Things to Do in Saint Vincent in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Saint Vincent
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Dry season peak with minimal rainfall - only 75 mm (3.0 inches) across 10 days means short afternoon showers that clear quickly for outdoor activities
- Perfect sailing and boat conditions with steady trade winds averaging 15-20 knots from the northeast, ideal for multi-island tours and yacht charters
- Peak visibility for diving and snorkeling at sites like Petit Byahaut and the Indian Bay reef system - underwater visibility reaches 25-30 m (82-98 feet)
- Carnival season culminates with Vincy Mas in late February, featuring calypso competitions, street parties, and cultural events throughout the month
Considerations
- High season pricing with accommodation rates 40-60% higher than May-November, and advance booking required 6-8 weeks ahead for decent options
- Cruise ship crowds peak with 3-4 ships weekly bringing 6,000-8,000 day visitors to Kingstown and popular beaches like Villa Beach
- Strong trade winds can make hiking trails like the Vermont Nature Trail more challenging due to increased dust and debris on exposed sections
Best Activities in February
Windward Coast Whale Watching Tours
February marks peak humpback whale migration season along Saint Vincent's windward coast. Calm morning seas and excellent visibility make this the best month for sightings. Tours typically achieve 85% success rates for whale encounters between 7-11 AM when seas are flattest. The dramatic coastline from Fancy to Sandy Bay provides stunning backdrops for photography.
Grenadines Multi-Island Sailing Adventures
February's consistent 15-20 knot trade winds create perfect sailing conditions for day trips or multi-day charters to Bequia, Mustique, and the Tobago Cays. Clear skies and minimal rainfall mean reliable departure schedules. This is prime season for spotting sea turtles at Salt Whistle Bay and snorkeling the pristine reefs around Petit Rameau.
La Soufriere Volcano Crater Hikes
February's lower humidity and clearer morning skies provide optimal conditions for the challenging 6-hour trek to Saint Vincent's active volcano crater. Early morning starts around 5:30 AM take advantage of cooler temperatures before trade winds pick up. Views from the 1,234 m (4,049 ft) summit extend across the entire Windward Islands chain.
Black Sand Beach Photography Tours
February's consistent lighting and minimal rainfall create ideal conditions for capturing Saint Vincent's unique volcanic beaches. The contrast between black volcanic sand and turquoise Caribbean waters is most dramatic during February's clear weather. Popular spots include Argyle Beach and the secluded beaches near Wallilabou where Pirates of the Caribbean filmed.
Dark View Falls Adventure Excursions
February's lower rainfall maintains optimal water levels at Dark View Falls - enough flow for impressive cascades without dangerous flood conditions. The 15-minute hike through tropical rainforest is most comfortable in February's moderate humidity. Natural pools at the base are perfect for swimming with water temperatures around 24°C (75°F).
Botanical Gardens and Historical Site Tours
February's pleasant temperatures make exploring the 20-acre Saint Vincent Botanical Gardens comfortable throughout the day. Established in 1765, the gardens feature breadfruit trees descended from Captain Bligh's original plants. February's dry conditions mean well-maintained paths and optimal conditions for photography of tropical flora and the resident Saint Vincent parrot population.
February Events & Festivals
Vincy Mas Carnival
Saint Vincent's premier cultural celebration peaks in late February with calypso monarch competitions, costume band launches, and street parties throughout Kingstown. The festival culminates in Carnival Tuesday with massive street parades featuring elaborate costumes and steel pan music. This is the island's biggest cultural event and provides authentic insight into Vincentian heritage.
Nine Mornings Festival
Traditional pre-dawn celebrations continue into early February in some villages, featuring local music, dancing, and food stalls. While primarily a December event, rural communities often extend festivities through early February, offering visitors chances to experience authentic local culture away from tourist areas.