Best Time (Month) To Visit Tioman & Rawa Islands (Avoid Monsoon)

Last updated 19 Jul 2024SGMYTAXI

Are you planning a tropical holiday but not sure when is the best time to visit Tioman or Rawa Islands?

Since these islands are known for their beautiful beaches, clear seas, and underwater life, it’ll be a shame to visit at the wrong time, such as monsoon season.

Lucky for you, this ultimate guide to the weathers at Tioman and Rawa Island will tell you when is the best time to visit.

Let’s dive right in!

 

1. Overview: Best Time Of Year To Visit Tioman & Rawa

In general, the best time to visit Tioman Island and Rawa Island is from May to September. That is when you get ideal weather—tons of sunshine and calm seas.

To make it easy, we have listed down each month’s weather conditions for you below. (For a more in-depth breakdown, scroll to the next sections!)

Month	Tioman Weather
January	Monsoon, Heavy rainfall with strong currents
February	Monsoon, Medium rainfall with strong currents: Cooling weather
March	End of Monsoon, Light rainfall with warmer weather: Cooling weather
April	Start of Peak Season, Sunny and dry weather for beach activities!
May	Best Time To Go Tioman, Perfect weather with hot sunny days!
June	Best Time To Go Tioman, Perfect weather with hot sunny days!
July	Best Time To Go Tioman, Perfect weather with hot sunny days!
August	Best Time To Go Tioman, Perfect weather with hot sunny days!
September	Best Time To Go Tioman, Perfect weather with hot sunny days!
October	End of Peak Season, Sunny and dry weather for beach activities!
November	Start of Monsoon, Heavy rainfall with strong currents
December	Monsoon, Highest rainfall with strong currents

While the best weather attracts more tourist, there are other factors that encourage an influx of crowds as well:

 

1.1 School Holidays

For Singapore, the school holiday period is from the end of May until the end of June. For Malaysia, it is the end of May until early June.

 

1.2. Public Holidays

Take note of public holidays in May (Wesak Day, Labour Day in Singapore and Malaysia  and in August (National Day in Singapore and Malaysia).

 

1.3. Long Weekends

Try to avoid long weekends. Refer to this calendar for more: https://www.singaporeholiday.com.sg/.

 

 

2. Tioman & Rawa Island Monsoon Season (Mid Of November to Mid Of February)

While it’s technically possible to travel during monsoon periods, you will risk getting stranded on the island if ferry rides get cancelled due to bad weather.

During the monsoon, less resorts are open for tourists. The stormy sea conditions also make it unsafe for diving and snorkelling.

However, some people might prefer travelling this time due to lesser crowds and cheaper accommodation.

 

2.1 Tioman & Rawa Weather In January

During this time, the island will be experiencing heavy downpours. The muddy waters will make it unsuitable for diving or snorkelling due to poor underwater visibility.

 

2.2 Tioman & Rawa Weather In February

Still a chance for rain but the weather will start to clear up. Expect decent weather that will make it okay for underwater activities.

2.3 Tioman & Rawa Weather In November

The beginning of the monsoon season. Storms will cause disruption to ferry and boat services, sometimes for days on end!

 

2.4 Tioman & Rawa Weather In December

This is the peak of monsoon season. It will be windy and very wet, and the waves will be very choppy. The beach will also be practically empty.

 

3. Tioman & Rawa Island Dry Season

During the dry season, it is usually considered the best time to go to Rawa Island and Tioman Island.

You’ll see tourism picking up as the skies and seas start to clear. Calmer seas mean that you’ll get a more reliable ferry schedule.

However, keep in mind: the dry season also means accommodation prices will go up too. And just because it’s dry, doesn’t mean it won’t rain!

 

 

3.1 Tioman & Rawa Weather In March

The rainy weather starts slowing down, making way for some sun.

 

3.2 Tioman & Rawa Weather In April

The lack of rain means clearer waters. You can choose to laze on the beach or partake in diving or snorkelling.

 

3.3 Tioman & Rawa Weather In May

We are entering the peak of the dry season, so expect plenty of sunshine. With visibility up to 30 metres, now is the perfect time to go diving or snorkelling.

 

3.4 Tioman & Rawa Weather In June

Peak dry weather. Fabulous weather continues. Crowds are at their peak here too, since it’s the school holidays! Many consider this the best time to visit Tioman.

3.5 Tioman & Rawa Weather In July

Heat will start getting scorching hot, so remember to reapply your sunscreen! Very little chance of rain.

 

3.6 Tioman & Rawa Weather In August

Clear skies with some occasional rain. Still ideal for underwater activities.

 

3.7 Tioman & Rawa Weather In September

Reaching the end of the dry season. Monsoon winds will start blowing in towards the end of September. Because of cooler temperatures, marine life is less visible.

 

3.8 Tioman & Rawa Weather In October

You’ll start seeing more rainy days, though it can still get quite hot. Sea conditions become less favourable, impacting ferry schedules and underwater visibility.

 

4. Tioman & Rawa Island Tourist Peak Season (June To August)

From June to August, excellent weather conditions mean it’s the best time to visit Tioman.

 

During peak season, Tioman Island will experience the highest number of tourists, as well as higher accommodation rates.

 

 

5. Tioman & Rawa Island Tourist High Season (March To May, September & October)

The islands will see a high volume of tourists from March to May and September to October.

Because it’s less crowded and room rates are lower, some people might prefer holidaying at Tioman during this time.

 

6. Tioman Island Tourist Low Season (November To February)

Due to the monsoon season from November to February, the islands will see the least amount of tourists during this period.

Most businesses will be closed and it will be difficult getting transport to the islands.