How risky is it to visit Krabi in early August, in terms of weather conditions?
The exception, as mentioned earlier, is island-hopping, which is affected by rough sea conditions. This can occasionally (on average 2-3 days per month during low season) prevent boats going out at all, or force changes in itinerary – Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh, for example, is often inaccessible in times of high waves. Some outlying places, such as Ko Rok near Ko Lanta, are completely closed during the off-season.
Another downside is that, in the event of very heavy and prolonged rain, Krabi does not have many offers in terms of covered attractions – it is primarily an outdoor destination. Check the links below for ideas on what you can do for your “Plan B”.
If you do have to spend some time in your room, all the more reason to indulge in a nice one, with cable TV and a spa for when you don’t feel like going out – especially as the heavily discounted ‘low’ season prices really do justice to the term ‘affordable luxury’. Finally, don’t forget to pack a poncho or rainjacket – or buy one cheaply in any convenience store here – as well as a light jacket or non-woolly sweater for the cooler evenings.
Pros and cons of a low season visit
PROS
Save money with reduced hotel bills
Less crowded than in high season, in particular on the beaches and islands
Residents generally are more relaxed as they are not overwhelmed by tourists, so people will be more friendly and willing to take extra time to help you out.
Ideal time to do jungle treks, kayaking or spot wildlife
CONS
It’s off-season for a reason: the weather can be unfavourable to downright bad if you are unlucky and there unfortunately seems to be no accurate way of predicting the weather from year to year.
Because of the above, some clement weather activities may not be available during your stay. In particular island tours may occasionally be cancelled or suspended due to rough seas – and even sitting on the beach is no fun in the rain.
Low season is the traditional time for hotels to carry out renovations and refurbishments to their rooms. You may find that your resort is adding an extra wing; improving its spa or repairing the roof – directly above your head. Check before you travel!
TIPS
Choose a nice hotel with good in-room facilities, or even better, a private villa or apartment where you will have room to spread out if stuck indoors
Pick an area with access to “rainy day” activities like Ao Nang or Krabi Town
Local weather lore says it is much more likely to rain in the week around a new or full moon than during the rest of the month. If you believe the fishermen, you might like to arrange your travel dates around this.
Summertime in the West is low season in the East. Water clarity isn’t that good and the seas can be choppy with a frequent downpour. But these showers only tend to last about half and hour and then the sun comes out again. Temperatures are slightly lower at around 31C during the daytime and 27C at night.
The good news is that prices are much lower during the low season and you benefit from cheaper hotel rates especially. Also, it’s not so crowded, but still benefits from a party scene especially in Patong.
Krabi is not really a party place and holds more interest to those who enjoy rock climbing and diving. There are a few bars around, but the whole atmosphere is pretty subdued.
Very risky if you don’t want sunshine and hot sunny days, August is into the rainy season, but than merely means an hour or two of torrential rain , then a cooler hour or two, then back to the usual fine sunny morning, it’s that risky!