Phuket in January: holidays, weather, sea and tourist tips

January is the perfect month for a holiday in Phuket. It is the height of the dry season, when the sun shines every day and the sea is calm and warm. During this period there are a lot of tourists, high prices for accommodation, but excellent conditions for beach holidays and excursions.
In this article we'll sort out:
✅ What is the weather in Phuket in January?
✅ Where is the best place to holiday?
✅ How much does it cost for accommodation and holidays?
✅ Should I go to Phuket in January?
1.Phuket weather in January
January is one of the most comfortable months for holidays in Phuket.
Air & Water Temperatures:
Indicator | Value |
---|---|
Average daytime temperature | +27…+31°C |
Night temperature | +23…+25°C |
Sea temperature | +28°C |
Rainfall | 2–5 rainy days |
Humidity | 65–70% |
Wind | Light |
🌞 During the day - comfortable heat without high humidity.
🌙 Evening - mild tropical climate, ideal for walking.
🌊 Sea - calm, without waves, water temperature +28°C.
💡 Tip: Temperatures can get a little higher in late January, but the weather remains comfortable.
2. Excursions & Things to Do
January is the best month for outdoor activities in Phuket.
🛶 Sea excursions:
- Phi Phi Phi Islands
- Racha Islands
- Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island
🐠 Diving and snorkelling:
- Similan Islands (best season)
- Koh Khe (Coral Island)
🚤 Water activities:
- Yachting
- SUP surfing, parasailing, jet skiing.
🏯 Cultural Attractions:
- Big Buddha
- Wat Chalong Temple
- Phuket Old Town
💡 Tip: In January there is high demand for excursions, it is better to book in advance.

3. Accommodation in January
January is the most expensive month for renting accommodation, especially in the first half (New Year holidays).
Where is the best place to stay?
🏖 For a secluded holiday: Panwa, Rawai, Nai Harn
🌆 For an active holiday: Patong
🏝 For family holidays: Kamala
Type of Stay | Price per night | Monthly Price |
---|---|---|
Guesthouse | $20–$40 | $380–$1500 |
3★ Hotel | $40–$90 | $1500–$3500 |
5★ Hotel | $150–$400 | $5000+ |
Apartment | $60–$150 | $1000+ |
Villa with pool | from $250 | $2000+ |
📍 Looking for apartments or villas without middlemen? Visit Holycowphuket.com for verified listings in Phuket’s top locations.
4. Travel Costs in January
In January, accommodation and airfares are at their highest.
Expense | Approximate Cost |
---|---|
Flight Moscow–Phuket (round trip) | from $800 |
Lunch at a local cafe | $4–$8 |
Dinner at a restaurant | $12–$30 |
Scooter rental | $7–$12 per day |
Taxi (10 km) | $10–$15 |
Sea excursion | $50–$150 |
💡 Tip: Book accommodation and flights at least 3 months in advance to save money.
5.Best Phuket beaches in January
🌊 All beaches are suitable for swimming as the sea is calm.
Beach | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Bang Tao | Spacious, clean | Expensive hotels |
Karon | Scenic, less crowded | Occasional waves |
Kata | Great for snorkeling | Popular with tourists |
Nai Harn | Quiet, picturesque | Far from city life |
Kamala | Family-friendly, calm sea | Not much entertainment |
💡 Tip: In January it's better to choose Kata, Kamala and Bangtao beaches - less crowded.
6.Is it worth travelling to Phuket in January?
Pros:
✔️ Best weather of the year - sunshine and comfortable temperatures
✔️ Calm sea, ideal for swimming
✔️ All excursions and entertainment available
Minuses:
❌ Highest prices for accommodation and airfares
❌ Lots of tourists
💡 Conclusion: January is one of the best months to holiday in Phuket. The main thing is to book accommodation in advance to avoid overpaying.
📍 Book accommodation in advance on Holycowphuket.com - the best deals for the high season.
Conclusion
Phuket in January is dry and sunny weather, warm sea, high season and lots of tourists.
✅ Want to have a holiday in winter? Book your accommodation on Holycowphuket.com and enjoy your trip!
Send a comment
to this article