Ko Samui Weather in May

May: warm and often wet

May stays hot, with highs around 30°C, but frequent rain and heavy cloud make it feel sticky. Showers can interrupt beach time, and the sea may look less inviting on grey days. You'll still find gaps for a swim or a meal by the shore, but don't build every day around sunshine.

The rain can make indoor stops a welcome break. Visit the Big Buddha at Bang Rak when skies clear, then spend a wet spell over a bowl of coconut-rich khao soi. Keep beach plans flexible, and skip exposed hikes if storms roll in.

Fewer crowds, softer prices

May is quieter than the busy winter months, so you'll usually find fewer visitors and lower hotel prices. It's a trade-off: April is drier, while June is a little less rainy than May. Expect some rough or cloudy beach days rather than a long run of clear skies.

If you hate crowds, May could suit you, especially around Chaweng and Lamai. Some boat trips may be changed or cancelled when the weather turns, so keep a relaxed plan for the day.

May holidays and local tips

Visakha Bucha, a major Buddhist holiday, can fall in May. Temples hold ceremonies, and some businesses may close or serve no alcohol. The date changes each year, so ask locally if you'll be on Samui around then.

If rain catches you near Na Muang, save the waterfall walk for a clearer spell; muddy paths can be slippery. For a simple wet-weather outing, head to Fisherman's Village in Bophut for a meal beneath the covered shopfronts. Check ferry conditions before setting off for nearby islands, as choppy seas can affect crossings.