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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
27.5°C
TODAY
27.4°C
YESTERDAY
27.6°C
A WEEK AGO
Analysis, Historical Data, and Forecast of Water Temperature
Today sea water temperature in the South China Sea in Sabah is 27.5°C. This is very warm water, allowing for extended stays without any discomfort. Swimming in these conditions will be particularly enjoyable, making it the ideal temperature range for those who want to relax in the sea. Additionally, water in this temperature range is suitable for children and elderly people, as it is comfortable for prolonged stays.
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 28.6°C.
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
Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
---|---|---|---|
Mar 24 | 27.6°C | 28.8°C | |
Mar 25 | 27.0°C | 28.3°C | |
Mar 26 | 27.4°C | 28.5°C | |
Mar 27 | 27.2°C | 28.3°C | |
Mar 28 | 27.1°C | 28.8°C | |
Mar 29 | 28.1°C | 28.3°C | |
Mar 30 | 27.4°C | 28.3°C | |
Mar 31 | 28.2°C | 29.0°C | |
Apr 1 | 28.5°C | 27.6°C | |
Apr 2 | 28.5°C | 27.7°C | |
Apr 3 | 29.5°C | 27.9°C | |
Apr 4 | 29.5°C | 28.1°C | |
Apr 5 | 30.0°C | 28.3°C | |
Apr 6 | 28.8°C | 28.4°C | |
Apr 7 | 29.0°C | 28.5°C | |
Apr 8 | 29.5°C | 28.6°C |
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
Minimum | Average | Maximum |
---|---|---|
26°C | 28°C | 30°C |
February
Minimum | Average | Maximum |
---|---|---|
26°C | 28°C | 30°C |
March
Minimum | Average | Maximum |
---|---|---|
26°C | 28°C | 30°C |
April
Minimum | Average | Maximum |
---|---|---|
27°C | 29.5°C | 32°C |
May
Minimum | Average | Maximum |
---|---|---|
28°C | 30°C | 32°C |
June
Minimum | Average | Maximum |
---|---|---|
28°C | 30°C | 32°C |
July
Minimum | Average | Maximum |
---|---|---|
28°C | 30°C | 32°C |
August
Minimum | Average | Maximum |
---|---|---|
27°C | 29.5°C | 32°C |
September
Minimum | Average | Maximum |
---|---|---|
27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
October
Minimum | Average | Maximum |
---|---|---|
28°C | 30°C | 32°C |
November
Minimum | Average | Maximum |
---|---|---|
28°C | 30°C | 32°C |
December
Minimum | Average | Maximum |
---|---|---|
27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
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
APRIL 1
25°C / 28°C
light rainhumidity: 79% | wind: 2 km/h
APRIL 2
25°C / 28°C
light rainhumidity: 81% | wind: 2 km/h
APRIL 3
25°C / 28°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%humidity: 79% | wind: 2 km/h



Sea Temperature in the South China Sea in Sabah: General Trends and Swimming Opportunities
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 82°F (27.5°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 April, the water temperature in the South China Sea in Sabah will range between 81°F (27°C) and 90°F (32°C)