What's the Weather, Temperature, and Recommended Attire for Cebu in July? Tips for Dealing with Typhoons and Rain, Plus 5 Recommended Sightseeing Spots
Is it still possible to enjoy a trip to Cebu in July, even though it's the rainy season?
A.
You'll have a great time. Since the rain is mostly short, sudden downpours, it's best to schedule your ocean tours for the morning, and on rainy days,Magellan's CrossI recommend checking out the city sights and spending some time at the shopping malls!
You Can Still Enjoy Cebu in July, Even During the Rainy Season! Tips on Weather, What to Wear, and Sightseeing
This column summarizes the weather, temperatures, and typhoon trends in Cebu in July, as well as recommended clothing and items to pack for your trip.
The rain isSquallThis is a time when sunny weather is the norm, with plenty of breaks in the clouds. We’ll also share our top 5 recommended sightseeing spots that you can enjoy even during the rainy season, so please use this information to help plan your trip!
◆For those concerned about the effects of the rainy season or typhoons
◆For those who want to know what to wear and what to pack for Cebu in July
◆For those who want to visit Cebu with their family during summer vacation
Click here to see the ranking of popular tours in Cebu Island.
If you're not sure, go with this!
▼Click here for recommended tours in Cebu▼
Weather and Climate in Cebu in July
July is the rainy season on Cebu Island, but unlike Japan’s rainy season, there aren’t many days when it rains all day long. If you keep these three factors in mind—temperature, rainfall patterns, and typhoons—you’ll be able to plan your trip with confidence.
You can still enjoy the ocean even during the rainy season!
▼Click here for recommended snorkeling tours▼
Average Air and Sea Temperatures in July
In July on Cebu Island, the daytime high temperatures areAround 31–32°C...with morning and evening lows around 24–25°C.
Temperature fluctuations are minimal throughout the year, and even in July, it’s about as hot as the height of summer in Japan. Because of the high humidity, it might feel a little more muggy.
The water temperature is around 29°C, which is nice and warm—and it’s great that you can easily go in the water even without a wetsuit!
Rainfall consists mainly of downpours
In July, due to the influence of the southwest monsoon, there are more rainy days than during the dry season.
However, most of the time, it rains heavily for a short period.SquallThat's right. It often stops after about an hour or two, and then the blue sky returns.
Since precipitation amounts vary depending on the data, it's best to plan your schedule with the mindset that "it might rain once this afternoon" rather than relying on specific numbers.
The ocean tour isIn the morningIf you keep it on hand, you'll be able to enjoy it before the weather turns bad.
Will a typhoon hit Cebu in July?
July is a time when typhoons frequently form throughout the Philippines. However, most typhoons form north of Cebu Island,Toward LuzonSince it moves in that direction, Cebu Island isn't hit directly very often.
That said, when you're in the area, ferries and boats may be canceled, or the sea may get rough.
Before you leave and during your stay, be sure to check the typhoon’s path using information from PAGASA (the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration) and Japanese weather forecasts. It’s a good idea to build in about a day of leeway in your itinerary for peace of mind.
What to Wear and What to Pack for Cebu in July
In July, Cebu is,Midsummer in JapanYou can wear the same clothes as usual. Just make sure to bring a few extra items to protect yourself from the rain and air conditioning, and you'll be able to enjoy your trip in comfort.
Get around without getting wet, even on rainy days!
▼Click here for recommended private car charters▼
During the day, it's fine to wear midsummer clothing.
During the day, breathable clothing such as T-shirts, shorts, and sandals is ideal.
The sun is very strong, so be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. If you want to protect your skin, it’s a good idea to bring a lightweight long-sleeved shirt.
If you're going in the water, you can wear it over your swimsuitRash GuardI recommend this, too. It protects you from the sun, and since you can wear it as is on the tour, it helps lighten your load!
Items to Bring to Protect Against Rain and Air Conditioning
To prepare for sudden downpours,Folding UmbrellaIt's a good idea to keep a light raincoat in your bag, just in case.
Sandals or boat shoes are ideal for this activity, as they dry quickly even if your feet get wet. Putting your smartphone in a waterproof case is convenient—that way, you can use it even on rainy days or at the beach.
Also, shopping malls, restaurants, and cars tend to be quite air-conditioned. On days when you’ll be spending time indoors, be sure to bring a light jacket or cardigan to wear over your clothes.
Is a trip to Cebu in July a good idea?
July on Cebu Island is a time when you can enjoy the unique benefits of the rainy season. On the other hand, the island gets crowded starting in late July due to Japan’s summer vacation, so it’s important to be aware of how conditions vary depending on the time of year.
Book early for peace of mind!
▼Click here for our recommended whale shark tours▼
Late July is crowded due to summer vacation
In late July, schools in JapanSummer VacationAs we enter this season, the number of families traveling together increases significantly.
Airfare and hotel rates tend to rise, and popular tours can sell out quickly. If you're planning a trip in late July, be sure to book your flights, hotels, and tours all at once as early as possible!
If you want to avoid crowds, this area is relatively quiet.Early to mid-JulyWhy not give it a try?
Benefits of Visiting During the Rainy Season
Compared to the peak season during the dry season, the rainy season tends to have fewer travelers.
If you visit in early to mid-July, you can enjoy even the most popular spots at a relatively leisurely pace. Another great thing is that after a sudden shower, the air is crisp and the greenery looks even more vibrant!
The seawater is warm during this time of year, so you’re unlikely to feel cold even when you go in the water. July is the perfect month for anyone looking to enjoy water activities.
5 Recommended Things to Do in Cebu in July
Here, I’ll introduce five recommended tourist spots on Cebu Island for July. In addition to beach destinations, I’ve also selected some spots in the city that you can enjoy even on rainy days.
Enjoy both the ocean and the waterfall in just one day!
▼Click here for recommended tours in Cebu▼
Oslob
Oslob is a town in the southern part of Cebu Island. Swimming right in front of youwhale shark (Rhincodon typus)Travelers from all over the world come here to snorkel alongside them.
Since you can usually see whale sharks in the morning, it’s best to set out early. Since the tour wraps up before the afternoon—when it tends to rain—it’s perfect even in July!
Since it takes about 3 hours one way by car from Cebu City, taking a tour that includes transportation makes for an easier trip.
◆Directions: About a 3-hour drive from Cebu City
Koh Hilutugan
Hilutungan Island is one of the islands in the Olango Archipelago, located east of Mactan Island. The island is surrounded bymarine sanctuaryIt's set up so that you can see lots of tropical fish.
Since it's an easy boat ride from Mactan Island, it's a popular destination for island hopping.
Depending on the weather, there may be days when the boat doesn't run, so it's best to make your reservation well in advance in July.
◆Access: By boat from Mactan Island
Click here for tours of Hilutugan Island
Kawasan Falls
Kawasan Falls is a waterfall located in Badian, in the southwestern part of Cebu Island. The emerald-green pool at the base of the falls is beautiful, and visitors can jump into it as they make their way down the river.canyoningIt's super popular!
In July, prolonged rain can cause river levels to rise, leading to murky water or the cancellation of activities for safety reasons.
Since the tour operators assess the river conditions on the day of the tour, even first-timers can participate with peace of mind.
Click here for canyoning tours
Magellan's Cross
The Magellan Cross is a cross located in Cebu City that tells the story of the history of Christianity in the Philippines. It is housed inside an octagonal building, and the paintings on the ceiling are also worth seeing.
Right next door is the Santo Niño Church, and it’s a must to visit both together. Since you can explore the church from under the roof,Sightseeing on a Rainy DayIt's a good choice for that, too.
If you'd like to visit the city's major attractions all at once, why not try a tour with a Japanese-speaking guide?
◆Admission: Free
Click here for sightseeing tours with a Japanese-speaking guide
SM Seaside City, Cebu
[Image: Courtesy of PhotoAC, etc. / alt: “SM Seaside City Cebu, a large shopping mall located along the coast”]
SM Seaside City Cebu is a large shopping mall located along the coast in southern Cebu City. It features a wide variety of fashion stores, restaurants, and a supermarket, and its sheer size means you’ll never get bored—even if you spend the whole day there!
Can be enjoyed indoorsSo, it's perfect for days with sudden downpours or when you're feeling worn out from the heat.
Since you can take care of both souvenir shopping and dining all at once, why not stop by on the last day of your trip?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Traveling to Cebu in July
The water temperature is around 29°C, so it’s warm enough to swim in the ocean even in July. However, depending on the weather, the waves can get high, and there are days when boats can’t go out. It’s best to schedule your ocean tours for the morning and leave some flexibility in your itinerary.
If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed trip, we recommend visiting from early to mid-July. If you’re planning a family trip during summer vacation, late July is a good time to go, but since the number of travelers increases during this period, be sure to book your flights, hotels, and tours well in advance.
We recommend checking out the city’s tourist attractions, such as the Magellan Cross—which you can view from under the roof—and the adjacent Santo Niño Church. At shopping malls like SM Seaside City Cebu, you can enjoy shopping and dining indoors. If you charter a private car, you can get around without getting wet, even on rainy days.
summary
July is the rainy season on Cebu Island, but the rain isThe focus is on the squallsAnd there are plenty of sunny spells.
You can dress just as you would in the height of summer. Be sure to bring a folding umbrella and a light jacket, and check the typhoon forecast before you leave.
We recommend scheduling your ocean tour for the morning and spending rainy days exploring the city or visiting shopping malls. Be sure to enjoy Cebu to the fullest—it’s a unique experience you can only have in July!
▼Click here for articles to read in conjunction with this article.
