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Weather Comparison

Koh Samui vs Bangkok

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Koh Samui: 27°CBangkok: 33°C475 km apart

May Weather: Koh Samui vs Bangkok

MetricKoh SamuiBangkokBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer27°C (81°F)33°C (91°F)Bangkok
Average LowHigher is milder24°C (75°F)26°C (79°F)Bangkok
Rain DaysFewer is drier22 days21 daysBangkok
PrecipitationLess is drier115 mm135 mmKoh Samui
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier11h/day10h/dayKoh Samui
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer88Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better20 km/h15 km/hBangkok

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Koh Samui edges ahead as the better destination in May. Koh Samui offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 22 rain days, while Bangkok sees 10 sunshine hours and 21 rain days.

Koh Samui sits in the comfortable travel range at 27°C. Bangkok runs hot at 33°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Bangkok is the stronger choice in May. Koh Samui receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in May

Koh Samui reaches an average high of 27°C (81°F) and drops to 24°C (75°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 3°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Bangkok averages 33°C (91°F) for the high and 26°C (79°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°C. There is a notable 6°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Koh Samui receives approximately 115 mm of rainfall across 22 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Bangkok sees 135 mm over 21 rain days. That makes Bangkok the drier option by 1 rain day and 20 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.

What to Pack: Koh Samui vs Bangkok

Packing for Koh Samui in May

Highs of 27°C, lows of 24°C, 22 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Bangkok in May

Highs of 33°C, lows of 26°C, 21 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during May.

Year-Round Comparison: Koh Samui vs Bangkok

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthKoh SamuiBangkok
HighRainHighRain
Jan25°C11d31°C3d
Feb25°C6d32°C3d
Mar26°C10d34°C6d
Apr27°C12d35°C11d
May27°C22d33°C21d
Jun27°C19d32°C22d
Jul27°C18d32°C23d
Aug27°C18d31°C24d
Sep26°C22d31°C26d
Oct25°C26d30°C21d
Nov25°C22d31°C7d
Dec25°C14d31°C2d
27°

Koh Samui Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

33°

Bangkok Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Koh Samui warmer than Bangkok in May?
No. In May, Bangkok is warmer with an average high of 33°C (91°F) compared to Koh Samui at 27°C (81°F), a difference of 6°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Koh Samui or Bangkok?
Koh Samui gets more rain in May with 22 rain days and 135 mm of precipitation. Bangkok is the drier option with 21 rain days.
Is it better to visit Koh Samui or Bangkok in May?
It depends on your preferences. Koh Samui averages 27°C and 11 hours of daily sunshine with 22 rain days. Bangkok averages 33°C with 10 sunshine hours and 21 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Bangkok. For fewer rain days, Bangkok is the better pick.
How far apart are Koh Samui and Bangkok?
Koh Samui and Bangkok are approximately 475 km (295 miles) apart. Koh Samui is located in Thailand (Asia) while Bangkok is in Thailand (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Koh Samui and Bangkok?
For Koh Samui, February tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 25°C. For Bangkok, January is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 31°C highs.

Compare Koh Samui and Bangkok in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Koh Samui coordinates: 9.51°N, 100.01°E | Bangkok coordinates: 13.76°N, 100.50°E