The East Coast of Malaysia has the opposite monsoon pattern to the west coast. Terengganu's wet season runs from October to February, when the northeast monsoon brings heavy rain and rough seas. This is when the offshore islands close entirely — Redang and Perhentian operate only from March to October. The city itself remains open year-round, but the sea crossing is not possible in the monsoon months.
March to October is the dry season on the east coast, ideal for beach and island visits. The period from May to August is particularly good — dry, hot (30–35°C), and with the clearest water for snorkelling and diving around the islands. June and July can see school holiday crowds, particularly at weekends, when Malaysians from the west coast make the crossing in large numbers.
Hari Raya Aidilfitri (end of Ramadan) brings the city's largest celebrations, with open houses, traditional food, and music. The dates shift each year with the Islamic calendar. Visit Malaysia events and local festivals are spread through the year; the Tourism Terengganu website has current listings.