Best Time To Visit Redang Island

Do you want to book a trip to Redang, but unsure of when the best time to visit Redang is? We answer that important question here.

Redang is a beautiful tropical island on the east of Malaysia and is well known for its pristine coastlines, white sands and lush jungles. Visitors come from all around the world to dive in Redang’s crystal-clear waters and see its abundant marine life.

When determining the best time to go Pulau Redang, you’ll need to learn about the two seasons. Much like the rest of Malaysia, there is the Redang dry season and the Redang monsoon season. Although the weather is hot year-round, the monsoon Redang season is far from the best time of year to go to Redang and is best avoided.

If you’re trying to figure out exactly when to visit the island then this is the perfect article for you.

In this guide, we share exactly when is the best time to visit Redang Island. We’ll also explain the differences between the wet and dry seasons. That way, you’ll be certain you know the best time to go to Redang Island.

Travelling to Malaysia? Click here to download your free Malaysia Trip Planning checklist. We’ll help you get ready for your trip! 

Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired.

Best Time to Visit Redang Island

During the monsoon Redang season, which covers the remaining months between November and March, most of the tourist facilities shut down.

While private boats are sometimes available, it can be difficult to even get to the island during the Redang Island monsoon season. Normal ferries don’t run on their regular schedule, and speed boats can capsize due to the turbulent waters. Even if you could get to the island during the Redang monsoon season, it’s a bad time to dive or snorkel due to the low visibility and dangerous currents.

The start of the wet season can vary a little each year, so there’s always the risk that you’ll encounter a few late or early storms. The water is rougher during these times as well, but it’s nowhere near as bad as during the height of monsoon season.

Most people visit Redang between May and August.  June is the busiest Redang travel period. The school holidays are during June which makes it a peak time for Malaysian families to plan their getaways.

If you’re after the best time to go Redang Island when there are fewer tourists are around, schedule your trip towards the beginning or end of the dry season.

Redang Island Weather

As stated above, the island has two distinct seasons: dry and monsoon. It sometimes rains at the tail end of the dry season, which takes place between late October and early November.

The hottest months are April, May, and June. The ultimate highs take place in mid-April. During that time of year, temperatures go up to 32.4 degrees Celsius and rarely drop below 24.9 degrees at night.

Of course, this is the tropics and it is hot and humid year round, and there can be rain at any time of year. Just in the dry season, rain is over faster, less common and unlikely to affect your time on Redang.

Redang Island During Dry Season

Between April and October, temperatures range from 29 to 32 degrees. Green turtles nest between May and August. However, during the peak tourist season in June, you’ll be more likely to see other humans in the water than turtles. The waters can get crowded as many people attempt to dive and snorkel. The Marine Park is usually the busiest area on the island.

If you prefer privacy, the best month to visit Redang Island is during September or early October. Redang is generally quiet, and the seas are calm. It’s a great time for a couple to visit on a romantic holiday.

Our last visit was in early October and everything was perfect and not crowded. My picture below was taken later afternoon and you can see how empty things look.

Redang Island During Monsoon Season

The Redang close period is between November and March.  During these months, the temperatures range between 28 and 30 degrees. Poor visibility and intense underwater currents make diving dangerous if not impossible.

Most ferries shut down during the Redang Island closed period, and the boats that do run are subject to delays whenever a storm comes through.

If you want to catch a boat during Pulau Redang monsoon, you’ll most likely have to pay a large amount of money. Most boat operators don’t want to risk their own lives on the dangerous waters, and it’s advised that you don’t risk yours, either.

If, for some reason, you desire to be on the island during Pulau Redang monsoon season, your best bet will be to stay for the long term. If you arrive during dry season and book long-term accommodations, you could potentially stay. However, you’ll be limited to the local supply of food, and there won’t be much to do.

Final Words About the Best Time to Visit Pulau Redang, Malaysia

If you want to experience the best Redang Island has to offer then it is recommended that you visit during late March, April, September or early October outside peak tourist season. The island is enjoyable all throughout the dry season, but you’ll have a better experience if you aren’t sharing the waters with crowds of tourists.

Looking for the ultimate Malaysia Itinerary Planner for your trip? Click here to get it now!

Find all our Redang Island guides here, our list of the best things to do in Redang here.

Planning a trip to Malaysia? Have any questions? Join our Malaysia Travel Planning Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!