Sabah Weather & Climate Guide 2026
Plan your trip with detailed weather information and seasonal tips for Sabah.
Sabah, known as 'The Land Below the Wind,' is Malaysia's easternmost state on the island of Borneo, celebrated for its extraordinary biodiversity, towering Mount Kinabalu, and world-class diving at Sipadan Island. The state is home to over 42 ethnic groups, pristine rainforests, and wildlife including orangutans, pygmy elephants, and proboscis monkeys.
Best Time to Visit
Best Months
March to September
The west coast (Kota Kinabalu) and Kinabalu Park have drier, sunnier conditions from March to September, making this the ideal period for hiking, island trips, and outdoor activities. Diving visibility at Sipadan and Mabul peaks July-August.
Months to Avoid
November to January
The north-east monsoon brings heavy rainfall to the west coast and can make outdoor activities, sea crossing, and mountain hiking uncomfortable or impossible. Diving visibility is poorest December-February.
Climate Overview
Sabah has a tropical rainforest climate with year-round heat (25-32°C) and high humidity. Its nickname 'Land Below the Wind' reflects its position south of the typhoon belt, giving it relatively stable weather compared to the Philippines. The west coast (KK, Kinabalu) receives more rain from October to March, while the east coast (Sandakan, Semporna) has a more complex pattern with June-July being relatively drier.
Month-by-Month Guide
What to expect each month of the year.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Seasonal Planning Guide
Complete weather data, packing lists by season, and event calendars.
Seasonal Breakdown
Detailed information for each season.
🌸 Spring
Mar-May
Transition to the dry season on the west coast. Excellent hiking conditions at Kinabalu Park, good diving visibility improving through April, and ideal weather for island trips. Fewer crowds than peak July-August.
☀️ Summer
Jun-Aug
Peak season with best diving conditions (30m+ visibility at Sipadan), hot and sunny weather on the west coast, and excellent conditions for Mount Kinabalu climbing. July-August school holidays bring the highest crowds and prices.
🍂 Fall
Sep-Oct
Shoulder season with good weather continuing on the west coast, excellent value accommodation, and wildlife activity on the Kinabatangan. October sees increasing cloud on the west coast but remains pleasant for most activities.
❄️ Winter
Nov-Feb
The north-east monsoon affects the west coast with increased rainfall and rougher seas. Diving at Sipadan and east coast sites is possible but visibility drops. Kinabalu summit climbs are harder in wet conditions. Budget accommodation prices are significantly lower.
What to Pack
Seasonal packing recommendations.
Year-Round Essentials
- Modest clothing (cover shoulders and knees)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Light scarf or shawl (for religious sites)
- Reusable water bottle
- Power adapter
- Basic first aid kit
Hot Weather Additions
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics
- Extra sun protection
- Cooling towel
- Light colors to reflect heat
- Sandals with back straps
Cool Weather Additions
- Warm layers (fleece, sweater)
- Light jacket or coat
- Rain gear (umbrella, waterproof jacket)
- Closed-toe shoes
- Warm accessories (if winter)
Events & Crowd Levels
Plan around busy periods and special events.
🔴 High Season
July to August (Malaysian school holidays)
Higher prices, advance booking essential, crowded attractions.
🟡 Shoulder Season
March to June and September to October
Good balance of weather and crowds. Reasonable prices.
🟢 Low Season
November to February
Best deals, fewer tourists. Some services may be limited.
Major Events & Holidays
Hindu festival with processions at KK Hindu temples
Major celebration in Kota Kinabalu with lion dances, fireworks, and family gatherings across Chinese community
Month-long Kadazan-Dusun harvest celebration culminating in the state-level Unduk Ngadau pageant and cultural performances on May 30-31
Annual Bajau Laut boat festival in Semporna with decorated lepa boat parades and cultural displays
Annual tourism festival promoting Sabah's cultural diversity with performances, crafts, and food
Independence Day on August 31 with parades and celebrations across Sabah
International cultural festival featuring dance and music from dozens of countries alongside Sabahan performances
Christmas is widely celebrated in Sabah given the large Christian population; churches and communities host major festivities
Plan Your Perfect Sabah Trip
Get our complete seasonal guide with detailed packing lists, event calendars, and month-by-month planning tips.
Download Weather Guide