The best time to visit the Caribbean (2024)

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.

The best time to visit the Caribbean (2024)

FAQs

The best time to visit the Caribbean? ›

The best time to visit the Caribbean is in the dry season, from mid-December through April. The shoulder season, May, June, July is also a great time to visit, depending on which islands you choose.

What is the best month to go to the Caribbean? ›

The best time to visit the Caribbean is during its driest months, from February to May. But the Caribbean islands enjoy a hot, tropical climate all year round, with average highs of 82°F. The wettest period is between July and November, although the official hurricane season lasts from June to November.

What time is year to avoid 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.

What is the cheapest month to go to the Caribbean? ›

Low Season

This is the perfect time to book if you're looking for a quieter, less crowded stay. This is also the cheapest time to visit the Caribbean, particularly between September and October, the period before the holiday rush.

What is the rainy season in the Caribbean? ›

Most islands have a rainy season, usually from May to October. You'll get higher temperatures, humidity and more rain at this time. In the drier season from November to April the islands are slightly cooler, there's lower humidity and less rain.

What is Caribbean hurricane season? ›

When is hurricane season in the Caribbean? Officially the hurricane season in the Caribbean is between June 1 and November 30, but in reality rains can come as early as May, and linger later. Location matters too.

What is the safest Caribbean island to visit right now? ›

What are the Safest Caribbean Islands to Travel?
  • Grenada.
  • Montserrat.
  • St. Barts (Saint-Barthélemy)
  • The British Virgin Islands.
  • Saint Lucia.
  • Turks and Caicos.
  • Sint Maarten (Saint-Martin)
  • Saint Kitts and Nevis.

What are the worst months for a Caribbean cruise? ›

The worst months to cruise to the Caribbean are July, August, and September. What is this? As mentioned above, the Caribbean's wet season runs from the beginning of May through October. It is no coincidence that the Atlantic hurricane season falls within this timeframe.

What months to avoid Caribbean cruises? ›

Hurricane season in the Caribbean generally runs from June 1 to November 30, typically peaking in August and September. Keep yourself well-prepared by checking the National Hurricane Center for updates before you travel.

Which Caribbean island has the best weather? ›

You don't want to head to the north for a white Christmas and find sunny skies waiting. Nor do you want to head to a Caribbean beach and find only drizzly rain to greet you. Fortunately, the TCI has your back! The Turks and Caicos are, by far, the best Caribbean Island to visit year-round.

Where is the cheapest and safest place in the Caribbean? ›

The property market in Antigua and Barbuda is noticeably more affordable when compared to other countries. Generally considered one of the safest Caribbean countries, Antigua and Barbuda is a wonderful place to relocate as a solo traveler or with a family.

What is the cheapest day to fly to the Caribbean? ›

Cheapest days to travel internationally
RegionLeast Expensive Day(s) to TravelMost Expensive Day to Travel
MexicoTues, WedSun
CaribbeanWed, TuesSun
Central AmericaWed, TuesSun
South AmericaTues, WedSat
6 more rows
Apr 22, 2024

What is the cheapest Caribbean island to get to? ›

The Dominican Republic is the cheapest Caribbean island for vacation. It's popular for its cheap all-inclusive resorts and adventure activities, which are available at affordable prices. This island boasts several of the Caribbean's best beaches with crystalline waters and pristine coral reefs.

What are the hottest months in the Caribbean? ›

The Caribbean has a tropical climate so you can expect hot sunny days and tropical rain showers in the summer months. From June through October the heat and humidity soar with daily highs in the upper 80s and early 90s.

Do you need a passport to go to the Caribbean? ›

Visiting the Caribbean islands, a valid passport is required. You may also require a visa, depending upon the country of issue of your passport.

What are the worst months for hurricanes in the Caribbean? ›

The official hurricane season runs between 1 June and 30 November but the period of highest concern is just between mid-August and early October. This means the months of April, May, June and July are particularly good value.

What months to avoid for cruising the Caribbean? ›

Hurricane season in the Caribbean generally runs from June 1 to November 30, typically peaking in August and September. Keep yourself well-prepared by checking the National Hurricane Center for updates before you travel.

What time of year is best for Caribbean cruise weather? ›

The best time for a Caribbean cruise is from December to April when the weather is dry, sunny, and clear skies on most days. The ideal cruising conditions of mild temperatures and calm waters typically last throughout winter and spring, making it the prime Caribbean sailing season and very traveler-friendly.

What is the cheapest time of year to fly to the Caribbean? ›

Planning a vacation can take a good amount of smart scheduling and staying on top of travel prices. To help you save as much cash as possible during your vacation this year, try to plan your trip around the cheapest time of year to travel to the Caribbean islands – June through November.

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