Caribbean Weather by Month

Many places in the world have four seasons, but the Caribbean has two: a dry season (typically December-May) and a wet season (usually June-November). The dry season has the most pleasant weather with warm, sunny days and blue skies. Rain is more frequent in the wet season, but the temperatures are higher. 

Wet season and dry season are both good times to cruise the Caribbean. The worst time for a Caribbean cruise weather-wise is August to September, as it is peak hurricane season. 

When it’s teeth-chattering cold in many places, the Caribbean beckons with temps in the low to mid 80s. January is the driest month in the Caribbean. The occasional downpour still may surprise you, so add a raincoat to your Caribbean packing list.

Caribbean weather varies. If you like swimming and snorkeling in warm waters, consider a Southern Caribbean cruise to Aruba, one of the Caribbean’s hottest islands. If you prefer daytime temps in the breezy high 70s, an Eastern Caribbean cruise might be a better option.

When the sun goes down, it cools considerably. Pack sweaters or light jackets for stargazing on deck or watching poolside movies on board.

With long stretches of sunshine, temperatures in the low to mid 80s, and only the occasional brief shower, it’s no surprise February is one of the busiest months for tourism across the Caribbean. For the warmest temperatures, opt for Southern Caribbean cruises—the closer you are to the equator, the better.

February is the perfect time to book a romantic couples’ cruise and celebrate Valentine’s Day in tropical paradise.

March is peak season for travel to the Caribbean, thanks to consistently warm, dry weather—and masses of spring breakers and snowbirds flocking to the islands to escape the cold. Expect temperatures in the low to mid 80s and little rainfall.

If you’re set on traveling to the Caribbean in March, be sure to book your flights, cruise, and activities well in advance to avoid disappointment.

April is warmer but rainier. Most destinations enjoy temperatures in the mid to upper 80s. Swimming is comfortable throughout the Caribbean. Dip into crystalline waters—snorkel the kaleidoscopic reefs around Grand Turk or ride horses into the surf on Half Moon Cay.

The end of April is known as “shoulder season”, which is the travel period between peak season and off-season in the Caribbean. This often means you can enjoy fewer crowds and lower prices than peak season, and better weather than off-season.

In May, rainfall is slightly heavier and humidity levels start to increase, with temperatures in the mid to upper 80s. However, you can still expect plenty of clear skies and pleasant days.

The beaches and roads tend to be quieter in May, making it a great time to book a variety of shore excursions.

June kicks off the wet season in most Caribbean areas, but the weather is still balmy, and the risk of showers is low. Temperatures in June are in the mid 80s and into the 90s with high humidity.

Beat the heat and rain at one of many museums. Duck into the Hemingway House in Key West to see where Ernest Hemingway once lived and wrote.

During July, temperatures reach the high 80s and low 90s, and there is more rainfall. Humidity is high. Although July is part of hurricane season, it’s not at its peak. If you’re willing to chance a few tropical storms, now is a great time to avoid crowds.

Temperatures continue to soar in the high 80s and low 90s, with high humidity. Hurricane season also starts heating up this month. If you’re planning a trip to the Caribbean in August, you may want to stick to the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao), which typically see fewer storms and are considered low-risk options to visit during hurricane season.

September is one of the quietest months, as it’s peak hurricane season. Temperatures typically hit the high 80s, with summer humidity still lingering. Rainfall is also high, so packing rain gear is a must. If you do decide to venture to the Caribbean in September, the ABC islands might be your best bet.

In October, the weather is in the mid to upper 80s, and the beaches stay toasty, though there’s still a risk of hurricanes early in the month.

The Caribbean weather in November is like early summer with sporadic showers and temps in the 70s and 80s. Hurricane season officially ends November 30.

December rolls in as one of the most popular months to cruise the Caribbean because of those looking to trade in white snow for white sand and gray skies for sunshine.

December is one of the best months to celebrate in sunshine. Bring the whole family together on a holiday cruise and leave the cooking and cleaning to us. 

Weather-wise, mid-December through mid-March is the best time for a Caribbean cruise. These are the driest months, with sunny skies, little rainfall, and pleasantly moderate temperatures. Expect average lows in the 70s and highs in the 80s.

While Caribbean weather varies by region, wet season runs from June through November, with many areas experiencing their rainiest months in September and October.

The Caribbean islands enjoy a hot, tropical climate year-round, with temperatures for most destinations ranging from the low 80s Fahrenheit (high 20s Celsius) in the winter to the high 80s Fahrenheit (low 30s Celsius) in the summer.

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.

Get ready for sun-kissed shores and gentle breezes. Start planning your cruise with our helpful Caribbean cruise tips and travel articles.