Langkawi Weather

Located in tropical climate zone, Langkawi experiences hot weather all year round. Besides, it is influenced by monsoon. In May, the Southwest Monsoon starts to blow, bringing plenty of rain; in November, Langkawi enters its dry season, enjoying abundant sunshine.

Stunning Beach View

Year-round High Temperatures

Throughout the year, the temperature of Langkawi ranges from 24-31°C (75-91°F), so it has no cold days. In the daytime, visitors would feel pretty hot. When the sun reaches its peak, the highest temperature can hit 37 degrees Celsius (99 degrees Fahrenheit). Therefore, it’s best not to go out during this time to avoid heatstroke. In the evening, the temperature drops around 8 degrees Celsius (46 degrees Fahrenheit). It’s a good idea to stroll on the beach to experience the breezy sea wind.

High/Low Temperatures of Langkawi

Sea Temperature

The sea water stays warm throughout the year, with average temperature ranging from 29-31°C (84-91°F), which is perfect to swim in. Besides, on sunny days, the sea visibility can be surprisingly high, suitable for various underwater activities, like diving and snorkeling.

Water Temperatures of Langkawi

Distinct Dry and Rainy Seasons

Dry Season: November-April

Rainfall in total: 592 mm
Rainy days in total: 42

Langkawi’s weather in the dry season is quite hot and dry. Among these months, January, February and December see the least rain, with average precipitation of just 19 mm, 34 mm and 56 mm, respectively. And the rainy days in each month are less than 5 days. So you will enjoy plenty of sunshine to indulge in marine activities and island hopping.

But remember, the sun can be fierce! Instead of reapplying sunscreen all the time, try wearing a lightweight and breathable sun-protective jacket. Trust us, it will keep you cool and stay clear of sticky sunscreen feeling.

Lovely Beach in Langkawi

Buffet in Hotel

Rainy Season: May-October

Rainfall in total: 1,751 mm
Rainy days in total: 98

The rainy season in Langkawi brings a hot and humid vibe. The largest rain usually falls in August to October, with rainfall around 350mm and an average of 18 rainy days each month. While the rain might be an obstacle for some water activities, it is the perfect time to explore the rainforests of Kilim Karst Geoforest Park. It is the abundant rain that makes the forests even more alive and vibrant.

If you are heading into the forest parks, be sure to wear long sleeves, long pants and comfortable shoes and don’t forget to bring some bug repellent. Mosquitoes are pretty active there.

During the rainy season, there are occasional thunderstorms, and sea waves might be rough, which are not ideal for island hopping. You might be upset by cloudy skies if you were hoping for an excellent sunset sailing cruise. But don’t let the rain get you down. Langkawi Fair Shopping Mall provides plenty of duty free shopping options. And many tourists pick up chocolates as souvenirs.

Rainfall of Langkawi

Best Time to Visit Langkawi

Comfortable Hotel in Langkawi

The best time to visit Langkawi is during its dry season from November to April. With more sunshine and calmer sea, it’s ideal for sunbathing on the beach and enjoying various marine activities. However, this is also Langkawi’s peak season, which means the trip costs more and you need to book hotels in advance.

That said, the rainy season has its perks. The moderate and brief rain helps cool the weather down. Plus, with fewer tourists around and lower hotel prices, your overall travel experience can be good if you plan the trip carefully. Just be sure to avoid August through October, as this is when the largest rainfall occurs.

What to Wear in Langkawi - Basically Summer Clothes

It is recommended to wear light and breathable summer clothes in Langkawi. Quick-dry t-shirts and shorts are perfect choices to stay cool and comfortable. For girls, a stylish dress is good for taking impressive photos. As for shoes, comfortable sneakers are suitable for a lot of walk. If you just want to lounge on the beach, it is best to wear sandals or flip-flops as they are easy to slip on and off.

Travel Tips

1. It’s best not to stay outdoors too long during midday when the heat is at its peak.
2. Avoid water activities on rainy days as it can be dangerous.
3. Public transport in Langkawi primarily relies on boats. Before getting onboard, you need to wear a light jacket, as it can get quite chilly on the sea - sometimes feeling like 12 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit)
4. Tropical weather breeds mosquitoes, so it’s always a good idea to bring insect repellent.
5. If you plan to get into the water, remember to use ocean-friendly sunscreen to protect both your skin and the marine environment.