What's the Weather like in Phi Phi in December
December is many things in Koh Phi Phi as it is the last month of the year, the beginning of the dry season, and the start of winter which sees a dip in the lows. The average temperature in December is 27 C (80.6 F) which is a lower temperature than normal on the island. This is in part due to the emergence of winter, but as you may know, island climates are usually warm year round, so in essence it still feels like summer.
The beginning of December comes in with highs and lows of 30 C (86 F) and 23.7 C (74.6 F) as it continues its fairly straightforward trend that started in October. The chance of rainfall around this time of the month is on its decline from November as it ushers in the start of the dry season at 47% chance.
As the month progresses the highs begin to rise to 30.3 C (86.5 F) throughout the second and third weeks of December as the lows continue their slight fall coming in at 23.5 C (74.3 F). This makes mid-December a great time to visit during the month as the temperature hits its warmest point. Chances of rainfall stay relatively still at 47% all the way through to the last week of the month.
At the end of December when the holidays are in and things are booming on the island at its peak season, the highs fall back down to 30 C (86 F) and the lows to 23.4 C (74 F) remaining fairly constant throughout the month. Rainfall goes down a dramatic slope during the last week of December ending at a 36% chance around New Years Eve.
The average amount of rainfall in the month of December begins to get very light as it is 91 mm divided unevenly into 12 days of the month, so close to only a third of the month will see rainfall. The great news is that you can expect mostly light rain and few or no thunderstorms during your stay, but pack a rain coat or some other kind of water resistant shelter just in case.
The average sea temperature drops one degree to 28 C (82.4 F) as a north eastern wind starts to build up into the start of January. Along with this clouds begin to dissipate starting at 80% at the beginning of the month and ending at 72.5% due to the start of the dry season which sees less rain and more sunshine. Speaking about sunshine, because of the drop in cloud coverage and overcast skies, the average hours of daily sunshine rises to 7 hours daily.
Phi Phi Hotels in December
December is not usually a good time for quick book hotels, so try to make reservations ahead of time or face the burden of high prices and overbooked rooms. The beginning of December may be easier to book and the prices a bit more inexpensive, but once the Holidays come around prices will skyrocket. That being said there are still plenty of places to stay depending on your preferred accommodations.
Enjoy your stay in Koh Phi Phi at the Phi Phi Natural Resort which is located on the pearly white Laem Tong Beach. Dine out in the open with a great view of the ocean at Laem Tong Restaurant, swim in the outdoor pool while grabbing a drink at the pool bar, or walk along its private stretch of beach. Other things include luxurious poolside villas, standard rooms with balconies, and a massage hut. Also worth a mention is the welcome drink and free wifi.
Be close to the nicest view of the island at the Phi Phi Viewpoint Resort which is located near the famous Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint. Enjoy the comfort of beach front rooms with sea views or hillside bungalows equipped with flat screen TVs and hard wood floors. You can also eat at the Viewpoint Restaurant and watch the sunset or relax at the outdoor swimming pool.
Phi Phi Beach for December
It is better to enjoy the beach in early December as once Holiday vacationers arrive around Christmas and New Year's time, the beaches become really crowded as that is the peak season in Koh Phi Phi. That being said, most people visit Koh Phi Phi during this time because that's when they have time off from work and other responsibilities. There are still plenty of islands and beaches for everyone to enjoy, but the trick is knowing the times when the beach you want to visit is packed and when it is empty.
Tonsai East is a beautiful half of the main beach which is host to all of the vibrant nightlife and close to Tonsai Village. Enjoy the wonderful view of Koh Phi Phi Leh across the bay as you stroll along the beach face with your favorite drink in hand. As you move closer to Long Beach things start to quiet down, but there are still several resorts along this stretch, so accommodations never get scarce.
Tonsai West is a more relaxing beach that is a great choice when you want to get away from the buzz of the season. Keep walking until you reach the limestone hills and find yourself in a secluded and quiet part of the island where you can set up your own beach chairs or rent a kayak and enjoy the ocean. Remember to bring some water and food if you plan to hang out, as you will have to hike back towards the pier to get most accommodations, unless you walk towards the end of the beachside path where you can find a bar and a resort.
Bars and Restaurants
There is an abundance of places to eat at in Koh Phi Phi year round, but more so in December especially at the end of the month. From sports bars to fine dining the island has unique venues with diverse cuisine everywhere you go.
Have a great lunch in the heart of Tonsai Village at Calamaro Resto. This café shack overlooking a busy street has delicious Thai food dishes which are quick and can save you money. Not craving Thai food? They also serve burgers, sandwiches, and salads to satisfy your stomach's mid day or late night cravings. You can also have a great tasting Singha or Chang beer to go along with your meal for a final touch of comfort before you hit the beach.
For something more complete and filling head to H.C. Andersen steakhouse which is also located in Tonsai Village. This delightful European style steak house serves great steaks and salmon entrées along with the freedom of a delicious looking salad bar. Order a cocktail to go along with your meal and don't forget to look at their dessert menu.
Things to do in Phi Phi in December
Being that the Holidays are in this month, Koh Phi Phi usually gets crowded around this time of year, so everything is open. Have a choice of over 72 things to do in Koh Phi Phi including beach yoga, cliff jumping, climbing, snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving, cruises, bars and more.
Complete your trip with a great excursion on the Dragonheart Cruise. This spacious sailboat is big enough to fit your whole family as you tour around Koh Phi Phi and its surrounding islands. Snorkel in the best spots around the island and pamper yourself with a great meal and drinks on board this elegant private cruise.
Have a blast scuba diving around Koh Phi Phi with Blacktip Scuba. This is one of the only diving shops on the island which allows you to take a free course in a pool to test out the equipment so you can become comfortable with it before going on your dive. This place is great for beginners and veterans alike and will not disappoint once you see the amazing views of coral and marine life.
