Things to Do in Dominica in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Dominica
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Prime dry season timing with February being one of the driest months - you'll typically see about 10 rainy days, but showers tend to be brief afternoon bursts rather than all-day soakers, meaning morning hikes and beach time rarely get interrupted
- Waterfalls are still flowing strong from the December-January rains but trails have dried out enough for comfortable hiking - this sweet spot means you get the visual drama of full cascades at Trafalgar Falls and Middleham without the muddy slog that comes during wetter months
- Whale watching season is in full swing as humpback whales migrate through Caribbean waters - February sits right in the middle of the January-March peak, with calm sea conditions making boat trips more comfortable and sightings more reliable along the west coast
- Carnival season energy builds through the month leading up to early March celebrations - while the main events happen after February, you'll catch pre-Carnival fetes, calypso competitions, and costume workshops, plus locals are in festive spirits without the overwhelming crowds that arrive in late February into March
Considerations
- Accommodation prices run 20-30% higher than shoulder season months like May or November, and popular eco-lodges in places like Roseau and Portsmouth book out 6-8 weeks ahead - if you're budget-conscious or prefer spontaneous travel, this timing works against you
- The 70% humidity combined with 29°C (84°F) highs makes midday exertion genuinely uncomfortable - that afternoon hike to Boiling Lake becomes significantly more challenging when you're dealing with the kind of sticky heat that has you drenched within 15 minutes, and the UV index of 8 means sunburn happens fast
- Trade winds can make the Atlantic coast choppy and less ideal for swimming or snorkeling - while the Caribbean side stays calmer, spots like Turtle Beach on the northeast can have rough surf that limits water activities, which is disappointing if you're hoping for consistent snorkeling conditions island-wide
Best Activities in February
Rainforest waterfall hikes in Morne Trois Pitons National Park
February hits that perfect window where trails have dried out from the heavy November-January rains but waterfalls are still thundering with impressive flow. The morning temperatures around 24°C (75°F) make the steep climbs to places like Middleham Falls or the challenging Boiling Lake trek manageable before the afternoon heat kicks in. You'll want to start by 7am for longer hikes - the canopy shade helps, but humidity builds quickly. Trail conditions are genuinely good right now, which matters when you're navigating volcanic rock and root systems.
Whale watching boat tours along the west coast
February sits right in the sweet spot of humpback whale migration season, with calmer Caribbean waters making for more comfortable boat trips and better viewing conditions than you'd get in windier months. Departures typically run 8am-10am when seas are calmest, and tour operators are reporting consistent sightings this season - though obviously wildlife is never guaranteed. The west coast from Scotts Head to Portsmouth offers the most reliable encounters. Sea conditions matter more than you'd think for enjoyment, and February's relative calm makes this worth prioritizing now rather than later in spring.
Snorkeling at Champagne Reef and Scotts Head Marine Reserve
The Caribbean side stays relatively calm in February while Atlantic coast sites get choppy with trade winds, making this the right month to focus on west coast snorkeling. Champagne Reef's volcanic bubbles are consistently active, and visibility typically runs 15-20 m (50-65 ft) during the dry season. Water temperature sits around 26°C (79°F), which is comfortable without a wetsuit for most people. The afternoon sun angle around 1pm-3pm actually provides the best lighting for underwater photography. Worth noting that Scotts Head can have stronger currents on incoming tides, so timing matters.
River tubing and canyon adventures in the interior
February water levels are ideal - high enough for good flow through rapids and pools but not the scary flood conditions you might encounter during September-November rains. The Layou River and Titou Gorge offer different experiences, with Layou providing longer float sections through rainforest and Titou being more of a swim-through narrow canyon experience. Water temperature stays around 22-24°C (72-75°F), which feels refreshing rather than cold. The combination of lower rainfall this month and established flow makes for reliable conditions without the uncertainty of flash flooding.
Fort Shirley and Cabrits National Park coastal exploration
The restored 18th-century British garrison sits on a peninsula with Caribbean views and makes for excellent morning exploration before heat becomes oppressive. February's drier conditions mean the 2 km (1.2 mile) trail system through tropical forest to various fort ruins stays walkable rather than muddy. The combination of history, coastal scenery, and moderate hiking works well for mixed-ability groups. Early morning around 8am offers better wildlife spotting - you'll likely see frigatebirds and possibly iguanas. The Douglas Bay beach below provides a swim reward after fort exploration.
Indian River boat tours and birdwatching
This protected mangrove river system offers calm water rowing tours that work particularly well in February when morning temperatures are comfortable and wildlife activity peaks during dry season. The narrow river winds through buttress root systems and overhanging vegetation - guides row traditional boats while pointing out herons, kingfishers, and occasionally boa constrictors in branches. The experience lasts 45-60 minutes and provides a completely different ecosystem from the rainforest hikes. It's genuinely peaceful, and the lack of motor noise means better wildlife encounters. Morning light filtering through the canopy around 8-9am creates the best atmosphere.
February Events & Festivals
Independence Day celebrations
February 22nd is not actually Independence Day in Dominica, which falls on November 3rd, so there are no major national celebrations this month. However, the pre-Carnival season is building throughout February with calypso competitions, steel pan rehearsals, and costume-making workshops happening in Roseau and larger villages. These events are less structured than the main Carnival week but offer authentic glimpses into preparation culture.