Exploring the Philippines in August means embracing a bit of rain—but don’t worry, there’s still plenty of sunshine and adventure to enjoy. This off-peak month brings fewer crowds, lush green landscapes, and great travel deals on recommended tours in the Philippines during August. Read through this guide to discover where to go, what to expect, and how to make the most of your trip.
August falls within the wet season in the Philippines, but that shouldn’t stop you! Rain showers are typically short and scattered, leaving ample time for beach days and island-hopping under warm tropical skies. There are also plenty of indoor and rainy-season activities you can enjoy. Plus, traveling during the off-season means fewer crowds and lower rates on flights and hotels.
If you're wondering where to go in the Philippines in August, you won't be disappointed. Top picks include Boracay Island, Bohol Island, Palawan, and Cebu City, where you can bask on white-sand beaches and explore nearby islands. For thrill-seekers, Siargao Island is perfect for surfing, while Cagayan de Oro City offers the adrenaline rush of whitewater rafting. Read on to learn more.
In this guide, you’ll find travel tips, weather insights, and the top places to visit in the Philippines in August to help you plan a memorable and well-timed adventure.
Key Takeaways
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August is part of the rainy season in the Philippines, which runs from June to November. It’s often considered one of the wettest months, especially on the western side of the country.
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Off-peak travel in August means fewer tourists and better deals on hotels, flights, and tours—perfect for a more relaxed and budget-friendly vacation.
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Rainfall varies across regions. While Luzon mainland and Palawan Island may experience extended periods of rain, parts of the Visayas and Mindanao see shorter, more scattered showers—making outdoor travel and sightseeing more manageable in many areas.
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Top destinations with less rain or more manageable weather in August include:
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Least Rain: Davao City, Tawi-Tawi Island Province, Camiguin Island
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Less Rain or Scattered Showers: Iloilo Province, Siquijor Island, Cebu Province, Cagayan de Oro City, Bukidnon Province
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Rainy but Manageable: Bohol Island, Siargao Island
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Temperatures in August remain warm and tropical, typically ranging from 24°C to 33°C—slightly cooler than the peak summer months.
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Recommended activities include surfing in Siargao Island, beach trips in Cebu Island or Siquijor Island, countryside tours in Bohol Island and Bukidnon Province, hot spring visits in Camiguin Island, cultural experiences in Davao City, and food trips in Iloilo Province.
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With the right planning, a Philippine vacation in August can be fun and stress-free. Book tours and vacation packages through Guide to the Philippines, where expert travel planners handle all the arrangements for you. With local insights on weather patterns and the best places to visit, you’ll enjoy unforgettable experiences—rain or shine.
Philippines Weather in August
August in the Philippines offers a refreshing change of pace, with lush, rain-kissed landscapes, fewer tourist crowds, and slightly cooler temperatures compared to the earlier summer months.
While August falls within the rainy season and occasional tropical storms may pass through, rain showers are often brief and scattered, followed by bursts of sunshine that bring the scenery to life. Up to three typhoons may enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) during this month, but these are closely monitored by local authorities to ensure traveler safety.
Rain is common, but many areas still enjoy windows of dry weather, making outdoor activities and sightseeing possible with a bit of planning. With some flexibility and an umbrella in hand, you’ll discover plenty of rewarding adventures—minus the high-season crowds.
Is August the Rainy Season in the Philippines?
Yes, August falls right in the middle of the rainy season in the Philippines, which typically runs from June to November. It’s often considered one of the wettest months of the year, particularly on the western side of the country, where the southwest monsoon brings frequent and sometimes heavy rainfall.
While one or more typhoons may enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) during this time, their impact varies depending on the storm’s intensity and path. It’s important to note that many areas—especially in mainland Luzon and Palawan Island—can experience extended periods of rainfall, not just brief or scattered showers.
That said, weather conditions vary across regions. Some parts of the Visayas and Mindanao Islands may experience drier days or shorter rain spells, offering more flexibility for outdoor activities. If you're traveling in August, it's best to monitor local forecasts and plan with flexibility to make the most of your trip.
Philippines Temperature in August
The weather in the Philippines in August is typically warm and humid, with temperatures that are slightly cooler compared to the peak of the summer season (March to May), but still tropical. Temperatures vary by region, with coastal areas generally warmer and mountainous areas much cooler.
In the National Capital Region (including Manila City and neighboring areas), temperatures in August typically range from 22.7°C (72.9°F) to 36.3°C (97.3°F).
Here’s a look at typical temperature ranges across the main island groups:
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Luzon: 24°C to 33°C (75°F to 91°F) – cooler in highland areas like Baguio City, where it can drop to 14°C (57°F)
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Visayas: 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 89.6°F)
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Mindanao: 25°C to 33°C (77°F to 91°F) – cooler in elevated areas like Bukidnon Province
While these are the general extremes, most destinations stay within the middle of these ranges, offering consistently warm and humid weather that’s great for beach trips, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures—weather permitting.
Philippine Destinations with Less Rain or Manageable Showers in August
While many parts of the Philippines experience rainy weather in August, some destinations enjoy more manageable conditions—brief showers, sunny intervals, and minimal typhoon activity. These places offer better weather windows for sightseeing and outdoor activities, making your trip both enjoyable and rewarding even during the rainy season.
Least Rainfall in August
These destinations typically experience the lowest rainfall and are rarely affected by typhoons, making them great choices for travelers seeking more consistent weather:
Davao City (Mindanao Island)
Davao City has one of the most stable climates in the Philippines, with low typhoon risk and relatively light August rainfall. It’s perfect for city tours, food crawls, and nature escapes, and home to the vibrant Kadayawan Festival, which celebrates the region’s rich heritage.
Tawi-Tawi Island Province (Mindanao)
The southernmost province of the Philippines, Tawi-Tawi Province enjoys dry and calm weather in August. Though remote, it rewards travelers with pristine beaches, Sama-Bajau culture, and panoramic views from Bud Bongao—all with minimal crowds.
Camiguin Island (Northern Mindanao)
Camiguin Island enjoys milder rainfall in August. You’ll find sun-filled pockets of time to enjoy snorkeling, waterfalls, and hot springs. Its laid-back charm and lush landscapes make it an ideal off-the-beaten-path escape.
Less Rain or Scattered Showers
These areas experience moderate rainfall or short-lived downpours, typically followed by sunny intervals. With some flexibility, you can enjoy a wide range of activities:
Iloilo Province (Western Visayas)
Iloilo Province experiences shorter rain showers in August compared to parts of Luzon and western Palawan. It’s a great base for heritage walks, food trips, and visits to Guimaras Island and the Islas de Gigantes. Be mindful of ferry schedules, as these can be weather-dependent.
Siquijor Island (Central Visayas)
Siquijor Island receives lighter rainfall than its neighboring islands. The island’s small size and laid-back vibe make it easy to explore between passing showers. Visit waterfalls, enjoy beachfront dining, and discover the island’s unique folklore and charm.
Cebu Province (Central Visayas)
Cebu Province often has intermittent afternoon or evening rain in August. Mornings tend to be dry and suitable for island-hopping, snorkeling, and canyoneering in places like Moalboal and Badian. Some areas on the west coast may see heavier rain due to the monsoon.
Rainy but Manageable
These destinations may see heavier or more frequent rain showers, but many travelers still find the weather manageable with proper planning and flexibility.
Bohol Island (Central Visayas)
Bohol Island’s weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain that lingers. Still, many activities—from visiting the Chocolate Hills to lounging on Panglao’s beaches—remain enjoyable between rain spells. Expect a mix of clouds, sun, and lush greenery.
Siargao Island (Surigao del Norte)
August marks the start of surf season in Siargao Island, attracting surfers with bigger swells. While afternoon showers are common, rain is typically brief and scattered, especially early in the month. It’s still a great time to explore Sugba Lagoon, Magpupungko Rock Pools, and Sohoton Cove.
What to wear when visiting the Philippines in August
When traveling to the Philippines in August, it’s best to pack for both sun and rain. Since this month falls within the rainy season, expect frequent showers—so having wet-weather gear on hand is essential.
Bring a compact umbrella, a light rain jacket or poncho, and quick-drying clothing for unexpected downpours. Rubber slippers or waterproof footwear will come in handy, especially if you plan to explore the streets or join rainy-season activities.
For beach destinations like Boracay Island, Palawan, and Bohol Island, pack swimwear, aqua shoes, and light cover-ups. If you're heading to adventure spots like Siargao Island for surfing or Cagayan de Oro City for whitewater rafting, bring extra sets of quick-dry clothes and outdoor gear suited for water sports.
Even with cloudy skies, humidity levels remain high, so stick to lightweight, breathable fabrics to stay comfortable throughout your trip.
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
- 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!