Saint Lucia in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Saint Lucia

29°C (84°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

76 mm (3.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect whale watching season - humpback whales migrate through Saint Lucian waters from late February through April, with March offering the most consistent sightings
Ideal hiking weather with lower humidity than summer months - morning temperatures of 24°C (75°F) make conquering Gros Piton's 798m (2,619 ft) climb comfortable before midday heat
Peak fishing season for marlin and mahi-mahi - March trade winds create optimal offshore conditions with seas typically 1-2m (3-6 ft), perfect for deep-sea fishing charters
Shoulder season pricing with 25-40% savings on accommodations compared to December-February peak rates, while still enjoying dry season reliability

Considerations

Afternoon shower probability increases to 60% compared to January-February's 40%, typically lasting 20-30 minutes between 2-4pm and disrupting beach time
Trade winds strengthen to 25-35 km/h (15-22 mph), creating choppy conditions for novice snorkelers and making some boat transfers to Pitons uncomfortable
Spring break crowds from North American universities arrive mid-March, driving up prices at popular beaches like Reduit Bay and creating longer wait times at restaurants

Best Activities in March

Pitons Hiking and Nature Reserve Exploration

March's morning temperatures of 24°C (75°F) and lower humidity make this the ideal month for tackling Gros Piton's challenging 798m (2,619 ft) ascent. The trail is less muddy than rainy season, and morning starts at 6am avoid afternoon showers. Trade winds provide cooling relief during the 4-5 hour round trip climb.

Booking Tip: Book certified guides through the Dominica Foundation 7-10 days ahead. Costs typically range EC$200-300 ($75-110 USD) per person including guide fees and nature reserve permits. Start climbs by 6am to avoid afternoon weather. Reference booking widget for current tour options.

Whale Watching Excursions

March sits perfectly within humpback whale migration season. Whales travel through Saint Lucian waters from late February through April, with March offering 85% sighting success rates. Calm morning seas before trade winds strengthen make for comfortable viewing conditions.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost EC$250-400 ($95-150 USD). Book with operators offering whale sighting guarantees or return trips. Early morning departures (7-8am) provide calmest seas and best sighting opportunities. See current whale watching tours in booking section below.

Deep-Sea Fishing Charters

March marks peak season for blue marlin, white marlin, and mahi-mahi. Trade winds create perfect offshore conditions with consistent 1-2m (3-6 ft) swells. Water temperatures of 27°C (81°F) draw baitfish closer to surface, attracting larger game fish within 8-16 km (5-10 miles) of shore.

Booking Tip: Full-day charters range EC$1,350-2,000 ($500-750 USD) for up to 6 people. Half-day trips cost EC$675-1,100 ($250-400 USD). Book 2 weeks ahead during March peak fishing season. Licensed operators provide all equipment and fishing licenses. Check current fishing charter options below.

Sulphur Springs and Diamond Botanical Gardens Tours

March's variable weather makes indoor/covered attractions valuable. Morning visits to the world's only drive-in volcano at Saint Lucia allow exploration before afternoon showers. Saint Vincent showcase peak flowering season for heliconia and bird of great destination plants.

Booking Tip: Combination tours typically cost EC$160-240 ($60-90 USD) including transport from major hotels. Self-drive options available for EC$40 ($15 USD) entrance fees. Guided tours provide better historical context and timing to avoid crowds. See current botanical garden tours below.

Catamaran Sailing and Snorkeling

March trade winds of 25-35 km/h (15-22 mph) create ideal sailing conditions along the west coast. Morning departures offer calmer seas for snorkeling at Anse Chastanet and Jalousie Bay before afternoon winds strengthen. Underwater visibility peaks at 24-30m (80-100 ft).

Booking Tip: Full-day catamaran tours range EC$270-400 ($100-150 USD) including lunch and equipment. Half-day trips cost EC$160-240 ($60-90 USD). Book morning departures for calmest snorkeling conditions. All-inclusive packages often provide better value than à la carte options. Current catamaran tours available in booking widget.

Rainforest Canopy Zip-lining

March's moderate rainfall keeps rainforest lush while morning humidity of 65-70% provides comfortable conditions for active adventures. Afternoon showers create dramatic misty forest views from zip-line platforms 46m (150 ft) above ground. Wildlife activity peaks during March's breeding season.

Booking Tip: Tours typically cost EC$200-300 ($75-110 USD) for 2-3 hour experiences. Morning slots (8-10am) offer best weather conditions and wildlife sightings. Weight limits usually 120kg (265 lbs). Book 5-7 days ahead as March popularity increases. See current zip-lining tours below.

March Events & Festivals

Early March

Saint Lucia Independence Day

February 22nd celebrations often extend into early March with cultural performances, local Kampala, and traditional food festivals in Castries. Experience authentic Saint Lucian culture through folk dancing, steel pan music, and local delicacies like green fig and saltfish.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or packable poncho - afternoon showers in March last 20-30 minutes and occur 60% of days, typically between 2-4pm

SPF 50+ waterproof sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and reflects off water during boat trips and beach activities

Moisture-wicking synthetic fabrics - 70% humidity makes cotton uncomfortable; quick-dry materials essential for activities

Sturdy hiking boots with good grip - Pitons trails can be muddy and rocky, requiring ankle support for 798m (2,619 ft) climbs

Reef-safe sunscreen - Saint Lucia's marine parks require biodegradable formulas; zinc oxide or titanium dioxide only

Insect repellent with 20-30% DEET - rainforest activities and evening dining outdoors require mosquito protection

Waterproof phone case - essential for whale watching, snorkeling, and hiking activities where splash/rain exposure likely

Light fleece or long sleeves - morning temperatures can feel cool at 24°C (75°F) with trade winds, especially on boats

Non-slip water shoes - rocky beach entries and wet boat decks require better traction than flip-flops

Dry bag for day trips - protects electronics, documents, and extra clothes during boat excursions and hiking

Insider Knowledge

Book whale watching tours for Tuesday-Thursday when weekend crowds disperse and captains share better intel about recent sighting locations from networking with other operators

Restaurant reservations essential during spring break period (mid-March) - many establishments fully booked by 4pm for dinner service, especially in Rodney Bay and Marigot Bay areas

Local buses (EC$2-4 per ride) run more frequently during March school term - cheaper alternative to taxis costing EC$25-60 for similar routes, with authentic local experience

Pitons climbing permits purchased directly at Fond Doux visitor center cost EC$30 vs EC$45 when included in tour packages - save money by arranging independent certified guides

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities for 2-4pm when afternoon showers are most likely - plan beach time and sightseeing for mornings, indoor activities for mid-afternoon

Underestimating March trade winds for boat trips - taking motion sickness medication even if not usually needed, as 25-35 km/h winds create choppy conditions

Booking accommodations only 2-3 weeks ahead during spring break period - North American university schedules drive up demand and prices from mid-March onward