Weather in Boracay and tourist seasons
Balmy weather, magnificent sunsets
Boracay’s weather is similar to the weather in the rest of the Philippines, but seasons define the best times to visit the island. Boracay is generally ruled by two seasons - dry (Amihan) and wet (Habagat): north-easterly wind and southwest monsoon. The former brings moderate temperatures with little or no rainfall, making the Amihan season the most visited period.
The latter, Habagat wet season, on the other hand, brings a hot and humid weather with frequent, heavy rainfall making this season an off peak period. Both seasons have their pros and cons when it comes to visiting opportunities.
Rainy season in Boracay (Jun-Sep)
The Habagat season is Boracay’s off-season and is otherwise known as the wet, or rainy, season. But rainstorms are not really a major hassle since they don't usually last long and are often relieved by sunny spells.
Boracay is less crowded during Habagat season so tourists can enjoy their visit to the island without having to deal with crowded beaches and resorts. Off-season rates are also much lower and affordable among the island hotels
The start of the rainy season varies from year to year, yet it typically begins in June and ends by September. During the rainy season, typhoons come and go, so it is best to check for travel advisories to Boracay because strong rains and winds prevent you from making the most of the watersport activities available at the beach.
Hot season in Boracay (Oct & May-Jun)
Boracay’s peak time for tourists is the Amihan season, when the prevailing wind arrives from the east. Since Boracay’s White Beach and main resorts are on the west portion of the island, it is sheltered from the north-eastern winds. Generally, the Amihan season lasts from September to October and from May to June, although these dates may vary from year to year. Nevertheless, it is the best season for spending the day under the bright shining sun on White Beach, or going off to the other side of the island to Bulabog Beach to enjoy windsurfing and kite-boarding.
The high season often falls between October and May, although during the summer months (March to June), the weather tends to be very hot, with temperatures going as high as 38 degrees (Celsius) or more. The months of November-February are considered peak season since the temperatures are more bearable. Visitors should beware, though, that hotels may be packed during the peak season as this is the time that Europeans and North Americans are having their winters.
Guarding against the heat
Sunny and warm Boracay is hot and humid so visitors should wear light clothing and keep themselves hydrated with water or sports drinks. Sunblock is also a necessity to protect skin from the sun’s UV rays, especially noon to about 15:00. Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats are recommended when staying out in the open for long periods of time.
Much of Boracay’s hotels and hostels are air-conditioned, so you can easily cool off inside your room in case the heat becomes unbearable. Even some of the traditional-style huts for rent come with air-conditioners.
Weather in Boracay by month
Weather in Boracay, January
Boracay has cool mornings and bearable temperatures throughout the day in January. You can expect to enjoy light breezes, calmer seas, cooler temperatures and clearer skies with the rest of the crowd during Boracay’s peak season. Temperatures range from 25 to 32°C.
November to February sees the nicest weather
Weather in Boracay, February
February in Boracay is still cool, but there may be occasional light rain showers during the day. Approaching March, the weather gradually changes from cool to warmer.
Weather in Boracay, March
March marks the start of summer time, with hotter temperatures during both the day and night. Monsoon winds start diminishing, along with occasional thunderstorms offshore.
Weather in Boracay, April
April is the start of the hottest time of the year, with continuous sunny days and warmer weather still. Humidity can be a problem.
Weather in Boracay, May
Occasional rains may be experienced during May, plus it is still a hot month. Temperatures may drop to 28°C and then rise again to the upper-30s, or higher.
Weather in Boracay, June
June marks the end of the Amihan season and the summertime, but the weather is still warm, with hot days and nights.
Weather in Boracay, July
July is the start of the Habagat season, with strong winds hitting White Beach and rains providing cooler weather on the island.
Weather in Boracay, August
August is off-peak season and the weather becomes more humid and sultry. During this time accommodation is easier to find and cheap.
Weather in Boracay, September
September is still wet season in Boracay and the weather remains humid even when showers have finished.
Weather in Boracay, October
October marks the end of the Habagat season and crowds start flocking to Boracay. The weather starts to get cooler again and more bearable, but occasional strong winds are still evident.
Weather in Boracay, November
The weather is lighter and the skies are clearer in November. The seas become calm, making it the start of the tourist season. Temperatures may hit as low as 22°C during evenings, especially when light drizzling of rain occurs.
Weather in Boracay, December
December in Boracay is characterised by cooler weather. Light breezes and calmer seas make the beach and the waters more inviting for relaxing and bathing.
