Most of the world’s popular tourist destinations are seasonal, and Phuket is no exception. The best time of year to visit Phuket weather-wise just happens to coincide with the New Year holiday season in many Western countries. Fortunately for those in less temperate regions, this gives them a respite from the winter to soak up some tropical goodness. This results in a peak season of several weeks when the island is as busy as it gets. However, the rental situation in Phuket isn’t that cut-and-dry – it’s not just a switch that gets turned on or off. Let’s take a look at some of the market intricacies so you can develop a better idea of what to expect should you have a property you wish to rent out.

Peak Season

When talking about “peak season”, we’re generalizing about the end of December to mid-January when many people in Western countries get a week or two off work already, and sometimes use additional vacation time for an extended holiday. Typically there is a second wave at the beginning of January for the Chinese New Year as well. During this time, short-term rentals in desirable areas near west coast beaches will fetch the highest rates. In some cases, a villa or condo unit may see an increase of 400% for nightly, weekly, or even monthly rates compared to low season. Naturally, these prices are dictated by supply and demand so areas like Rawai, Layan, and Kamala, where there is currently significant supply being added, may see more competitive pricing.

High Season

Phuket’s “high season” is roughly from mid-December to mid-April when the majority of the island’s 10 million plus yearly visitors come. Again, this time period aligns with the dry season with rainy weather tapering off in late November and beginning again around Songkran in mid-April. This is typically the time of plenty for those focusing on daily or weekly holiday rentals. 

Low Season

This is of course the opposite time of year than high season – April to December. Anyone who researches traveling to Phuket during this time immediately learns that the prices of pretty much everything are reduced, sometimes drastically. Online accommodation platforms’ algorithms prove it. Those with properties that are unique or in a desirable location might still be able to get 50-80% of high or peak season prices, otherwise, expect your rental income to be a fraction of high season. When purchasing a property to rent out, one must look at the broader picture, averaging out possible rental income over the year. 

Avoiding Seasonal Fluctuations

Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a way to get that high-season rental income year-round? Unfortunately, that’s probably not going to happen. However, many property owners opt for long-term rentals for convenience and a more steady rental income. This largely depends on your specific property and circumstances such as whether you plan on living in Phuket year-round, etc. Owners of mid-range condo units might be more willing to go for year-long contracts to avoid the possibility of their unit sitting empty for part of the year. Choosing the short-term rental route might result in higher income over the year, but it’s a gamble compared to the solidity of a longer contract.