Weather
September is the middle of the rainy season in the Philippines, which runs until October. The rains affect different parts of the country, so although September is one of the wettest months in many regions, that's not the case everywhere. Expect temperatures between 77°F and 91°F (25°C and 32°C) in September.
There's also a risk of typhoons in September. While some parts of the country are less susceptible than others (particularly Palawan and the southern Visayas), they can potentially make landfall anywhere. Typhoons can occur at any time of year and are increasingly unpredictable with climate change, but are most likely between June and September. Keep an eye on local weather reports if you're traveling to the Philippines in September, and be prepared to change your plans at short notice if a typhoon is on its way.
Crowds & Costs
September is the low season for travel to the Philippines as most international travelers prefer to come in the dry season. If you do travel to the Philippines in September, you might get a good deal on accommodation and transport, and costs will be lower than earlier in the year.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Where to Go
When choosing places to go in the Philippines this month, be aware that the rain can make it challenging to access some parts of the country. Rural areas may be affected by mud and landslides on the roads, domestic flights may be canceled or delayed when the rainfall is heavy, and ferries might be uncomfortable when the seas are choppy. Build some buffer days into your itinerary if you're venturing to more remote parts of the Philippines in September, or stick to more popular areas.
The Eastern Visayas is a central Philippines region including Samar Island and Leyte Island, as well as many smaller islands surrounding these larger ones. This region is ideal for rainy-season travel because it's mostly dry compared to northern areas. If you're wanting a beach vacation with lower prices, few tourists, and generally good weather (you might get a shower or two), head to the Eastern Visayas.
Leyte has excellent beaches and appeals to travelers seeking an easy, relaxing beach getaway. Samar is a bit more "rugged" and appeals more to travelers who want to get off the beaten path and search for their slice of paradise. Renting a motorbike and searching for your own private beach is a good idea in Samar.
What to Do
While typhoons are generally to be avoided, the winds whip up the ocean and lead to heavier ocean swells around the Philippines: good news for surfers. To surf one of the best breaks in the world, head to Siargao Island in September. The small island off the northeastern coast of Mindanao is a year-round surfing destination, but the biggest waves start in August and continue into September. Cloud 9 has been called the best surf break in the Philippines, and one of the best in the world, by keen surfers. It's a right-hand barreling peak over live coral, so surf it on a mid to high tide to avoid injury.
Travelers who find themselves in Cebu for a beach vacation can also tour a range of beautiful colonial-era sites, if there's rain or when you want to take a break from the beach. Many travelers will pass through Cebu City on the way to the beaches, and can easily fill half or a full day at attractions including the 1730 Jesuit House museum, the 17th-century Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral, the 16th-century Basílica Menor del Santo Niño de Cebu, the 18th-century Fort San Pedro, and the hilltop Taoist Temple.
Events in September
Peñafrancia Fluvial Festival, Naga, Bicol. Held on the third Saturday of September, a statue of the patron saint of Bicol is paraded through the streets of Naga before being sailed down the river and returned to its home in its shrine.
More Helpful Information
The Philippines in August
The Philippines in October
Best Time of Year to Visit the Philippines
How Many Days to Spend in the Philippines