Things to Do in Krabi in May

May Weather in Krabi

32°C (90°F) High Temp

26°C (79°F) Low Temp

120mm (4.7 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Post-season shoulder period means 40% fewer crowds at Railay Beach and Phi Phi Islands compared to March-April peak
Hotel rates drop 25-35% from high season - luxury resorts in Ao Nang offer their best deals before rainy season
Perfect snorkeling visibility at 15-20m (49-66 ft) as post-windy season settling creates crystal clear waters around the Four Islands
Local mango season peaks in May - street vendors sell 6 varieties for ฿20-40 per kg that you won't find other months

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms 60% of days between 2-5pm can disrupt outdoor activities and boat schedules
Humidity at 70% makes hiking trails like Tiger Cave Temple's 1,237 steps feel significantly more challenging
Some longtail boat operators reduce schedules due to unpredictable weather - fewer departure times for island hopping

Best Activities in May

Four Islands Morning Snorkeling Tours

May's calm post-windy season waters offer exceptional 15-20m (49-66 ft) visibility around Koh Poda and Chicken Island. Morning departures (8am-1pm) avoid afternoon storms and showcase the clearest waters before daily thermal heating. Coral spawning season creates unique underwater activity.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead for morning slots. Tours typically cost ฿1,800-2,500 including lunch and snorkel gear. Look for operators with covered boats for weather protection. Check current morning tour options in the booking widget below.

Emerald Pool and Hot Springs Forest Walks

May's moderate temperatures make the 1.2km (0.7 mile) forest trail to Emerald Pool comfortable before 11am. The 30-42°C (86-108°F) natural hot springs provide perfect contrast to afternoon rain cooling. Forest canopy offers natural shelter during brief showers.

Booking Tip: Self-guided visits cost ฿200 entrance fee, guided nature tours ฿800-1,200. Arrive by 9am to avoid both heat and crowds. Early morning tours available through the booking section below.

Railay Beach Rock Climbing

May's lower humidity (compared to June-August) and fewer crowds make this world-class limestone climbing ideal. Morning sessions (7-11am) offer perfect conditions before afternoon heat. Over 700 routes from beginner to advanced on the 300m (984 ft) cliffs.

Booking Tip: Half-day climbing packages ฿2,200-3,000 including gear and instruction. Book 5-7 days ahead for morning slots. Indoor climbing gyms available as backup during afternoon storms. See current climbing tours in booking widget below.

Krabi Town Walking Food Tours

May's mango season brings unique street food unavailable other months - som tam mamuang (green mango salad) and fresh mango sticky rice from Chao Fah Night Market. Covered markets provide shelter during afternoon showers while showcasing authentic local cuisine.

Booking Tip: Evening food tours ฿800-1,500 typically run 6-9pm. Self-guided market visits cost ฿200-400 for full meal. Look for tours that include covered market stops. Current food tour options available in booking section below.

Mangrove Kayaking Tours

May's calm conditions and moderate tides create perfect kayaking through Ao Thalane's mangrove tunnels. Recent rains fill lagoons to optimal levels. Early morning (7-10am) and late afternoon (4-7pm) avoid both heat and storms while maximizing wildlife spotting.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours ฿1,500-2,200 include transfers and guide. Book tours with covered rest stops for weather flexibility. Morning slots fill quickly - reserve 10-14 days ahead. See current mangrove tours in booking widget below.

Tiger Cave Temple Sunrise Climbs

May's moderate morning temperatures (26°C/79°F at 6am) make the 1,237-step climb more manageable than hot season. Sunrise timing (6:20am) allows completion before heat builds. Fewer tourists mean better photos from the 278m (912 ft) summit.

Booking Tip: Free temple access, guided sunrise tours ฿600-900 including transport. Start climb by 5:30am. Bring headlamp and water. Organized sunrise tours available through booking options below.

May Events & Festivals

Mid May (full moon date varies yearly)

Vesak Day Buddhist Celebrations

Full moon Buddhist holiday with temple ceremonies, candlelight processions at Wat Tham Sua, and vegetarian food offerings throughout Krabi Town. Local temples offer meditation sessions and cultural demonstrations for visitors.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain jacket (not poncho) - afternoon storms bring strong winds and last 20-30 minutes

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index 8 requires reapplication every 90 minutes on boats

Moisture-wicking clothing over cotton - 70% humidity makes cotton stay damp and uncomfortable

Waterproof phone case or dry bag - essential for boat tours and sudden downpours

Non-slip water shoes with grip - limestone rocks become extremely slippery when wet

Lightweight long-sleeve rashguard - protects from sun during snorkeling and dries quickly

Portable umbrella in addition to rain jacket - provides sun shade and rain protection

Antifungal foot powder - high humidity increases risk of athlete's foot in shared facilities

Electrolyte packets or tablets - sweating in humidity requires more than just water replacement

Mesh laundry bag - separates wet swimwear from dry clothes in day bags

Insider Knowledge

Local longtail boat drivers check weather at 7am and 1pm - book morning tours first, afternoon tours as backup during your stay

Krabi's municipal market (Talad Kao) sells rain ponchos for ฿35 vs tourist shop ฿150 - stock up there first day

May's mango season peaks around May 15-25 - local varieties like nam dok mai and khiao sawoei only available these 2 weeks

Hotel pools are warmest in May (28-30°C/82-86°F) from accumulated heat before rainy season cooling - perfect for evening swims

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking only afternoon activities - 60% chance of 2-5pm thunderstorms means morning schedules are more reliable

Packing only flip-flops - wet limestone requires proper grip shoes for temple steps and boat transfers

Expecting consistent sunny weather - May is transition month with beautiful mornings and stormy afternoons requiring flexible planning