When is Scilly right for you?
Choose a month around the holiday you want, then check the journeys and places that make it possible.
Photo: Pentle Bay, Tresco (10 September 2012) — Jonathan Billinger · CC BY-SA 2.0. Display may be cropped. Photo details.
Seasonal guidance checked 11 September 2026 against Visit Isles of Scilly and transport operators.
Best time to visit: start with your interests
Scilly has a mild maritime climate, with rain, wind and changing sea conditions possible throughout the year. These are planning suggestions, not a forecast or a promise of wildlife sightings, open attractions or lower prices. Check your exact dates before booking.
Check these before choosing a month
- Match accommodation availability to the outward and return journey.
- Check opening days and seasonal boat or activity schedules with the provider.
- For winter travel, check Skybus from Land’s End or Penzance Helicopters. Ferry dates and Newquay/Exeter flights are seasonal.
- Autumn is the grey-seal pupping season; keep your distance and never approach or disturb seals.
All 12 months. Other months may also suit your plans.
January
A quiet winter stay
Confirm accommodation, places to eat and flight dates before booking. Leave room around onward connections.
February
Plan a flexible winter break
Choose walks around daylight and the forecast. Check half-term opening arrangements directly rather than assuming summer services.
March
Check the spring restart
Look up the actual ferry season and business reopening dates. A March visit can feel very different at the start and end of the month.
April
Spring walks and returning seabirds
Puffins usually begin returning from mid-April; sightings and boat trips are never guaranteed. Check the current Walk Scilly programme if that interests you.
May
Walking and island exploring
A useful month to consider for a walking holiday. Check gig championship and school-holiday dates before choosing a quieter week.
June
Long days and seabird trips
Consider June for coastal walks and breeding-season seabirds. Book suitable wildlife trips and watch from a responsible distance.
July
Summer family holidays
Plan transport and accommodation together for school holidays. Puffins may still be around early in the month but usually leave by late July.
August
A summer island stay
Reserve the activities that matter most and check availability before promising children a particular trip. Sunshine and calm seas are not guaranteed.
September
Walking, food and autumn migration
Consider a walking or food-focused break and check the current event programme. September also brings opportunities for autumn birding.
October
Autumn birdwatching
Scilly is renowned for autumn migration, especially September and October. Rare birds are unpredictable; allow for changing weather and shorter days.
November
Check the seasonal changeover
Do not assume the ferry operates throughout November. Confirm final sailings, winter flight dates, accommodation and food options before committing.
December
A quieter winter visit
Check festive opening days and the winter flight schedule. Leave flexibility for weather disruption and arrange practical needs before arrival.
Make your dates work
Sources for seasonal planning
Visit Isles of Scilly: climate and weatherVisit Isles of Scilly: puffin seasonVisit Isles of Scilly: autumn wildlifeOfficial ferry timetableOfficial Skybus routes and schedulesPenzance Helicopters: year-round travelFAQ