Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Weather

Kota Kinabalu, Sabah in East Malaysia has a tropical rainforest climate with rainy and dry seasons. The rainy season falls from May to December; the dry season falls from January to April. Since it is located near the Equator, the weather is hot, and the temperature fluctuations are small throughout the year, ranging from 23-33°C (73-91°F). Despite that, the temperature of highland areas near Kota Kinabalu is much lower, so you need a light jacket besides the basic summer clothing.

Stunning Sunset View by Beach

Relaxing Hotel in Kota Kinabalu

Year-Round High Heat, Yet a Wide Temperature Gap Between Day and Night

Although Kota Kinabalu’s temperature is stably high all year round, there is a big difference between day and night temperatures. In the daytime, the weather can be pretty hot, reaching as high as 34 degrees Celsius (93 degrees Fahrenheit). In the dry season, sometimes it’s so hot that you cannot even go out and have to stay indoor. It is advisable to avoid outdoor activities from 14:00 to 17:00, the hottest time of the day. At night, it can be cool, with the average temperature of about 22-23°C (72-73°F); a light jacket may be needed by the seaside.

High/Low Temperatures of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Cool and Even Cold Weather on Mount Kinabalu

Mount Kinabalu lies about two-hour’s drive away from Kota Kinabalu and is a popular day trip destination for visitors in Kota Kinabalu.

It is worthy to note that in the highland areas, the weather can be cooler. For those adventurers who aim to reach the summit of Mount Kinabalu, it’s essential to wear warm clothing and comfortable hiking shoes, as the temperature at the top can be extremely low. The strong winds combined with a lack of shade make it even colder. Sometimes, temperatures can even drop below freezing, and you might spot a thin layer of ice at the peak.

Dry Season vs. Rainy Season

Kota Kinabalu is significantly influenced by the Southwest monsoon and has dry and rainy seasons. The dry season usually spans from January to April. However, this “dry season” is not as dry as people might expect - with tropical rainforest climate, rain is very common here. It is comparatively that during this period, rainfall is low, ranging from 88 mm to 155 mm per month. This is the better time for island-hopping tours.

The rainy season ranges from May to December, with October as the wettest month, receiving monthly rainfall of 377 mm. But don’t worry too much about the rainy season. The rainfall here tends to come and go quickly, hardly ruining your trip plans. Instead, the rain actually helps rejuvenate the tropical rainforest, making it livelier. Besides, the temperature would drop a little after the rain, making you feel cool. That said, if you plan to hike in Mount Kinabalu during the rainy season, it’s important to consult professionals in advance; anyway, safety comes the first.

Rainfall of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Best Time to Visit Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

The best time to visit Kota Kinabalu in Sabah is during the dry season, from January to April. With less rain, this period is better for outdoor activities like hiking, diving, and island hopping. Water activities are especially ideal during this time, with calmer seas and clearer skies. Additionally, Kota Kinabalu's sunset is considered among the best three in the world, and the chances of witnessing the breathtaking views are higher during the dry season.

If you don’t mind humid weather, the rainy season also has its appeal. Frequent rain keeps the plants green and lush. Plus, you'll see fewer tourists and enjoy lower hotel prices, making it a great option for those seeking a more peaceful and budget-friendly trip.

Busy Night Market

What to Wear in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Since the weather of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah is hot and humid as a whole, quick-dry T-shirts and shorts are ideal for most activities. If girls want to take impressive photos, a beautiful dress is also fine. But don’t forget to take a sun-protective jacket to avoid sunburn. Plus, this jacket can keep you warm in the chilly air-conditioning room.

As for the footwear, a pair of comfortable sneakers is suitable if you need to walk a lot or explore the rainforest. Sandals or slippers are great options for beaches, as they are not only convenient but also keep your feet cool in the hot climate.

Travel Tips and Advice

1. Most of the activities in Kota Kinabalu are outdoor-based. On sunny days, the UV rays can be quite strong, so sun protection is essential.
2. It’s important to stay hydrated to prevent heatstroke. With intense sunlight and heat waves, it can reduce appetite, making it easy to suffer from heat exhaustion.
3. Around noon, when the heat peaks, it’s a good idea to book a seaview spa session. It allows you to escape the heat while enjoying a relaxing treatment with beautiful coastal views alongside.
4. Sunset usually occurs between 17:55 and 18:34. Tanjung Aru Beach is the best spot to watch it, offering a wide, unobstructed view. Since it’s free and popular, make sure to arrive at least an hour early to secure a good spot.
5. The temperature after the sunset is more pleasant. It’s comfortable to take a stroll by the sea. If you are there on Fridays and Saturdays, it’s recommended to visit the Gaya Street Night Market to try delicious local food.