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Weather Comparison

Koh Samui vs Penang

Side-by-side weather comparison for March

Koh Samui: 26°CPenang: 30°C457 km apart

March Weather: Koh Samui vs Penang

MetricKoh SamuiPenangBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer26°C (79°F)30°C (86°F)Penang
Average LowHigher is milder24°C (75°F)25°C (77°F)Penang
Rain DaysFewer is drier10 days23 daysKoh Samui
PrecipitationLess is drier89 mm182 mmKoh Samui
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier11h/day10h/dayKoh Samui
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer66Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better20 km/h10 km/hPenang

Which City is Better in March?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Koh Samui edges ahead as the better destination in March. Koh Samui offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 10 rain days, while Penang sees 10 sunshine hours and 23 rain days.

Koh Samui sits in the comfortable travel range at 26°C. Penang runs hot at 30°C.

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

Temperature Comparison in March

Koh Samui reaches an average high of 26°C (79°F) and drops to 24°C (75°F) at night during March. The daily temperature range is 2°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Penang averages 30°C (86°F) for the high and 25°C (77°F) for the low, with a daily range of 5°C. The 4°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

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

Rainfall Comparison in March

Koh Samui receives approximately 89 mm of rainfall across 10 rain days during March. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Penang sees 182 mm over 23 rain days. That makes Koh Samui the drier option by 13 rain days and 93 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.

What to Pack: Koh Samui vs Penang

Packing for Koh Samui in March

Highs of 26°C, lows of 24°C, 10 rain days

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

Packing for Penang in March

Highs of 30°C, lows of 25°C, 23 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 March.

Year-Round Comparison: Koh Samui vs Penang

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.March is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthKoh SamuiPenang
HighRainHighRain
Jan25°C11d29°C15d
Feb25°C6d30°C16d
Mar26°C10d30°C23d
Apr27°C12d30°C28d
May27°C22d30°C27d
Jun27°C19d30°C22d
Jul27°C18d30°C21d
Aug27°C18d30°C24d
Sep26°C22d29°C26d
Oct25°C26d29°C29d
Nov25°C22d29°C27d
Dec25°C14d29°C21d
26°

Koh Samui Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

30°

Penang Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Koh Samui warmer than Penang in March?
No. In March, Penang is warmer with an average high of 30°C (86°F) compared to Koh Samui at 26°C (79°F), a difference of 4°C.
Which city gets more rain in March, Koh Samui or Penang?
Penang gets more rain in March with 23 rain days and 182 mm of precipitation. Koh Samui is the drier option with 10 rain days.
Is it better to visit Koh Samui or Penang in March?
It depends on your preferences. Koh Samui averages 26°C and 11 hours of daily sunshine with 10 rain days. Penang averages 30°C with 10 sunshine hours and 23 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Penang. For drier weather, Koh Samui is the better pick.
How far apart are Koh Samui and Penang?
Koh Samui and Penang are approximately 457 km (284 miles) apart. Koh Samui is located in Thailand (Asia) while Penang is in Malaysia (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Koh Samui and Penang?
For Koh Samui, February tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 25°C. For Penang, January is typically ideal with 10 sunshine hours and 29°C highs.

Compare Koh Samui and Penang 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 | Penang coordinates: 5.41°N, 100.33°E