Philautus amoenus has been known only from Gunung Kinabalu where it inhabits high-elevation mossy forests.

This frog ranges from 24 mm (males) to 35 mm (females). The body shape is relatively stocky with broadly rounded snout. As in most Philautus coloration features may vary greatly. Most specimens are brown above with dark markings

This frog has not been observed very often and little is known about its habits. According to Malkmus et al.(2002), male calling activity peaks between 18:00 and 20:00 h. Males call from vegetation below 150 cm.