Derawan Islands in September
Great time to visit
September offers the sweet spot of excellent weather with fewer crowds and lower prices than peak season. A smart choice for budget-conscious divers.
Weather
September extends the dry season with continued excellent conditions. Rainfall remains minimal and seas stay calm. The trade winds begin to shift slightly but still provide comfortable cooling throughout the day.
32°C high25°C low6 rain days
Crowds & Cost
moderate crowds
~$130/day average
September Tips
- •Crowds and prices start dropping after school holidays end
- •Still excellent diving conditions with good visibility
- •Great month for photography with consistent lighting
All Months
April through September offers the calmest seas and clearest visibility for diving. Visibility regularly exceeds 30 meters during these months, and boat rides between islands are comfortable. This is peak season, so book accommodations well in advance.
Manta ray sightings peak from May to August when plankton blooms attract them to cleaning stations. Whale sharks are present year-round but seem more active during the calmer months.
Avoid October through March when northeast monsoons bring rough seas and frequent rain. Many dive operators close during January and February due to dangerous conditions. Even if you can get there, you'll spend most days stuck indoors.
The shoulder months of April and September offer the best value with good weather but fewer crowds. Water temperature stays around 28°C year-round, so a 3mm wetsuit is plenty.
Derawan Islands Scores
Solo
6/10
Couples
7/10
Families
4/10
Adventure
9/10
Budget
5/10
Luxury
3/10
BUILD YOUR DERAWAN ISLANDS PLAN
Insider picks, smart timing, and a plan ready when you are.