Year-round weather and climate in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
Average temperatures in Kota Kinabalu run from an average low of 23°C73°F in February up to an average high of 31°C88°F in May. July is the driest month at 16 rainy days; December the wettest at 26. Here is the annual climate data, so you know what you are packing for.
Good to know
- Population
- 500K
- Currency
- MYR
- Language
- English / Malay
- Time zone
- Kuching
Best time to visit
To avoid the most intense heat, the best time to visit is during the milder season around June, July, and August.
Rain character
Tropical Downpours: Expect intense bursts of rain during wetter months. Pack quick-drying footwear and a compact umbrella.
Day-to-night swing
Evening Chill: Temperatures drop by a noticeable 7°C13°F when the sun goes down. A light sweater or jacket is usually all you need for evening plans.
Seasonality Profile
Tropical Rainforest: Unrelenting heat and high humidity. Frequent, heavy rainfall persists throughout the entire year.
Evening vibe
Cozy Indoor Culture: Evenings are generally crisp, damp, or sweltering. Nightlife centers around indoor venues.
Sightseeing stamina
Summer Heat Fatigue: Midday heat in May is intense. Pack high-SPF sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
Average temperatures, sunshine, and rainfall
Average monthly weather in Kota Kinabalu, based on recent historical data. Essential insights on temperature swings, expected rainfall, and daily sunshine.
Bars span the average daily low to high. Jul is typically driest at 16 days (183mm); Dec the wettest at 26 days (235mm).
| Month | Average high | Average low | Sunshine hours | Rainy days | Total rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29°C / 84°F | 24°C / 74°F | 9h | 25 | 275mm |
| Feb | 29°C / 84°F | 23°C / 74°F | 9h | 18 | 162mm |
| Mar | 30°C / 86°F | 24°C / 75°F | 10h | 21 | 180mm |
| Apr | 31°C / 88°F | 24°C / 76°F | 10h | 20 | 179mm |
| May | 31°C / 88°F | 25°C / 77°F | 9h | 24 | 350mm |
| Jun | 31°C / 88°F | 25°C / 77°F | 9h | 18 | 212mm |
| Jul | 31°C / 87°F | 25°C / 76°F | 9h | 16 | 183mm |
| Aug | 30°C / 87°F | 24°C / 76°F | 9h | 22 | 286mm |
| Sep | 30°C / 86°F | 24°C / 76°F | 9h | 21 | 377mm |
| Oct | 30°C / 85°F | 24°C / 75°F | 9h | 25 | 311mm |
| Nov | 30°C / 86°F | 24°C / 75°F | 9h | 22 | 255mm |
| Dec | 30°C / 85°F | 24°C / 75°F | 9h | 26 | 235mm |
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (opens in a new tab)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the sunniest time of year to visit Kota Kinabalu?
The most sunshine in Kota Kinabalu comes around April, averaging 10 hours a month. If you're heading there then, pack your sunglasses and sunscreen.
What clothes should I pack for Kota Kinabalu?
Your packing list depends entirely on when you travel. Temperatures in Kota Kinabalu swing from an average low of 23°C73°F in February up to 31°C88°F in May. The Packola app builds a tailored packing list for you based on the live weather forecast for your exact travel dates.
Do I need to pack an umbrella for Kota Kinabalu?
Kota Kinabalu gets rain on about 258 days out of the year. The wettest month is December. If you're traveling during the rainy season, you'll definitely want to pack an umbrella and a light rain jacket.
Pack smarter.
Averages get you close, but the week you travel is what matters. Get the live forecast, a smart packing list, and discover the best local spots and activities in Kota Kinabalu with Packola.
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