Southwest Monsoon in Malaysia: Where to Travel Instead?

When you hear ‘monsoon season’, you probably picture heavy rains, massive floods and disappointing holidays.

Malaysia has two monsoon seasons – the southwest monsoon, which runs from May to September, and the northeast monsoon, which runs from November to March. Despite being a monsoon, the southwest monsoon isn’t as intense compared to its year-end counterpart, which often devastates parts of the country.

The southwest monsoon affects the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, the north of Sarawak, and the west of Sabah. While this season is generally characterised by less rainfall and more dry days than wet, it can still bring heavy rain, thunderstorms and squall lines*.

In this guide, we’ll show you the best time to visit the Malaysian east coast, highlight some fantastic destinations, less than ideal places, and offer travel tips for both Malaysians and tourists.

*Squall line: A long line of thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds and heavy rain

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Rain, rain go away: Top Islands to Visit During the Monsoon  

Malaysia’s east coast offers visitors its natural beauty, cultural experiences and generally a slower-paced lifestyle compared to the more urban west coast. It’s well known for its friendly residents, delicious cuisine, heritage, expansive beaches, stunning islands and exciting water activities.

1. Perhentian Islands, Terengganu

Perhentian Island. Credit: Gecko Routes

The Perhentian Islands consist of Perhentian Besar (Greater Perhentian) and Perhentian Kecil (Lesser Perhentian). Perhentian Besar tends to be more peaceful and family-oriented, with higher-end resorts often catering to families. Although the island receives many visitors, its large size means it rarely feels overcrowded, offering more chances to discover calm and secluded areas. On the other hand, Perhentian Kecil is more energetic and youthful. The island is popular with backpackers and tourists for its lively nightlife, exciting water sports, affordable accommodation and delicious food options. If you’re interested in underwater exploration, the Perhentian Islands are one of the best islands in Malaysia for snorkelling and scuba diving.

Best time: March – September / Worst time: November – February (Most accommodations and businesses are closed. Activities may be limited or unavailable at resorts that remain open)

2. Redang Island, Terengganu

Just like the Perhentian Islands, this island is another popular destination in Terengganu. The Redang archipelago has been gazetted as a marine park, and as a result, the waters are turquoise and are abundant with coral reefs and marine life. There are many things to do in Redang – spend time lounging on the beaches, stay active with some jungle trekking or take part in fun water activities like kayaking, snorkelling, and scuba diving.

Best time: April – September / Worst time: November – February (Island is closed due to unpleasant weather conditions)

3. Kapas Island, Terengganu

Kapas Island. Credit: Sandee

Kapas Island got its name from the island’s beaches that are as white as cotton. While the island isn’t as famous like its neighbours Redang or Perhentian, it’s still a fan-favourite amongst families and backpackers who are looking for an affordable island getaway. The island offers great snorkelling and scuba diving spots with healthy coral reefs, and activities like kayaking, jungle trekking, turtle spotting, and island hopping.

Best time: April – August / Worst time: October – February (Island is closed due to unpleasant weather conditions)

4. Tinggi & Sibu Island, Johor

Tinggi and Sibu Islands, located within the protected waters of the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, are lesser-known gems off the coast of Mersing, Johor. Tinggi Island, nicknamed “General’s Hat” by Chinese seamen centuries ago due to its distinctive peak, offers preserved natural beauty, lush rainforests and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for a quiet, laid-back escape. Sibu Island complements this with its comfortable beachfront resorts and vibrant coral reefs just offshore. Both islands are perfect for families and travellers seeking an affordable retreat away from the crowds. Popular activities include snorkelling, jungle trekking, hiking, kayaking, island-hopping, and visiting turtle hatcheries — all set against the backdrop of crystal-clear waters and untouched landscapes.

Best time: March – October / Worst time:  November – February (Island is closed due to unpleasant weather conditions)

5. Tioman Island, Pahang

Tioman Island. Credit: Malaysia

Tioman Island, part of the Tioman Island Marine Park, is a well-loved destination known for its stunning coral reefs, diverse marine life, and lush greenery teeming with unique flora and fauna. The island offers a balance of nature and convenience, with local charm found in places like Kampung Tekek, where visitors can enjoy casual shopping and sample local life. Tioman is ideal for adventure seekers and leisure travellers alike, with plenty of opportunities for scuba diving and snorkelling, kayaking, jet skiing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, beach volleyball, and banana boat rides.

Best time: May – September / Worst time: November – February (Island remains open but ferries and activities are subject to weather conditions)

 

Come Again Another Day: Best Inland Destinations to Visit

Ever wondered why all of Malaysia’s popular highland destinations are located in Pahang? Well, that’s because they’re all located on the Titiwangsa Range, a strip of mountain that runs downs the peninsula. This creates the perfect terrain and climate for you to experience cool weather, rolling hills, lush scenery and a peaceful escape from the urban hustle and bustle

1. Cameron Highlands, Pahang

Cameron Highlands. Credit: The Petite Wanderess

A serene hill station renowned for its cool climate, tea plantations, and colonial charm. Visit the BOH Tea Estate for its lush tea plantations, warming local tea and scones pair with strawberries. Stroll through the foggy Mossy Forest or head to the Big Red Strawberry Farm to pick fresh strawberries or enjoy strawberry-based delights. Cameron’s also offers visitors many night markets, cultural sites, hiking trails and waterfalls.

Dry season: February – April and July – August / Wet season: May – June and September – January

2. Fraser’s Hill, Pahang

Although less commercialised compared to the other highland retreats, Fraser’s Hill remains a well-known spot for its colonial-era charm, cool weather, lush greenery, and low volume of visitors. It’s a favourite destination amongst avid birdwatchers, hikers, nature lovers, golfers and those who just want to get away from the city. Don’t forget to take pictures with the clock tower in the centre of town or the various quaint cottages!

Dry season: March – September / Wet season: October – February

3. Janda Baik, Pahang

Janda Baik. Credit: Assaffa Design Practice

Janda Baik is a village located in Bentong, just an hours’ drive away from Kuala Lumpur. The area is dotted with riverside and jungle chalets, luxury accommodation and glamping options. Since its so close to the city, many travellers come for a refreshing escape from the urban heat by enjoying the cool morning weather, jungle trekking, family picnics, or swimming at waterfalls.

 Dry season: April – October / Wet season: November – March

4. Genting Highlands, Pahang

Genting Highlands is the most commercialised out of all the other highland destinations, as this is due to its high-energy attractions and entertainment. Visitors can head to Genting Premium Outlet, SkyAvenue Complex, First World Complex or Genting Grand Complex if they wish to shop till they drop. Other attractions are the Genting SkyWorlds (outdoor theme park), Genting Skytropolis (indoor theme park), Sky Casino, Chin Swee Caves Temple, Awana Skyway Gondola Cable Car, an onsen spa, luxury hotels, multiple dining options and more. It’s a favourite amongst families, couples, city-dwellers and foreign tourists looking for a unique experience and cool weather.

Dry season: March – September / Wet season: October – February

5. Bukit Tinggi, Pahang

Bukit Tinggi. Credit: Expedia

Bukit Tinggi, also known as Colmar Tropicale, is a French-themed village sitting at an elevation of 800 metres above sea level. The village was inspired by the town of Colmar in Alsace, France, with elements taken from surrounding villages. There are many attractions such as the village itself, which has a hotel and many restaurants, Japanese Village, Botanical Gardens, and temples. It’s cool climate and eye-catching architecture make it a very popular destination for families and tourists.

Dry season: March – October / Wet season: November – March

 

Keep in Mind

Avoid travel symbol. Credit: Shutterstock

While the southeast monsoon doesn’t really dampen the east coast travel experience, as it mostly rains during the late afternoon or evening, it’s good to keep in mind some locations that may occasionally be less than ideal:

1. Klang Valley, Selangor – Areas in the Klang Valley are more flood prone due to urbanisation coupled with poor drainage systems. Besides that, the Urban Heat Island effect, coupled with the rains, can bring extremely hot and humid days that make being outside unpleasant
2. Langkawi Island, Kedah – The storms can cause choppier seas, which can disrupt ferry and boat services and water activities. Some days may remain cloudy, so some attractions may not look as nice as they were in photos
3. Penang Island, Penang – There’s occasional hot and humid weather with sudden rain during July-August. For the most part, the sea conditions are stable but some ferries and boat routes may change depending on weather conditions

 

Travel Tips for the Southwest Monsoon Season

Travel packing. Credit: The Points Guy

• Pack Smart

Bring along light, quick-dry clothing, comfortable shoes, umbrella or rain coat, a small towel, waterproof backpack, insect repellent, and power bank

• Plan activities for mornings

Try to schedule activities like hiking, island tours, snorkelling or scuba diving excursions for the morning to avoid the late afternoon and evening rains

• Keep Up with the Weather

Stay informed using your phone’s built in weather application or use applications like myCuaca or Rain Alarm

• Build in Flexibility

Stay open to adjusting your itinerary and keeping your plans flexible so that you can swap activities if needed and never miss out on key experiences.

• Choose the Right Destinations

Stick to places that are less affected by the monsoon and always check if your chosen spot is suitable for travel

• Watch Out for Flash Floods

Heavy rain can lead to flash floods, especially in low-lying or inland areas. Prioritise safety by not hiking or driving through flooded roads. If there is continuous heavy rainfall, it’s best to plan an alternative route or activity or even just cancel plans

• Consider Off-Peak Perks

Travelling during the monsoon season often means fewer crowds, lower prices, better deals, and a more peaceful experience

 

Don’t Let the Monsoon Season Stop You from Exploring Malaysia!

Monsoon travel in Malaysia doesn’t have to be complicated – in fact, the southwest monsoon is one of the best times to explore the east coast gems before the northeast monsoon arrives. Whether it’s sunny days on the islands or sipping local tea in the highlands, planning ahead helps you make the most of your time.

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