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Weather Comparison

Langkawi vs Penang

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Langkawi: 30°CPenang: 30°C119 km apart

May Weather: Langkawi vs Penang

MetricLangkawiPenangBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer30°C (86°F)30°C (86°F)Tie
Average LowHigher is milder26°C (79°F)26°C (79°F)Tie
Rain DaysFewer is drier26 days27 daysLangkawi
PrecipitationLess is drier232 mm237 mmLangkawi
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day10h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%82%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer88Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better13 km/h9 km/hPenang

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Langkawi edges ahead as the better destination in May. Langkawi offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 26 rain days, while Penang sees 10 sunshine hours and 27 rain days.

Langkawi can feel quite hot at 30°C, so plan for heat. Penang runs hot at 30°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Langkawi is the stronger choice in May.

Temperature Comparison in May

Langkawi reaches an average high of 30°C (86°F) and drops to 26°C (79°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Penang averages 30°C (86°F) for the high and 26°C (79°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Langkawi receives approximately 232 mm of rainfall across 26 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Penang sees 237 mm over 27 rain days. That makes Langkawi the drier option by 1 rain day and 5 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 82%.

What to Pack: Langkawi vs Penang

Packing for Langkawi in May

Highs of 30°C, lows of 26°C, 26 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Penang in May

Highs of 30°C, lows of 26°C, 27 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Pack for both: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during May.

Year-Round Comparison: Langkawi vs Penang

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthLangkawiPenang
HighRainHighRain
Jan31°C8d29°C15d
Feb32°C8d30°C16d
Mar32°C16d30°C23d
Apr31°C24d30°C28d
May30°C26d30°C27d
Jun30°C22d30°C22d
Jul29°C23d30°C21d
Aug29°C24d30°C24d
Sep29°C26d29°C26d
Oct29°C28d29°C29d
Nov29°C25d29°C27d
Dec29°C15d29°C21d
30°

Langkawi Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

30°

Penang Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Langkawi warmer than Penang in May?
Langkawi and Penang have the same average high temperature of 30°C (86°F) in May. The average lows are 26°C and 26°C respectively.
Which city gets more rain in May, Langkawi or Penang?
Penang gets more rain in May with 27 rain days and 237 mm of precipitation. Langkawi is the drier option with 26 rain days.
Is it better to visit Langkawi or Penang in May?
It depends on your preferences. Langkawi averages 30°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 26 rain days. Penang averages 30°C with 10 sunshine hours and 27 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Penang. For drier weather, Langkawi is the better pick.
How far apart are Langkawi and Penang?
Langkawi and Penang are approximately 119 km (74 miles) apart. Langkawi is located in Malaysia (Asia) while Penang is in Malaysia (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Langkawi and Penang?
For Langkawi, February tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 32°C. For Penang, January is typically ideal with 10 sunshine hours and 29°C highs.

Compare Langkawi and Penang in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Langkawi coordinates: 6.35°N, 99.80°E | Penang coordinates: 5.41°N, 100.33°E