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Weather Comparison

Penang vs Koh Samui

Side-by-side weather comparison for March

Penang: 30°CKoh Samui: 26°C457 km apart

March Weather: Penang vs Koh Samui

MetricPenangKoh SamuiBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer30°C (86°F)26°C (79°F)Penang
Average LowHigher is milder25°C (77°F)24°C (75°F)Penang
Rain DaysFewer is drier23 days10 daysKoh Samui
PrecipitationLess is drier182 mm89 mmKoh Samui
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day11h/dayKoh Samui
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer66Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better10 km/h20 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.

Penang can feel quite hot at 30°C, so plan for heat. Koh Samui is also comfortable at 26°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

Penang reaches an average high of 30°C (86°F) and drops to 25°C (77°F) at night during March. The daily temperature range is 5°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Koh Samui averages 26°C (79°F) for the high and 24°C (75°F) for the low, with a daily range of 2°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

Penang receives approximately 182 mm of rainfall across 23 rain days during March. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Koh Samui sees 89 mm over 10 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: Penang vs Koh Samui

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

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

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

Year-Round Comparison: Penang vs Koh Samui

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.

MonthPenangKoh Samui
HighRainHighRain
Jan29°C15d25°C11d
Feb30°C16d25°C6d
Mar30°C23d26°C10d
Apr30°C28d27°C12d
May30°C27d27°C22d
Jun30°C22d27°C19d
Jul30°C21d27°C18d
Aug30°C24d27°C18d
Sep29°C26d26°C22d
Oct29°C29d25°C26d
Nov29°C27d25°C22d
Dec29°C21d25°C14d
30°

Penang Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

26°

Koh Samui Weather in March

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Penang warmer than Koh Samui in March?
Yes. 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, Penang or Koh Samui?
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 Penang or Koh Samui in March?
It depends on your preferences. Penang averages 30°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 23 rain days. Koh Samui averages 26°C with 11 sunshine hours and 10 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Penang. For fewer rain days, Koh Samui is the better pick.
How far apart are Penang and Koh Samui?
Penang and Koh Samui are approximately 457 km (284 miles) apart. Penang is located in Malaysia (Asia) while Koh Samui is in Thailand (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Penang and Koh Samui?
For Penang, January tends to be the best month with 10 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 29°C. For Koh Samui, February is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 25°C highs.

Compare Penang and Koh Samui 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.

Penang coordinates: 5.41°N, 100.33°E | Koh Samui coordinates: 9.51°N, 100.01°E