What's the Weather Like in Ko Lanta in December
Thanks to the glorious weather across the Krabi province in December, this is one of the most popular times of the year to visit Ko Lanta. During the month, the entire resort enjoys warmer, drier days and beautifully comfortable nights.
Though the change in the seasons cannot be forecast with pin point accuracy, December usually heralds the start of the drier weather in Ko Lanta. And in some years there has been no rain at all.
Rainfall
On average, up to 40mm of precipitation is likely throughout the month, spread over approximately 6 days. But with most of the rain occurring late at night, don't be surprised if every day is dry during your December stay.
Temperature
Average temperatures of 28°C ensure this part of Thailand is perfect to capture some winter sun and get away from the cold weather back in the UK.
Traditionally, the temperature will peak at approximately 31°C throughout the month. However record temperatures of 36°C were recorded in December 2000, so it is always wise to be prepared.
In the evenings, it is likely that the climate will cool to a much more pleasant 24°C after sunset in this part of Thailand. This provides the ideal climate for enjoying dinner at a restaurant on the beach or taking a night time stroll.
Many of the resorts on the island, will offer full air conditioning for those that want to have a more comfortable night. But for back packers and those on a budget, sometimes sleeping outside on a hammock can provide the perfect alternative.
As the volume of rain declines, so do humidity levels, creating a fresher feel to the air. However, December also heralds the coldest sea temperatures of the year. And though the water will never usually fall below the high 20's°C, if the air is very warm, it can feel a little chilly when you first get in.
Hotels in Ko Lanta in December
Funky Fish
The Funky Fish is an excellent place to stay in Ko Lanta when money is tight. The accommodation is neat, tidy, and well maintained. While the prices will leave you with plenty left over to enjoy everything this Thai island has to offer. There is no air conditioning, but there are lots of fans to use. And the communal bungalows are spacious enough to let the air flow. Popular with backpackers, the beach is just a two minute walk away and so are the shops. And with local bars and restaurants just outside the front gate, you will never be at a loss for something to do when you stay at the Funky Fish.
i-Style Lanta Boutique House
The i-Style Lanta Boutique House is one of the newest places to stay in Ko Lanta, and definitely one of the most modern. The rooms are stylish and immaculately clean with plenty of up to date facilities. The view over the trees from some of the rooms is simply spectacular. Breakfast is served in conjunction with the café over the road that even has a take away service for those days when you are going out on a trip. If you are stuck for something to do, the hosts are friendly and always ready with their opinions on what would entertain. And with highly efficient air conditioning and only a ten minute walk to the beach, once you've stayed at i-Style Lanta Boutique House you'll want to come again.
Costa Lanta
For beach front accommodation with a minimalist style, book a bungalow at Costa Lanta. Whether you stay for the Christmas season or enjoy an earlier winter getaway, the service and the facilities will make any visit worthwhile. And, thanks to their attitude of minimising waste on the island, it will be more environmentally friendly too. The resort boasts a beautiful prospect, directly over the sea. But with the bungalows nestled in the trees, the area never gets too busy. Homemade food makes breakfast a real treat. And a beach bar offers cocktails on the beach at night as their speciality. Everything you buy can be charged straight back to your room, so you don't even need to carry cash, making sure, at Costa Lanta, you never have to go without.
Hit the Beach
Bamboo Bay Beach
Bamboo Bay Beach is the most southerly beach in Koh Lanta in a more underdeveloped area of the island. There are not the typical mass of restaurants and bars spilling onto the sand. Instead, you can enjoy unspoilt natural beauty, with hardly anyone else around. Though for most, it will take a trip by scooter or tuk tuk to get here, it is definitely worth the effort. Even in December as the beaches fill, Bamboo bay remains relatively untouched.
Bars and Restaurants
Pirates Bar
After dreaming of pirates in the Emerald Cave, the Pirates Bar seems a more than apt place to finish the day. Teng, the owner, is a dab hand at blending the perfect cocktail. But when the bar is not too busy, he will even entertain you with his own fire show. The beer is cool, the prices are affordable and the music is tailored to everyone's taste. There's room to dance the night away or kick back and play pool. Whatever kind of night you want in Ko Lanta, the Pirates Bar can deliver.
Moloko Lanta
Add a touch of romance to your visit to Thailand with dinner at Moloko Lanta. The tables are situated directly on the beach, offering the perfect setting for your meal for two. And with the most beautiful view of the sun gently setting behind you, it will feel like a romantic paradise. Traditional Thai food is created with the freshest ingredients to ensure the flavours are simply incredible. And with a wealth of different drinks to accompany your meal, at very reasonable prices, the Moloko Lanta is an experience you can afford to enjoy over and over again.
Lazy Days
Even if you choose not to stay at the Lazy Days Bungalows, the onsite restaurant is still a wonderful place to eat. The waterside location, outstanding service and mixture of locals and residents eating there every day just prove what a great place this is. And when you try the food, you will definitely not be disappointed. Opt for the catch of the day for some of the freshest fish you will ever eat. Or try the crispy duck to experience outstanding flavour. The varied menu includes old favourites as well as the odd burger, so that everyone can get their fill at Lazy Days.
Things to Do in Ko Lanta in December
King's Birthday
A large proportion of Thai culture is focused on the monarchy. So it is no surprise that when the King's Birthday comes around in December, the locals go all out to celebrate. Held on December 5th, this is a national holiday in Ko Lanta, which means everyone gets a day off work. Wherever you go, you will see mini shrines to the King, all decorated with the most eye catching ornaments and traditional flowers. There are street parties, processions and parades with a royal theme in honour of the reigning monarch. And everyone is welcome to join in. Just don't be surprised if your local bar doesn't serve alcohol on this day. There is so much jubilation, you may just have to wait until the next day for your favourite drink.
Emerald Cave
On any trip to Ko Lanta, the Emerald Cave is not to be missed. Known locally as the Morakot Cave, this area of the island is only accessible by water, which means you need to swim through an 80 metre tunnel to access it. But with all arranged tours offering full life jackets, it is definitely worth the effort. Inside, the experience is truly magical, inspiring stories of pirate treasure and hidden sea jewels. Combine your trip with a visit to Koh Muk or one of the other nearby islands. Then you can have an entire day of true natural wonder.
