Weather in Phuket in March

How March compares

March is the 1st warmest month of the year in Phuket and ranks 13th of 134 destinations we compare for March - see where else is hot in March. Within Thailand it is 5th of 6 (Thailand in March). Against London's average high of 10.5°C in March, Phuket is 19.3°C warmer by day and 23.0°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in March

The typical March day in Phuket peaks at 29.8°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 31.9°C or more. About 100% of days top 25°C and 1 in 3 pass 30°C. Nights average 26.3°C; one night in ten drops to 25.1°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest March day here reached 35.6°C (2019-03-14) and the coldest night 23.3°C (2011-03-29).

Rain in March

Wet (more than 8 rainy days): about 11 days with 1 mm or more, 78 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest March was 2011 with 537 mm, the driest 1998 with 1 mm. Humidity averages 75%, which makes the heat feel heavier than the thermometer suggests.

Sea temperature in March

The sea averages 29.5°C - warm enough to swim (22°c+). Depending on the year it ranges from 29.1°C to 29.9°C. For the warmest sea here, come in April (30.2°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 5.0 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 11.9 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:33 and sets about 18:38 local time in mid-March. Average cloud cover is 58%.

Is March a good time to visit Phuket?

It is a reasonable choice: hot days but expect showers. The best months for Phuket on our scoring are February, January, March; months averaging 25°C or more: Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec.

Hot days, with little relief at night

March is Phuket's warmest month, so choose it for heat rather than mild conditions. Humidity averages 75%, making shade and a comfortable place to cool down important parts of your plans. Around 33% of days reach 30°C, while the hotter days can reach 32°C or more. Put more demanding outdoor activities earlier in the day and leave room for a slower midday break. Pack light, loose clothing and check that your accommodation has air conditioning if warm nights affect your sleep. This weather suits travellers happy with sustained heat better than those who prefer cool evenings after a warm afternoon.

Allow for rain rather than planning around clear skies

Rain is a genuine consideration in March, with about 11 rainy days during the month. That is enough to make a rigid schedule of outdoor plans a poor fit, although it does not make the month unsuitable for a holiday. Keep something sheltered in mind for wet weather and carry lightweight rain protection that will not feel too heavy in the heat. Sunshine averages about 5 hours within 11.9 hours of daylight, so long daylight hours should not be confused with constant sun. March suits you better if you can adjust your plans than if clear skies are essential to your trip.

Warm sea makes swimming a strong reason to go

The sea averages 29.5°C in March, making it comfortably warm for swimming rather than a bracing dip. If spending time in the water is central to your holiday, that is a clear reason to consider Phuket now. Do not expect the sea to feel sharply cooling, though: its temperature is close to the average daytime air temperature. Bring swimwear, light cover-ups and sun protection, and plan shade breaks as well as time in the water. Sea warmth alone does not establish safe swimming conditions, so check local advice before entering. Overall, March works well for a relaxed, swimming-focused trip with flexibility for rain.