Philippines in September: Weather, Travel Tips and More

September sits in the middle of the Philippines monsoon season, which usually runs from June to November. During this rainy season month, Luzon received an average rainfall of 432 millimeters. The Visayas region meanwhile gets an average rain of 160 millimeters. Average maximum temperatures typically reach 30°C, with lows of around 25°C. Expect cool, comfortable temperatures when it’s overcast and hot, humid weather when the sun is out. September is also prime time for typhoons. So keep a close eye on the news and get ready to change your travel plans accordingly.

For a complete seasonal overview, check out our article on the best time to visit the Philippines.

Although it’s not ideal for working on your tan, there are plenty of reasons to consider a trip to the Philippines in September. Here are some of them:

• Low prices: Beachside resorts in sought-after destinations slash their rack rates during the wet season. You’ll find killer deals on international and domestic airfares, too.
• Fewer people: Dreaming of seeing world-renowned destinations like Boracay without the thick tourist throngs? There’s no better time to visit than September.
• Lush landscapes: Forget about parched pastures and wilting palm trees. The green season sees the landscapes burst into vibrant, verdant hues.
• Surfing: Big wet season swells see huge waves hit the surfing mecca of Siargao. Thrill-seekers can careen down tumultuous Mindanao rivers on a white-water-rafting adventure.

While you get higher-than-average rainfall everywhere in September, some Filipino islands are less wetter than others.

The southern island of Mindanao, for example, doesn’t get anywhere near as much rain as Luzon. Popular destinations on the island include Davao, Siargao and Cagayan de Oro. Whitewater rafting is superb in September when the rivers in the Philippines bulge due to the deluge of rain. Cagayan de Oro (in Mindanao) boasts some of the best on-river action.

Just off Mindanao, Siargao is a popular tropical paradise island with excellent year-round surfing conditions. The biggest swell hits in September, when world-famous breaks like Cloud Nine welcome skilled surfers from around the globe.

Interested in the Visayas? The lesser-known eastern Visayas islands of Samar and Leyte receive relatively little rainfall, perfect for off-the-beaten-track adventures. Central Visayan Islands like Cebu and Negros also get some shelter from the monsoon. Inland attractions like sightseeing tours in Cebu and canyoneering the Kawasan Falls are a safer bet in September than beach bumming or island hopping.

Although Luzon gets drenched in September, it’s a good month to tour Manila if you don’t mind spending time indoors. The capital’s hedonistic nightlife still hums while its glam malls and restaurants continue to trade.

Wherever you decide to go, be aware the rainy season brings big swells to the seas surrounding the archipelago. Keep an eye on the weather and stick to larger boats run by reputable, well-known ferry companies.

Planning a trip to the Philippines in September can be a good idea if you are looking for cheaper rates and quiet beaches. But your options for beach hopping, seaside frolicking and other outdoor activities will be limited. So it is advisable to stick to drier destinations like Siargao, Cebu and Eastern Visayas — and keep your itinerary flexible in case of rainfall. A tricky proposition but not impossible.

Make sure to read our Philippines travel guide before planning your trip. You can also contact our local travel experts to plan a customized tour to the Philippines.

More information:
Philippines in August
Philippines in October