Castries in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Castries

30°C (86°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

234 mm (9.2 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Ideal cruise weather - November sits perfectly between hurricane season and peak tourist crowds, with seas calm enough for comfortable Caribbean cruising and consistent trade winds keeping temperatures pleasant at 24-30°C (75-86°F)
Mango season peak - Local Julie, Amelie, and Vert mangoes reach perfect ripeness in November, creating the year's best street fruit scene along Bridge Street and at Castries Market, with prices dropping to EC$1-2 per fruit
Shoulder season pricing - Hotel rates drop 25-35% compared to December-April peak season, while restaurant prices remain local-friendly before Christmas tourism surge hits the capital
Cricket season excitement - Regional cricket matches at Mindoo Phillip Park draw passionate local crowds, creating authentic cultural experiences that most tourists never witness during typical vacation months

Considerations

Afternoon shower reliability - 60% of November days feature 20-45 minute downpours between 2-5pm, requiring flexible outdoor planning and always carrying rain protection in this tropical climate
Variable ferry schedules - Inter-island transport to Martinique and Dominica faces occasional weather delays during November's transitional period, potentially disrupting day trip plans by 2-4 hours
Limited evening activities - Many beachfront bars and restaurants reduce operating hours before December tourist season begins, with some closing by 9pm on weekdays instead of typical 11pm

Best Activities in November

Soufrière Rainforest Hiking Expeditions

November's post-rainy season creates lush, busy rainforest conditions perfect for hiking to Saint Lucia and Diamond Falls. Morning temperatures of 24-26°C (75-79°F) with 70% humidity make these moderate 3-5 km (1.9-3.1 mile) trails comfortable before afternoon heat peaks. Recent rains ensure waterfalls flow at full volume while trails remain accessible.

Booking Tip: Book rainforest guides 7-10 days ahead through certified eco-tour operators, typically EC$150-250 per person for half-day excursions. Start tours by 8am to avoid afternoon showers and peak heat. Look for guides certified by the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority.

Castries Harbor Sailing Charters

November offers ideal sailing conditions with consistent 15-20 knot trade winds and minimal hurricane risk. Morning departures take advantage of calmer seas before afternoon weather builds. Harbor waters stay warm at 27°C (81°F) perfect for swimming stops, while clear visibility extends 15-20 m (49-66 ft) underwater.

Booking Tip: Reserve sailing charters 10-14 days ahead during November shoulder season, with half-day trips typically costing EC$200-350 per person. Choose morning departures (8am-1pm) to avoid afternoon weather patterns. Verify boats carry safety equipment and weather tracking.

Local Market and Rum Distillery Experiences

November harvest season brings peak freshness to Castries Market, with local produce like breadfruit, christophene, and passion fruit at lowest prices. Cooler morning temperatures of 24-25°C (75-77°F) make market exploration comfortable, while rum distilleries offer indoor tasting alternatives during afternoon showers.

Booking Tip: Visit Castries Market early (6-9am) for best selection and cooler temperatures. Rum distillery tours typically cost EC$75-125 per person and provide perfect rainy afternoon activities. Book distillery visits same-day or 2-3 days ahead through hotel concierges.

Pigeon Island Historical Exploration

November's lower humidity and frequent cloud cover create comfortable conditions for exploring this 18-hectare historical site. Afternoon showers provide natural cooling breaks, while morning visits offer clear views across the 1.6 km (1 mile) causeway to Saint Lucia. The site's elevated position captures cooling breezes unavailable elsewhere.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are EC$15 for adults with no advance booking required. Plan 2-3 hours for full exploration, starting early morning to use cooler temperatures. Bring water and light snacks as on-site facilities are limited. Combine with nearby Saint Lucia activities.

Marigot Bay Kayaking Adventures

Protected bay waters remain calm during November's variable weather, making this the perfect month for mangrove kayaking. Morning glass-calm conditions and temperatures of 25-27°C (77-81°F) create ideal paddling, while the bay's natural shelter protects from afternoon weather systems.

Booking Tip: Kayak rentals typically cost EC$100-150 for half-day adventures, with guided mangrove tours ranging EC$175-275 per person. Reserve 3-5 days ahead during November shoulder season. Choose morning trips (7-11am) for calmest conditions and best wildlife spotting.

Friday Night Street Party Cultural Immersion

November's comfortable evening temperatures of 24-26°C (75-79°F) make Castries' weekly street parties particularly enjoyable for visitors. Local vendors offer seasonal specialties while calypso and soca music fills the streets. This authentic cultural experience peaks before December tourist crowds arrive.

Booking Tip: Street parties are free cultural events requiring no advance booking. Arrive around 8pm when activities peak, bringing small bills (EC$5-20 notes) for food vendors. Events typically run until 11pm on Fridays along Brazil Street and surrounding areas.

November Events & Festivals

Late November

Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) Fleet Arrival

International sailing rally participants arrive in Castries after crossing the Atlantic, creating a festive maritime atmosphere in the harbor. Local restaurants extend hours and waterfront areas buzz with international sailors celebrating their 2,700-nautical-mile journey from Gran Canaria.

Throughout November

Independence Day Celebrations

Saint Lucia's February 22nd Independence Day preparations begin in November with cultural rehearsals and community events throughout Castries. Local schools practice traditional dances while craftsmen prepare decorations for the upcoming national celebration.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon showers in November last 20-45 minutes and occur 60% of days, requiring quick rain protection

Moisture-wicking clothing in natural fibers - 70% humidity makes polyester uncomfortable, while cotton and linen provide better comfort in 30°C (86°F) temperatures

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days, requiring reapplication every 2 hours during outdoor activities

Closed-toe hiking shoes with good grip - rainforest trails can be slippery from recent showers, requiring ankle support for uneven terrain

Quick-dry shorts and swimwear - multiple clothing changes needed due to afternoon showers and water activities in 27°C (81°F) ocean temperatures

Insect repellent with DEET - November's humidity and recent rains increase mosquito activity, particularly during dawn and dusk hours

Waterproof phone case or dry bag - essential for boat trips and sudden afternoon downpours that can damage electronics

Light sweater for air-conditioned spaces - indoor temperatures often drop to 18-20°C (64-68°F) in restaurants and shopping centers

Comfortable walking sandals with straps - for quick drying after rain and secure footing on wet sidewalks in Castries downtown area

Reusable water bottle - staying hydrated is crucial in 70% humidity, and many locations offer filtered water refill stations

Insider Knowledge

Local buses (minivans) reduce frequency during afternoon showers - plan transportation around 2-5pm weather windows or use this time for indoor activities like rum tastings or museum visits

Castries Market vendors offer best prices on mangoes and seasonal fruit between 7-9am before tourist groups arrive - expect to pay EC$1-3 per fruit versus EC$5-8 at resort shops

November is when locals harvest sea moss along northern beaches - join early morning beachcombing around 6am to learn about this traditional superfood and meet local families

Many restaurant managers are more flexible with reservations during November shoulder season - call day-of for waterfront dining that requires weeks advance booking during peak months

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling all outdoor activities for afternoons - November's 60% chance of 2-5pm showers makes morning planning essential for hiking, sailing, and beach activities

Bringing only dressy dinner clothes - November's humidity and frequent rain showers make casual, quick-dry clothing more practical than resort formal wear

Expecting consistent ferry schedules to neighboring islands - November weather can delay inter-island transport by 2-4 hours, requiring flexible day trip planning