Weather in Malaysia in July

The weather in Malaysia in July continues to favor the east coast, making it one of the prime months to visit the islands like Redang, Tioman, and the Perhentians. Expect plenty of sunshine, calm waters, and daily highs between 76°F and 91°F (24°C and 33°C). The west coast, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Langkawi, sees more rain, most often in the afternoon or evening. July is an exciting month to visit Malaysia for diving, beach activities, and boat tours along the east coast. Mornings in west coast cities, in turn, remain good for sightseeing.

Malaysia in July at a glance

The weather in Malaysia in July delivers warm, wet, and energetic days. The southwest monsoon continues to affect the west coast, while the east coast and Borneo remain top picks for outdoor exploration and marine adventures.

• On average, July temperatures across the country range from 76°F to 91°F (24°C to 33°C), with high humidity and afternoon rain showers in cities like Kuala Lumpur and George Town.
• East coast islands such as Redang, Perhentian, and Tioman enjoy sunny days, calm seas, and excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling.
• In Borneo, Sabah and Sarawak offer wildlife-rich experiences, including orangutan encounters, rainforest hikes, and river cruises.
• Cities on the west coast may be rainier, but they still buzz with cultural activities and street food, especially in George Town and Melaka.
• School vacations continue early in the month, keeping some attractions busy; prices remain steady but reservation early is highly recommended for popular resorts.

Is July a good time to visit Malaysia?

July in Malaysia ushers in classic tropical conditions — warm temperatures, high humidity, and occasional heavy showers — particularly on the west coast. Malaysia in July sees average temperatures hovering between 76°F and 91°F (24°C and 33°C), with a boost in local travel due to the ongoing southwest monsoon and school vacations.

While the west coast, including Langkawi, Penang, and Pangkor, may get bursts of rain, these are usually short and rarely mess with your daytime plans. Kuala Lumpur and Melaka are great city picks, full of energy and easy to explore thanks to covered walkways and indoor attractions. If you're building your Malaysia itinerary, this is when the east coast islands like Perhentian, Redang, and Tioman really shine. They're in peak season, with clear waters and sunny skies — perfect for diving, snorkeling, or just zoning out on the beach.

National parks in Sabah and Sarawak are especially lush in July, buzzing with wildlife and perfect for rainforest treks. And thanks to school vacations and local festivals, there’s a lively vibe across the country. If you're wondering about the best time to visit Malaysia, July makes a strong case — especially if you want a bit of everything: nature, culture, and beach time in one go.

Average daily temperatures in July

July in Malaysia stays true to its tropical character — hot, humid, and often rainy, especially on the west coast. In Kuala Lumpur, daily highs reach around 91°F (33°C), with lows near 75°F (24°C). Rainfall is regular, mostly in the form of afternoon or early evening thunderstorms, though mornings often remain clear.

The west coast, including Penang, Langkawi, and Melaka, is influenced by the southwest monsoon. Temperatures average between 76°F and 90°F (24°C and 32°C), with bursts of heavy rain and humidity. The east coast, such as Kuantan and Kota Bharu, remains in its dry season, with highs averaging 88°F (31°C) and lows hovering near 74°F (23°C). Calm seas and clear skies make it one of the prime times to visit the Perhentian, Redang, and Tioman islands.

Highland destinations, like the Cameron Highlands, provide a welcome escape, with temperatures ranging from 57°F to 70°F (14°C to 21°C), and misty mornings that add to the region’s charm. In East Malaysia, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching see warm, wet weather, with highs near 90°F (32°C) and frequent rainforest showers.

What about the crowds and costs?

July remains part of the domestic travel high season due to ongoing school vacations, making popular destinations busier than usual. Tourist attractions in Langkawi, Penang, and Kuala Lumpur see large crowds, particularly on weekends.

Flight and accommodation rates remain elevated, especially in beach and island destinations on the east coast, which are in high season. Borneo also sees a rise in visitors for nature and wildlife trips. Despite the busy atmosphere in vacation hotspots, good deals may still be available in less popular areas or with early reservations. July is not ideal for solitude-seekers but can be managed with off-peak travel timing.

Things to do in Malaysia in July

July is one of the driest months on the east coast, offering prime conditions for sunbathers, divers, and lovers of the outdoors. It’s the perfect time to check out some of the best places to visit in Malaysia, especially if you’re after beaches and clear skies. While the west coast sees occasional showers, highland areas and Borneo remain excellent for nature-based getaways.

Go jungle trekking in Danum Valley

Deep in Sabah, Danum Valley is one of the richest conservation areas in Southeast Asia and July’s dry conditions make forest trails accessible. Join a guided hike to spot orangutans, hornbills, and towering ancient trees or embark on a night safari for a thrilling insight into local nocturnal wildlife.

Cycle around Putrajaya’s lakes and bridges

Putrajaya’s landscaped parks and man-made lakes are ideal for leisurely cycling. So why not rent a bike and follow the trail past grand mosques, futuristic bridges, and flower yards? It’s a fun pick if you’re looking for things to do in Malaysia that mix nature with a bit of urban flair. Early mornings in July are cooler and quieter, which makes them perfect for outdoor exercise with scenic views.

Visit the Sky Mirror in Kuala Selangor

Accessible during specific lunar phases, the Sky Mirror is a sandbar that appears off the coast during low tide. In July, tides align for more frequent visits. The shallow water creates surreal mirror-like reflections, perfect for creative photography and playful portraits.

Snorkel with reef sharks in Tenggol Island

Often overshadowed by Perhentian and Redang, Tenggol is a hidden diving gem. Its coral reefs attract green turtles, rays, and reef sharks. July brings warm, clear waters and low currents, so if you’re into snorkeling or diving, it’s an ideal time for you to visit.

Festivals and events in Malaysia in July

July in Malaysia is a lively month filled with food-centric events, traditional pageantry, and cultural performances. With the east coast in full swing and dry spells in many regions, outdoor festivals flourish across the country. Here’s a selection of them:

• Borneo Cultural Festival: A vibrant celebration of Sarawak’s diverse communities, including Dayak, Malay, and Chinese groups, the festival features food fairs, dance competitions, and cultural exhibitions over several nights.
• Malaysia International Film Festival: Hosted in Kuala Lumpur, the festival showcases films from Asia and beyond, often accompanied by forums, workshops, and red carpet screenings featuring international filmmakers and local stars.
• George Town Festival: This annual festival celebrates Penang’s creativity through dance, visual arts, film, and theater. Events take place across colonial buildings, galleries, and outdoor spaces.