大阪・京都 3日間モデルコース|グルメ・絶景・交通・予算まとめ
If you're planning a trip in May and want a destination that's warm, relaxing, and not overly crowded,
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia might be exactly what you need.
This charming seaside city in Sabah offers stunning sunsets, tropical beaches, and affordable resorts,
all while staying under the radar for most tourists during the shoulder season.
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know for a successful May trip to Kota Kinabalu — including weather, rainy season tips, direct flights, and things to be aware of.
May is technically the start of the rainy season,
but don’t let that scare you.
Here’s what to expect:
🌡 Daytime highs: Around 31–32°C (87–90°F)
🌙 Evenings: Cooler at 25–26°C (77–79°F)
🌦 Rainfall: Mostly brief afternoon showers or sudden tropical downpours (aka "squalls")
☀ UV Index: High – bring strong sunscreen and protective gear
🌤 Most days still have sunshine for outdoor activities
Travelers’ insight: I experienced light rain on two days during my trip, and both times it stopped quickly and cleared into beautiful skies — perfect for sunset photos!
| Season | Months | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Dry | Feb – Apr | Least rainfall, great visibility |
| Transition (Start of Wet) | May | Afternoon rain is common, but short |
| Rainy | Jun – Jan | Longer rains, especially Oct–Dec |
✔ May is not the peak of the monsoon, so travel is still comfortable
✔ Air quality is usually excellent after light rains
✔ Fewer tourists = better hotel rates + quieter beaches
| Airline | Departure | Flight Info |
|---|---|---|
| Jin Air | 19:55 / 01:05 | Evening or red-eye flight options |
| Jeju Air | 20:05 | Budget-friendly, popular with solo travelers |
| AirAsia | 01:45 | Low-cost, no free meal, compact seating |
| Asiana Airlines | Non-regular | Operates mainly during peak holidays |
| Busan Air | Coming soon | New route expected late 2025 |
🛫 Flight Duration: ~5 hours 30 minutes
🕐 Most flights depart at night and arrive early morning
Tip: If you’re landing early morning, book early check-in or plan for a relaxed Day 1 with minimal movement.
Bring a travel umbrella or raincoat – sudden showers are common
High SPF sunscreen and a hat are a must
Mosquito repellent is crucial for beach areas and night markets
Install Grab – the most efficient and affordable way to get around
Local currency: Malaysian Ringgit (RM), but cards and travel wallets are widely accepted
No Ramadan restrictions in May 2025 – everything is open and operating normally
Yes — if you want:
✔ A less touristy, more authentic experience
✔ Budget-friendly rates on resorts and tours
✔ A balance of sunshine and occasional cooling rain
✔ Easier reservations at restaurants and cafes
✔ Clearer skies for photos and views after brief rainfalls
What I loved most about Kota Kinabalu in May wasn’t just the scenery — it was the pace.
Everything felt… slower, more relaxed, but still vibrant.
Even the rain was part of the charm.
It gave me the perfect excuse to stop, grab a coffee, and just take in the surroundings.
Sunsets were magical, the air felt fresh after showers,
and there were moments of stillness that I hadn’t felt on other trips.
Kota Kinabalu travel, Malaysia in May, tropical travel tips
Kota Kinabalu rainy season, May beach destinations, Southeast Asia guide
Flights to Kota Kinabalu, Jin Air Korea, Jeju Air Malaysia, AirAsia review
Kota Kinabalu tips, Malaysia trip planning, Sabah travel blog
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