2026 Climate Averages

Weather: Penang — May

It's a rainy period, but great for indoor activities, museums, and lower prices.

Climate Overview

May is a wet time to visit Penang. Hot conditions with temperatures reaching 33°C—stay hydrated and seek shade. This is one of the wettest months—waterproof gear is essential. Being off-peak, you'll find better deals and fewer crowds.

6.1
GoTripzi Score Good

Based on weather comfort, crowds, prices, and activity options

Avg High

33°C

Avg Low

26°C

Rainy days

26days

Daylight

12.4h

Feels like 41°C / 32°C — humidity makes it feel warmer

Rainfall

277mm

Sunshine

9.1h/day

Humidity

82%

Very Muggy
Sun Strength

7.1

Very High
Wind

9 km/h (gusts 24)

Is May a good time to visit Penang?

It's a rainy period, but great for indoor activities, museums, and lower prices.

Now

--

Feels like --
Wind --
Humidity --
UV Index --
Local time

Air Quality

Travel Context

  • Crowds
    Quiet
  • Travel Costs Shoulder Rates

Daylight

Sunrise

07:05

Sunset

19:27

12.4h daylight

Visiting Penang in May: Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Abundant sunshine for beach and outdoor fun
  • Fewer crowds and better hotel deals

Cons

  • Frequent rain may disrupt outdoor activities
  • High humidity makes the heat feel oppressive

Things to Do in May

Recommended for This Weather

🌅 Early morning sightseeing (before the heat)
🏛️ Museums & galleries
🍳 Cooking classes & food tours
🎭 Cultural tours & local experiences

Penang Weather by Month

Month Avg High Avg Low Rain Sunshine Humidity UV Index Crowds Condition
Jan 32°C 25°C 14d (83mm) 9.6h
79% Muggy
7 High
Excellent
Feb 33°C 25°C 15d (110mm) 10h
78% Muggy
7.9 Very High
Excellent
Mar 33°C 25°C 22d (163mm) 10h
79% Muggy
8.2 Very High
Excellent
Apr 33°C 26°C 28d (254mm) 9.6h
82% Very Muggy
7.6 Very High
Excellent
May Current 33°C 26°C 26d (277mm) 9.1h
82% Very Muggy
7.1 Very High
Wet
Jun 32°C 26°C 22d (167mm) 9.5h
82% Very Muggy
7.2 Very High
Wet
Jul 32°C 26°C 17d (131mm) 9.6h
80% Very Muggy
7.4 Very High
Wet
Aug 32°C 25°C 24d (232mm) 8.7h
81% Very Muggy
7 High
Wet
Sep 32°C 25°C 25d (233mm) 8.3h
82% Very Muggy
6.8 High
Wet
Oct 32°C 25°C 27d (303mm) 7.9h
83% Very Muggy
6.4 High
Wet
Nov 31°C 25°C 29d (460mm) 7.2h
85% Very Muggy
5.6 High
Wet
Dec 32°C 25°C 19d (192mm) 8.1h
82% Very Muggy
6.2 High
Excellent

⚖️Find Your Ideal Month

Adjust the sliders to weight what matters most to you.

5
3
3
Your Best MonthJunScore: 7.6

Where to Stay

See hotels, apartments & rentals around Penang – live prices from Booking.com, Expedia, Vrbo and more

Penang

UNESCO-listed George Town blends Peranakan heritage with Street-food hawkers and Clan jetties, street art, and legendary hawker food.

View Full Destination Guide

What to Pack for May

Light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are essential. Opt for loose-fitting clothing in light colors to stay cool. A waterproof jacket and shoes are non-negotiable — showers are frequent. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen — the sun is strong.

Tropical Quiet

🎒Personalized Packing List

Tell us about your trip and we'll create a custom packing list based on the weather.

Your Packing List

📋Essentials
👕Clothing
👟Footwear
🎒Accessories
🧴Toiletries & Health

Planning a trip to Penang?

💰 Off-peak — great deals available now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is May a good time to visit Penang?
May is typically wet for visiting Penang, with average highs of 33°C and around 26 rainy days. Plan your activities accordingly—outdoor sightseeing is best on dry days, while rainy days are perfect for museums and indoor attractions.
Does it get cold at night in Penang in May?
Nights stay pleasantly warm in Penang during May, around 26°C. Light evening wear is sufficient, and outdoor dining is very comfortable. Many locals and visitors enjoy late-night walks and outdoor activities after sunset.
What should I pack for Penang in May?
With highs of 33°C and lows of 26°C in May, we recommend: Compact umbrella, Waterproof jacket/shell, Water-resistant shoes, Lightweight breathable clothes. Layering is key as temperatures can vary between air-conditioned interiors and outdoors. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for cobblestone streets.
Does it rain a lot in Penang in May?
Penang typically sees around 26 rainy days in May. Rain is usually in the form of brief showers rather than all-day downpours, so a compact umbrella is sufficient. Mornings tend to be drier, making them ideal for outdoor sightseeing.
How many hours of daylight are there in Penang in May?
In May, Penang gets approximately 12.4 hours of daylight per day. This affects how much sightseeing you can fit in—longer days mean more time for outdoor activities, while shorter days are perfect for cozy museum visits and early dinners.
Is May peak season in Penang?
No, May is not peak season in Penang. Expect better value on accommodation, shorter queues at attractions, and fewer tourists at popular spots. This is an excellent time to experience the city like a local and enjoy a more authentic atmosphere.

Weather Data: Based on 2020–2025 historical climate data from Open-Meteo

Solar calculations: SunCalc (timezone: Asia/Kuala_Lumpur)

Last Updated: February 2026