The tropical Marshall Islands have two main seasons. The dry season lasts from December to April, while the wet begins in May and ends in November. The highest temperature ever recorded on the islands was 101°F, but more typical averages range between 80°F and 93°F. Northeast trade winds are most effective at cooling the islands’ year-round hot and humid weather between December and March.

During the rainy season, the southern Marshall Islands atolls receive an average of 100 or more inches of precipitation a year than the northern atolls on the border of the South Pacific typhoon belt. Unlike many other tropical islands, the Marshall Islands are actually cooler during the day’s heavy showers than at night and experience frequent cloudy days.

Best Time to Visit Marshall Islands

Visitors wanting to skip the excessive rain and humidity should avoid the Marshall Islands rainy season, which starts in May and extends into November. October and November are the islands’ wettest months, while July and August are the hottest. Scuba divers, however, will experience calmer water conditions during the rainy season.

The Marshall Islands dry season, from December to April, brings both the driest and coolest climate. Northeast trade winds are at their chilliest during the dry months. Lightweight linen and cotton fabrics are the most comfortable to wear on the islands, along with rain gear during the wet season.