What's The Weather Like In Penang In May
May is once again one of the four wettest months of the year. This is because from late in the month until September, Malaysia is in the middle of the Southwest Monsoon season. As opposed to the Northeast Monsoon, this one is generally slightly drier because it originates in China and the north Pacific and there is less moisture to work with. Even though that may be the case, it is still a good idea to have an umbrella at the ready.
Rain
Penang records an average of 240mm of precipitation throughout the month. This rain will come over a period of just 17 days. As a result, much of this rain is heavy in nature and can lead to some flash flooding in areas. It is also not out of the question to hear a lot of thunder during some of the heavier showers. If you are going to be outdoors, it is important to dress appropriately in order to try and stay at least somewhat dry.
Sunshine Hours
If it is a dry day, then this is the perfect time to head to the beach. With an average of 8 hours of sunshine per day, there is plenty of time to enjoy the beach and the sea. With average water temperatures of 30°C (86°F), visitors may want to find a beach where the swimming or snorkeling is excellent.
Temperatures remain warm and the air muggy thanks to the amount of rain in the area. It is important to have a good working air conditioner in a guest room as the temperatures never fall too far and most mornings will begin with an average overnight low of just 24°C (75°F). Even with the rain, the average afternoon high will still climb to 31°C (88°F).
Guests can embrace sun, sand and fun at the Parkroyal Penang Resort. The perfect place for business travelers, couples or families, this resort has it all. Guests can choose from a variety of rooms and suites that offer private balconies and ocean views. The hotel also features a swimming pool for adults as well as one for children that also has two giant water slides. Additionally, there are numerous dining and drinking options on the resort property.
Tucked away along Penang's coastline is the Lone Pine Hotel. Ideal for a May holiday, this resort has recently undergone a complete restoration and renovation while still keeping the same colonial spirit and charm as before. Despite having only 90 rooms, each one is tastefully decorated and mixes old world charm with modern amenities. Guests may also take advantage of the on-site spa, restaurants, bar, gym and game rooms.
The G Hotel Kelawai takes luxury to a whole new standard. Designed to be casual, yet elegant, this hotel and its staff will go above and beyond to make sure that you feel right at home. Guests can choose from a number of different room styles while enjoying such amenities as a 23rd floor bar, restaurant, coffee house and so much more.
Without the crowds of nearby Batu Feringghi, Teluk Bahang is a scenic beach that offers more peace and tranquility. With rocks and shade, this is the perfect spot for a weekend retreat thanks to camping grounds that allow visitors to spend the night under the stars. Area attractions also include The Penang Butterfly Farm, Spice Garden and Penang Forest Museum. Guests can also enjoy a wide variety of food from nearby restaurants. Having nearby attractions is a nice addition as the 240mm of precipitation expected over the month may keep visitors off the beach.
One of the best places for breakfast or brunch is The Mugshot Café. Located in the heart of George Town, it is a great spot to stop into for a quick bite before heading back out again to explore the city. The bagels, coffee and yogurt are all highly rated and guests can choose to sit inside or out if the weather is nice. With impeccable service, this is one spot that shouldn't be missed.
For beachfront dining at its best, be sure to stop by Sigi's Bar and Grill. Located inside the Golden Sands Resort, this family-friendly restaurant is right on Batu Feringgi beach. Guests can choose between a selection of seafood, steaks, wood fire pizza, pasta, sandwiches and local Asian dishes. There is also a menu available for children. Additionally, the bar features a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic in the attached bar.
While relatively new to the rooftop bar scene, Penang is quickly catching up with some exciting bars offering some of the best views in the city. One of the best is The Press Rooftop Bar. This posh two-story nightclub is one of the best places to see and be seen. The downstairs consists of wood paneling as well as wooden tables and chairs with a mix of techno, R&B, soul and hip hop for music. Upstairs, guests can choose from a variety of seating options including cabana like booths or simple high tables.
With another 240mm of precipitation expected in May, now is a good time to look for some indoor adventures. One of the best indoor sights to see is the Camera Museum. First opened in 2013, the museum showcases the history and evolution of cameras and camera technology. Known as one of the best sights in Penang, the museum features well over 1,000 cameras and has more than 5,000 visitors per month.
If it is dry, then some of the most interesting things to see are the clan jetties on the backwaters of George Town. These jetties are home to five main Chinese clans including Lim, Chew, Tan, Lee and Yeoh. The jetties are a reminder of the island's importance as a maritime port and how the pioneer Chinese immigrants came to the region more than a century ago to find a better life.
