Krabi is hot all year-round, but the weather does get a little cooler in December. While others have to struggle with snow and rain, you can lay out on the beach or go for a swim. Along with a few national holidays and celebrations in December, you can also look forward to the decorations and fireworks that light up the island on New Year’s Eve.
1. Weather
The climate of Krabi is tropical, so the island is warm all year around. Krabi experiences a dry season from December to March. December, while still being one of the coolest months in Krabi, has generally warm temperatures.
🌡️ Average Temperature: 27°C, with the highest rising to 32°C and the lowest being 24.5°C.
💧 Humidity: Mildly humid
🌧️ Average rainfall: 60 mm, for about 6 days of the month
☀️ Sunshine: About 7 hours
December is perfect for those who want to visit Krabi without experiencing very hot temperatures. The month is known to bring a little rain, but it is very rare that constant rainfall will ruin your trip.
2. What To Pack & Carry
- The average temperature throughout December is steadily warm, so you’ll need to bring plenty of light and airy clothing to keep comfortable.
- Temperatures have been known to rise to 30°C, so bring enough suntan lotion or sunscreen so you don’t suffer from sunburn.
- Bring along a hat and sunglasses for extra protection from the sun.
- Bring an umbrella and raincoat just in case it rains on your trip.
- The weather is tropical so belted sandals, flip-flops or sneakers are best for touring the island.
- Since December is one of the cooler months in Krabi, bring a light jacket just in case it gets a little chilly in the evenings.
- Remember to bring a waterproof phone and camera cases to capture memories that you can take home with you.
3. Things To Do In December
The amazing thing about Krabi in December is that the weather is great so there’s not much that you can’t do on the island. Here are a few fun things you can do in Krabi in December:
Beaches
What’s better than laying on a beach on a tropical island in December? Krabi province has some beautiful beaches among its 200+ islands, many of which are perfect for kayaking and swimming. During December, the average sea temperature is 29°C, which is more than warm enough to enjoy a dip.
Ko Talabeng, on the east coast of Ko Lanta Yai, is one such island that is perfect for those who want to enjoy kayaking and swimming in beautiful, tropical surroundings. This limestone island offers a few small sandy beaches which are only accessible when the tides are low.
Shrines & Temples
Wat Tham Sua (Tiger Cave Temple) is one of Krabi’s major attractions. With its huge outdoor Buddha statue, spectacular octagonal pagoda and the thousands of steps that lead to an amazing view of the surroundings, this attraction is one of the most fascinating places to visit on the island.
Natural Attractions
Krabi is known for its natural beauty, so of course, there are many natural attractions that will appeal to nature lovers. Bathe in the inviting waters of the Emerald Pool at Thung Teo Forest Natural Park or the warm mineral-rich waters of Klong Thom Hot Springs surrounded by lush forests. Koh Phi Phi’s viewpoint and Koh Lanta National Park are great for outdoor adventures too.
Shopping
Exploring the many markets in Krabi is one of the coolest ways to see the creativity of locals. From local readymade snacks to cool souvenirs, handicrafts, and trinkets, you’ll find it all in the markets. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the streets of Krabi Town are taken over by vendors selling a range of goods. Other local markets like Ao Nang Market, Nongtalay Market, and Klong Muang Market operate on various days of the week.
Indoor Activities
- Thai Cooking Class: A cooking class in Krabi is a great way to learn how to cook authentic Thai dishes. The Smart Cook Thai Cookery School, located in Ao Nang, is one such place where learning meets food and fun. The cookery school is found inside a teak wooden home and the classes are taught in a clean open-air kitchen. Everyone is in charge of their own workstation so you can make your food as spicy as you want!
- Spas: There’s something special about enjoying a soothing oil massage or invigorating Thai massage after a day on the beach. Krabi has a multitude of massage shops, some of which are right on the beautiful beaches. For more exclusivity and high-end pampering, there are also exquisite spas that you can enjoy.
4. Activities To Avoid
- Extensive Island-hopping: The weather can be quite unpredictable at times, so December may not be the best time to bounce around from island to island. If you do plan to visit another island on your trip, ensure that you have transportation that is extremely reliable.
- Hiking After Dark: While the nature trail at Sra Morakot is absolutely beautiful, during December it gets dark at the crack of sunset. Avoid bringing children out on the trail (if you can’t, ensure that you watch them closely) and try to leave the trail by the evening. The jungle overhead will make it look darker than it is.
5. Tips For Travelling In December
- Book your accommodation well in advance, so you don’t have to worry about missing out on your accommodation preferences. Hotels and resorts are often booked out during the festive season.
- Krabi is known for its sometimes tremulous weather. Each beach you visit will have a sign telling you where to go in case a tsunami is coming. It’s important to read these signs before unpacking at the beach.
- When going out in the water for kayaking or touring other islands, always have a life jacket on you.
- If you are planning to take a walk around the nature trail at Sra Morakot, be sure to wear proper shoes as the area can be very treacherous to walk on.
- In general, keep a raincoat on you, mosquito spray, and plenty of water.
- Whether you are hiring someone to take you boating, snorkelling, or sightseeing, it is important to do your research and compare the companies in the area for the best deal.
December brings warm temperatures to Krabi and makes your trip to the island all the more enjoyable. Relax and soak up some sun on the beach or explore the island’s attractions and learn more about the history and culture of the people. There’s so much to do in the festive season in Krabi, both indoors and outdoors.
