Year-round weather and climate in Sandakan, Malaysia
Average temperatures in Sandakan run from an average low of 24°C75°F in January up to an average high of 31°C88°F in May. July is the driest month at 22 rainy days; January the wettest at 29. Here is the annual climate data, so you know what you are packing for.
Good to know
- Population
- 439K
- Currency
- MYR
- Language
- English / Malay
- Time zone
- Kuching
Best time to visit
The most pleasant weather falls in February, March, and April, offering a perfect balance of comfortable temperatures and clear skies.
Rain character
Tropical Downpours: Expect intense bursts of rain during wetter months. Pack quick-drying footwear and a compact umbrella.
Day-to-night swing
Thermal Flatline: Day-to-night temperatures barely budge. Evenings are just as warm as the afternoon, meaning you can confidently leave the evening jacket in your hotel.
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 Sandakan, 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 22 days (172mm); Jan the wettest at 29 days (355mm).
| Month | Average high | Average low | Sunshine hours | Rainy days | Total rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29°C / 83°F | 24°C / 76°F | 9h | 29 | 355mm |
| Feb | 29°C / 83°F | 25°C / 76°F | 10h | 25 | 222mm |
| Mar | 29°C / 84°F | 25°C / 77°F | 10h | 24 | 218mm |
| Apr | 30°C / 87°F | 25°C / 77°F | 11h | 24 | 122mm |
| May | 31°C / 88°F | 26°C / 78°F | 11h | 26 | 179mm |
| Jun | 30°C / 86°F | 25°C / 77°F | 10h | 24 | 277mm |
| Jul | 31°C / 87°F | 25°C / 77°F | 10h | 22 | 172mm |
| Aug | 31°C / 87°F | 25°C / 77°F | 10h | 27 | 199mm |
| Sep | 31°C / 87°F | 25°C / 77°F | 11h | 23 | 192mm |
| Oct | 31°C / 87°F | 25°C / 77°F | 10h | 26 | 231mm |
| Nov | 30°C / 86°F | 25°C / 76°F | 10h | 25 | 276mm |
| Dec | 29°C / 84°F | 25°C / 76°F | 10h | 27 | 263mm |
Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (opens in a new tab)
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the sunniest time of year to visit Sandakan?
The most sunshine in Sandakan comes around May, averaging 11 hours a month. If you're heading there then, pack your sunglasses and sunscreen.
What clothes should I pack for Sandakan?
Your packing list depends entirely on when you travel. Temperatures in Sandakan swing from an average low of 24°C75°F in January 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 Sandakan?
Sandakan gets rain on about 302 days out of the year. The wettest month is January. 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 Sandakan with Packola.
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