Palawan August — aerial view of Pinagbuyutan island near El Nido, inaccessible by boat during the monsoon peak

Palawan · Philippines

August

The wettest month of the year — 270mm, maximum typhoon risk, El Nido tours essentially suspended.

Avoid

#11 of 12 months

There are better months for Palawan — see the full ranking below.

See when to go instead →

Climate

High

30°C

Low

24°C

Rain

270mm

Sun

3.5hrs/day

30-year climate normals · Open Meteo ERA5

How August scores in Palawan

Weather
Very low
Value
Perfect
Crowds
Perfect
Events
Low
Atmosphere
Below average

What you gain in August

  • Palawan at its most deserted — for travellers who value solitude above all else, August offers empty beaches and a raw natural environment untouched by tourism
  • Prices are at their absolute minimum and accommodation is negotiable; a week-long trip costs a fraction of peak season
  • The Puerto Princesa Underground River and inland jungle experiences are still operable with local guides, offering a different perspective on Palawan

What you sacrifice

  • 270mm of rain is the wettest month on record — it is not a question of rain disrupting plans, it is a question of whether plans are possible at all; El Nido boat operations are largely suspended
  • Typhoon season is at peak intensity — Typhoon-force weather systems can ground flights, close airports, and make evacuation impossible; travel insurance with cancellation cover is essential but may not cover weather delays
  • Accommodation quality suffers: some properties deferred maintenance until the low season, and the reduced staff and closed restaurants create a hollow experience

How August compares to December (best month)

FactorAugustDecember
Weather
1
9
Value
10
3
Crowds
10
3

August in other destinations

Climate data: 30-year normals (1991–2020) from Open Meteo ERA5 reanalysis. Scores compare months within Palawan, not across destinations. Methodology →