The Best Time to Visit Pattaya

Pattaya is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in all of Thailand, and the people who have visited have very strong opinions. You either love Pattaya or hate it! The city is a dream vacation destination, with its white-sand beaches, lively nightlife, and amazing local food.

Thousands of visitors travel to Pattaya to relax on the beautiful beaches or to explore the various attractions and events. The weather ranges greatly during its various seasons, but no matter what time you visit Pattaya you will not regret it. Just make sure to follow these safety tips specific to the city of Pattaya.

The Weather in Pattaya

Cool and Dry Season: November to February

The weather during the cool and dry season is just that, cool and dry. The average temperature for this season is 30 degrees Celcius with high humidity, making it feel closer to 34 degrees. The climate during these months makes for perfect beach weather. The skies are clear and there are very few days of rain, most of which occur in November.

If you choose to visit during this season, expect the city to be very crowded as it is the most popular time to visit Pattaya. Because of this season’s phenomenal weather, you can spend the days without worry of interruption by rain. Spend the day exploring the island of Ko Larn, explore the whole of the walking street, or visit Pattaya Elephant Jungle Sanctuary.

Hot Season: March to April

The hot season in Pattaya averages with a daytime temperature of 32 degrees Celsius, but can sometimes rise to 40 degrees during April! The humidity rises to 80% during these months. With the climate rising, the sunshine hours increase as well. There is almost no rain during this season, so you can expect a hot, tropical vacation.

Although April is the hottest month in Pattaya, it is also the month of the Thai New Year also known as Songkran. During Songkran, you will find the streets filled with water festivals and fights, and you will surely get soaked if you visit during this week. This season’s weather is perfect to check out the Cartoon Network Waterpark or spend the days at the beach in the shade.

Wet Season: May to October

The wet season coincides with the low season in Pattaya due to the large amount of rain. There is an average of 12 days of rain in the months of the wet season. Although it does rain a good percentage of days, the rain rarely lasts more than a few hours. The temperature ranges, but remains in the low 30 degrees Celsius during this season.

If you choose to visit Pattaya in this season there is no guaranteed good weather, but the accommodation is cheap. During this season, the city is less crowded and has less of a “party” feel but there are still plenty of activities. Visitors can visit many popular beaches like Ban Amphur and temples like the Sanctuary of Truth, which will be significantly less crowded during this season.

Weather Charts for Pattaya

Data source: weatherbase.com

Tourist Seasons in Pattaya

High Season

The high season in Pattaya is from November to February. The high season is popular for its perfect vacation weather. The weather averages at a cool 30 degrees Celsius during these months with very few days of rain. Due to the large number of incoming tourists during this time, expect a more expensive price tag on accommodation and activities. Visitors should also try to book accommodation in advance because things book up quickly during this time. The city is very crowded during this time, but it creates the perfect environment for the party lover!

Things to do in Pattaya during the high season:

• Loy Krathong Festival: This festival occurs on the night of the full moon in November, it is sometimes known as the Floating Lantern Festival. People release floating lanterns to the sky, and floating offerings into the water.
• Pattaya Carnival: The carnival changes dates yearly, but is usually held at the beginning of the year. It is held on the Pattaya pier and has various activities like a parade, beauty pageant, performances, and exhibitions.
• MAYA Music Festival: This festival is held in February and is one of the largest music festivals in Thailand. The festival combines a Thai atmosphere with western electronic festivals.

Low Season

The low season in Pattaya is in the months of May to October. This season is the least busy in Pattaya due to the monsoon season providing unpredictable weather. In these months, one can expect at least a few days of rain during their vacation. Luckily the rain does not last long in Thailand, and rarely ever takes up a whole day.

The low tourism rates also mean that it is the cheapest time to visit Pattaya. The accommodation rates are the lowest, and the city is the quietest during this time. The low season provides a more authentic look at Pattaya and removes some of the “party” vibes.

Here’s what you can do in Pattaya during the low season:

• Pattaya Marathon: This marathon is an international event occurring in July of every year. The events include a full marathon, half marathon, and a quarter marathon which bring runners and spectators from around the world.
• Pattaya Vegetarian Festival: This 10-day food festival is annually occurring in Pattaya. Each day begins and ends with a Buddhist ceremony, and the festival ends with a large parade. During the 10 days, people are encouraged to refuse animal products and eat fully vegan or “jey”.
• King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s Birthday: July 28th is a public holiday in Thailand celebrating the King’s birthday. The streets of Pattaya will erupt into celebrations of music, dancing, and drinking. You can also find many religious ceremonies in celebration.

Shoulder Seasons

The shoulder season in Pattaya coincides with the hot season, March to April. Many visitors are put off by the intense heat and humidity, however, the city still thrives. In these months, expect the city to be a bit quieter with more access to accommodation, activities, and secluded beaches.

The prices drop a bit during these months, especially closer to the rainy season. Although the tourist numbers drop, there are still a lively nightlife and large numbers of parties organized in the city. There are also many activities during these months, including the famous Songkran festival to keep you cool.

Things to do in Pattaya during the shoulders seasons:

• Pattaya International Music Festival: This music festival attracts over 100 different bands and artists from all around the world to play during the event. The festival brings over 100,000 people each year, and the best part is: The entrance is free!
• Pattaya Songkran Festival: One of the most famous events in Thailand is the Thai New Year. Songkran falls in the hottest month, and the people celebrate with large water festivals and water fights. If you visit Thailand during Songkran, you will get soaked, but it’s all in good fun!
• Top Of the Gulf Regatta: This regatta is a 4-day long event in April. This regatta is the biggest sailing event in Thailand, and the only multi-class event and is a must not miss activity for boat lovers.

When to Visit Pattaya for Different Kinds of Travelers

Best Time to Visit Pattaya for Shopping

The best time to visit Pattaya for shopping is during the high season of November to April.

During this season, the markets, shops, and walking streets are filled with souvenirs, clothing, and accessories. The vendors are easier to bargain with during this season due to the large number of tourists, and the vendors’ competitive desire to make a sale before others.

Pattaya is also home to several shopping malls where you can find deals year-round.

Best Time to Visit Pattaya for a Honeymoon

The best time to visit Pattaya for a honeymoon would be during the low season from May to October.

The city will be much quieter and you will be able to experience the local nature of the city.

The weather will be wonderful most days, with the occasional rain giving a new couple the perfect excuse to enjoy themselves at a spa, or in their hotels.

The party scene will be significantly less obnoxious, and the beaches, bays, and other attractions will be more secluded.

Best Time to Visit Pattaya for Cultural Tourism and Museums Exploration

The hot season from March to April is the best time for cultural exploration.

During the hot season, there are several cultural events to explore such as the famous Songkran festival. You can experience the Thai New Year festival and have a water fight with some locals.

The hot weather also means that a trip to the museum or cultural center is the perfect mid-day activity to avoid the scorching sun.

Best Time for Sightseeing and Outdoor Activities in Pattaya

From November to February is the best time for any outdoor activities or sightseeing around Pattaya. The weather is a nice tropical temperature but not too hot, and there is rarely any rain during this season.

The climate during this season is perfect for sitting on the beach, playing water-sports, and sightseeing around. There is an abundance of things to see and do around Pattaya during this time. However, these months are often crowded and accommodation and activities will book fast.

Best Time to Visit Pattaya on a Budget

The low season is the best time for people wanting to travel to Pattaya on a budget. The months of May to October are the monsoon season in Pattaya and many visitors are put off by the thought of rain ruining their vacation. (Even though the rain very rarely takes up a full day.)

The prices during this season are at their lowest for accommodation and activities. If you choose to visit during this season you will find the most authentic local view on Pattaya, as most of the crowd has vanished.

Best Time to Travel to Pattaya with Kids and Families

The best time for families to visit Pattaya is the low season. Pattaya is known to be a year-round party, however, the party scene is at its lowest during this time. Because of the low crowds, families can experience Pattaya in its most pure form.

The beaches, the night market, and any activities you may be interested in will be less crowded and more intimate. The prices are significantly lower due to low amounts of tourists! There are also many activities suited to children around Pattaya that are perfect to escape the rain, such as Art in Paradise.

Best Time to Travel to Pattaya for Beaches, Swimming, and Suntanning

Pattaya is the perfect destination year-round for beach-goers. No matter what time of year, Pattaya offers amazing weather for beach days. The crowds vary in levels throughout the season, but you can always find secluded areas.

The low season is the only time to be wary of weather due to the intermittent rain, however, you will still have plenty of amazing beach days!

I recommend visiting during May. May has a low amount of tourists and the rainy season has just begun, but this month sees the least amount of rain.

Best Time for Diving in Pattaya

The best season for diving in Pattaya is during the high season. Although you will rarely find a small and intimate diving group due to the high number of tourists, the water clarity is at it’s best during these months.

The weather is not too hot during these months, and the sea is mostly flat. During the other seasons, the conditions are less predictable and change from day to day. The high season guarantees amazing dives with wonderful weather.

Best Time for Hiking Near Pattaya

There are few hiking trails directly in Pattaya, but you can take a ferry ride to Ko Larn and hike around the raw jungle nature. There is also the option of hiking Buddha Mountain or hiking the coast from Dusit Thani.

The best time to visit Pattaya for hiking would be during the high season months. The weather is not too hot and is perfect for outdoor activities. Make sure you bring water, sunscreen, and a hat because the sun can still take its toll on you.

The Weather in Pattaya by Month

January

The month of January has an average daytime temperature of 31 degrees Celsius, and an average nighttime temperature of 24 degrees. There is an expected 2 days of rain during this month. When visiting in January expect to have beautiful clear weather perfect for exploring the beaches and attractions.

However, expect this month to be one of the most crowded, and expensive. During January there are several unique events to attend such as the Pattaya Windsurfing Championship and Chinese New Year events.

• Average Temperature: 26,9°C / 80,3°F
• Average Low Temperature: 23°C / 73,4°F
• Average High Temperature: 30,7°C / 87,3°F
• Average Rainfall: 13,7mm / 1,7 days

February

The temperature rises a small bit to an average temperature of 32 degrees Celsius, and a nighttime low of 25 degrees. The rain expectancy is still 2 days out of the whole month, making this one of the driest times to visit. When visiting in February, expect beautiful weather accompanied by large crowds.

Due to this month being a bookend month of the high season, the prices are at their highest. During February there are lots of events to attend like the wildly popular Maya Music Festival and the Honda LPGA Thailand. There are also several cultural events during this month such as the Makhaa Bucha.

• Average Temperature: 27,6°C / 81,8°F
• Average Low Temperature: 24,3°C / 75,7°F
• Average High Temperature: 31°C / 87,8°F
• Average Rainfall: 12mm / 2,3 days

March

March is the first month of the high season, and its average temperature reflects it. The average daytime temperature is 34 degrees Celcius and the nighttime temperature of 26 degrees. There is an expected 4 days of rain during this month, but the rest of the time is filled by the scorching sun.

When visiting Pattaya during this month, expect the prices to dip a bit as the number of tourists begin to drop. This means that you will experience a quieter, less obnoxious party scene as well. During March, you can attend events such as the Pattaya International Music Festival and experience the most popular attractions in Pattaya with very small crowds.

• Average Temperature: 28,6°C / 83,5°F
• Average Low Temperature: 25,4°C / 77,7°F
• Average High Temperature: 31,8°C / 89,2°F
• Average Rainfall: 52,5mm / 4,6 days

April

The temperature begins to rise even steeper; April is the hottest month in Pattaya. But, the average temperature remains at 34 degrees Celsius, and the low at 26 degrees. There is an expected 6 days of rain during this month, however, most of the days are contrasted with immense heat.

If you choose to visit during April, you will experience the lowest amount of tourism and the lowest prices for accommodation. You can also expect the hottest beach weather during this month. The most popular event during April is Songkran, the Thai New Year in which they celebrate with water fights and celebrations. Other events you can attend during the month of April include Chakri Memorial Day and the Top of the Gulf Regatta.

• Average Temperature: 29,6°C / 85,4°F
• Average Low Temperature: 26,4°C / 79,5°F
• Average High Temperature: 32,9°C / 91,2°F
• Average Rainfall: 61,6mm / 5,8 days

May

The average temperature in May is 33 degrees Celsius with an average of 27 degrees at night time. Although this month is the beginning of the rainy season, only 10 days of rain happen during this month, and the rest of the time is filled with bright sunny weather. This month is the end of the low season and is the slowest month for tourism.

If you choose to visit Pattaya during May, expect the prices to be very low and for the locals to fight for your business. The city will be slow, the beaches will be empty, and the weather will be extremely hot. During May, you can find a few unique cultural events like Visakha Bucha and the celebration of the coronation of the King.

• Average Temperature: 29,4°C / 85°F
• Average Low Temperature: 26,5°C / 79,7°F
• Average High Temperature: 32,4°C / 90,3°F
• Average Rainfall: 154,6mm / 12 days

June

June has an average daytime temperature of 33 degrees Celsius and 26 degrees during the night. The average number of rainy days is 12 during this month, but the rain is fleeting and does not last long.

If you choose to visit Pattaya during this month, you should expect the prices to rise a bit but not significantly. The city will still be quiet and slow due to the shoulder season, but with slightly more tourists than the hot season. During the month of June, there are not many events or activities besides Queen Suthida’s Birthday, however, you will find plenty of entertainment and activities around Pattaya.

• Average Temperature: 29,1°C / 84,3°F
• Average Low Temperature: 26,5°C / 79,7°F
• Average High Temperature: 31,6°C / 88,9°F
• Average Rainfall: 104,9mm / 11,6 days

July

The temperature drops back slightly to an average of 32 degrees Celsius and a nighttime temperature of 27 degrees. It is expected to rain an average number of 11 days during this month.

When visiting during July expect the city to be extremely slow and for the weather to be a bit dreary. Visiting during this month also guarantees for low prices. There are several unique cultural events to attend during this month like Asahana Bucha, Khao Phansaa, and the King’s birthday. The Pattaya International Marathon also occurs during this month, meaning the city ramps up with visitors during this time.

• Average Temperature: 28,6°C / 83,6°F
• Average Low Temperature: 26°C / 78,8°F
• Average High Temperature: 31,3°C / 88,3°F
• Average Rainfall: 87mm / 12,2 days

August

August has an average temperature of 32 degrees Celsius, and the lowest temperature reaching only 27 degrees. The average number of rainy days drops to 10 and Pattaya gets a bit sunnier during this month. August is the perfect month to visit during the monsoon season.

When visiting during this month, expect it to be by far the slowest month of the season. There are significantly fewer tourists, fewer events, and it is the least expensive. Although there are not many events, you can still enjoy the festivities of the Queen’s Birthday and Mother’s Day.

• Average Temperature: 28,6°C / 83,4°F
• Average Low Temperature: 26°C / 78,8°F
• Average High Temperature: 31,1°C / 88°F
• Average Rainfall: 98,6mm / 13 days

September

The temperatures stay relatively the same during September, with a high of 32 degrees Celsius and a low night time temperature of 27. However, the rain significantly increases to up to 14 days of rain out of the month. September is another shoulder month, offering some significant benefits to visiting during this month.

You can find amazing deals on high-quality accommodation and you can find intimate or even private tours for a low price. Pattaya’s party scene is quiet during this month and the streets are relatively empty. There are no unique holidays or events during September, however, there is no shortage of things to see!

• Average Temperature: 28,1°C / 82,5°F
• Average Low Temperature: 25,1°C / 77,2°F
• Average High Temperature: 31°C / 87,8°F
• Average Rainfall: 217,1mm / 17,1 days

October

October is one of the final months of the monsoon season. The high temperature remains at 32 degrees Celsius and the low remains at 27 degrees. The average number of rain during October is 15 and the sky is overcast most days. If you choose to visit during this month, expect there to be a bit of dreary weather.

You should also expect the prices to drive up a slight bit and for there to be lots of bustling within the city as the locals prepare for the high season. Pattaya begins to regain its lively side with a plethora of events to explore. There are a few cultural events such as King Chulalongkorn Day, Ork Phasaa, and the Vegetarian Festival that will give you a brief insight into Buddhism.

• Average Temperature: 27,4°C / 81,3°F
• Average Low Temperature: 24,2°C / 75,6°F
• Average High Temperature: 30,6°C / 87,1°F
• Average Rainfall: 242,6mm / 18,5 days

November

The average high temperature is 31 degrees and the average temperature at night drops to 25. The rain significantly slows to only 7 days a week with only light showers. As the first month of the high season, you can expect the city to be bustling with people on holiday.

If you choose to visit during November, expect for desirable accommodation to book up fast. But, if you come early in the month you might find that you’ve beaten the holiday crowd and enjoy the empty beaches for a few days. There are plenty of amazing events to check out during November. The most famous event in this month is the Loy Krathong Festival, followed by the Lopburi Monkey Festival.

• Average Temperature: 26,9°C / 80,4°F
• Average Low Temperature: 23,4°C / 74,1°F
• Average High Temperature: 30,4°C / 86,7°F
• Average Rainfall: 82,8mm / 7 days

December

The final month of the year has an average high temperature of 31 degrees Celsius and an average nighttime temperature of 24. The rain is at its lowest during this month with only 1 day of expected rain. If you aren’t a fan of a rainy vacation, visit during December.

When visiting Pattaya during this month, expect this to be the busiest month of the high season due to many people visiting for their winter vacations. Accommodation during the week of Christmas will be almost completely booked, so you need to book ahead. During the month of December, you can find events like the King’s Cup (Jetski World Cup), Wonderfruit Festival, and Pattaya New Year Countdown and Firework Display.

• Average Temperature: 26,1°C / 78,9°F
• Average Low Temperature: 22,2°C / 72°F
• Average High Temperature: 29,9°C / 85,8°F
• Average Rainfall: 6,4mm / 1,1 days

Conclusion & Final Thoughts on the Best Time to Visit Pattaya

Pattaya is a city with a very strong personality. It’s lively streets, beaches, and people are sure to give you a strong opinion about the place. The city is a popular tourist destination and because of this, Pattaya holds a lot of unique events.

The best time to visit Pattaya is during the high season of November to February. These months provide the best weather, the best atmosphere, and the most activities and events. Some of the most recommended and most popular events are Loy Krathong, and a few music festivals like MAYA Music Festival, and Wonderfruit.