Roseau in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Roseau
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak dry season with minimal rainfall - only 10 brief shower days compared to 20+ in summer months, perfect for outdoor exploration and whale watching
- Ideal sea conditions with 2-3m (6-10 ft) visibility for diving and snorkeling - calmest waters of the year before March swells arrive
- Sperm whale season peaks in February - 85% chance of sightings on morning tours between 7am-11am when seas are flattest
- Comfortable hiking temperatures averaging 24°C (75°F) in rainforest areas, 6°C (11°F) cooler than humid season starting in May
Considerations
- Peak tourist season means accommodation prices increase 40-60% above shoulder season rates and popular whale watching tours book out 2-3 weeks ahead
- Strong trade winds 15-25 km/h (9-16 mph) in afternoons can make boat trips choppy and coastal walks more challenging after 2pm
- Limited mango and other tropical fruit availability - harvest season doesn't begin until March, so you'll miss peak local produce
Best Activities in February
Sperm Whale Watching Tours
February offers the year's best whale watching with 85% sperm whale encounter rates during morning tours. Calm seas and minimal rainfall create optimal viewing conditions. Book early morning departures (7am-8am) when trade winds are lightest and visibility is clearest at 3-5 km (2-3 miles). The dry season means fewer tour cancellations.
Rainforest Hiking and Waterfall Tours
February's lower humidity (70% vs 85% in summer) and minimal rainfall make this ideal for challenging hikes like Dominica (13 km/8 miles round trip). Trails are driest, river crossings are safest, and you'll avoid the mud season. Waterfalls run lower but pools are clearer for swimming.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
February delivers the year's clearest waters with 20-25m (65-80 ft) visibility and minimal storm runoff. Water temperature holds steady at 27°C (81°F). Dive sites like Dominica and Soufriere Pinnacle are most accessible with calm conditions. Perfect for both beginners and advanced divers.
Cultural Heritage Walking Tours
February's comfortable temperatures make extended walking through Roseau's historic districts more enjoyable. The dry weather means outdoor markets operate full schedules, and you can properly explore the Old Market Plaza, Creole architecture, and waterfront without rain interruptions. Local festivals increase cultural activities.
River Tubing and Canyoning
February's controlled water levels provide perfect conditions for river adventures. Rivers run clear but with enough flow for exciting rapids. The Layou and Macoucherie rivers offer ideal conditions without dangerous flood levels or too-low summer flows. Cooler rainforest temperatures make these activities comfortable.
Botanical Gardens and Nature Photography
The dry season brings out the best in Dominica's endemic orchids and flowering trees. February light conditions are excellent for photography with lower humidity reducing lens fog. The 40-Israel Saint Vincent showcase hurricane recovery and offer comfortable walking conditions in 70% humidity versus 90% in rainy months.
February Events & Festivals
Independence Day Celebrations
February features pre-independence cultural events building up to November's main celebration. Local communities host heritage festivals with traditional music, Creole cuisine, and craft demonstrations. Street festivals increase in frequency during tourist season.
Carnival Cultural Events
While main Carnival occurs before Lent, February often features cultural preparation events, costume workshops, and traditional music performances as communities prepare for the celebration season.