When To Go · Destination Guide
Tip of Borneo sunsets, low-crowd reefs, and island hopping in Tun Mustapha Park
Updated Mar 3, 2026 • 8 sources
When to go
Kudat is warm yearround, but boat access is controlled by wind, swell, and rain runoff more than water temperature.
Best overall window
More reliable crossings and warm water around 28°C; occasional afternoon storms.
Outside that window
More rain and choppy crossings on exposed routes; windier days around 25 km/h to 35 km/h.
Start with the overall answer, then switch only when scuba, freedive, snorkel, or topside timing changes the trip in a meaningful way.
The overall row stays visible so you can compare it against the currently selected scope.
| Scope | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | Overall - Jan: Tradeoffs | Overall - Feb: Tradeoffs | Overall - Mar: Good | Overall - Apr: Best | Overall - May: Best | Overall - Jun: Best | Overall - Jul: Best | Overall - Aug: Best | Overall - Sep: Best | Overall - Oct: Good | Overall - Nov: Tradeoffs | Overall - Dec: Tradeoffs |
These do not replace the overall planner. Use them only if a specific animal or event is driving your trip dates.
Whale shark chance (park biodiversity context)
Best for Scuba, Snorkel
Mar to Jun
Tun Mustapha Park is described as supporting migratory animals such as whale sharks.
Sea turtle presence (seagrass edges and remote beaches)
Best for Snorkel, Scuba
May to Sep
Seagrass habitats can support turtle grazing.
Kaamatan (Sabah Harvest Festival)
Best for Topside
May to Jun
Sabah's major cultural season with local events, food, and markets.
Northeast Monsoon surge days
Best for Scuba, Freedive, Snorkel
Nov to Jan
Expect more roughsea days during Northeast Monsoon influence.
Built from climate references, access rules, and destination operators. Wildlife timing and route flexibility can shift year to year.