Fiji’s climate is warm and tropical year-round, even in the islands’ “winter” months. The maximum temperature between the summer and winter months varies very little, with the maximum in the summer being 88°F (31.1°C) and in the winter being 84°F (28.8°C).

Fiji usually has the warmest weather between the months of December and April and the coolest between May and November. During the warmer months, the average high temperature is 85°F (29.4°C), while the low is at around 75°F (23.8°C). The cooler months bring an average high of around 81°F (27.2°C) and low of around 70°F (21.1°C).

Tradewinds and rainfall in Fiji

The tradewinds, which blow from the southeast, usually prevail from June to October (the winter months), which are also the most pleasant months to visit Fiji because it is less humid. In February and March, the winds often shift and come from the east, bringing rainfall with them. The humid southeastern shorelines of the big islands receive 3,000 mm of annual rainfall, increasing to 5,000 mm inland. The leeward northwestern coasts are drier and receive about 1,500 to 2,000 mm of rainfall per year.

Because humidity normally increases as the climate becomes hotter, the warmest period in Fiji is also the wettest. Fiji’s rainy season is between the warmer months of November to March. During the wet season, Fiji is also more prone to experience hurricanes and tropical storms. Fiji’s hurricane season usually lasts from November to April.

Wed and dry zones

Certain areas in the Fijian archipelago receive much more rainfall than others. The islands have distinct wet and dry zones. Roughly speaking, the wet zone is located mostly in the southeast region of each island, while the leeward areas in the north and west are usually drier. An exception to this rule is Suva, which is not always dry in the official dry season (June to October). However, much of the rain falls at night.

Fiji ocean temperature

The ocean surrounding Fiji usually has a pleasant temperature ranging in the low 80s (around 26.6°C), so ocean activities, such as swimming, snorkeling and diving can be enjoyed year-round. The nearshore waters are usually clearer during the drier season, when scuba divers enjoy increased visibility around the coral reefs.