May is a golden month in the Philippines. It’s the tail end of the dry season, which means sunshine, vibrant festivals, fewer tourists, and crystal-clear waters—basically everything you want in a tropical escape. If you’ve been wondering where to hot in May, look no further. The Philippines, with its 7,000+ islands, is a beach and adventure paradise waiting to be explored.
Let’s break down the best spots across the country for sunseekers, thrill-seekers, and culture lovers alike.
1. Palawan: Paradise Found
El Nido & Bacuit Bay
With limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and powdery white beaches, El Nido is straight out of a postcard. Go island-hopping through Bacuit Bay, snorkel in Big and Small Lagoon, and catch golden hour at Las Cabanas Beach.
Coron
More laid-back than El Nido, Coron is famous for its wreck diving. The sunken Japanese warships from WWII are now home to thriving marine life, making it a top diving destination globally.
2. Siargao: Surfing and Island Vibes
If you want a blend of surf, nature, and cool island energy, Siargao is it. Cloud 9 is the legendary surf break, but non-surfers can island-hop to Naked Island, Magpupungko Rock Pools, and Sugba Lagoon. May offers fantastic weather and fewer crowds—perfect for exploring.
3. Bohol: A Mix of Nature and Beaches
Bohol offers a bit of everything. White sand beaches on Panglao Island, the iconic Chocolate Hills, and encounters with the tiny, wide-eyed tarsiers. May is great for both inland adventure and coastal chill time.
4. Cebu: Waterfalls, Whalesharks, and Culture
South Cebu Adventures
Think epic waterfalls like Kawasan Falls (ideal for canyoneering), snorkeling with sardine runs in Moalboal, and swimming with whale sharks in Oslob. It's packed with adrenaline-pumping experiences.
Cebu City
For a dose of history, visit Magellan’s Cross, Fort San Pedro, and the Basilica del Santo Niño before heading back to the beach.
5. Boracay: Beach Life at Its Finest
After its major rehab, Boracay is back and better than ever. White Beach is still one of the finest beaches in the world. In May, the sea is calm, the sun is shining, and the nightlife is buzzing—just the way you want it for a full-on beach holiday.
6. Batanes: Off-the-Grid Beauty
Looking for somewhere totally unique? Batanes offers windswept cliffs, rolling green hills, and stone houses that feel more Scottish Highlands than Southeast Asia. May is dry, peaceful, and the landscapes are surreal.
7. Camiguin: The Island Born of Fire
Tiny but packed with beauty, Camiguin is a volcanic island with waterfalls, hot springs, sunken cemeteries, and pristine sandbars. If you're up for adventure and some mystical energy, Camiguin is a must-visit.
8. Davao: Nature, Culture, and Mount Apo
For a mix of everything in a more off-the-beaten-path way, Davao is ideal. Climb Mount Apo (the tallest mountain in the Philippines), visit the Philippine Eagle Center, and enjoy fresh durian and pomelo. It's sunshine-filled and bursting with flavor and culture.
9. La Union: Surf and Chill by the West Coast
Just a few hours from Manila, La Union is perfect for a quick May getaway. Surf at San Juan, explore grape farms, or sip cocktails by the beach. It's laid-back and stylish—perfect for solo travelers or couples.
10. Caramoan: The Quiet Escape
Featured on “Survivor,” Caramoan’s untouched islands and hidden coves make it a dream destination for peaceful exploration. Island-hop to your heart's content with hardly a soul around. In May, the weather is ideal, and the waters are crystal-clear.
Why May is the Perfect Time to Visit the Philippines
- Ideal Weather: May is the last full month of the dry season, so skies are generally clear, waters calm, and humidity manageable.
- Festivals: From Pahiyas in Lucban to Flores de Mayo across the islands, the cultural vibe in May is vibrant.
- Less Crowded: Since school holidays haven’t kicked off internationally yet, it’s less crowded than peak months like April or December.
- Affordable Rates: Flights and accommodation prices are still reasonable before summer peaks in other parts of the world.
What to Pack for Your May Trip in the Philippines
- Lightweight clothing (cotton/linen)
- Swimwear and water shoes
- High SPF sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle
- Dry bag (for boat trips and beach days)
- Portable fan and insect repellent
- Snorkeling gear if you want your own
Travel Tips for a Seamless Adventure
- Book inter-island flights early: Routes like Manila to Siargao or Cebu to Coron fill up fast.
- Download local apps: Grab (for transport), Klook (for tours), and GCash (for mobile payments) can be game changers.
- Respect local customs: Especially during festivals or in more rural areas.
- Cash is king: Especially in islands or small towns, so always keep some with you.
Conclusion
Still wondering where to travel in May? The Philippines is hands-down one of the best places in the world for sunshine, beach life, and adventure this time of year. From the limestone cliffs of Palawan to the surf breaks of Siargao, the island nation is a tropical playground with something for every kind of traveler.
Whether you're diving with turtles, hiking volcanoes, sipping coconut juice on white sands, or joining colorful fiestas, May in the Philippines is pure magic.
And if you're planning ahead and craving even more sunshine or experiences, take a peek at the top destinations to visit in May beyond the Philippines too—because the world is wide, and adventure never waits!