Things to Do in Samui in November

November Weather in Samui

29°C (85°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

445 mm (17.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Loy Krathong festival (mid-November) transforms beaches with floating lanterns and traditional ceremonies - locals consider this the most photogenic time of year
Lower hotel rates compared to December-March peak season, with 30-40% savings on beachfront resorts while still enjoying warm 29°C (85°F) water temperatures
Afternoon rain showers cool temperatures by 3-4°C (5-7°F) creating perfect evening conditions for night markets and beach dining from 6pm onwards
Northeast monsoon begins, bringing cleaner air and better visibility for snorkeling - underwater visibility improves to 15-20m (49-66 ft) compared to October's 10-12m (33-39 ft)

Considerations

Daily rain probability of 60% means outdoor plans need flexibility - showers typically last 30-45 minutes but can disrupt beach time and motorbike travel
Higher humidity at 70% makes midday activities (11am-3pm) uncomfortable for many visitors - locals retreat indoors during these hours
Transitional weather creates unpredictable sea conditions - some days perfect for swimming, others too choppy for boat tours with only 2-3 hours notice

Best Activities in November

Ang Thong Marine Park Island Hopping

November's northeast winds calm the seas around Ang Thong's 42 islands, making this the ideal month for kayaking through lagoons and climbing the 430m (1,410 ft) viewpoint. Rain showers are brief and actually create dramatic photo opportunities with misty island landscapes. Water temperature stays perfect at 28°C (82°F).

Booking Tip: Book full-day tours 7-10 days ahead through licensed marine park operators. Tours typically cost ฿1,800-2,500 and include national park fees. Choose morning departures (8am) to maximize clear weather windows - see current tour options in the booking section below.

Temple and Cultural Cycling Tours

Cooler post-rain temperatures and local Loy Krathong preparations make November perfect for cycling between Wat Plai Laem, Big Buddha, and village temples. Morning rides (7-10am) avoid both rain and heat, while evening temple visits coincide with festival decorating activities locals do in November.

Booking Tip: Rent mountain bikes for ฿200-300/day or join guided cultural tours (฿800-1,200) that include temple entrance fees. Book 3-5 days ahead during Loy Krathong week. Routes typically cover 15-25 km (9-16 miles) with moderate hills.

Cooking Classes with Market Tours

November brings seasonal ingredients like fresh pomelos, young coconuts, and special Loy Krathong sweets only available this month. Indoor cooking classes provide perfect rainy afternoon activities, while morning market tours take advantage of cooler 24°C (75°F) temperatures before 10am heat builds.

Booking Tip: Half-day classes cost ฿1,500-2,200 including market tour and lunch. Book 5-7 days ahead as November is popular for this indoor activity. Look for classes that teach seasonal November dishes and traditional Loy Krathong treats.

Fisherman's Village Walking Tours and Night Markets

November's evening rain pattern creates perfect 25°C (77°F) temperatures after 6pm for Bophut Fisherman's Village exploration. Friday night markets feature special Loy Krathong crafts, while the covered walkways provide shelter during brief evening showers. Best sunset viewing month due to clearer post-rain skies.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but cultural walking tours cost ฿600-900 for 2-3 hours including local snacks. Visit Friday evenings for full night market experience. No advance booking needed except during Loy Krathong festival week.

Spa and Wellness Retreats

November humidity actually benefits traditional Thai massage and herbal steam treatments - the 70% humidity enhances essential oil absorption and opens pores naturally. Many spas offer special Loy Krathong packages with lotus-themed treatments. Rainy afternoons make spa time feel more luxurious and justified.

Booking Tip: Traditional Thai massage costs ฿800-1,500/hour, full spa packages ฿2,500-4,500. Book luxury resort spas 1-2 weeks ahead, local spas same-day. Indoor treatments are perfect backup plans for rainy weather - check current spa packages in booking section below.

Snorkeling Day Trips to Neighboring Islands

November marks the beginning of dry season for nearby islands like Koh Tao and Koh Phangan. Improved underwater visibility (15-20m/49-66 ft) and calmer seas make this ideal for snorkeling. Water temperature remains perfect at 28°C (82°F) while surface conditions become more predictable than October.

Booking Tip: Full-day snorkeling tours cost ฿1,200-2,000 including equipment and lunch. Book 5-7 days ahead through certified diving operators with insurance. Morning departures (8am) avoid afternoon weather changes - see current island tour options below.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November

Loy Krathong Festival

Thailand's most photogenic festival where locals create floating lotus decorations and release them at beaches and temples. Samui's version includes beachfront celebrations, traditional dance performances, and special market stalls selling handmade krathongs. Best viewing spots are Chaweng Beach and Wat Plai Laem.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain jacket (not poncho) - November showers last 30-45 minutes with wind, ponchos blow around and tear easily

Waterproof phone case or dry bag - humidity fogs cameras and rain can damage electronics during sudden downpours

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which becomes unbearable in 70% humidity and doesn't dry after rain

Closed-toe shoes that dry quickly - flip-flops are slippery on wet temple steps and market floors during/after rain

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index hits 8 even on cloudy days, and you'll spend more time in water to cool off

Lightweight long pants for temple visits - November temple festivals have stricter dress codes than other months

Small daypack with waterproof cover - for carrying dry clothes and electronics during activities with rain risk

Electrolyte tablets or powder - 70% humidity increases dehydration risk even when temperatures feel comfortable

Anti-chafing stick - humid conditions cause chafing during walking tours and bike rides that wouldn't happen in dry weather

Insect repellent with DEET - November rain creates more mosquito breeding areas than dry season months

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations by early October for November - Loy Krathong festival week (mid-November) sees 40-50% price increases and many properties sell out 6-8 weeks ahead

Locals eat hot soup and spicy food during November rains to counteract humidity effects - try tom kha gai and som tam at covered markets during afternoon showers

November hotel pools are least crowded 11am-2pm when tourists avoid midday humidity, but this is actually perfect pool weather - locals know this timing trick

Songthaew (shared taxis) become unreliable during rain - download Grab app and keep ฿200-300 cash for taxi rides when weather changes suddenly during day trips

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling all outdoor activities for afternoon hours (1-5pm) when rain probability peaks at 70% - locals do outdoor activities 7-11am or after 6pm in November

Bringing only flip-flops and sandals - November's wet surfaces at temples, markets, and boat docks require shoes with grip for safety

Assuming rain means cancel everything - November showers are brief and often followed by the clearest, most beautiful lighting for photos and sunset viewing