Overview of Kota Kinabalu‘s Climate
Kota Kinabalu sits close to the equator and has a tropical rainforest climate, with hot and very humid weather all year round. Daytime temperatures usually stay between 24–32°C, and there is no sharply defined dry season. January–March (especially February–March) tend to be relatively drier, while from around June through December, rainfall increases noticeably with frequent tropical downpours. Annual rainfall exceeds 2,500 mm, and although it rains often, showers are usually short and intense rather than lasting all day.
Kota Kinabalu Weather by Season
Rainy Season in Kota Kinabalu
The rainy season in Kota Kinabalu generally runs from around May–June through to about January, with the heaviest rainfall from September to November. During this period, it is common to have one or two strong tropical showers or thunderstorms a day, and sometimes it can rain heavily for a few hours at a time. Daytime highs sit around 30–32°C, and humidity is very high, so the air can feel heavy and sticky, though it can feel slightly cooler for a while after a downpour. On the plus side, the frequent rain leaves the jungles, national parks, and islands around Kota Kinabalu looking especially lush and green, and except for the peak holiday months (July–August), hotel and flight prices are often lower.
Drier Season in Kota Kinabalu
Kota Kinabalu doesn’t have a “true” dry season, but there is a relatively drier period, usually from February to April. During these months, monthly rainfall drops noticeably, and even when it does rain, showers tend to be brief and pass quickly, so your plans are less likely to be completely ruined by the weather. Daytime highs are still around 31–32°C, but with less rain and more sunshine, this is a great time for beaches, island-hopping, and enjoying viewpoints and mountain scenery. Overall, the weather is more stable with fewer surprises, making February–April an ideal time for first-time visitors and family trips with kids or parents.
Best Time to Visit Kota Kinabalu
Peak Season
The peak season in Kota Kinabalu is mainly July–August and late December to early January. School holidays and year-end vacations overlap, so flight and resort prices rise sharply, and beaches, island tours, and sunset cruises become noticeably busier. Even during peak season, short tropical showers and passing downpours are common, but they usually don’t last long enough to wipe out the entire day’s plans. This is a great time for travelers who want a lively resort atmosphere with plenty of activities, promotions, and a classic “beach holiday” vibe.
Low Season
Low season typically falls in September–November and some parts of May–June outside of the main holidays. September–November in particular see the highest annual rainfall due to the northeast monsoon, bringing frequent heavy showers and rougher sea conditions, which can lead to cancellations or changes for island and marine activities. On the other hand, airfares and hotel rates tend to drop, and it’s easier to book popular resorts and restaurants, making this a good option for budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer a quieter stay. Even in low season, it rarely rains nonstop all day; instead, showers come and go, so you can combine indoor plans (massage, cafés, shopping) with short outdoor activities and still enjoy your trip.
When the Weather Is at Its Best
In terms of weather, the best time to visit Kota Kinabalu is usually from February to April. This is the driest and relatively most comfortable period of the year, with daytime highs around 30–31°C and less rainfall compared to other months, meaning more clear, sunny days. Showers, if they occur, tend to be short-lived, making it much easier to plan outdoor activities such as island tours, snorkeling and diving, or sunrise and viewpoint visits on Mount Kinabalu. For first-time visitors, family trips with kids, or “no-weather-drama” trips with parents, February–April is often recommended as the top choice.
Kota Kinabalu Weather & What to Wear by Month
January
In January, daytime highs are around 29°C and lows around 22°C, making it one of the “cooler” months, though there are still about 17 rainy days. Rainfall averages around 170 mm, so a mix of cloudy days and tropical showers keeps humidity feeling high.
What to wear: Think full summer outfits—T-shirts, shorts, light dresses—with breathable sneakers or sandals. Pack a light cardigan or long-sleeved shirt for air-conditioned interiors and for slightly cooler moments after rain.
February
February is one of the driest months, with fewer rainy days and rainfall dropping to around 100 mm. Sunshine hours increase and the sun feels stronger, making it an excellent time for beach and island trips.
What to wear: Lightweight, airy clothing such as cotton or linen T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, and skirts work best. Because UV levels are very high, bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a thin UV-protective cardigan or rash guard.
March
March remains relatively dry like February, but temperatures climb a bit, so it feels hotter and more humid. Showers do occur but often as brief tropical downpours, and it’s still a great month for both marine activities and city sightseeing.
What to wear: Breathable T-shirts, shorts, and slippers or sandals are ideal. Quick-dry or moisture-wicking sportswear is very useful, and a very light long-sleeved top in your bag helps with strong air-conditioning or slightly cooler nights.
April
In April, daytime highs reach around 31°C and humidity is high, so it starts to feel like “full summer heat.” Both rainfall and rainy days increase compared to March, with more frequent tropical showers in the hot, humid air.
What to wear: Opt for thin, quick-drying fabrics such as cotton, linen, or rayon—short-sleeve tops, shorts, and light dresses are great. To cope with sudden showers, carry a compact ultralight rain poncho or waterproof windbreaker.
May
May marks the start of a more pronounced wet season, with monthly rainfall reaching around 260 mm or more. Daytime temperatures hover around 31°C, and humidity is very high, so even short walks can make you sweat.
What to wear: Quick-dry functional T-shirts and activewear like running or yoga outfits are especially comfortable. Because wet ground can be slippery, non-slip sandals or aqua shoes plus a folding umbrella or knee-length rain poncho are recommended.
June
In June, rainfall increases to around 280 mm, with roughly 18 rainy days, and both heat and humidity are intense. However, many showers are short and scattered, so with some timing and flexibility you can still enjoy many outdoor activities.
What to wear: Stick to very lightweight tops (T-shirts, tank tops) and thin shorts with breathable sandals. Synthetic fabrics that dry quickly are practical, and it’s wise to bring extra underwear and socks plus a small towel or handkerchief.
July
July sees daytime highs around 31°C and nighttime lows around 23°C, with more than 18 rainy days. Short, frequent tropical showers are common, and this is also a peak season month with many visitors heading out to sea for marine activities.
What to wear: Swimsuits layered under thin T-shirts and shorts, rash guards, and beach sandals are extremely practical. If you’ll be on boats or ferries often, choose sandals with ankle straps for safety, and pack clothing that dries quickly after getting splashed.
August
August is similar to July—very hot, very humid, and with plenty of rainy days. Strong sunshine and showers alternate frequently, so you may feel overheated outdoors and then suddenly chilly indoors with air-conditioning.
What to wear: Base your wardrobe on swimwear and rash guards if you’re doing lots of marine activities, with a loose shirt or oversized tee to throw on top. Water-friendly sandals or flip-flops and a small waterproof pouch (for your phone and wallet) will make it easier to move around even when it rains.
September
September brings over 22 rainy days and around 290 mm of rainfall, as the wet season intensifies. The weather can change quickly, with bright sunshine turning into heavy rain within a short time.
What to wear: It’s still very much “high summer” in terms of clothing: light T-shirts, shorts, and sandals. However, pack more spare clothes and socks than usual, and bring a light, packable rain poncho plus a water-resistant sling bag or backpack to protect your belongings from sudden downpours.
October
October is typically the wettest month of the year, with rainfall exceeding 300 mm. Humidity is extremely high and the air often feels damp, though temperatures still sit around 30°C.
What to wear: Water-friendly sandals or slippers, dark-colored lightweight shorts or trousers, and quick-dry synthetic T-shirts are the most practical options. Since umbrellas can struggle in gusty winds, a light long raincoat or poncho that covers both top and bottom is highly recommended.
November
In November, the late rainy season continues with around 24 rainy days, but temperatures start to ease off slightly so it feels “a little less hot.” There are more overcast days, and evening temperatures can drop to around 23°C, which can feel slightly cool once sweat has dried.
What to wear: Summer clothing (T-shirts, shorts) still works fine as a base, but adding one or two pairs of thin cotton or linen long pants is useful for rainy days or heavily air-conditioned spaces. A light waterproof windbreaker or hooded jacket is also handy to shield you from rain, wind, and cold air-conditioning all at once.
December
December still sees significant rainfall (around 240 mm), but it is one of the cooler months of the year. Daytime temperatures hover around 30°C, but mornings, evenings, and indoor spaces can feel fairly cool, especially with all the moving around during the busy year-end season.
What to wear: Combine T-shirts and light shirts with one pair of long pants plus a thin cardigan or hoodie so you can adapt to changing temperatures. Sandals and slippers remain comfortable outdoors, but if you plan to spend a lot of time in malls and restaurants, it’s good to have a pair of lightweight sneakers as well.
Kota Kinabalu Monthly Averages: Temperature, Sea Temperature, Rainfall, Humidity
| Month | Avg. High (°C) | Avg. Low (°C) | Avg. Sea Temp (°C) | Avg. Rainfall (mm) | Avg. Humidity (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 31.3 | 23.5 | 28.0 | 141 | 82 |
| Feb | 31.4 | 23.6 | 27.5 | 78 | 82 |
| Mar | 32.1 | 23.9 | 28.0 | 93 | 80 |
| Apr | 33.0 | 24.5 | 29.0 | 123 | 80 |
| May | 33.1 | 24.7 | 29.5 | 212 | 80 |
| Jun | 32.6 | 24.4 | 30.0 | 284 | 80 |
| Jul | 32.3 | 24.1 | 29.5 | 288 | 80 |
| Aug | 32.4 | 24.1 | 29.5 | 279 | 79 |
| Sep | 32.2 | 24.0 | 29.5 | 287 | 80 |
| Oct | 31.8 | 24.0 | 29.5 | 387 | 82 |
| Nov | 31.9 | 24.0 | 29.0 | 283 | 83 |
| Dec | 31.7 | 23.9 | 28.5 | 262 | 83 |
Kota Kinabalu Weather – Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Kota Kinabalu hot all year round?
Yes. Kota Kinabalu has a tropical rainforest climate, so daytime highs are usually around 30–32°C and lows around 23–25°C throughout the year. There is no cool “spring or autumn” season like in temperate countries. December–February are slightly less hot and can feel a bit more comfortable.
Q. How often does it rain in Kota Kinabalu?
On average, it rains about 15–20 days each month, so it’s definitely a “rainy” destination. However, most of the rain comes as sudden tropical downpours that last only 30 minutes to an hour rather than all-day rain. Because of the wind and heavy raindrops, a light rain poncho or waterproof jacket is often more practical than an umbrella.
Q. Is it still okay to visit during the rainy season?
Rainy season does not mean it rains all day, every day. Usually, a heavy shower passes through in the morning or afternoon and then clears up, so you can still enjoy plenty of activities if you plan your day with some flexibility. In particularly wet months like September–November, it’s wise to expect possible cancellations or changes to island and marine tours and to prepare extra indoor options like massages, cafés, and shopping.
Q. Are typhoons or extreme storms a big risk?
Kota Kinabalu, on the western coast of Borneo, is rarely hit directly by typhoons. However, during monsoon periods, localized heavy rain and rough seas can temporarily halt boat services or force tour operators to cancel trips. For most travelers, the main impact is schedule changes rather than major natural disasters.
Q. What is the sea temperature like? Is it good for swimming?
Sea temperatures usually stay between 28–30°C, making the water pleasantly warm all year. It often feels even warmer than summer seas in many other countries—almost like a natural hot tub—so conditions are excellent for snorkeling, diving, and swimming. Just remember that the sun is strong, so a rash guard, hat, and sunscreen are essential.
Q. Is the UV index very high?
Yes. Being close to the equator, Kota Kinabalu has a very high UV index year-round, even on cloudy days. The sun is especially strong from February–April and again in July–August. High-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a light long-sleeved top with UV protection are highly recommended.
Q. Can you still enjoy views and sunsets in the rainy season?
Cloudy days are more frequent during the rainy season, so sometimes sunsets are completely hidden. That said, when the rain clears, dramatic skies and colorful sunsets often appear between the clouds. If you stay for 3–4 days, there is a good chance you’ll catch at least one beautiful sunset, and your odds are even better if you visit in drier months like February–April or July–August.