Palikir in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Palikir
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect diving visibility at 30 m (98 ft) - Northeast trade winds haven't started stirring up sediment yet, making November the last month for crystal-clear underwater photography
- Peak local fruit season - rambutan, soursop, and breadfruit harvests mean markets overflow with fresh produce at 30-40% lower prices than dry season
- Shoulder season crowds mean major sites like Micronesia have 60% fewer visitors compared to December-February peak, with accommodation rates still 25% below high season
- Ideal temperature for hiking - morning temps of 23°C (73°F) make the 2-hour trek to Micronesia summit comfortable before afternoon heat peaks
Considerations
- Unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms lasting 45-90 minutes can disrupt outdoor plans - storms typically hit between 2pm-5pm on 10 days of the month
- High humidity at 70% makes air conditioning essential for comfortable sleep, increasing accommodation costs by ฿300-500 per night for decent AC units
- Some boat operators suspend trips to outer atolls when swells exceed 1.5 m (5 ft), which happens 3-4 days per month in November
Best Activities in November
Nan Madol Stone City Exploration
November's lower tides expose more of the ancient stone platforms and canals, making kayaking navigation easier through the 92 artificial islets. Morning visits avoid afternoon storms and offer cooler temperatures of 25°C (77°F). The UNESCO World Heritage site sees fewer crowds, allowing better photography opportunities of the basalt log construction.
Sokehs Rock Sunrise Hiking
November mornings provide ideal hiking conditions with 23°C (73°F) temperatures and clear skies before afternoon cloud buildup. The 600 m (1,968 ft) summit offers panoramic views of Micronesia and surrounding reefs. Trail conditions are dry in early morning, making the steep sections safer than in peak rainy months.
Traditional Sakau Ceremony Participation
November coincides with yam harvest celebrations where authentic sakau (kava) ceremonies are most frequent. Evening temperatures of 25°C (77°F) make outdoor community gatherings comfortable. This is peak season for cultural exchanges as locals celebrate successful harvests with visitors.
Mangrove Kayaking and Bird Watching
November is peak migration season for Pacific golden plovers and other seabirds. Calm morning waters in mangrove channels provide excellent paddling conditions before afternoon storms. Water temperature of 28°C (82°F) makes accidental splashes pleasant rather than shocking.
Kepirohi Waterfall Swimming
November rains keep waterfalls at optimal flow levels - strong enough for dramatic photos but not dangerously torrential. The 3 km (1.9 mile) jungle hike is manageable in morning temperatures, and the freshwater pools provide perfect cooling relief. Less crowded than dry season months.
November Events & Festivals
Yam Harvest Festival Celebrations
Local communities celebrate successful yam harvests with traditional feasts, dancing, and cultural demonstrations. Visitors can participate in authentic Pohnpeian culture including traditional cooking methods and local music performances.
Constitution Day Preparations
Local communities begin preparing for Micronesia's Constitution Day with traditional craft making and cultural practice sessions. Visitors can observe and sometimes participate in traditional weaving and carving demonstrations.