When To Go · Country Guide
A two-ocean Caribbean country where easy southeast reefs, north-coast bays, and Samana whale season can all fit one trip
Updated Mar 27, 2026 • 22 sources
When to go
The broadest countrywide planning window is December through April, when skies are usually clearer, humidity is lower, and it is easier to combine the southeast, north coast, and Samana in one trip.
Best overall window
Clearer skies, easier crosscountry planning, and daytime air often around 25°C to 29°C
Outside that window
Warm water near 28°C to 29°C, but storm watch and more weather disruption on Atlantic coasts
Start with the overall answer, then switch only when scuba, freedive, snorkel, or topside timing changes the trip in a meaningful way.
The overall row stays visible so you can compare it against the currently selected scope.
| Scope | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | Overall - Jan: Best | Overall - Feb: Best | Overall - Mar: Best | Overall - Apr: Best | Overall - May: Good | Overall - Jun: Good | Overall - Jul: Tradeoffs | Overall - Aug: Tradeoffs | Overall - Sep: Tradeoffs | Overall - Oct: Tradeoffs | Overall - Nov: Good | Overall - Dec: Best |
These do not replace the overall planner. Use them only if a specific animal or event is driving your trip dates.
Humpback whale watching in Samana
Best for Topside
Jan to Mar
The country's signature wildlife season, with licensed whalewatching operations in Samana Bay and the wider marine mammal sanctuary.
Best broad-country planning window
Best for Scuba, Freedive, Snorkel, Topside
Dec to Apr
This is the easiest period to combine southeast diving, northcoast water time, and Samana scenery in one itinerary.
Warmest water country-wide
Best for Scuba, Freedive, Snorkel
Aug to Oct
Surface water is often at its warmest, which is pleasant for snorkeling and freediving, but weather risk rises as well.
Built from climate references, access rules, and destination operators. Wildlife timing and route flexibility can shift year to year.