Things to Do in Saintvincent in February

February Weather in Saintvincent

29°C (84°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

89mm (3.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with minimal rainfall - only 89mm (3.5 inches) compared to 165mm (6.5 inches) in December, making outdoor activities reliable
Carnival season brings authentic cultural celebrations including J'ouvert morning festivities and authentic steel pan competitions throughout the island
Northeast trade winds keep temperatures comfortable at 29°C (84°F) highs, perfect for hiking La Soufrière volcano without extreme heat
Tourist crowds thin out after New Year rush, meaning better availability at restaurants and shorter queues at attractions like Fort Charlotte

Considerations

Accommodation prices remain elevated from December peak season - expect to pay 20-30% more than shoulder months like May or September
Saharan dust occasionally creates hazy skies mid-month, reducing visibility for photography and making sunsets less vibrant
Brief afternoon showers (20-30 minutes) occur 10 days of the month, typically between 2-4pm, requiring flexible outdoor scheduling

Best Activities in February

La Soufrière Volcano Hiking Tours

February's lower humidity and consistent trade winds make the 1,234m (4,049ft) summit hike much more manageable than wet season months. Morning starts avoid afternoon rain patterns, and clear skies provide excellent crater views. The cooler 23°C (73°F) morning temperatures are ideal for the 3-hour round trip.

Booking Tip: Book guided hikes 7-10 days ahead through certified mountain guides. Tours typically cost EC$150-200 (US$55-75) including transportation from Kingstown. Start times are usually 6-7am to avoid afternoon weather. Look for guides certified by the Ministry of Tourism.

Tobago Cays Marine Park Sailing

February delivers the year's best sailing conditions with steady 15-20 knot northeast trade winds and minimal rainfall. Sea conditions are calmer than December's swells, making the 2-hour sail from Union Island comfortable. Turtle nesting season overlaps, increasing wildlife viewing opportunities.

Booking Tip: Full-day catamaran trips range EC$300-450 (US$110-165) from Union Island or Mayreau. Book 10-14 days ahead as February is popular for yacht charters. Choose operators with marine park permits and snorkeling equipment included. See current sailing options in the booking section below.

Bequia Island Day Tours

The 45-minute ferry crossing from Kingstown is smoothest in February due to calmer seas. Port Elizabeth's whaling museum and local boat building demonstrations are enhanced by perfect walking weather. February's dry conditions make the coastal hiking trails to Princess Margaret Beach accessible.

Booking Tip: Ferry tickets cost EC$25 (US$9) each way, departing 3-4 times daily from Kingstown. Island tours typically cost EC$80-120 (US$30-45) for half-day including transport. Book ferry tickets day-of, but arrange island tours 3-5 days ahead through local operators.

Dark View Falls and Vermont Nature Trails

February's moderate rainfall keeps waterfalls flowing while maintaining accessible trail conditions. The 15-minute hike to the two-tiered falls is comfortable in cooler morning temperatures. Reduced vegetation growth during dry season improves photography angles and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are EC$10 (US$4) per person. Guided nature walks cost EC$40-60 (US$15-22) and aren't necessary but enhance bird identification. Visit mornings between 8-10am before afternoon heat peaks. Local transport from Kingstown runs EC$30-40 (US$11-15) round trip.

Carnival Cultural Experience Tours

February encompasses pre-Carnival activities including steel band practice sessions, costume workshops, and calypso competitions. J'ouvert morning celebrations offer authentic cultural immersion unavailable other months. The dry weather ensures outdoor festivities proceed as scheduled.

Booking Tip: Cultural tours during Carnival season cost EC$100-180 (US$37-65) including costume rental and event access. Book through certified cultural guides 2-3 weeks ahead as this is peak cultural season. Look for packages including calypso tent access and traditional food tastings.

Kingstown Heritage Walking Tours

February's lower humidity makes the 2-3 hour walks through Kingstown's colonial architecture comfortable. St. George's Cathedral and Fort Charlotte are best explored in the mild 26-27°C (79-81°F) afternoon temperatures. Reduced rainfall means outdoor historical sites remain accessible.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walking maps available free from Tourism Authority. Professional guided tours cost EC$60-90 (US$22-33) for 2-3 hours including entry fees. Morning tours (9-11am) avoid midday heat. Book 2-3 days ahead through hotel concierges or tourism office.

February Events & Festivals

Late February (typically last two weeks)

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Carnival

The island's premier cultural celebration featuring J'ouvert morning street parties, elaborate costume parades, calypso competitions, and steel pan performances. Two weeks of festivities culminate in Mardi Gras Tuesday with island-wide celebrations.

Early February

Mustique Blues Festival

Intimate musical performances on exclusive Mustique island featuring international jazz and blues artists. Limited attendance creates unique cultural experience combining world-class music with Caribbean atmosphere.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - afternoon showers last 20-30 minutes but can be intense, occurring on 10 days during February

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 consistently, and reflection off water increases exposure during boat trips

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable, especially during midday heat

Waterproof phone case - essential for boat trips to Tobago Cays and protecting devices during unexpected rain showers

Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip - La Soufrière trails can be slippery even in dry season, especially early morning with dew

Light sweater for evening - temperatures drop to 23°C (73°F) at night and trade winds can feel cool after sunset

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes are active during brief humid periods after afternoon rains

Quick-dry swimwear - multiple water activities and boat trips make fast-drying materials practical for back-to-back excursions

Waterproof day pack - protects belongings during sailing trips and hiking when afternoon weather changes rapidly

Polarized sunglasses - essential for reducing glare during sailing and snorkeling activities in bright Caribbean sun

Insider Knowledge

Local fishing boats offer cheaper inter-island transport than tourist ferries - ask at Kingstown fish market for rides to Bequia or Mustique at half the official ferry price

Carnival costume rentals book up fast but many mas bands sell costumes at 50% discount the week after festivities end - perfect timing for photos

Wednesday and Saturday mornings feature the best produce at Kingstown Market when outer island farmers bring fresh provisions via cargo boats

Many restaurants close Sunday afternoons and Mondays during February - make dinner reservations for these days well in advance to avoid disappointment

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking accommodation only in Kingstown - staying in Calliaqua or Villa Beach provides better value and easier beach access while remaining close to main attractions

Scheduling outdoor activities after 2pm - afternoon rain showers are predictable and brief but will disrupt hiking or beach plans between 2-4pm

Underestimating ferry schedules between islands - services reduce frequency during February and rough weather can cause cancellations, always have backup plans