Port Vila in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Port Vila

31°C (88°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Prime dry season with minimal rainfall - only 0 mm (0.0 inches) expected, making it ideal for outdoor activities and island excursions without weather disruptions
Perfect swimming and snorkeling conditions with calm seas and 27°C (81°F) water temperatures - visibility underwater reaches 25-30 m (82-98 ft)
Post-Christmas crowd exodus means 40% fewer tourists than December/January, yet weather remains excellent with comfortable 23-31°C (73-88°F) temperatures
Local produce season peaks with fresh coconut crab, flying fox fruit, and lap lap ingredients at markets - February is when Ni-Vanuatu cooking is at its seasonal best

Considerations

Occasional afternoon thunderstorms on 10 days throughout the month can disrupt outdoor plans for 1-2 hours, though they're usually predictable around 2-4pm
High humidity at 70% makes midday activities feel significantly hotter than the actual 31°C (88°F) temperature - locals avoid strenuous outdoor work between 11am-3pm
Accommodation prices remain elevated from peak season through mid-February before dropping in March - expect to pay 20-30% more than shoulder season rates

Best Activities in February

Outer island snorkeling and diving tours

February offers the year's clearest waters with 25-30 m (82-98 ft) visibility and calm conditions. Trade winds are gentler, making boat transfers to Hideaway Island and Pele Island comfortable. Water temperature stays at perfect 27°C (81°F). This is when you'll see the most marine life as fish are active in post-spawning season.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed dive operators. Full-day tours typically cost 8,000-12,000 VUV. Look for operators with PADI certification and recent safety records. Morning departures (7:30am) avoid afternoon weather build-up.

Cultural village tours and traditional cooking experiences

February coincides with harvest season for breadfruit, coconuts, and root vegetables - perfect timing for authentic lap lap preparation classes. Villages are accessible via dry roads, and outdoor cooking demonstrations aren't interrupted by heavy rains. This is when traditional food preparation is most authentic.

Booking Tip: Half-day village experiences cost 3,500-5,500 VUV. Book through cultural centers or guesthouses rather than resort concierges for more real feels. Tuesday-Thursday visits avoid weekend tourist groups.

Volcano trekking and adventure tours

Mount Yasur on Vanuatu Island is most accessible in February with drier hiking conditions and clearer views. The 361 m (1,184 ft) trek to the rim is comfortable in moderate temperatures, and evening volcano viewing isn't obscured by rain clouds. February's lower humidity makes the 3-hour round trip more manageable.

Booking Tip: Day trips from Vanuatu cost 18,000-25,000 VUV including flights. Book volcano rim access 14 days ahead as daily visitor numbers are limited. Evening viewing tours (5-8pm) offer the most dramatic lava displays.

Coastal fishing and spearfishing charters

February marks peak season for yellowfin tuna, wahoo, and coral trout. Seas are calmer with 1-2 m (3-6 ft) swells, ideal for both deep-sea fishing and nearshore spearfishing. Local fishing guides report this as their most productive month, with consistent catches 4-5 km (2.5-3.1 miles) offshore.

Booking Tip: Half-day fishing charters cost 6,000-9,000 VUV per person. Full-day trips run 12,000-18,000 VUV. Book with operators who provide all gear and have GPS fish-finders. Early morning departures (6am) yield best results.

Waterfall hiking and freshwater swimming

February's moderate rainfall keeps waterfalls flowing without creating dangerous flash flood conditions. Cascades Waterfalls and Mele Cascades offer refreshing swimming holes at 24-25°C (75-77°F). Hiking trails are dry enough for regular footwear, and afternoon thunderstorms provide dramatic photo opportunities.

Booking Tip: Entry fees range 500-1,000 VUV per waterfall. Guided hikes cost 2,500-4,000 VUV including transport. Visit between 9am-1pm before potential afternoon showers. Bring reef-safe sunscreen as most waterfalls flow to the ocean.

Sunset sailing and harbor tours

February offers spectacular sunsets with partly cloudy skies creating dramatic lighting. Harbor waters are calm for comfortable sailing, and the 7:30pm sunset timing allows for extended evening tours. This is when trade winds are most reliable for actual sailing versus motor-assisted trips.

Booking Tip: 2-3 hour sunset sails cost 4,500-7,000 VUV per person. Catamaran tours with dinner run 8,000-12,000 VUV. Book Easttimor-day if weather looks clear, or 2-3 days ahead for guaranteed spots. Vessels with shade covers are essential for afternoon sun protection.

February Events & Festivals

Various dates throughout February

Independence Day Celebrations

Vanuatu's Independence Day on July 30th doesn't occur in February, but various provincial celebrations and cultural festivals happen throughout the month at village level. These aren't tourist-oriented events but offer authentic cultural experiences if you connect with local communities.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight quick-dry clothing in natural fibers - avoid polyester which traps moisture in 70% humidity and becomes uncomfortable within hours

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen and UV-protective rash guard - UV index of 8 causes burns in 15-20 minutes, even on cloudy days

Lightweight rain jacket or packable poncho - afternoon showers on 10 days last 20-45 minutes and can be intense

Comfortable water shoes or reef shoes - essential for rocky shorelines, coral walking, and waterfall pools with uneven surfaces

Insect repellent with 20-30% DEET - mosquitoes are most active during evening hours and after rainfall

Waterproof phone case or dry bag - sudden showers and water activities make electronics vulnerable

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - trade winds can be gusty, and shade is crucial during midday sun exposure

Electrolyte supplements or tablets - high humidity increases fluid loss, especially during hiking and outdoor activities

Lightweight long pants and sleeves for evening - protection against insects and air conditioning in restaurants

Good quality sandals with ankle support - for walking on volcanic rock, coral paths, and uneven village terrain

Insider Knowledge

Local buses (6-8am and 4-6pm) cost 150 VUV versus 1,500+ VUV for tourist transfers - locals use them for airport connections and they're reliable during dry February conditions

February is flying fox (fruit bat) hunting season - you'll find this traditional protein at Mama's Market on Saturdays for authentic local cuisine most tourists never try

Book accommodations before February 14th - Valentine's Day brings Australian and New Zealand couples, creating a mini peak season that many guides don't mention

The kava bars (nakamals) are most social in February when weather allows consistent evening gatherings - ask locals for 'gud nakamal' recommendations for real feels

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling all activities for morning hours - February's gentle trade winds make afternoon activities (2-5pm) often more comfortable than midday, despite shower risk

Overpacking rain gear for 'wet season' - February gets minimal rainfall and most tourists bring excessive rain protection while underpacking sun protection

Booking accommodation too close to departure dates - February pricing drops significantly after Valentine's Day, but availability becomes limited for quality properties