What's the weather like in Koh Tao in May
Koh Tao is a small island that's located in the Gulf of Thailand and forms part of the Chumphon Archipelago. The island is often known as "Turtle Island" because of its shape. Tourism is the main industry in Koh Tao and it welcomes thousands of visitors every year who are drawn by its world-famous diving spots as well as its idyllic beach scene and sunny, tropical weather. Like mainland Thailand, the island has a sub-tropical climate with seasons dictated by monsoon winds.
Temperature
As the South West monsoon winds hits the region, the hot season arrives on the island. May, together with April, are the hottest months of the year in Koh Tao, with temperatures that are sweltering and often very humid. Even the locals sometimes struggle with the heat at this time of year. The average temperature is 29°C with highs of 32°C at peak times. Sea breezes cool temperatures a little at night, with lows of 25°C.
The sea is also at its warmest in May, with an average sea temperature of 30°C. This is perfect for those who want to dive or take part in other water activities while on the island.
Rain
Rainfall increases from April to May and holiday makers should expect some showers. There's an average of 172mm of rainfall and around 17 wet days, but this shouldn't stop visitors from enjoying activities in Koh Tao and rainfall often occurs at night.
Sunshine Hours
Koh Tao is a sunny island all year round, with 300 days of sunshine every year. While cloud cover increases and sunshine levels drop in May, the sun still shines for an average of 6 hours a day so there's plenty of time for sunbathing on the island's beautiful beaches.
For more up to date weather information before you travel, check Koh Tao's weather forecast.
Hotels in Koh Tao in April
Sairee Seaview Hotel Koh Tao
Tourists visiting Koh Tao in May will be spoiled for choice when it comes places to stay. For beautiful accommodation on a budget, Sairee Seaview Hotel Koh Tao is just a five minute stroll away from Sairee Beach and a ten minute ride to Mae Nam Pier. Spacious fan and air-conditioned rooms are comfortable although simply furnished and come with an en-suite bathroom, refrigerator and flat screen cable TV as well as a terrace that provides wonderful views of the either the garden, sea, mountain or city. There's free Wi-Fi too.
Anankhira Boutique Resort
Anankhira Boutique Resort offers a luxurious stay in Koh Tao. The hotel is designed with Balinese-inspired architecture inside and out, while each villa comes with air conditioning, an en suite bathroom, a private plunge pool and beautiful sea views. Anankhira is ideally located just metres from Sairee beach with many bars and restaurants nearby.
Chintakiri Resort
Chintakiri Resort is a tranquil hotel nestled in lush gardens next to Chalok Baan Kao village in the south of Koh Tao. A great choice for divers, the hotel sits next to the ocean and offers easy access to one of the best diving sites on the island. Each of the traditional wooden bungalows face the ocean too, so guests can relax on their balcony and enjoy the amazing views from the comfort of their room.
Beaches in Koh Tao in April
Koh Tao is famous for its tropical beaches; in fact, the beaches are one of the main draws to the island, offering holiday makers the chance to relax, sunbathe and swim in the clear blue sea.
Chalok Baan Kao
Sairee is the largest and most popular beach on Koh Tao with the biggest concentrations of restaurants and resorts, but there are many other great beaches all over the island. Chalok Baan Kao is located to the south of the island and is especially popular with families as the water is so shallow. Compared to busy Sairee beach, it is generally more peaceful here, but still well enough equipped. The beach is fairly long and lined by a number of restaurants and cafés where holiday makers can get food or drinks.
Bars and Restaurants
With expats from all over the world living in Koh Tao, the culinary scene is very diverse on the island. From cheap eats to fine dining, holiday makers will find something to suit every budget and taste.
Whitening Beach Bar
One of the most highly rated restaurants on the island is Whitening Beach Bar. The restaurant has a romantic theme that's perfect for couples, with candles and fairy lights decorating the all-white interior. A large menu features a range of authentic Thai dishes as well as fresh seafood. The restaurant has an open dining room with tables that sit on the beach directly overlooking Mae Haad bay so diners can put their toes in the sand and enjoy amazing ocean views with dinner.
Taste of Home
Taste of Home is a local favourite that serves unpretentious and affordable food in a relaxed setting. Dishes are wholesome and home-cooked, with choices such as goulash, schnitzel and meatballs that will satisfy your appetite. The outdoor terrace is a great place to dine on warm May evenings.
Le Petit Palace
Finally, Le Petit Palace offers a taste of French cuisine in the heart of Sairee beach. The homemade French crepes are particularly popular; with both savoury and sweet toppings, they make a perfect lunch option.
Things to Do in Kho Tao in April
Wakeboarding
In spite of the rain that sometimes occurs in May, wakeboarding is a good activity to enjoy thanks to the high sea temperatures. Goodtime Adventures offers wakeboarding activities on a 15-person capacity boat that has a sound system and beverage cooler box. This water sport activity is usually scheduled at the beginning or end of the day when traffic on the water is lighter but sometimes, quiet bays with flat water are chosen.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is another popular activity to try your hand at while on Koh Tao. The island is a volcanic granite island that is more than 2 million years old, so it has many great rock climbing sites in various locations. Many places offer a rock climbing package that includes rock climbing equipment and qualified, experienced staff. Packages will differ depending on climber's skill levels.
