Kota Kinabalu Weather in April

April: warm, wet and sticky

April feels hot from morning onwards, with highs around 30°C and nights still warm. Humidity is high, and rain falls on many days. Showers and thick cloud can interrupt plans, though they don't always last all day.

You can still explore the Sabah State Museum or browse Gaya Street when the weather turns. Boat trips from Jesselton Point to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park can work between showers, but don't make an island day your only plan. The sea and clouds can make a sunset at Tanjung Aru less reliable, too.

What's on in April

There isn't a major annual Kota Kinabalu festival fixed to April. Hari Raya Aidilfitri moves with the lunar calendar, so it sometimes falls this month. If it does, expect festive gatherings and more domestic travel; some businesses may close or change their hours.

Kaamatan, Sabah's best-known harvest festival, is held in May, not April. You may catch preparations, but don't plan on the main celebrations in April.

Crowds and local tips

April is generally quieter than Sabah's busier school-holiday periods, so hotel rates may feel less pressured. That's not a guarantee: dates around Hari Raya can bring a local rush. Families who prefer calmer attractions may find weekdays easier than holiday weekends.

For the clearest island-trip plan, ask at Jesselton Point which boats are running before heading there. If rain changes your plans, try hinava, a tangy raw fish dish, at a local restaurant instead. Check that it's available, as menus vary.