The best time to visit Dominican Republic
The best time to visit Dominican Republic for warm, sunny weather is January to April, when its destinations average a Sunshine Score of 89/100 with daytime highs around 28°C / 82°F. December and May are quieter shoulder-season alternatives with still-reliable sun. The sea is swimmable (21°C+) year-round, warmest in August at 30°C.
Dominican Republic by month, averaged across 3 destinations from long-term climate normals — the best stretch is highlighted.
| Month | Sunshine Score | Avg day high | Rain | Sea | For a trip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 88 | 27° / 81°F | 40 mm | 28° | Excellent |
| February | 91 | 28° / 82°F | 26 mm | 27° | Excellent |
| March | 90 | 28° / 82°F | 29 mm | 27° | Excellent |
| April | 87 | 29° / 84°F | 45 mm | 28° | Excellent |
| May | 82 | 29° / 84°F | 75 mm | 29° | Excellent |
| June | 87 | 29° / 84°F | 49 mm | 29° | Excellent |
| July | 85 | 30° / 86°F | 57 mm | 29° | Excellent |
| August | 84 | 30° / 86°F | 66 mm | 30° | Excellent |
| September | 82 | 30° / 86°F | 72 mm | 30° | Excellent |
| October | 83 | 30° / 86°F | 70 mm | 30° | Excellent |
| November | 81 | 29° / 84°F | 84 mm | 29° | Excellent |
| December | 87 | 28° / 82°F | 48 mm | 28° | Excellent |
When to go — and when to think twice
Best overall: January to April — Dominican Republic's warmest, most reliable stretch (Sunshine Score 89/100, ~28°C / 82°F days). Shoulder season: December and May — quieter, still sunny. Hottest: July, ~30°C / 86°F. Wettest: November (84 mm) — pack for showers.
Where to base yourself for sunshine: Punta Cana (2,882 h/yr), Santo Domingo (2,867 h/yr), Puerto Plata (2,675 h/yr). See every Dominican Republic destination with a full climate card, or where it's sunny worldwide, month by month.