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Sabah

Water Temperature in the South China Sea in Sabah, Malaysia: Current, Historical Data and Forecast

On this page, you will find comprehensive information about the sea temperature in Sabah in Malaysia, including current readings, historical data and trends, monthly averages, as well as weather forecasts and upcoming temperature predictions. We find every spot where you can swim and tell you what the water temperature is there today and throughout the year.

Current Water Temperature in Sabah

87°F

TODAY

85°F

YESTERDAY

87°F

A WEEK AGO

All water temperature data is now available in our official mobile apps — for iOS and Android.

Analysis, Historical Data, and Forecast of Water Temperature

Today sea water temperature in the South China Sea in Sabah is 29.6°F. This is very warm water, which may feel almost hot to most people. Swimming in such conditions is perfect for those seeking relaxation and comfort in the water. These waters are often preferred for relaxation in hot weather, as the water temperature does not cool the body significantly. However, it is important to remember that in such warm waters, caution is necessary, as prolonged exposure without rest can lead to overheating.

It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.

Water Temperature Chart for South China Sea in Sabah Over the Last 30 Days

The water temperature in Sabah today is lower than both a week ago and a month ago. Today's sea temperature is generally in line with historical values for this day.

According to our forecast, the sea temperature in Sabah will remain nearly unchanged in the coming days, its value will be 87°F.

Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.

Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts across Malaysia to enhance accuracy.

Water temperature data for Sabah and nearby towns and resorts is gathered from various sources, including buoys and satellite sea and ocean surface maps provided by the NOAA agency. We also incorporate data from local authorities in each specific location worldwide to ensure more accurate temperature readings.

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

DateCurrentAverageForecast
May 287°F87°F
May 386°F87°F
May 486°F87°F
May 586°F87°F
May 686°F86°F
May 786°F86°F
May 885°F86°F
May 988°F86°F
May 1087°F87°F
May 1187°F87°F
May 1287°F87°F
May 1387°F87°F
May 1487°F87°F
May 1587°F87°F
May 1687°F87°F
May 1786°F87°F
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast

Sea Temperature in Sabah Throughout the Year

Throughout the year, the sea temperature in Sabah is always above 64°F (18°C), the sea temperature exceeds 72°F (22°C) for 366 days, and exceeds 77°F (25°C) for 366 days.

Below is the annual chart of sea temperature changes in the South China Sea in Sabah.

January

MinimumAverageMaximum
79°F82°F86°F

February

MinimumAverageMaximum
79°F82°F86°F

March

MinimumAverageMaximum
79°F82°F86°F

April

MinimumAverageMaximum
81°F85°F90°F

May

MinimumAverageMaximum
82°F86°F90°F

June

MinimumAverageMaximum
82°F86°F90°F

July

MinimumAverageMaximum
82°F86°F90°F

August

MinimumAverageMaximum
81°F85°F90°F

September

MinimumAverageMaximum
81°F84°F88°F

October

MinimumAverageMaximum
82°F86°F90°F

November

MinimumAverageMaximum
82°F86°F90°F

December

MinimumAverageMaximum
81°F84°F88°F

Monthly Water Temperature Histogram for South China Sea in Sabah

You can explore detailed data on how the water temperature in Sabah varies each month:

What Beaches Are There In and Around Sabah?

Likas Bay Beach

Likas Bay Beach is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 4 km (2 miles) radius of Sabah. There is parking. There are cafés. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Malohom Bay

Malohom Bay is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 5 km (3 miles) radius of Sabah. There are cafés. Snorkeling is possible. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Tanjung Aru Beach

Tanjung Aru Beach is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 6 km (4 miles) radius of Sabah. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. There are cafés. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Mamutik Island

Mamutik Island is a 5-stars sandy beach, located in a 7 km (4 miles) radius of Sabah. There are lifeguards on the beach. There are restrooms. There are cafés. Snorkeling is possible. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Manukan Island

Manukan Island is a 4-stars sandy beach, located in a 8 km (5 miles) radius of Sabah. There are lifeguards on the beach. There are cafés. Snorkeling is possible. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Sapi Island

Sapi Island is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 8 km (5 miles) radius of Sabah. There are restrooms. Snorkeling is possible.

Bulijong Bay

Bulijong Bay is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 8 km (5 miles) radius of Sabah. Snorkeling is possible. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Sulug Island

Sulug Island is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 9 km (6 miles) radius of Sabah. There are cafés. Sulug Island is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. Snorkeling is possible. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Sepanggar Island

Sepanggar Island is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 9 km (6 miles) radius of Sabah. There are restrooms. Sepanggar Island is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish. Snorkeling is possible. The calm waters make this beach ideal for swimming, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Sabah Weather

MAY 10

81°F / 84°F
light rain

humidity: 74% | wind: 1 mph

MAY 11

81°F / 84°F
light rain

humidity: 74% | wind: 1 mph

MAY 12

81°F / 84°F
overcast clouds: 85-100%

humidity: 76% | wind: 1 mph

MAY 13

79°F / 81°F
light rain

humidity: 78% | wind: 1 mph

Sea Temperature in the South China Sea in Sabah: General Trends and Swimming Opportunities

Original name
Sabah
The Local Time
02:31 AM
Time Zone
UTC+8
Sunrise
06:01 AM
Sunset
06:23 PM
Length of the day
12 h 21 m

The coastal area of Malaysia experiences a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity, warm temperatures averaging around 27°C year-round, and heavy rainfall, particularly during the monsoon season from November to February. Its close proximity to the sea moderates the temperatures, making it less extreme than in the inland areas.

Sabah is located in Asia in the Northern Hemisphere at a latitude of 6 degrees, along the shores of the South China Sea. Sabah lies within in Malaysia.

The average annual daytime air temperature in Sabah is 31°C (88°F), with the average nighttime temperature being 24°C (75°F). The highest average daily temperature occurs in May, reaching 32°C (89°F), while the lowest is in January at 30°C (86°F). As for nighttime temperatures, the minimum average temperature of 23°C (74°F) is recorded in January, and the maximum is in April, reaching 24°C (76°F).

According to historical data, Sabah experiences 192 rainy days per year, which accounts for 53 percent of all days in the year. On average, there are 16 rainy days each month. The wettest month is November, with 21 rainy days and 291 mm (11.4 inches) of precipitation, while the driest month is March, which typically has 11 rainy days and only 101 mm (4.0 inches) of precipitation.

The average annual water temperature in South China Sea in Sabah is 29°C (84°F). In January, the water reaches its lowest point of the year at 26°C (79°F), while in April, it peaks at 32°C (90°F). The water temperature in the South China Sea in Sabah is comfortable for beach vacations and swimming year-round.

Geographical Location of Sabah

Frequently Asked Questions About Sabah and its Water Temperatures

What is the current sea temperature in Sabah?

The water temperature today in the South China Sea in Sabah is 87°F (30.5°C).

In which months is the water temperature in Sabah comfortable for swimming?

The water temperature in Sabah is comfortable for beach vacations and swimming throughout the year.

What is the water temperature in Sabah during the winter?

The water temperature in the South China Sea in Sabah during the winter ranges from 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F).

What is the water temperature in Sabah during the spring?

The water temperature in the South China Sea in Sabah during the spring ranges from 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F).

What is the water temperature in Sabah during the summer?

The water temperature in the South China Sea in Sabah during the summer ranges from 27°C to 32°C (81°F to 90°F).

What is the water temperature in Sabah during the fall?

The water temperature in the South China Sea in Sabah during the fall ranges from 27°C to 32°C (81°F to 90°F).

Is it possible to swim in the sea in Sabah year-round?

Yes, it is possible to swim in the South China Sea in Sabah year-round because the water temperature never drops below 26°C (79°F)

What sea temperatures can I expect in Sabah in the next month?

In June, the water temperature in the South China Sea in Sabah will range between 82°F (28°C) and 90°F (32°C)