When to Go to St Helena?
St Helena has a tropical climate, but this is heavily influenced by the South East Trade winds which keep the temperature mild and can lead to very changeable weather. The coastal areas are generally hotter and drier than the interior, with temperatures in the coastal capital of Jamestown ranging between 14-32ºC, and the central hill area around 4-6 degrees cooler.
There are no drastic weather patterns and therefore no distinctive seasons in St Helena. The hottest months of the year are between January and March, where temperatures in Jamestown average between 20-32ºC, and the coolest months are from June to September. The heaviest rainfall is experienced from late March to early May and between July and September, however this is variable across the island, with the interior receiving considerably more rainfall than the coast.
The main tourist season is November through to March when the days are mostly sunny and hot. April to October is generally wetter and cooler.
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The Best Time to Visit St Helena
- JAN
- FEB
- MAR
- APR
- MAY
- JUN
- JUL
- AUG
- SEP
- OCT
- NOV
- DEC
In January, St. Helena gets mild, pleasant weather. The ideal range for outdoor activities and exploration is between 75°F and 85°F (24°C and 29°C), which is the normal range for daytime temperatures. You can see the island's birdlife, including the rare wirebird, in January. There are opportunities for dolphin and whale watching because of the marine life that is drawn to the warm seas.
January - February
While St Helena does not experience dramatic seasonal changes in weather, January and February are the hottest months of the year, with temperatures reaching 32ºC by the coast. This is also the best time to experience swimming with whale sharks, which are attracted to the increase in plankton and regularly appear off the coast of the island, sometimes in groups of up to 35 individuals.
March - December
St Helena has a mild and agreeable climate year-round, however the island experiences heavier rainfall from late March to early May, and from July to September, peaking in April and August. The coldest months are from June to September, although temperatures in Jamestown still usually range between 15-26ºC.
- The best time to see whale sharks is during the hotter months of January and February when the higher sea temperatures correlate with plankton blooms and attract large numbers of whale sharks. This is the optimum time to see whale sharks, and they have usually left by May
- If you want to see humpback whales travel between July and December.
Things to do in St Helena
Diana's Peak National Park
Hike to Diana's Peak, the highest point on the island, to take in sweeping views of St. Helena's verdant surroundings. Unique plants and animals can be found in the park.
Jacob's Ladder
For breathtaking views of Jamestown and the nearby coastline, brave the 699-step walk up Jacob's Ladder, a mediaeval staircase.
Forts and Historic Sites
Discover the past of the island by visiting ancient forts and locations like High Knoll Fort, Rupert's Valley, and Fort James.
Photography
With its spectacular vistas, brilliant fauna, and colourful buildings, St. Helena is a photographer's dream.