The best time to visit the Philippines
The best time to visit the Philippines for warm, sunny weather is January to April, when its destinations average a Sunshine Score of 75/100 with daytime highs around 30°C / 86°F. December and May are quieter shoulder-season alternatives with still-reliable sun. The sea is swimmable (21°C+) year-round, warmest in May at 31°C.
The Philippines by month, averaged across 19 destinations from long-term climate normals — the best stretch is highlighted.
| Month | Sunshine Score | Avg day high | Rain | Sea | For a trip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 71 | 28° / 82°F | 168 mm | 29° | Excellent |
| February | 76 | 29° / 84°F | 115 mm | 28° | Excellent |
| March | 76 | 30° / 86°F | 98 mm | 29° | Excellent |
| April | 75 | 31° / 88°F | 83 mm | 30° | Excellent |
| May | 64 | 31° / 88°F | 171 mm | 31° | Very good |
| June | 65 | 30° / 86°F | 260 mm | 31° | Very good |
| July | 65 | 29° / 84°F | 292 mm | 30° | Very good |
| August | 65 | 29° / 84°F | 255 mm | 31° | Very good |
| September | 65 | 29° / 84°F | 255 mm | 30° | Very good |
| October | 65 | 29° / 84°F | 259 mm | 31° | Very good |
| November | 66 | 29° / 84°F | 207 mm | 30° | Very good |
| December | 67 | 28° / 82°F | 228 mm | 29° | Very good |
When to go — and when to think twice
Best overall: January to April — the Philippines' warmest, most reliable stretch (Sunshine Score 75/100, ~30°C / 86°F days). Shoulder season: December and May — quieter, still sunny. Hottest: April, ~31°C / 88°F. Wettest: July (292 mm) — pack for showers.
Where to base yourself for sunshine: Mabalacat (2,540 h/yr), Coron (2,540 h/yr), Puerto Princesa (2,497 h/yr). See where it's sunniest in the Philippines month by month, the hottest places in the Philippines, or every the Philippines destination with a full climate card.