Sainte Marie Island Weather in October

Overview:
(1) October has mild temperature and about 15 sunny days;
(2) Most whales have left;
(3) You will have a leisurely trip this month thanks to the fewer visitors.

Rainfall

Although the average number of rainy days is still around 16, October has the lowest rainfall of the year at roughly 96 mm. Even on rainy days, the rain is mostly neither heavy nor lasts long. Therefore, you don’t have to worry too much about the weather conditions when traveling to Sainte Marie Island this month.

Sunny Seaside of Sainte Marie Island

Temperature

In October, the temperature in Sainte Marie Island rises, but not by much. On average, it is warm at around 19 - 27°C (66 - 81°F). As there is not much rain, the temperature does not fluctuate much, with the maximum staying at 25°C (77°F) or a little higher almost every day, especially at the end of the month. The sea temperature rises to 25°C (77°F) and on sunny days it is possible to go swimming, surfing, etc.

Daylight Hours/ Sunshine Hours

Sunrise is earlier this month at 05:11 and sunset at 17:40, with a consequent increase in daylight hours to around 12.5 per day. Thanks to the long daylight hours and less rainfall, there are about 8 hours of sunshine a day on average, the longest all year round. Therefore, October is a great time to head to the beach and enjoy the warmth of the sun. However, with an extremely high UV index of 11+, be sure to put on sunscreen before going out.

Is October a Recommended Month to Visit Sainte Marie Island?

From the perspective of climate of Sainte Marie Island, October is a relatively good month. Except for the strong UV rays, all other weather conditions are favorable for outdoor sightseeing: the rainfall is the lowest around the year, and your travel will not be influenced by rain a lot; the temperature is mild, and you will not feel hot even when hiking or cycling; the daylight hours are long, enabling you have more time traveling; and the sunshine hours are long, creating good conditions for sunbathing on the beach. However, the best time to see whales has just passed, and you may not see these lovely animals in October, especially in late October.

In addition, October is the shoulder season of the Island, so you will not only meet just a quite small number of visitors, but also enjoy less costly hotels and airplane tickets.

Sunbathing People on the Beach

What to Bring when Visiting Sainte Marie Island in October

Clothes: The weather of Sainte Marie Island in October is quite warm, so you are recommended to bring breathable clothes like shorts, skirts, thin long pants, dresses, T-shirts, and short shirts. To protect yourself from the strong UV rays and keep warm in some cool early mornings and nights, you’d better pack a sun protection jacket.

Shoes: On the one hand, there are some unpredictable rains, and on the other hand, the shoes can get wet when you take a boat, so water shoes or sandals are necessary, which are also suitable for your beach trip. However, when you go hiking or cycling, breathable, lightweight, and waterproof hiking shoes are more comfortable. For all shoes mentioned above, non-slip ones are safer.

Others:
(1) You may be caught by some showers, so always remember to bring rain gear. Considering that the rain usually comes suddenly and stops quickly, umbrellas may be more convenient than raincoats.
(2) Since the UV rays are quite strong, you are advised to pack sunhats, sunglasses, and SPF 50+ sunscreen.
(3) This month, forests and other heavily wooded areas can be full of mosquitoes, so it is recommended that you carry mosquito repellent.

What to Do in Sainte Marie Island in October

Recommendation Rate:

1. Relaxing on the Beach

October is one of the months with the longest sunshine hours, so you are recommended to choose a sunny day to relax on the beach. You can head to the beach in the morning, and soak up the sun quietly. In the midday, when the UV rays are strong, you can go to a seaside restaurant and enjoy delicious food. In the afternoon, when the temperature goes higher, you can go swimming or try surfing in the sea. If you have enough time, do not miss the beautiful sunset.

People Enjoying Sea Sports

2. Go Snorkeling

The lowest rainfall in the 12 months ensures relatively high undersea visibility, so October is a suitable month to go snorkeling in Sainte Marie Island, which is a famous destination for snorkeling and diving. You can’t predict at all what marine animals you will see: there are beautiful corals, brightly colored tropical fish, starfish, sea urchins, sea turtles, and more. All in all, you will get a trip full of surprises.

Beautiful Coral Reef

3. Explore the Pirate Cemetery

Relatively low rainfall ensures good road conditions in October, so you can go hiking and explore the world’s only Pirate Cemetery. First, you’ll take a canoe to the island where the Cemetery is located, and then hike through a mangrove forest. On the way, you will find many cute and interesting animals. Upon arriving at the Cemetery, you will see around 30 simple stone or wooden tombstones, some of which are carved with skulls and crossbones, the symbols of pirates.

Sea View on the Way to Pirate Cemetery

Tips for Traveling to Sainte Marie Island in October

1. You are reminded that the chance of seeing whales in October 2025 is quite small. If you want to take your chance, go in July, August or September.
2. If you are sensitive to UV rays, you are advised to do some indoor activities instead of outdoor exploring during 12:00 – 14:00, when the sun is shining directly.

October Weather for Other Destinations in Madagascar

Sainte Marie Island Weather by Month

January February March April May June July August September October November December