People hit the beach for different reasons. For sun worshippers, getting a tan and getting sun kissed are necessary for an ultimate island getaway. For the others though, they just want to, well, get away. These are the people who like to escape daily routines and heartbreaks, to rest and just be calm. Whatever your reasons might be, Boracay is still the place to be. This lovely island is a gem, peak or off-peak season.

boracay-volleyball

Photo from John O’Nolan, Flickr, Creative Commons

It is mostly dry from November to May. Considered as the peak season in Boracay, temperature during this time ranges between 25 degrees and 32 degrees Celsius. However, due to global climate change, rain showers may be experienced until December. During summer or between May to July, temperature can reach up to 38 degrees Celsius. The off-peak season in Boracay and basically all Philippine beaches is between mid-July to October. During this time, skies are cloudy, the air gives off a cool breeze, and rain showers are more common. This is also the typhoon season in the Philippines.

The island is naturally shielded from strong typhoons. It could be a little gloomy especially in the afternoons but the sun is up and mighty during the most part of the day. So, if you are wondering about the best time to visit Boracay, it could go either season. And whichever time you choose, the island is going to give you the best time, guaranteed.

Most people flock to Boracay between December all the way to May. We’re not only talking foreign tourists but also locals because school is off and long vacations from work are usually during Christmas time and the Lenten season. It is when the sun is hottest and for travelers with a real itch for the beach, this season just makes the sea and the sand a bit more tempting. The crystal waters and the fine, powdery white sand seem to glow and shine.

For divers and snorkelers, the best time to explore the waters of Boracay is during the summer when most of the 25 main dive sites are accessible and weather conditions are most favorable. During the peak season in Boracay, water temperatures range between 26 degrees to 30 degrees and underwater visibility is excellent.

Boracay is also the summer party capital with a wide range of activities to do during this time. Aside from trying out the ever-growing list of water activities, the most exciting events are also held in the island. In January for example, there is the Ati-Atihan festival, an event in the province of Aklan, where Boracay is located that is much like the mardi gras. During the summer months, big companies also hold their events in the island: sports, beach body contests, movie screenings, and beach side concerts.

boracay-fire-dancing

Photo from Marie Malacaman, Flickr, Creative Commons

The party scene and the nightlife in Boracay is also at its hottest and hippest during the peak season. During this time, the crowd is really up for a good time. So if you are among the party crowd, want to meet new friends or even learn a new language, summer is the best time to go to Boracay. Just a tip: make advance booking if you plan to experience the island during the peak season. Getting a hotel accommodation may be more difficult with the number of travelers from around the world who flock to the island.

What to expect during off-peak season

boracay-white-beach-front

Photo from Constantine Agustin, Flickr, Creative Commons

Off-peak travel is getting more popular for backpackers and tourists. Crowd volume is not that huge and it could be cheaper, too. When in Boracay, the best thing about going there during off-peak months is the sunset. Aside from the beach and the white sand, the lovely Boracay sunset is really something to look forward to. This postcard-worthy beauty is among the most photographed travel spots in the world. And when it is October and November, the sunset is at its most beautiful, you could stare at it with amusement and reverence.

If you want an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, going to Boracay during the lean months is a great idea. It is the best time to enjoy the island without having to compete with a huge crowd. It is also a good time to explore other islands near the White Beach like Puka beach and Bulabog beach. There are normally fewer people in these beaches and during the lean months, chances are good that you can have the beaches to yourself, or at least, sort of.

boracay-diving

Photo from Love Chan, Flickr, Creative Commons

And what is a visit to Boracay without getting an excellent view? For a better view of the island and really be one with nature, hotels like Alta Vista de Boracay give a breathtaking perspective of Boracay. Nestled atop the island’s highest peaks, it doesn’t only provide a better view, it also inspires guests to take it easy and just relax.

This is also the time when airlines give out the best promos and discounts and when hotels offer the best vacation packages and deals. This is the reason why off-peak travel is significantly cheaper and more convenient. Even locals offering water activities are a lot friendlier with their prices.

Boracay is an all-year-round beauty. Whether you choose to travel during summer or during lean months, Boracay will surely charm you and make you want to go back over and over again. And do not worry about the food, it is great any time of the year. The natural charm of Boracay, the fun, and the city-like convenience it offers made Boracay an all-time favorite among tourists. In 2012, international travel magazine Travel + Leisure named Boracay as the best island in the world and it has consistently made it to their “top beaches” lists since. So go ahead and book that flight now and avail of Alta Vista de Boracay’s lowest reservation rates, peak season or not. It is time to experience Boracay the way you have always imagined. And as sure as the sunset is beautiful, you are sure to fall in love with the island over and over again.

Peak or Off-Peak: When is the Best Time to Go to Boracay?