When To Go · Destination Guide
Budget friendly Caribbean diving with year round whale shark chances
When to go
Warm water year round around 27°C to 29°C with trade winds strongest in Jun-Aug.
Best overall window
More bait balls and calm days; water ~28°C.
Outside that window
Windier with more chop on crossings; north side accessible only in settled spells.
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: Good | Overall - Feb: Good | Overall - Mar: Best | Overall - Apr: Best | Overall - May: Good | Overall - Jun: Tradeoffs | Overall - Jul: Tradeoffs | Overall - Aug: Tradeoffs | Overall - Sep: Tradeoffs | Overall - Oct: Best | Overall - Nov: Best | Overall - Dec: Best |
These do not replace the overall planner. Use them only if a specific animal or event is driving your trip dates.
Whale sharks
Best for Scuba, Snorkel
Mar to Apr, Oct to Dec
Sightings occur year round with stronger odds in spring and late fall off the north side when bait balls form.
Sea turtle nesting
Jun to Oct
Nesting activity at Pumpkin Hill and Turtle Harbor beaches; observe at a distance and avoid lights.
Built from climate references, access rules, and destination operators. Wildlife timing and route flexibility can shift year to year.