Penang vs Phuket

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Phuket edges ahead as the better destination in December. Phuket offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 12 rain days, while Penang sees 9 sunshine hours and 21 rain days.

Penang can feel quite hot at 29°C, so plan for heat. Phuket is also comfortable at 28°C.

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

Penang reaches an average high of 29°C (84°F) and drops to 25°C (77°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Phuket averages 28°C (82°F) for the high and 25°C (77°F) for the low, with a daily range of 3°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

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

Penang receives approximately 189 mm of rainfall across 21 rain days during December. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Phuket sees 86 mm over 12 rain days. That makes Phuket the drier option by 9 rain days and 103 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.