What's the Weather like in Phi Phi in May
May is the start of the wet season in Koh Phi Phi which marks increased rainfall with the temperature getting slightly lower towards the end of the month. The average temperature throughout May is around 28 C (82 F) with slight fluctuations occurring as the month progresses.
At the start of May the highs and lows are at 32 C (90 F) and 25 C (77 F) with the chance of rainfall continuing its increase from April at above 50% throughout the month. It is hard to define when rain will actually hit in May as it is quite sporadic, it can start at the beginning of the month or more towards the end as the chances increase. The beginning of May is the hottest part of the month since it is still a part of the dry season.
At mid-month the highs start to dip down to 31.8 C (89 F) as the lows continue their rise to 25.3 C (77.5 F) which continues on to the end of the month. At the end of May the highs plunge down to 31 C (88 F) and the lows rise to 25.8 C (78 F) Although the lows are rising, since the highs start to dip, the end of the month is the coolest point even though it is still very warm.
The average amount of rainfall takes a huge leap upwards once May kicks in officially making it wet season in Koh Phi Phi. There is on average about 309 mm of rainfall divided into 18 days out of the month, which coincides with the 50% plus chance of rain. You can expect there to be thunderstorms and moderate rainfall, but since the weather is of tropical nature, it will not last throughout the day.
The hottest sea temperature in Koh Phi Phi is from April to June at 30 C (86 F) making May one of the months with the warmest water, so as long as the weather is clear, you will be able to enjoy the ocean at its best. The downside is that the average of daily sunshine falls by 2 hours from April to May from 8 to 6 hours daily. This is in part due to the rise of clouds which continue their upward trend from April with an average of 70% - 75% (mostly cloudy) cloud cover in May.
Phi Phi Hotels in May
Finding a place to stay on Koh Phi Phi is no problem, but finding an inexpensive one is. Since the island attracts so many people it has become one of the most expensive places in Thailand where even western currency will not last long. Fortunately in May the high season meets its end and the low season sees a decrease in prices.
For those who want a feel for the jungle environment of Koh Phi Phi try out the Viking Natures Resort. This resort has jungle style huts and is about 15 20 minutes away from the island's town center. It is inexpensive with a good location compared to the other hotels on Koh Phi Phi, but may not be for everyone as you will have to hike uphill to get to town. This hotel is great for those who want a quiet place with a hammock and a secluded beach to relax.
Phi Phi Hill Resort stays open throughout May and is very close to the beautiful Long Beach in Koh Phi Phi Don. The rooms are bungalow style with outstanding views and it includes a nice dining area with a bar overlooking the ocean.
Phi Phi Beach for May
The beach is still a great place to go in May especially at the beginning of the month when the weather is at one of its hottest points in the year. There are many beaches in Koh Phi Phi and even more on the small islands surrounding it, so finding one will not be a problem.
A beach that is majestic and larger than Tonsai Village, Loh Bagao is Koh Phi Phi's secret attraction. Relax in some beach bungalows or take a swim while viewing hundreds of palm trees sprinkled around the village, but either way, you will be in paradise.
For something with more accommodations try Long Beach. This beach has several resorts along it so finding a nice restaurant or bar isn't difficult at any time of day. You can also relax on a beach chair or rent a kayak and explore the waters while only being about 5 minutes away by boat to the main village. The possibilities on this beach are endless!
Bars and Restaurants
As the wet season begins some restaurants close for the low season since they cannot produce enough revenue to keep their business afloat. The great thing about Koh Phi Phi is that since the weather is nice year round (with the exception of the amount of rainfall) there are still many places that will remain open for you to choose from.
If you want to enjoy some diversity in your meal head on down to Unni's Restaurant. This place serves all kinds of food including Thai, Chinese, Scandinavian, and surprisingly Mexican. Don't let their ability to make these different types of foods fool you into thinking that it will be subpar; Unni's is widely thought to have some of the best tasting food on the island.
If you are looking for a great place to eat steak in Koh Phi Phi, try out the Lagoon Room Restaurant. This restaurant has a beautiful beach view and a clean atmosphere with great European and Asian cuisine.
Things to do in Phi Phi in May
The great thing about May is that since the high season is over prices will start to go down and you will get better deals in Koh Phi Phi. Since the wet season doesn't officially start until the end of May, you can still enjoy island tours and wonderful diving sessions. For those who want to try some scuba diving, how about taking a course or going on a fun dive with Phi Phi Barakuda. They provide 2 on 1 instructor courses and 4 divers to 1 master diver for a fun dive.
If diving is not your thing, but you still want to see the sites of the island, try out the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint. Climb up stairs and hills to a beautiful viewpoint at the top of Koh Phi Phi to see the whole of Koh Phi Phi don during the sunset or sunrise. At the top there are shacks for drinks and snacks as well, so you will get the most out of your view. Remember to bring some water to hydrate during the climb or a flashlight if going after dark.
