Kota Kinabalu
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Kota Kinabalu Weather in March

March in Kota Kinabalu brings high temperatures, with highs of 30°C (86°F) and nights dropping to 24°C (75°F). It's also the driest month of the year, ideal for those who want to avoid rain.

Rainfall in Kota Kinabalu in March

This month sees the least rain of the year, making it well suited for outdoor adventures. You can expect rain on roughly 11 days based on historical data, averaging 147 mm (5.8 in) for the month. Rainfall intensity is on the higher side this month. Expect more substantial showers rather than light, passing rain.

Temperature in Kota Kinabalu in March

Daytime highs in Kota Kinabalu in March reach 30°C (86°F), with nights around 24°C (75°F). Overall, the month follows a fairly predictable daily temperature pattern. At 24°C (75°F) overnight, it stays warm after dark. Light, breathable clothing and good airflow in your room make a noticeable difference.

Sunshine in Kota Kinabalu in March

The days are predominantly sunny, with an estimated total of around 235 hours of sunshine. These sun-filled days are perfect for playing sports, visiting parks, or going for a bike ride.

Wind Speed in Kota Kinabalu in March

Average wind conditions reach 1 m/s (2 knots) in March. This creates generally peaceful weather with subtle air movement. Remember this is an average: some days are windless while others have noticeable or very gentle breezes.

Should you favor a climate that's both dry and comfortably warm, February typically offers the most agreeable circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.

Kota Kinabalu Temperature in March

Min Temperature
24°C (75°F)
Max Temperature
30°C (86°F)
Chance of Rain
37%
Precipitation
147 mm (5.8 in)
Rainy days
11 days
Humidity
81%
Windspeed
1 m/s (2 knots)
Sunshine
235 hours
Percentage Sunshine

Kota Kinabalu Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Kota Kinabalu - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

49-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Kota Kinabalu typically stay consistent throughout March, with daily highs averaging around 30°C (86°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 24°C (75°F).

Average temperatures in March

Daily Historical Precipitation

49-year average (1976-2025)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in March

Historical weather records for Kota Kinabalu in March

Browse day-by-day weather records for Kota Kinabalu spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Kota Kinabalu historical weather extremes in March

Our historical data for Kota Kinabalu spans 1991 to 2026, revealing these weather extremes.

  • On March 24, 1998, temperatures climbed to 36°C (97°F), marking the warmest March day on record.
  • The lowest daytime temperature in March was 26°C (79°F), recorded on March 8, 1993.
  • The coldest night in March in Kota Kinabalu was on March 7, 2014, with a minimum of 21°C (70°F).

Best Places in Malaysia in March

Find out more about the weather in Malaysia and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Malaysia in March →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Kota Kinabalu in March

Warm but pleasant conditions in Kota Kinabalu in March. Focus on lightweight, maybe with natural fabrics, cotton blend shirts, comfortable shorts, and breathable footwear. A light cover-up for sun protection is smart too. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.

What To Do in Kota Kinabalu in March

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    9/10
  • Cycling
    7/10
  • Walking
    7/10
  • Camping
    6/10
  • Outdoor sports
    7/10

Kota Kinabalu 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Kota Kinabalu

Popular in March

Where to go in March - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

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