When To Go · Destination Guide
Remote wrecks, reef pinnacles, and living WWII history across Iron Bottom Sound
Updated Apr 26, 2026 • 20 sources
When to go
Tulagi and the Florida Islands are warm and diveable yearround, but the easiest allaround planning window is the drier May to October season.
Best overall window
Drier and more comfortable weather, warm water around 28°C to 30°C, and generally easier touring, with southeast tradewind chop possible on exposed boat legs.
Outside that window
Wet northwest monsoon period, hotter humidity, heavier showers, and higher chance of delayed boats, reduced nearshore visibility, or altered routes.
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: Tradeoffs | Overall - Feb: Tradeoffs | Overall - Mar: Tradeoffs | Overall - Apr: Good | Overall - May: Best | Overall - Jun: Best | Overall - Jul: Best | Overall - Aug: Best | Overall - Sep: Best | Overall - Oct: Best | Overall - Nov: Good | Overall - Dec: Tradeoffs |
These do not replace the overall planner. Use them only if a specific animal or event is driving your trip dates.
Manta Rays at Devil's Highway
Best for Scuba
Year-round
Mantas are associated with current at Devil's Highway rather than a simple monthonly season.
Sharks and Pelagics at Twin Tunnels and Tanavula
Best for Scuba
Year-round
Grey reef sharks, whitetips, tuna, trevally, fusiliers, and snapper are most impressive when current is moving but still safe for the group.
Macro Life in Maravagi Bay
Best for Scuba, Snorkel
Year-round
Maravagi Bay is a calmer macro option for nudibranchs, pipefish, juvenile fish, scorpionfish, cuttlefish, shrimp, crabs, and giant clams.
Guadalcanal and Tulagi WWII Anniversary Week
Best for Topside, Scuba
Aug
The 7 August landings at Guadalcanal, Tulagi, and the Florida Islands are a meaningful history anchor for guided touring and respectful wreck interpretation.
Built from climate references, access rules, and destination operators. Wildlife timing and route flexibility can shift year to year.