Castries in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Castries
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect sailing conditions with steady 15-20 knot trade winds making March ideal for catamaran tours and inter-island ferries
- Dry season peak means 70% fewer rain interruptions compared to summer months, with most showers lasting only 15-20 minutes in late afternoon
- Humpback whale migration season - 80% chance of spotting whales on west coast boat tours between Castries and Dominica
- Carnival season energy still lingers with street parties and cultural events throughout the month, plus locals are in peak celebratory mood
Considerations
- Peak tourist season means accommodation prices are 40-60% higher than low season, and popular attractions like Saint Lucia can have 2-hour wait times by 11am
- Strong trade winds create choppy conditions on the Atlantic (east) coast, making some beaches like Grande Anse less pleasant for swimming
- UV intensity peaks at dangerous levels (index 8+) between 10am-3pm, requiring constant sun protection and limiting comfortable outdoor exploration time
Best Activities in March
Pitons Hiking and Sulphur Springs Tours
March offers the driest conditions for tackling Gros Piton's challenging 1,219m (4,000ft) climb. Morning temperatures of 23°C (73°F) make the 4-6 hour hike manageable before afternoon heat. The volcanic Saint Lucia are most accessible with minimal mud after the dry season.
West Coast Catamaran and Snorkeling Tours
March trade winds create perfect sailing conditions on the protected west coast. Water visibility reaches 30m (100ft) at Saint Lucia and Jalousie Beach. Whale watching success rates peak at 80% as humpbacks migrate through St. Lucian waters.
Rainforest Zip-lining and Canopy Tours
March's lower humidity (70% vs 85% in rainy season) makes zip-lining through Castries' rainforest canopy comfortable. The 12-line courses offer views of both Caribbean and Atlantic coasts on clear March days, which occur 65% of the time.
Castries Market and Rum Distillery Cultural Tours
March brings peak fruit season - try fresh soursop, golden apples, and passion fruit at Saturday morning Castries Market. Post-Carnival atmosphere means more local music and cultural demonstrations. Rum distilleries offer harvest-season tastings with fresh sugar cane.
Horseback Riding on Atlantic Coast Beaches
March offers the most dramatic wave action on the wild Atlantic side, perfect for experienced riders seeking adventure. Morning rides on deserted beaches like Cas en Bas provide cooler temperatures and impressive photo opportunities with crashing surf.
Sport Fishing and Deep Sea Charters
March marks peak season for blue marlin, mahi-mahi, and yellowfin tuna in St. Lucian waters. Stable weather patterns mean 85% of charters go out as scheduled, compared to 60% during hurricane season. Dawn departures offer glass-calm conditions.
March Events & Festivals
St. Patrick's Day Festival
While not traditionally Caribbean, Castries celebrates with Irish-influenced music and green beer events at local bars. The Tourist Board organizes special cultural fusion events mixing Irish and Creole traditions.
Post-Carnival Street Parties
Local communities continue celebrating with smaller street parties and cultural events throughout March. These offer more intimate cultural experiences than the main Carnival crowds, with traditional food vendors and calypso music.