The Caribbean is a huge region with more than 1,000 miles from north to south – that’s the same as the distance from London to Seville. With a tropical climate, though, the temperatures vary far less than in Europe, and three calm days in winter will be hotter than a breezy summer’s afternoon in the UK. The region’s seasons are not as predictable as they once were, but basically, they are dry (and cool) between December and May, with increasing temperatures until August, and wet (and usually muggy) between September and November.
When is the best time to visit the Caribbean?
The best time to visit the Caribbean is in February when Europe’s weather is at its most miserable. The Caribbean is a lovely 28˚C – clear, dry, usually with a light breeze, and it is flowering season to boot. The full season runs from 15 December to 15 April, which coincides with it being the most expensive time of year to travel to the Caribbean. The costs will spike at Christmas and New Year, with the busiest time being February and April when the islands are packed with families during school holidays. Visiting the Caribbean during peak season does come with drawbacks, with visitors on the west coast of Barbados making their restaurant reservations for the following year as they leave. There is occasionally a lull between 5 and 20 January, so it’s worth looking out for deals in October. And on the popular islands, there is another spike over the summer in July and August, when they fill up with families on summer holidays. Another date to be aware of is Thanksgiving (very late November), a popular American getaway time.
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When is hurricane season in the Caribbean?
Hurricanes occur during the low season, specifically from June 1 to November 30. The risk peaks in August and September and occasionally extends into October and even November. Travel companies generally advise against going to the Caribbean during these months. It’s important to be informed if you plan to visit the Caribbean during hurricane season, damage can be surprisingly localised, so you won’t necessarily want to cancel a trip to the southern Caribbean when the northeastern Caribbean (500 miles away) or Florida gets hit. There also tend to be fewer storms in the southern Caribbean, which includes Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao and Barbados.
When is the rainy season in the Caribbean?
The rainy season runs parallel to hurricane season, from June 1 - November 30. Rainy season doesn’t mean consistent rainfall but rather showers and/or short tropical storms. Be sure to check the rainfall of the island you want to visit. Certain islands like St Lucia (more mountainous) see a heavier rainy season in comparison to an island such as Aruba.
