Best Time to Visit Kota Kinabalu
The best months to visit Kota Kinabalu are Feb, Jun, Jul. Here is the full monthly breakdown.
Photo: Florian Wehde / Unsplash
Best Months: Feb, Jun, Jul
These months offer the best balance of comfortable temperatures and low rainfall for visiting Kota Kinabalu. Expect highs of 29°C to 31°C to 31°C with relatively dry conditions.
Warmest Month
April
31°C high
Coldest Month
February
23°C low
Driest Month
July
18 rain days
Wettest Month
December
30 rain days
Monthly Weather
January
High: 29°C / Low: 24°C
29 rain days
February
High: 29°C / Low: 23°C
22 rain days
March
High: 30°C / Low: 24°C
24 rain days
April
High: 31°C / Low: 24°C
24 rain days
May
High: 31°C / Low: 25°C
28 rain days
June
High: 31°C / Low: 25°C
21 rain days
July
High: 31°C / Low: 25°C
18 rain days
August
High: 30°C / Low: 24°C
26 rain days
September
High: 30°C / Low: 24°C
24 rain days
October
High: 30°C / Low: 24°C
29 rain days
November
High: 30°C / Low: 24°C
26 rain days
December
High: 30°C / Low: 24°C
30 rain days
Tourist Seasons in Kota Kinabalu
Peak Season
February, June, July
- +Best weather conditions
- +Most activities and events
- -Higher prices and larger crowds
- -Book accommodation well in advance
Shoulder Season
January, March, May, August
- +Good weather, fewer tourists
- +Better value for accommodation
- +More authentic local experiences
- ~Some attractions may have reduced hours
Off Season
April, September, October, November, December
- +Lowest prices of the year
- +No crowds at attractions
- -Weather may be less favourable
- -Some seasonal businesses may close
Month-by-Month Breakdown
| Month | High | Low | Rain Days | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
January | 29°C | 24°C | 29 | Shoulder Season |
February★ | 29°C | 23°C | 22 | Peak Season |
March | 30°C | 24°C | 24 | Shoulder Season |
April | 31°C | 24°C | 24 | Off Season |
May | 31°C | 25°C | 28 | Shoulder Season |
June★ | 31°C | 25°C | 21 | Peak Season |
July★ | 31°C | 25°C | 18 | Peak Season |
August | 30°C | 24°C | 26 | Shoulder Season |
September | 30°C | 24°C | 24 | Off Season |
October | 30°C | 24°C | 29 | Off Season |
November | 30°C | 24°C | 26 | Off Season |
December | 30°C | 24°C | 30 | Off Season |
Season Timeline
Frequently Asked Questions
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Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Kota Kinabalu
Make the most of your trip by booking popular tours and activities in advance.
Kota Kinabalu Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Kota Kinabalu on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Kota Kinabalu Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Kota Kinabalu with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Kota Kinabalu: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Kota Kinabalu's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Kota Kinabalu: Scenic Excursion
Escape Kota Kinabalu for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Kota Kinabalu Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Kota Kinabalu's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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Top 3 Areas to Stay in Kota Kinabalu
Liveliest areas for nightlife, culture, and entertainment
Central Business District (CBD)
The bustling heart of the city, packed with shops, restaurants, and essential services.
Our top picks in Central Business District (CBD)
Tanjung Aru
A laid-back coastal area famous for its beautiful beach and sunset views.
Our top picks in Tanjung Aru
Sutera Harbour
An upscale, self-contained resort area offering a luxurious escape with extensive facilities.
Our top picks in Sutera Harbour
Luxurious resort with stunning sea views and excellent recreational facilities.
Book NowConnected to the mall, offering modern comfort and access to resort amenities.
Book NowPart of the larger Sutera Harbour complex, known for its expansive grounds and activities.
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