When it comes to planning a Dominican Republic vacation, there are a few common considerations when choosing when to go: What is the best month to go? How can I avoid hurricane season? When will it be hot, but not too humid? When is Punta Cana the most crowded? When should I travel to get the best vacation deals? If you’re headed to Punta Cana, we have the inside scoop. 

The good news is that the weather is warm year-round in the Dominican Republic, about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The less-good news: there is the Atlantic hurricane season to contend with between June 1st and November 30th (October is the rainiest month). 

If you want to avoid rain, travel during the high season, which runs from January through April. While you can expect glorious weather, you’ll have to pay more and put up with more tourists than at other times of the year. If you’re seeking to avoid crowds and the high-season price tags, aim for the latter end of high season, between March and May (avoid Easter weekend, however), when the tourists have dissipated and the weather is still wonderful. 

Expert tip: If you’re traveling in the high season, there’s a better chance of seeing the humpback whales that migrate to Samana Bay each winter. 

If you don’t mind a bit of a risk, and are seeking the best vacation packages, consider September and October. This is prime hurricane season, so check with your hotel before you leave to be sure there are no weather-related closures (like the beach and golf course). 

As for the sea temperature, expect lows of 78 degrees Fahrenheit and highs of 84 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. If you’re planning a lot of snorkeling and diving, aim for July onwards for the warmest water and clearest visibility. 

If you are visiting in the January to March timeframe, you’ll want to consider a couple major holidays and festivals. Early January brings Three Kings’ Day, a major Dominican celebration. Some businesses and attractions may be closed during that time. On Sundays in February, celebrations are held leading up to the Carnival at the end of the month. The biggest events occur in La Vega, Santiago, Santo Domingo and Montecristi if you’d like to join in the fun.

Taking seasons, temperatures, hurricane risk and festival dates into account, we can help you plan the perfectly timed Punta Cana getaway.