Koh Samui vs Penang

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Koh Samui edges ahead as the better destination in December. Koh Samui offers 1 hours of daily sunshine with only 6 rain days, while Penang sees 9 sunshine hours and 21 rain days.

Koh Samui sits in the comfortable travel range at 28°C. Penang runs hot at 29°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Koh Samui is the stronger choice in December. Penang receives 8 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Koh Samui reaches an average high of 28°C (82°F) and drops to 21°C (70°F) at night during December. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Penang averages 29°C (84°F) for the high and 25°C (77°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in December.

Koh Samui receives approximately 70 mm of rainfall across 6 rain days during December. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Penang sees 189 mm over 21 rain days. That makes Koh Samui the drier option by 15 rain days and 119 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.