May · Malaysia
Best time to visit Penang in May Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in Penang in May
Average temperature 28°C, 499 mm of rain, about 26 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 86% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
May score
2.9/10
Ranked #12 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 28°C
- Rainfall
- 499 mm
- Humidity
- 86%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 26
- Crowd Density
- Quiet / Uncrowded
- Average Expenses
- $ · Budget Friendly ($)
May in Penang scores 2.9/10 for sightseeing and cultural travel - ranked #12 of 12. Expect around 28°C, 499 mm of rain, and roughly 26 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
George Town's shophouse grid, clan jetties, and hawker stalls make Penang as much a food destination as a heritage one.
May in Penang — the hardest end of the year
Days in May average 28°C (82°F) and humidity near 86% — front-load outdoor plans before the heat builds and treat the middle of the day as indoor time.
This is the year's wettest stretch at 499 mm, but with about 26 days with 6+ hours of sunshine it is not a total loss; an indoor fallback covers the risk.
That is 2.9/10 on the same scale — 12th of 12 months, versus 4.7/10 for the best month here.
Pack the lightest breathable clothing you own, a hat, and more water than feels necessary, a proper rain shell rather than an umbrella.
Expect low-season pricing, and crowds are light for this destination.
If your dates are flexible, January is materially better in Penang — 1.8 points higher on the same scale.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in Penang in May?
- In May, Penang averages 28°C, 499 mm of rain, and about 26 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 2.9/10.
- Is May a good time to visit Penang?
- May earns a 2.9/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in Penang in May?
- Expect about 499 mm of rain in May. Average humidity is 86% and there are about 26 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
Curated in Penang
Tickets & experiences
Things to do in Penang
Penang, Malaysia. Live activities and tours from GetYourGuide, matched to this destination.