Sun-Kissed Beaches or Lush Waterfalls? The honest truth about Phu Quoc weather by month

Exploring Phu Quoc's weather by month

Understanding Phu Quoc‘s distinct weather patterns is critical for planning the ideal trip. The island’s climate is governed by a tropical monsoon cycle, which creates two primary seasons: a dry season and a rainy season. While warm year-round, the experience for a traveler changes dramatically depending on the month. This guide provides a detailed, month-by-month breakdown of the weather, outlining the pros and cons of each period to help visitors choose the perfect time for their holiday.

The most important thing to know is that island is warm and lovely all year round, with temperatures usually between 25°C and 32°C. You will never need a heavy jacket! But we do have two very different seasons, and choosing the right one will make your holiday perfect.’

Exploring Phu Quoc's weather by month
Exploring Phu Quoc’s weather by month

Phu Quoc’s temperature and climate

Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island sits like a jewel in the warm Gulf of Thailand. The first thing to know is that because of our wonderful tropical climate, the weather is warm and pleasant all year long—you’ll never need to pack a heavy jacket! But the real secret to planning your perfect holiday is understanding our two distinct seasons.

We don’t have four seasons like you might be used to, instead, we have the “Dry Season”, which is our picture-perfect sunny time, and the “Green Season”, when the rains make the island incredibly lush and beautiful. Each one offers a completely different kind of magic for you to discover

  • The dry season (November – April): This is the peak tourist season. The humidity is around 78%. The average temperature ranges between 27–28°C. Think picture-perfect postcards: endless blue skies, calm turquoise sea, and very little rain.
  • The green season (May – October): We call it the “Green Season” because the rains make our island incredibly lush and beautiful. This is the off-peak season, with fewer crowds and lower prices. The island remains lush and vibrant during this period, but high humidity levels (85%–90%). The average monthly rainfall of 414 mm can lead to continuous rain for up to 20 days in some months
Month123456789101112
Average High (°C)313132333231303030313131
Average Low (°C)242425262726262626252524

Now, let’s break it down, month by month, so you know exactly what to expect.

READ MORE: All you need to know about Vietnam’s weather.

Phu Quoc weather by month

November – January: The paradise season (Peak dry)

  • The weather: This is, without a doubt, the most beautiful time of year. The skies are consistently clear and sunny, the humidity is low and very comfortable, and the sea is calm and perfect for swimming, like a giant, glass-like swimming pool.
  • What’s great: Everything! This is the best time for all outdoor activities: sunbathing on Bai Sao beach, taking an island-hopping tour to snorkel in crystal-clear water, and riding the Hon Thom Cable Car with perfect visibility.
  • What to consider: This is the busiest and most expensive time of year. Flights and hotels should be booked many months in advance, especially around Christmas and New Year.
  • Who it’s for: Perfect for first-time visitors who want that guaranteed “paradise” experience. Ideal for families on Christmas holidays and honeymooners looking for flawless romantic weather.

February – April: The hot and sunny season (Late dry)

  • The weather: The sunshine continues, but the temperature and humidity start to climb, especially in April. It feels hotter, but it is still overwhelmingly dry with very little chance of rain. The sea is wonderfully warm.
  • What’s great: Still a fantastic time for all beach and sea activities. This period is perfect for sun-lovers who enjoy the heat.
  • What to consider: The Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday often falls in February, which is an extremely busy time with many local tourists. April can be quite hot, so be sure to stay hydrated.
  • Who it’s for: Sun-worshippers, couples, and travelers who want great weather but might find slightly better deals than in the absolute peak of Dec-Jan.

May – June: The green transition (Start of rainy season)

  • The weather: This is the beginning of the Green Season. The weather is a mix of sunny mornings and short, heavy afternoon rain showers that usually last for only an hour or two. After the rain, the air feels fresh and clean.
  • What’s great: The crowds have disappeared, and prices for luxury resorts and flights drop significantly. The island is starting to look wonderfully green and lush.
  • What to consider: You need to be a bit more flexible with your plans. An afternoon boat tour might be rescheduled.
  • Who it’s for: Smart travelers looking for a great deal. It’s perfect for couples on a budget and families traveling during the Indian summer holidays who don’t mind a bit of rain.

July – September: The lush and rainy heart (Peak rainy season)

  • The weather: These are the wettest months. You can expect more frequent and sometimes heavier rain. However, it rarely rains all day long. There will still be periods of sunshine.
  • What’s great: This is when the island is at its most beautiful and wild. The waterfalls, like Suoi Tranh, are powerful and magnificent. The Phu Quoc National Park is an emerald-green wonderland. And the prices? They are at their absolute lowest. You can stay in a 5-star resort for a fraction of the peak season cost.
  • What to consider: The sea on the west coast (where Long Beach is) can be rough. Some boat tours might be cancelled due to weather.
  • Who it’s for: Budget travelers, nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who wants to see the island in its most lush, authentic state and truly escape the crowds.

October: The secret shoulder month (End of rainy season)

  • The weather: The rains start to decrease significantly, but the island is still beautifully green from the wet season. You get many sunny days, but the peak season crowds have not yet returned.
  • What’s great: This is my secret tip! It offers the best of both worlds: the weather is becoming beautiful, the waterfalls are still flowing, and the prices are still low.
  • What to consider: There’s still a chance of rain, but it’s much less than in the preceding months.
  • Who it’s for: This is perfect for Diwali holiday travelers! You can get great weather and fantastic value. It’s also ideal for last-minute planners.

Tips for traveling to Phu Quoc based on weather

Dry season in Phu Quoc
Dry season in Phu Quoc

As your friend and guide, we want you to have the most perfect holiday possible. So here are our simple, practical tips based on everything we’ve talked about.

READ MORE: When is the best time to visit Phu Quoc?

Pack for the season, Not just the temperature

The temperature is always warm, but the seasons demand different packing.

  • Dry season (Nov-Apr): Think “classic beach holiday.” Pack light cottons, swimwear, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunscreen. It’s all about sun protection.
  • Green season (May-Oct): Pack all of the above, but add two important things: a light, foldable raincoat or poncho for the afternoon showers, and a good insect repellent, as the jungle is more alive and there are more mosquitoes.

Your booking strategy should match the season

This is a fantastic way to save money and avoid disappointment.

  • Dry season: This is peak season. You MUST book your flights and hotels months in advance, especially for December, January, and February. The best places sell out very quickly.
  • Green season: This is when you can find amazing deals! Look for promotions on luxury resorts and flights. You can often book a 5-star experience for the price of a 3-star hotel in the dry season.

Plan your activities around the weather

Let nature guide your itinerary!

  • Dry season: This is the time for all sea-based activities. Book that island-hopping and snorkeling tour and ride the Hon Thom Cable Car. The sea will be calm and the visibility will be perfect.
  • Green season: This is the time for all land-based nature. This is when you should plan your visit to the Suoi Tranh Waterfall and explore the lush, green Phu Quoc National Park.

A special tip for Indian holiday seasons

Vietnamstory.in knows many of you travel during specific times, so here is our advice:

  • For Diwali Holidays (Oct/Nov): You are in luck! This is often the “sweet spot” at the end of the rainy season. The weather is beautiful, the island is lush and green, and the peak season prices haven’t started yet. It’s one of the best times to visit.
  • For Children’s Summer Holidays (May/June): Don’t be afraid of the “rainy season” label! The rain usually comes in short, predictable bursts in the afternoon. You’ll still have plenty of sunshine in the morning for the beach, and you will get incredible value on family-friendly resorts.

Helpful FAQs about Phu Quoc’s weather

There are many activities to do in dry season in Phu Quoc
There are many activities to do in dry season in Phu Quoc

Here are the answers to some of the most common questions my Indian friends ask me.

Is the “Rainy Season” like the Indian Monsoon?

No, not at all! This is a very important question. The Indian monsoon can sometimes mean days of non-stop rain. In Phu Quoc, our rainy season is very different. It usually means a heavy but short downpour in the afternoon, maybe for one or two hours. The mornings are often still bright and sunny, and after the rain passes, the air is wonderfully fresh and clean.

If you had to pick the single best month, what would it be?

This is a tough question! If I have to choose, I will give you two “best” answers for two different types of travelers:

  • For the “perfect weather” seeker: February. The holiday crowds from Christmas and New Year have thinned out, but the weather is still absolutely flawless—sunny, dry, and not yet too hot.
  • For the “smart traveler”: Late october. This is my secret tip. You get the best of both worlds: the low-season prices, the beautiful green landscape from the rains, but with much less rain and more sunshine as we move into the dry season.

Is the sea always good for swimming?

The sea temperature is always warm and pleasant for swimming, year-round. However, the condition of the sea changes.

  • Dry season (Nov-Apr): The sea is almost always calm, clear, and very safe for swimming everywhere.
  • Rainy season (May-Oct): The sea on the west coast (where the popular Long Beach is) can become rough with bigger waves. However, the beaches on the east coast, like the famous Bai Sao, are often protected and remain much calmer.

Does the weather affect vegetarian food availability?

Please do not worry about this! All the main restaurants, including the wonderful Indian restaurants, are indoors and open year-round, rain or shine. In the Phu Quoc Night Market, if there is a very heavy downpour, some of the smaller street food carts might close temporarily, but the larger restaurant stalls with roofs will remain open. You will always find delicious vegetarian food.

How crowded does it get in the peak season?

It can get very busy! The absolute busiest times of the year are the Christmas and New Year period (late December to early January) and during Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), which usually falls in late January or February. During these specific weeks, the island is full of both international and local tourists. If you dislike crowds, I would suggest visiting just after these peak holiday weeks.

Conclusion

In the end, there is no single “best” month to visit Phu Quoc. The real answer to the question of “Phu Quoc weather by month” is about finding the best month for you.

  • If you dream of a flawless, picture-perfect beach holiday and don’t mind paying a premium, choose the Dry Season (November to April).
  • If you love nature, want to see powerful waterfalls, and are looking for incredible value for your money, embrace the beauty of the Green Season (May to October).

No matter when you come, our island will welcome you with its warm seas and even warmer smiles.

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