Eager to dive into the weather in Thailand in May? You’re in for a delightful escape! May brings the shoulder season, blending warm, sunny days with the onset of occasional rains, fewer crowds, and lower prices—perfect for a laid-back Thai adventure. Whether you’re seeking serene beaches or a fruit-filled summer retreat, this guide explores the Thailand Weather in May by region, highlighting top destinations and insider tips to plan your ideal trip.

Thailand Weather in May: Overview

What’s the weather in Thailand in May like? It’s a transitional month as the hot season gives way to the rainy season, with warm temperatures and increasing humidity. The North and North East see rising showers, Central Thailand stays hot with occasional rain, and the South enjoys a mix of sun and wet spells.

The weather in Thailand in May makes it an ideal time for island exploration or cultural discoveries with fewer tourists around.

Here’s the breakdown across Thailand’s key regions:

• North Thailand (e.g., Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai): Warm and humid (25-36°C), with occasional rain starting to pick up.
• North East Thailand (e.g., Udon Thani, Khon Kaen): Hot and sticky (26-37°C), with scattered showers.
• Central Thailand (e.g., Bangkok, Ayutthaya): Hot and humid (28-36°C), with intermittent rain.
• South Thailand (e.g., Phuket, Hua Hin, Koh Chang): Warm (27-33°C), with sunny days interspersed with showers, especially on the Gulf coast.

What Happens in Thailand in May

What sets the weather in Thailand in May apart? It’s the shoulder season, a quieter time between the peak dry months and the full rainy season. Tourist crowds thin out, prices drop, and the country’s landscapes begin to green up with early rains. In rural areas like Chanthaburi, the weather in Thailand in May enhances summer fruit harvests—think durians, rambutans, and mangosteens—drawing visitors for unique culinary experiences, while coastal towns offer a peaceful seaside vibe.

Does it Rain in Thailand in May?

How does the weather in Thailand in May handle rainfall? It’s the start of the wet season, with showers becoming more frequent, especially in the South, though long sunny stretches remain. The weather in Thailand in May is perfect for those who don’t mind a little rain between beach or market visits.

Here’s the rainfall overview per region:

• North Thailand (Chiang Mai): 10 rainy days, 100 mm rainfall
• North East Thailand (Udon Thani): 9 rainy days, 90 mm rainfall
• Central Thailand (Bangkok): 10 rainy days, 120 mm rainfall
• South Thailand (Hua Hin): 8 rainy days, 80 mm rainfall
• South Thailand (Koh Chang): 12 rainy days, 150 mm rainfall

Is it Hot in Thailand in May?

What’s the temperature like with the weather in Thailand in May? It’s still warm, though the peak heat of April starts to ease as humidity rises. Days can feel steamy, but evenings offer a bit of respite.

Here’s a look at typical min and max temps per region during the weather in Thailand in May:

• North Thailand (Chiang Mai): Min 23°C, Max 36°C
• North East Thailand (Udon Thani): Min 24°C, Max 37°C
• Central Thailand (Bangkok): Min 26°C, Max 36°C
• South Thailand (Hua Hin, Koh Chang): Min 25°C, Max 33°C

Best Places to Visit in Thailand in May

Ready to make the most of the weather in Thailand in May? This shoulder season offers warm weather and fewer crowds, ideal for serene beach escapes or a summer fruit adventure. Our LUMA experts share their top picks to enjoy the weather in Thailand in May to the fullest.

Koh Chang: Top Recommendation for May by Clara

Clara is the Travel Business Development Manager at LUMA and a Well-Seasoned Traveler

Why Visit: One of Thailand’s lesser-known gems, Koh Chang offers serene beaches and crystal waters, perfect for a peaceful escape with the weather in Thailand in May.
Recommended Activity in Koh Chang in May, by Clara: Unwind on tranquil shores and enjoy the island’s untouched natural beauty.
Insider Tip from Clara: Rent a scooter to explore hidden coves—rain can make roads slick, so ride cautiously after showers.

Chanthaburi: Top Recommendation for May by Petch

Petch is the Partner Development Manager at LUMA and a Travel Enthusiast Who Spent More Than 10 Years in the Travel & Hospitality Industry

Why Visit: The weather in Thailand in May makes Chanthaburi a fruit lover’s paradise, famous for summer fruits like durians, rambutans, and mangosteens, paired with seaside charm.
Recommended Activities in Chanthaburi in May, by Petch:

• Visit Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception: Explore Thailand’s largest Catholic church, a Gothic marvel with stained glass, twin spires, and a gem-adorned Virgin Mary statue.
• Waterfront Community: Wander this charming riverside town near the cathedral, with colorful houses, cafes, temples, and antique shops.
• Gem Market: Browse Thailand’s biggest gem market on weekends, showcasing locally harvested stones.
• Beach Getaway at Chaolao Beach: Relax by the sea with fresh seafood.
• Scenic Coastal Drive at Noen Nang Phaya: Take a picturesque drive, catch a sunset, and snap Instagram-worthy shots.

Insider Tip from Petch: Travel by land from Bangkok (3-4 hours). Try a fruit buffet in local orchards—bring a hat for sun protection while picking!