In short
- Dry season (January to May) has the clearest water.
- Morning tours are less crowded than afternoon tours.
- Water temperatures are warm (26°C - 29°C) all year.
In this article
Choosing the right time to visit the Nylon Pool makes a big difference. The waist-deep sandbar sits a mile off the coast of Tobago, meaning ocean conditions dictate the experience. While boat tours run year-round, timing your visit helps you get the clearest water and avoid large crowds at the nearby Buccoo Reef.
What are the best months to go?
The best months to visit are January, February, March, April, and May.
These months make up Tobago's dry season. During this time, the skies are generally clear and the water is calm. Less rain means better visibility for snorkeling at Buccoo Reef before you swim at the Nylon Pool.
Is morning or afternoon better?
Morning tours are usually better for calmer waters and smaller crowds.
Glass-bottom boats start running around 10:00 AM or 11:00 AM. Taking the earliest tour helps you avoid the busiest times when multiple boats arrive at the sandbar. The wind is often lighter in the morning, which keeps the boat ride smooth.
Can I visit during the wet season?
Yes, you can visit the Nylon Pool year-round.
The water temperature stays between 26°C and 29°C (79°F - 84°F) every month. However, the rainy season from June to December brings more cloudy days and occasionally choppy seas. Trips may be delayed or rescheduled if the weather is too rough.
| Season | Months | Water Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Dry | Jan - May | Calmest, clearest visibility |
| Wet | Jun - Dec | Warm, but potentially choppy |
How long does a visit take?
A standard glass-bottom boat tour lasts 2 to 2.5 hours.
This includes the 15 to 20-minute boat ride from Pigeon Point or Store Bay. You usually spend 30 to 45 minutes swimming at the Nylon Pool itself. The rest of the time is spent snorkeling at Buccoo Reef Coral Gardens and visiting No Man's Land.
Are Sundays a good day to go?
Sundays are popular if you depart from Buccoo Bay.
Buccoo Bay hosts the 'Sunday School' street party every Sunday evening. You can take an afternoon boat tour from Buccoo jetty, then stay in the village for steelpan music and local food. If you want a quiet experience, choose a different day or depart from Pigeon Point.
When should I book my tickets?
Book a few days in advance if you travel between January and May.
During the busy dry season, glass-bottom boats fill up quickly. You can buy tickets at the beach, but booking online guarantees your spot and often includes hotel pickup in Scarborough.
Questions travellers ask
Is the water cold in the winter?
No. The water temperature at the Nylon Pool averages 26°C to 29°C (79°F to 84°F) all year round.
Do tours run if it rains?
Tours usually run in light rain, but captains will cancel or reschedule if the sea is too rough or thunderstorms are present.
How early do the boats leave?
Most glass-bottom boat tours schedule their first departures between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM.
