Marshallislands in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Marshallislands

29°C (84°F) High Temp

25°C (77°F) Low Temp

95mm (3.7 inches) Rainfall

78% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Coolest temperatures of the year with consistent 15-20 mph (24-32 km/h) trade winds making 29°C (84°F) feel comfortable for outdoor activities
Peak turtle nesting season at Laura Beach - green sea turtle hatchlings emerge at dawn throughout November, a rare spectacle unavailable other months
Lowest rainfall period with only 95mm (3.7 inches) - perfect for inter-atoll flights which cancel frequently during wetter months
Traditional breadfruit and pandanus harvest season means fresh local foods at Friday fish markets and authentic Marshallese feasts

Considerations

Strongest UV radiation of the year with index reaching 9 - sunburn happens in under 15 minutes without protection on exposed atolls
Peak season for government and NGO visitors drives accommodation prices up 30-40% compared to shoulder months
King tide season brings higher than normal water levels affecting some low-lying areas and making certain outer atoll landings impossible

Best Activities in November

Bikini Atoll Historical Diving

November's exceptional 30m (98ft) underwater visibility and calm seas make this the optimal month for exploring the world's only diveable nuclear test site. Water temperature stays at 28°C (82°F) with minimal current. The historical significance combined with pristine marine life creates an unmatched diving experience.

Booking Tip: Book 4-6 weeks ahead through licensed dive operators - only 2-3 boats certified for Bikini Atoll. Costs typically run $3,500-4,200 for 3-day liveaboard including permits. Advanced Open Water certification required. Reference booking widget for current availability.

Laura Beach Turtle Monitoring

November is the only month when green sea turtle hatchlings emerge consistently at Laura Beach on Majuro. Dawn monitoring sessions (5:30-7:00 AM) offer chances to witness nesting mothers and guide hatchlings to safety. Cool morning temperatures of 24°C (75°F) make early starts comfortable.

Booking Tip: Contact environmental groups 2-3 weeks ahead - volunteer spots typically $25-40 per session including transport. No swimming experience needed. Check tidal charts as king tides affect access roads.

Outer Atoll Sailing Charters

November's consistent northeast trade winds (15-20 mph) create perfect sailing conditions between atolls. Clear skies 75% of the month and minimal rainfall make multi-day charters ideal. Water stays glassy calm in morning hours before winds pick up at 10 AM.

Booking Tip: Book 3-4 weeks ahead through registered charter operators. Prices range $800-1,200 per day for 6-8 person boats including basic meals. Weather delays rare in November but king tides can affect shallow anchorages.

Traditional Outrigger Canoe Building

November's breadfruit harvest provides fresh materials for authentic canoe construction workshops. Dry conditions preserve wood properly and comfortable temperatures allow full-day outdoor sessions. Local masters offer intensive 5-day courses unavailable during wetter months.

Booking Tip: Limited to 4 participants per session - book 6-8 weeks ahead. Workshops cost $400-600 including materials and daily lunch. Basic woodworking skills helpful but not required. Morning sessions (7 AM-12 PM) avoid afternoon heat.

World War II Historical Site Tours

November's low rainfall and clear skies provide optimal conditions for exploring remote WWII sites across multiple atolls. Comfortable temperatures allow full-day explorations of bunkers, aircraft wrecks, and battlefield remains without excessive heat stress.

Booking Tip: Multi-atoll tours require 4-6 week advance booking due to limited inter-atoll flights. Costs range $1,200-1,800 for 3-day historical tour including flights and local guides. Sturdy walking shoes essential for rough coral terrain.

Deep Sea Sportfishing

November marks peak marlin and tuna season with water temperatures at optimal 28-29°C (82-84°F). Morning departures take advantage of glassy conditions before afternoon wind picks up. Success rates for yellowfin tuna exceed 80% in November compared to 60% other months.

Booking Tip: Book 2-3 weeks ahead through licensed operators with proper safety equipment. Half-day charters run $600-900, full-day $1,000-1,400 for up to 6 people. Early morning departures (6 AM) essential for best fishing and comfortable conditions.

November Events & Festivals

Mid November

Manit Day Cultural Festival

Annual celebration of traditional Marshallese culture featuring outrigger canoe races, traditional food preparation demonstrations, and authentic stick dancing. Local families open their homes for traditional feasts showcasing November's harvest foods including fresh breadfruit and pandanus.

Late November

Liberation Day Weekend

Commemorates liberation from Japanese occupation with community gatherings, historical reenactments at WWII sites, and traditional fishing competitions. Local veterans share stories and families prepare special breadfruit-based dishes only served during this period.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ zinc-based sunscreen - UV index reaches 9 and reflection off water/coral intensifies exposure by 40%

Quick-dry long-sleeve shirts with UPF protection - essential for extended time on boats and exposed atolls

Reef-safe biodegradable soap - standard detergents harm coral and many accommodations prohibit non-reef-safe products

Lightweight rain jacket - brief afternoon showers on 8 days but intensity varies and can soak through regular clothing

Closed-toe water shoes with thick soles - sharp coral and sea urchins common in shallow lagoons

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - constant trade winds will blow off regular hats

Waterproof phone case and electronics protection - saltwater spray constant on boats and humidity reaches 78%

Electrolyte supplements - high temperatures and humidity cause rapid dehydration, especially during outdoor activities

Quick-dry towel - regular towels never fully dry in 78% humidity

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes active during brief calm periods at dawn and dusk

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations by early September - November fills with government contract workers and NGO staff attending year-end conferences, driving rates up 30-40%

Schedule inter-atoll flights for early morning (7-9 AM) - afternoon thermal activity increases turbulence and cancellation risk even in November's good weather

Bring cash in small bills - outer atolls operate cash-only and breaking $50+ bills often impossible outside Majuro

Pack extra prescription medications - medical facilities limited and November's increased visitor population strains resources

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating UV exposure - many visitors get severe burns thinking ocean breezes and comfortable temperatures mean less sun risk

Not booking inter-atoll transport early enough - limited flights and boats fill quickly with seasonal workers and researchers

Bringing only summer clothing - early mornings on boats can feel cool at 24°C (75°F) with 20 mph winds