Philippines in August Travel Guide: Where to Go, Weather, Best Activities, Festivals, Tips

Philippines Weather in August 

The Philippine weather in August is generally wet and rainy. During this month, up to three typhoons may enter the country, and in some provinces, it can be the wettest month of the year. 

Is August the rainy season in the Philippines?

Yes. The rainy season in the Philippines is June to November, and August can be the wettest month. While one or more typhoons are to be expected during this time, destinations can be affected differently and have varying weather conditions depending on the intensity and path of the storm.

Philippines Temperature in August

Temperatures in the Philippines during August can greatly vary depending on the destination. In the National Capital Region, for example, the temperature during this month can go from a low of 22.7°C (72.86°F) to a high of 36.3°C (97.34°F). 

In the whole of Luzon, the expected temperature for August is 14.4°C to 38.3°C (57.92°F to 100.94°F), while in Visayas, it is 20.4°C to 36.5°C (68.72°F to 97.7°F) and in Mindanao it is 15.4°C to 37.3°C (59.72°F to 99.14°F).

Generally, though, August temperatures in the Philippines tend to stay in the middle of these ranges and not go to extreme highs and lows. 

What to wear when visiting the Philippines in August

If you plan to travel to the Philippines in August, make sure to bring wet-weather clothing and accessories. While there are a few sunny days in August, it will be mostly rainy and cloudy, so always bring an umbrella whenever you go out.

Ponchos and rain jackets are also helpful for sudden downpours, and rubber slippers and rain boots are essential if you want to try rainy-season activities in the Philippines. If you’re planning on surfing, whitewater rafting, or island-hopping, you should bring swimwear and aqua shoes. 

Where to Go in the Philippines and Best Activities in August 

August may not be the best time to visit the Philippines if you’re expecting sunny days, but there are still plenty of things you can try and experiences you can enjoy during this month. Philippine beaches will be generally less packed, and other activities like surfing and whitewater rafting are actually best suited for the weather in the Philippines in August.

Visit Boracay’s white-sand beaches

Boracay is one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines and in the world. Boracay in August sees fewer visitors, so this means you’ll get to enjoy its beaches with fewer crowds. There are several beaches you can visit, including White Beach, Puka Beach, Diniwid Beach, and Bulabog Beach. If the weather is clear, you can also enjoy Boracay island-hopping packages and other water activities in Boracay, like paraw sailing and crystal kayaking.

• See our Boracay tour packages and Boracay tours
• Book Boracay airport transfers

Go on a countryside tour in Bohol

Since the attractions here are all inland, you can experience a countryside tour of Bohol in August, even during rainy season. A countryside tour is one of the most popular Bohol tours and includes visits to attractions like the Bilar Man-Made Forest, the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary, and, of course, the iconic Chocolate Hills. Most Bohol countryside tours also include a Loboc River cruise lunch, where you can feast on local food while drifting down the river.

• See our Bohol tour packages
• Check out Chocolate Hills activities you can try

Explore Cebu’s beaches and try outdoor activities

When visiting Cebu in August, there are plenty of beaches you can explore, including Moalboal’s White Beach and Badian’s Lambug Beach. Apart from visiting Cebu beaches, you can go on other adventures like Cebu canyoneering tours, Oslob whale shark watching tours, and Moalboal island-hopping tours, where you can experience a majestic sardine run. Note that these water activities will only push through if the weather is clear.

• Check out our Cebu tour packages and Cebu tours

Surf in Siargao

Siargao is the surfing capital of the Philippines, and one of the best months for epic surfing waves is August. Siargao in August can host waves of up to 12 feet. Advanced surfers can head to Pacifico, Tuason’s Point, or Cloud 9, the most popular surfing spot on the island. Intermediate surfers can head to Bumee, Pesangan, Daku Reef, and Pansukian Reef, while beginners can learn to ride the waves at Quicksilver and Jacking Horse. 

• Book Siargao tour packages
• Read about other surfing spots in the Philippines

Explore Siquijor Island

There are many Siquijor tours that you can try when visiting this mystical island. You can visit the oldest Balete tree on the island, which stands in the middle of a natural spring, and Lazi Convent, a declared National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines which is the largest and oldest convent in Asia. If the weather is clear, you can also visit other Siquijor tourist spots like Paliton Beach, Salagdoong Beach, Cambugahay Falls, and Capilay Spring.

Try whitewater rafting in Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro is the whitewater rafting capital of the Philippines, and August is the best time to try this extreme activity because the water levels of the Cagayan de Oro River are high. In this activity, you will ride a raft and make your way along the river by passing through several rapids. 

You’ll definitely get wet on this activity, and there is a possibility that you might fall off the raft, but as long as you wear the proper protective gear and follow the instructions of your guide, you can safely enjoy the experience. Make the most of your visit by exploring other Cagayan de Oro tourist spots.

Go island-hopping in Palawan

Palawan in August sees intermittent rains, but thanks to its location, it is usually not affected by typhoons, making it the perfect place to go island-hopping in the Philippines during this period. These tours will allow you to visit some of the top tourist spots in Luzon. 

El Nido island-hopping tours can take you to stunning lagoons bordered by limestone cliffs, beautiful beaches, and majestic caves, while Coron island-hopping tours will bring you to beautiful lakes and fascinating shipwreck dive sites. On Honda Bay island-hopping tours in Puerto Princesa, you will get to visit stunning islands and serene sandbars. 

• Check out our El Nido tour packages
• Browse our Coron package deals
• See our Puerto Princesa tour packages

Have a cozy trip in Baguio

Baguio is considered the Summer Capital of the Philippines, but it can be visited year-round. Located in the mountains of Benguet, the temperature here is much cooler than in Metro Manila, making it a popular option for those who want to escape the heat. Baguio is much cooler during the rainy season, and in August, in can reach a low of 16°C (60.8°F).

Baguio is also rich in culture and history, being the home of an American military camp once. Going on Baguio tours will allow you to visit Baguio tourist spots like Burnham Park, Camp John Hay, Mines View Park, and Tam-Awan Village.

• Check out our recommended cultural activities in the Philippines

Take a dip at the best Philippine hot springs

Photo by the Department of Tourism Philippines

Since the country is home to multiple active volcanoes, there are many natural hot springs in the Philippines. These hot springs are perfect for warming up during cold days. If you’re coming from Manila, you should definitely consider visiting the nearby province of Laguna. There are many hot spring resorts in Laguna, and the private ones are perfect for those traveling in groups. You can also find hot springs in Cebu, Dumaguete, Coron, Pampanga, Sorsogon, and Camiguin.

Visit indoor museums and playgrounds

If you want to stay indoors, you can still have a great time when you check out the exhibits in museums or visit indoor playgrounds. Manila Museum tours can bring you to the National Museum Complex and the Mind Museum. You can also drop by the Pinto Art Museum in Rizal, the BenCab Museum in Benguet, or the Chocolate Museum in Davao. 

You can also try other unique indoor activities in Manila, like taking photos at the Dessert Museum, getting slimed at Gootopia, and learning how to create desserts at Bakebe.

• Get Dessert Museum tickets
• Book a Gootopia 1-hour pass
• Secure a Bakebe day pass

Go on a food tour

There are many culinary destinations in the Philippines, and during the rainy season, one of the best activities to do is indulge in delicious Filipino food. While you can sample local delicacies wherever you are in the Philippines, one of the best places for a gastronomical tour is Pampanga. 

Dubbed the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, Pampanga is known for its flavorful dishes like sisig and tibuk-tibuk. You can try these and other delicacies at the top Pampanga restaurants.

August Festivals and Events in the Philippines 

There are at least two national holidays in the Philippines in August, Ninoy Aquino Day (August 21) and National Heroes Day (last Monday of August). Many Filipinos use these Philippine holidays to travel and go out, so if you want to avoid crowds, schedule your trip on different dates.

Kadayawan Festival in Davao

The Kadayawan Festival in Davao celebrates the bountiful harvests and the province’s culture. The highlight of the festival is the Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan, a colorful street dance competition where groups from all over Mindanao participate. For a hassle-free experience, you can book Davao tour packages.

• Find Davao tours

Tips when Traveling to the Philippines in August 

For a hassle-free trip in the Philippines for the month of August, take note of these important travel tips:

Crowds in August

Since August falls during the rainy season in the Philippines, there are fewer local travelers exploring its many tourist attractions. Families especially don’t usually travel during this month since it also coincides with the start of the school year. Because it’s the lean season for traveling, more often than not, the are fewer crowds in most tourist destinations.

However, National Heroes Day is on the last Monday of August, so there is always a long weekend toward the end of the month. Local tourists might take advantage of this long break to do some exploring, so there may be more tourists during this time compared to other days of the month.

Driving in the Philippines in August

Whether you are in the city or in the province, it’s best to exercise caution when driving in the Philippines in August. In the city, rains can quickly cause roads to be slippery or flooded. This also usually means heavy traffic that can keep you stuck on the road for hours. 

Flooding can also happen on provincial roads, but you also need to watch out for landslides that can cause mountain roads to be unpassable. Because of this, it’s best to book a Philippine car rental that is either a van or an SUV.

• Read our guide to car rental in the Philippines
• Book Philippine airport transfers

Boat tours during the rainy season in the Philippines may be canceled

In the interest of everyone’s safety, boat tours, and other outdoor activities may be canceled when it’s raining. For island-hopping tours and other boat tours, tour operators follow the guidelines of the Philippine Coast Guard. To avoid stress and hassle, book tours with reputable travel agencies like Guide to the Philippines. This way, you can get full refunds in case your tours are canceled because of force majeure.

Prepare for power interruptions

Strong winds from typhoons may knock electric poles and wires down, causing power interruptions. While most big hotels will have their own power generators, smaller accommodations may not have their own backup electricity supply, so it’s always best to keep your devices charged and bring power banks.

Expect travel delays

Heavy rains and strong winds can cause ferries or sea transfers and flights to the Philippines to be delayed or even canceled. Expect to have long waits at airports and seaports during this month. Make sure your Philippine itinerary is flexible enough to accommodate these instances.

Keep yourself hydrated and take vitamins

In the Philippines, the rainy season usually means it’s cold and flu season as well. To help ensure your body can fight off viral infections, drink plenty of fluids and take vitamins regularly. Also, make sure to get enough rest after a full day of exploring.  

Recommended Philippines travel itineraries in August

Whatever kind of traveler you are, it will be easy to find the perfect travel itinerary for you in the Philippines this month. 

If you want to visit white sand beaches in the Philippines, your safest bet is Palawan. A 2-week Coron, El Nido, and Puerto Princesa tour will take you to Palawan’s best beaches, islands,  lakes, lagoons, sandbars, and caves. 

Those who want to explore different provinces and tourist spots in the Visayas can try a 9-day Cebu, Bohol, and Dumaguete itinerary. Going on this tour will bring you to Dumaguete’s hot springs and waterfalls, Bohol’s countryside and islands, and Cebu’s natural wonders. 

You can also book a 12-day Bohol to Cebu to Boracay adventure, where instead of visiting Dumaguete, you’ll be able to explore Boracay’s stunning beaches and pristine islands. 

A 1-week Iloilo to Guimaras and Bacolod tour is best suited for those who want to visit underrated places in the Philippines and learn more about the heritage and history of these provinces. 

• Check out our article on the top waterfalls in the Philippines

Should you want to visit some of the top tourist spots in Mindanao, you can enjoy a 1-week Cagayan de Oro, Camiguin, and Bukidnon itinerary, where you can experience whitewater rafting, explore a forest park, visit a pineapple plantation, and take a dip in hot springs.

You can explore both the Visayas and Mindanao regions when you go on a 10-day Bohol to Cebu to Siargao itinerary, where you can try surfing in Siargao in addition to visiting attractions in Bohol and Cebu.

Plan Your August Philippines Trip Now

If you’re looking for the best Asian country to travel to in August, you should definitely consider the Philippines. While it may not be as sunny and warm compared to the summer months, it is still a great time to explore the country’s many natural and indoor attractions, and the best part is the lean season means you can score discounts on airfare, accommodations, and even services!