Kota Kinabalu
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Kota Kinabalu Weather in May

With daytime temperatures of 31°C (88°F) and nighttime lows of 25°C (77°F), May in Kota Kinabalu brings very high temperatures during the day. Do keep in mind that May is part of the rainy season, with frequent and often heavy rainfall.

Rainfall in Kota Kinabalu in May

As part of the rainy season, Kota Kinabalu sees around 18 days of rain in May, with an average of 210 mm (8.3 in). The rainy season here brings regular, substantial showers. It's worth being prepared for rain on most days you're out.

Temperature in Kota Kinabalu in May

In May, Kota Kinabalu sees very high temperatures, with highs of 31°C (88°F). Nights drop to around 25°C (77°F). It's usually most comfortable outside during the morning and later in the day. With overnight lows of 25°C (77°F), evenings and nights remain warm. Light clothing and an open window or fan can help you sleep comfortably.

Sunshine in Kota Kinabalu in May

Expect a lot of sunshine this month, with about 229 hours of sun. Showers typically arrive in the late afternoon or evening, keeping mornings and early afternoons sunny. Even during the wet season, there's plenty of sunshine for sightseeing.

Wind Speed in Kota Kinabalu in May

Wind speeds average 1 m/s (2 knots) during May. At this speed, you'll experience mostly light air movement that's just barely noticeable. As an average, some days will be completely calm while others have gentle breezes you can feel on your skin.

Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. February typically offers the best weather for Kota Kinabalu.

Kota Kinabalu Temperature in May

Min Temperature
25°C (77°F)
Max Temperature
31°C (88°F)
Chance of Rain
60%
Precipitation
210 mm (8.3 in)
Rainy days
18 days
Humidity
81%
Windspeed
1 m/s (2 knots)
Sunshine
229 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 May, with daily highs averaging around 31°C (88°F). Nights are warm, with lows around 25°C (77°F).

Average temperatures in May

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 May

Historical weather records for Kota Kinabalu in May

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 May

According to our 33 years of weather records for Kota Kinabalu, the following extremes were recorded between 1993 and 2026.

  • The warmest day in May was on May 12, 2019, with a maximum of 36°C (97°F).
  • On May 12, 2004, Kota Kinabalu saw its coldest May day with temperatures maxing out at 26°C (79°F).
  • The lowest overnight temperature recorded in May was 21°C (70°F) (May 2, 2010).

Best Places in Malaysia in May

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

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 May

Warm temperatures in May make for comfortable sightseeing weather. Pack breathable fabrics like cotton shirts, knee-length shorts or skirts, and comfortable walking shoes. A thin long sleeve for indoor spaces is handy. Heavy rain is guaranteed, please bring a good poncho and waterproof everything! You'll definitely want to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. There will be plenty of bright sunshine this month.

What To Do in Kota Kinabalu in May

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

  • Swimming
    8/10
  • Cycling
    7/10
  • Walking
    7/10
  • Camping
    7/10
  • Outdoor sports
    7/10

Kota Kinabalu 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Kota Kinabalu

Popular in May

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

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.