Penang Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Penang.
Climate overview of Penang
Penang, Malaysia, has a steady, very warm climate throughout the year and is also known for its heavy rainfall. Located on the northwest coast, Penang is famous for its delicious street food, historic George Town, and mix of cultural influences. This makes it a top destination for travelers in Southeast Asia. Now, let’s explore all the climate details to give you a complete picture.
Penang Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Penang — and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Penang
With minimal seasonal shifts, Penang experiences a constant climate year-round. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 32°C (90°F) in June to a very warm 30°C (86°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 27°C (81°F) in June to around 25°C (77°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Penang
Penang has a notably wet climate with abundant precipitation, recording 2585 mm (102 in) of rainfall per year. The climate in Penang shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect heavy rainfall in October, the wettest month, with an average of 342 mm (13 in) of precipitation over 24 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month February offers drier and sunnier days, with around 122 mm (4.8 in) of rainfall over 9 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Penang Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Penang
Penang offers a pleasant mix of sunny and slightly overcast days. The difference in sunshine hours between January (8.3 hours daily) and September (5.4 hours daily) provides a bit of variety for visitors and residents.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Water Temperature in Penang
The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 27°C (81°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in April.
Water temperature over the year
Humidity in Penang by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Penang.
The city experiences its highest humidity in October, reaching 76%. In February, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 69%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Wind Speed in Penang
The mean wind speed varies between 1 m/s (2 knots) and 2 m/s (4 knots) throughout the year. It is lowest in March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November and highest during January, February and December. What does this mean?
The mean monthly wind speed over the year (meters per second)
Best Time to Visit Penang
It's smart to plan your activities during the cooler morning hours or take advantage of the refreshing evenings. Ready to plan your travels but need destination ideas? Our smart tool recommends places based on the climate conditions you prefer. Start planning with our destination weather tool.
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Penang
What is the best time to visit Penang?
January, February, June and July typically offer the most optimal weather in Penang. In contrast, March, April, May, August, September, October, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions.
What temperatures can I expect in Penang?
Daytime highs range from 30°C (86°F) in January to 32°C (90°F) in June. Nighttime lows range from 25°C (77°F) to 27°C (81°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.
How much rain does Penang get?
Annual rainfall is around 2585 mm (102 in). October is the wettest month with 342 mm (13 in), while February is the driest with 122 mm (4.8 in).
How sunny is Penang?
Penang receives around 2,474 hours of sunshine per year. January is the sunniest month with 249 hours, while September is the cloudiest with just 162 hours. Overall, Penang enjoys abundant sunshine.
Penang 3-Day Forecast
Penang 3-Day Forecast
Penang on the map
Penang is highlighted — select any city to see its climate.
Popular this month
Where to go in July — average daytime high across popular destinations.
Kuala Lumpur
33°C (91°F) Ipoh32°C (90°F) Kuching
33°C (91°F) George Town32°C (90°F) Pantai Cenang31°C (88°F) Johor Bahru31°C (88°F) Melaka31°C (88°F) Kota Kinabalu30°C (86°F) 
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