When To Go · Destination Guide
Union Island logistics, Tobago Cays magic, and one of the Caribbean's best mixed water-playgrounds
When to go
The broad sweet spot is December to May, when Saint Vincent and the Grenadines' historical dry season is in effect and February to March are usually the driest months.
Best overall window
Historical dry season, steadier weather, easier islandhopping, and routine trade winds around 10 km/h to 25 km/h
Outside that window
Inside Atlantic hurricane season, with greater chance of rain, swell, transfer changes, and poststorm disruptions
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: Best | 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.
Green Turtle Foraging at Baradal
Best for Snorkel, Freedive, Scuba
Year-round
The Baradal reserve is the signature wildlife stop of Tobago Cays, where snorkelers and freedivers regularly see green turtles feeding over sea grass in shallow protected water.
Leatherback Turtle Monitoring on Union Island
Best for Topside, Snorkel
Apr to Jul
Union Island Environmental Alliance runs turtle monitoring during the nesting season, giving visitors a chance to support conservation and, with luck, witness nesting or hatchling activity.
Catholic Rock Seabird Viewing
Best for Topside, Snorkel
Year-round
Boatbased viewing around Catholic Rock can reveal active seabird colonies and roosting activity without disturbing the sanctuary.
Union Island Conch Festival
Best for Topside
Feb
Usually held toward the end of February, this local food celebration is one of the best reasons to add an extra evening or two on Union rather than treating it only as a transfer island.
Easterval and Regatta Energy
Best for Topside
Mar to Apr
Easter weekend brings extra activity to Union Island, from regatta spirit to beach gatherings and a livelier local social scene.
Built from climate references, access rules, and destination operators. Wildlife timing and route flexibility can shift year to year.