Things to Do in Dominica in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Dominica
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Waterfalls at peak flow - Trafalgar Falls drops 61m (200ft) with twice the volume of dry season, creating thunderous swimming pools perfect for photography
- Lush rainforest hiking conditions - trails like Waitukubuli segments 6-8 are accessible but dramatically green, with 40% more bird activity during mating season
- Cooler temperatures than dry season - daily highs of 30°C (86°F) vs 33°C (91°F) in March, with afternoon showers dropping temps 5°C (9°F) for comfortable evening activities
- Whale watching prime time - sperm whales migrate closest to shore in May, with 85% success rates on morning tours vs 60% in other months
Considerations
- Unpredictable afternoon downpours lasting 45-90 minutes between 1-4pm, potentially disrupting outdoor lunch plans and beach time
- Higher humidity makes hiking feel more strenuous - trails like Boiling Lake require 6am starts to avoid midday heat-humidity combination
- Some coastal roads experience brief flooding during heavy rains, occasionally delaying transfers by 30-60 minutes
Best Activities in May
Morne Trois Pitons Waterfall Hikes
May brings waterfalls to life with maximum flow rates. Trafalgar Falls, Middleham Falls, and Victoria Falls are at their most spectacular, with swimming holes deep enough for proper diving. Morning hikes (6-10am) avoid afternoon rains and offer perfect lighting for photography. Trail conditions are excellent with recent rain keeping dust down but paths still firm.
West Coast Whale Watching Tours
May is peak season for sperm whale sightings as they feed in deep waters just 1.6km (1 mile) offshore. Morning departures (7-9am) have 85% success rates before afternoon weather builds. Calm morning seas make for comfortable viewing from Roseau or Portsmouth. Waters are clearest before daily rain cycles begin.
Boiling Lake and Valley of Desolation Trek
The island's most challenging hike is ideal in May with cooler temperatures and full water features active. This 13km (8-mile) round trip through three climate zones requires 6-8 hours but rewards with active geothermal features at full power. Recent rains make the final descent safer with better footing.
Roseau and Portsmouth River Tubing
May's increased rainfall creates perfect river conditions for tubing down the Layou River. Water levels are ideal - high enough for continuous flow but not dangerous. The 2-hour float passes through rainforest canyons with active bird life. Water temperature stays comfortable at 24°C (75°F).
Champagne Reef and Scotts Head Diving
May offers calm Caribbean waters with 24m (80ft) visibility before hurricane season affects currents. Champagne Reef's volcanic bubbles are most active, and marine life is abundant. Water temperature peaks at 28°C (82°F). Shore diving conditions are excellent with minimal swell.
Kalinago Territory Cultural Tours
May coincides with traditional cassava harvest season, offering authentic cultural experiences in the 1,500-hectare territory. Demonstrations of traditional food preparation, craft making, and medicinal plant use are most active. Cooler morning temperatures make village walks comfortable.
May Events & Festivals
Dominica Festival of Arts (DOMFESTA)
Annual celebration of Dominican arts, music, and culture featuring local musicians, visual artists, and traditional dancers. Street performances in Roseau, gallery openings, and evening concerts showcase contemporary Caribbean culture alongside traditional Creole arts.