Best Time to Dive in the Philippines: Monsoons, Typhoons and Dry Season

The Philippines offers spectacular diving year-round, but knowing its seasons ensures the best experience. Get ready for warm waters, incredible visibility, and unforgettable encounters.

Hey there, fellow diver! Ready to plunge into the underwater wonders of the Philippines? It's one of my favorite destinations, and for good reason. This blessed archipelago offers astonishing marine biodiversity and dreamy diving conditions. But when's the best time to go?

The answer isn't as simple as a single month, thankfully! The Philippines allows you to dive almost year-round, but understanding its seasons will help you plan the perfect adventure. If you don't know its areas yet, start with our guide to diving in the Philippines. Let's break it all down to make your trip unforgettable.

The Philippines Diving Seasons: An Overview

Philippine weather is governed by two main seasons: the dry and the wet. Both have their charms and specific diving characteristics.

Dry Season (November to May):

• Characteristics: Cooler, drier months, clear skies, and calmer seas.
• Ideal for: Practically all types of diving. This is peak season!
• Water temperature: 26-30°C.
• Visibility: 20-40 meters, often even more.

Wet Season (June to October):

• Characteristics: More rain, especially between July and September, and potentially choppier seas.
• Ideal for: Avoiding crowds and diving quieter sites. Still many sunny days.
• Water temperature: 27-30°C.
• Visibility: 15-30 meters, can be reduced by heavy rain or storms.

Diving Month by Month: What to Expect?

Every month has its magic. Here's a quick breakdown to help you choose your ideal time:

November - February: Paradise Begins!

• Weather: Cool and dry, gentle northeast winds (Amihan).
• Water temperature: 26-28°C.
• Visibility: Excellent, 25-40m+.
• What to see: Peak season for thresher sharks in Malapascua, sardine run in Moalboal, and mantas in Tubbataha (if going on a liveaboard later).
• Ideal for: Practically any diver. Optimal conditions!

March - May: The Peak of Excellence

• Weather: Hot and dry, calm seas.
• Water temperature: 28-30°C.
• Visibility: Exceptional, 30-40m+.
• What to see: Whale sharks in Donsol and Oslob (ethically, please!), mantas in Tubbataha (April-June), and coral blooming. A feast for the eyes!
• Ideal for: Photographers, big pelagic lovers, and those seeking the best conditions.

June - October: The Green and Quiet Season

• Weather: More rain, especially during the monsoon peak (July-September). Southwest winds (Habagat).
• Water temperature: 28-30°C.
• Visibility: Good, 15-30m, can vary.
• What to see: Fewer divers, meaning more intimate dive sites. Macro life thrives. You can still see thresher sharks and sardines.
• Ideal for: Those looking to avoid crowds or focusing on macro photography.

Monsoon and Weather Patterns: How They Affect Diving

The Philippines is influenced by two main monsoons:

• Amihan (November - May): Northeast winds bring drier, cooler weather. Generally best diving conditions. Sites exposed to the west might be choppier.
• Habagat (June - October): Southwest winds bring rain and warmer weather. Sites exposed to the east are often more sheltered.

Typhoons are more likely between July and November but can occur at any time. Dive centers are experts at monitoring the weather and prioritizing your safety. They will always have alternatives or notify you in advance.

Best Months for Specific Interests

Looking for something specific? Here's the quick guide:

• Macro Photography: Year-round, but the wet season (June-October) can offer unique species with less competition.
• Pelagics (Thresher Sharks, Mantas, Whale Sharks): November - May is your best bet. For thresher sharks, Malapascua is key. For mantas, Tubbataha (April-June). For whale sharks, Donsol (February-May).
• Wreck Diving: Year-round, especially Coron. Visibility might be slightly better in the dry season, but the wrecks are always there. For the deeper ones, it is worth having your Advanced Open Water.
• Beginners: Dry season (November-May) offers the calmest and easiest conditions. Less current and better visibility make it ideal for learning or gaining confidence. A dive with the sardine run in Moalboal is an amazing experience!

What to Pack and Prepare for Each Season

Regardless of the season, always bring:

• Wetsuit: A 3mm shorty or a rash guard is often sufficient. If you get cold easily or do many dives, a full 3mm suit is perfect.
• Sun protection: Essential! Biodegradable sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
• Mosquito repellent: Especially if traveling in the wet season or visiting rural areas.

Dry Season (November - May):

• Light clothing: Shorts, t-shirts, light dresses. Evenings can be cool in some areas.
• Footwear: Sandals or flip-flops. Something more closed for excursions.
• Considerations: Book accommodation and diving in advance, as it's peak season.

Wet Season (June - October):

• Light, quick-drying clothing: A light rain jacket or poncho is useful. Don't forget your swimsuit!
• Footwear: Water-resistant sandals. Closed-toe shoes for rain.
• Considerations: Be flexible with plans due to potential weather changes. Check local conditions before each trip out.

Diving the Philippines on an Organised Trip

If you'd rather not deal with the logistics between islands, DiverDoo has two expeditions by OJO DE PEZ Expeditions that combine several areas: the 10-day trip across Dauin, Moalboal and Malapascua, and the 14-day trip, which adds Panglao. Both require an Advanced level. Check the departure dates on each page and, for the best conditions, pick the ones that fall in the dry season.

I hope this guide helps you plan your incredible diving adventure in the Philippines! No matter when you go, its waters will take your breath away. See you underwater!

Frequently asked questions

What's the best time to see thresher sharks in Malapascua?

The best time to see thresher sharks in Malapascua is during the dry season, from November to May, with most consistent encounters from December to April.

Can you dive in the Philippines during the rainy season?

Yes, absolutely! While there's more rain, especially from July to September, the wet season offers warm waters, fewer crowds, and sheltered dive sites. Visibility can vary but is still good.

What kind of wetsuit should I bring?

For the warm Philippine waters, a 3mm shorty or a rash guard is usually sufficient. If you get cold easily or do many dives, a full 3mm suit will provide more comfort.