlight can definitely be called waterfalls, of which there are more than ten. Hin Lad is more like a turbulent mountain river than a majestic waterfall, but this does not diminish its picturesqueness. A winding path leads to the waterfall, a walk along which will become an exciting mini-adventure in itself.
Jets of the waterfall flowing down the boulders form a natural pool with crystal clear water at the foot. At the end of July, there are quite hot days, so tourists are happy to refresh themselves in the cool mountain water.
Big Buddha
Speaking of the most famous sights of Koh Samui, it is impossible to ignore the huge Buddha statue, which can be seen from any part of the island. The 12-meter statue is the symbol of the island and the first item on the list of must-see curiosities. A long staircase of 60 steps leads to the gilded Buddha, nearby there is a Buddhist temple and a market where you can buy souvenirs.
- Family entertainment catalog on Koh Samui
Probably, children will not be interested in walking in the parks and visiting temples and pagodas. However, there are many interesting places for young travelers:
- water park
- aquarium and zoo
- crocodile farm
- safari- Namuang Park
Holidays, events, festivals
Summer on the island is dedicated to sports. In July, open tennis competitions are held here, in which everyone can participate. However, even if you have never held a racket in your hands, you can take the position of an observer and just cheer on the players.
There are not so many religious holidays on Koh Samui in July. Usually in July falls the celebration of Asaha Puja, the founding day of Buddhism. It is believed that it was on this day that the Buddha attained enlightenment and shared the secrets of knowledge with the five yogis. Believers in Asaha Puja come to the temples to bring food and basic necessities to the monks. Usually on this day, a ceremony is held to convert boys to novices, and novices — to monks.
Immediately after Asaha Puja, another Buddhist holiday is celebrated — Khao Pansa, marking the beginning of Lent. Over the next three months, Buddhist monks retire to temples to pray intensely and keep the strict Vassa fast.
On July 28, Thailand celebrates the birthday of His Royal Highness Maha Vajiralongkorn, King Rama X of Thailand. All cities host festive ceremonies and traditional Buddhist rituals. The prince's birthday is declared an official holiday.
Prices for holidays in July
Prices on Koh Samui in July are a big advantage for tourists. You can literally save on everything: from a tour to souvenirs.
In terms of quality and conditions, a summer vacation on the island is practically no different from a winter one. But if you take into account the budget, the hot season is the most favorable period for travel.
Price of tours
In July, travel agencies reduce the cost of their services by 11% compared to June. In August there is a rise in price. Tours increase in price by 9% compared to the July cost.
Flight
July — the most expensive month for airlines. At the beginning of summer, flight prices are 9% lower than in the middle. In the last month of summer, passengers pay 4% less compared to July.
Accommodation
If we compare the July cost of rooms in local hotels with the prices for accommodation in other summer months, then the price tag is average. In June the room rate is 5% lower than in July. In August, guests will pay an average of 5% more for a hotel room. So, the average daily cost of living in local hotels in June is 138 euros, in July — 145 euros
- Family hotels on Koh Samui
Meals and transfers
There are no problems with food on the island. Even if you don't like the specific Thai cuisine, the resort has many establishments offering familiar European dishes. As for the cost, it depends on the class of the cafe.
In small cafes for locals, you can have a hearty lunch for 10 TNV. In institutions designed for tourists, the price of a similar meal doubles, or even triples. A snack on street food costs from 1 to 10 TNV.
Public transport in Koh Samui is represented by songteo — kind of covered pickups. The fare for this type of transport depends on the distance and varies within 30 & ndash; 60 TNV.
In addition, scooter rental is quite popular here. By paying about 150 TNV per day, you get the opportunity to move freely around the island. Taxi — a fairly expensive mode of transport, passengers pay about 200 TNV for one trip.
How to dress on Koh Samui
Even in winter on Koh Samui you can do without warm clothes, but in summer you will not need sweaters and jeans. Put shorts and T-shirts, dresses and sundresses in your suitcase. Be sure to take swimwear, pareos and flip flops. At the resort, you will also need comfortable walking shoes. Don't forget your sunglasses. But you can safely leave umbrellas at home — the rains do not really annoy tourists.
Recommendations for families with children
Although July is often called an unfavorable month for holidays in Thailand, we can say with confidence that Koh Samui is not so bad to relax at this time. Moreover, the absence of crowds of tourists and low prices make the resort even more attractive in the summer.
- Vacation with children on Koh Samui: Kidpassage tips
Children enjoy a beach holiday, have fun in the water park, visit interesting places with pleasure, and also enjoy ripe delicious fruits. And if it suddenly rains on the island, then what child would refuse the opportunity to jump in warm puddles!
To make your vacation as comfortable as possible, you need to carefully prepare for the trip. Kidpassage has prepared for you a useful article “What to take with you to Thailand: the most necessary things.”
Do not be afraid of weather forecasts, because Koh Samui offers a great holiday in July. A green oasis in the middle of the Gulf of Thailand will not leave you indifferent and will give you a lot of pleasant memories.