St. Lucia is a lush Caribbean island popular with honeymooners and adventure seekers. The best time of year to scuba dive in St. Lucia is the dry season (December through April), which is also peak tourist season. Divers who prefer to avoid crowds should consider booking a trip in late April or even May, when crowds die down but before the rainy season really gets going.
St. Lucia Weather and Water Temperatures
Steady trade winds maintain temperatures in the low 20s to mid-30s Celsius (70s to mid 80s Fahrenheit) year-round. Water temperatures also remain warm throughout the year. From December through March, the water is approximately 26°C/78°F. During the summer months of June through September, water temps can reach 29°C/84°F.
Diving St. Lucia During the Dry Season vs. the Rainy Season
December to April is considered the best time to scuba dive in St. Lucia, because it’s the dry season. Visitors can expect calm, clear water with visibility up to 30 meters/100 feet.
The dry season is also when humpback whales and Bryde’s whales cruise by. They can be spotted from October through April, but sightings often peak in January and February.
The rainy season generally starts in June and runs through November. Rain can reduce visibility, and seas can be rough compared to the dry season.
Keep in mind, it’s still the Caribbean. Bad conditions in St. Lucia could be considered normal or even above-average diving conditions in the North Atlantic or the Pacific.
So don’t rule out diving St. Lucia during the rainy season. Dolphins, especially spinner and spotted dolphins, can be seen year-round along with stingrays, turtles and other diver favorites. Plus, St. Lucia’s summer months (June through September) are festival season on the island. Events include Carnival and the annual St. Lucia Dive Fest.
Diving in St. Lucia During the In-Between Time
From the end of April into early May, there is a short window when crowds decrease, but the rainy season hasn’t started yet. If you have flexibility in your travel schedule, consider booking a dive trip in this timeframe.
For more information, connect with one of the friendly and helpful PADI Dive Shops in St. Lucia. Or, check out our St. Lucia dive guide below.
