The Caribbean is a dream holiday destination for many, home to over 700 islands, inlets, and cays. The region attracts over 20 million tourists each year, thanks to its paradisiacal setting, crystal blue waters, white sand beaches, exotic wildlife, and welcoming locals. Its tropical location means it is prone to a diverse climate, which is why it’s important to know the best time to visit the Caribbean Islands to make the most of your holiday.
December – April: Dry Season
Most Caribbean islands share a dry season, which runs from December to April and offers hot, sunny weather, lower humidity and less rain. It also offers the best visibility for diving; the water is clearer, calmer, and warmer, ideal for snorkelling, deep-sea diving, and photography.
The dry season is ideal for travellers wanting to experience a livelier atmosphere, with endless activities and festivals, like Carnival. It’s the best time to travel for some Christmas sun; however, such optimal temperatures mean a peak season with large crowds of tourists wishing to enjoy the tropical weather and calm beaches.
June – November: Wet Season
June through to November is the wet season and official hurricane season in the Caribbean, coinciding with the Atlantic hurricane season. Although this means an increase in humidity and rainfall, don’t let it deter you from travelling; the average temperature is between 28°C and 32°C, and the short afternoon bursts of rain are followed by sunshine, not grey skies. The sea temperatures remain warm, ideal for watersports lovers wanting to dive or snorkel, and you’ll be able to partake in regional festivals like Jamaica’s Reggae Sumfest in July and Antigua Carnival in August.
Those willing to brave travelling during the wet season will be rewarded with lush, verdant scenery, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
August – October: Peak Hurricane Season
The hurricane season peaks between August and October, with the highest heat and humidity levels in August, as well as heavier rain. While the northern and eastern islands, like the Bahamas, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic, are at higher risk of experiencing tropical storms, the southern ‘ABC’ islands – Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao – are located outside of the hurricane belt and boast drier weather year-round.
Best Time to Visit the Caribbean with Fewer Crowds: Shoulder Seasons
If you’re looking for the best time to visit the Caribbean, we recommend travelling during the shoulder months between each season to avoid crowds and make the most of cheaper hotels and airfare.
The spring shoulder season, between mid-April and early June, is an optimal period, as most crowds leave to avoid the upcoming wet season, but the weather remains sunny and warm. Similarly, the autumn shoulder season, mid-November to mid-December, offers great weather as the wet season settles to welcome the dry one, and fewer tourists before the Christmas peak.
Best Time to see Wildlife in the Caribbean
The Caribbean region is a biodiversity hotspot, home to thousands of species of exotic wildlife, for animal lovers. To get a chance to see these creatures, it’s important to time your trip accordingly.
Turtle Nesting Season
Turtle nesting season in the Caribbean usually takes place between May and October, though this depends on the island and the species. July to October is the best time to see Green and Hawksbill turtle nesting in Costa Rica and Barbados, while Leatherback turtle nesting takes place between March and September in Trinidad and Tobago.
Whale Watching Season
December to April is whale watching season in the Caribbean, as this is when humpback whales migrate from the North Atlantic to breed and nurture their young. Samana Bay is the most popular spot for whale watching in the Dominican Republic, hosting thousands of migrating whales each year. St Lucia is another great destination, offering the opportunity to see multiple whale species, including sperm and pilot whales, as well as dolphins.
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For more travel advice and inspiration, deep dive further into the Escapist magazine, or get in touch for more information on our outrageously bookable deals.