Travel time: Year-round
Located off the coast of the Saurashtra Peninsula, the island of Diu possesses a tropical savanna climate heavily moderated by its maritime position. Unlike the scorching interior of Gujarat, Diu enjoys a buffered atmosphere where the Arabian Sea acts as a natural thermostat, keeping temperatures within a relatively steady range throughout the year.
In Diu, the climate is dictated by the diurnal cycle of sea and land breezes. In the mornings, the land remains relatively cool, but as the sun rises, the temperature climbs quickly, peaking in the early afternoon. However, just as the heat begins to feel oppressive, the sea breeze typically kicks in, providing a refreshing salt-misted relief. Evenings are the island's highlight; as the sun sets, the humidity often stabilizes, and the air becomes crisp and breezy, making the night significantly more comfortable than the day.
This is the most celebrated season in Diu. Temperatures are a comfortable 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). The sky remains almost consistently clear—February is historically the clearest month, with sunny conditions 87% of the time. The air is dry, and the "cool season" humidity is low, making it the perfect time for heritage walks through the Portuguese quarters.
As the inland deserts of Kutch heat up, Diu remains slightly cooler but experiences increased humidity. Temperatures hover between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F). May is the hottest month, where the tropical sun is intense. The island becomes extremely windy during this period as thermal gradients between the land and sea strengthen, with average wind speeds often exceeding 20 km/h.
The arrival of the Southwest Monsoon in June transforms the island from a pale limestone brown to a vibrant emerald green. July is the wettest month, receiving nearly half of the island's annual 540–770mm of rainfall. During this time, the weather is "oppressive"—the combination of high humidity and heat is at its peak, and the sky is overcast roughly 77% of the time. The Arabian Sea becomes turbulent, and the air feels heavy and saturated with salt.
Diu’s geography creates subtle but distinct microclimates across its small area:
Locals have lived in harmony with the sea for centuries. Historically, the Portuguese-influenced architecture features thick limestone walls and high ceilings designed to trap cool air and facilitate cross-ventilation. During the peak of summer, the island's rhythm slows significantly between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM—a local siesta period when the sun is at its most punishing.
A specific phenomenon to note is the "Salt Mist." During the windier months of summer and the early monsoon, high-speed winds whip up the sea spray, creating a fine mist that can coat windows and skin in a thin layer of salt. This gives the air a distinct, tangy “feel” that is the hallmark of the Diu experience.