Best Time to Visit the Windward Islands
The Windward Islands, including
Dominica,
St. Lucia,
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and
Grenada, offer an ideal
Caribbean experience with year-round warmth, beautiful rainforests, and turquoise waters.
While you can visit any time of year, understanding the seasonal weather patterns can help you decide the best time to visit the Windward Islands based on what kind of experience you’re after.
Year-Round Tropical Climate
Located in the southern
Lesser Antilles, the
Windward Islands enjoy a consistently warm, tropical climate influenced by steady trade winds that keep temperatures comfortable. Average temperatures hover between 27–29 °C (81–84 °F) throughout the year, making the region one of the most reliably warm destinations in the Caribbean.
Humidity remains high (typically around 80–82%), nurturing the islands’ lush rainforests and rich biodiversity.
The weather generally falls into two main seasons: a dry season from December to May and a wet season from June to November.
Seasonal Overview
Dry Season (December to May) – Ideal for Travel
The dry season is considered the best time to visit the Caribbean, and particularly the Windward Islands. During these months, you can expect:
- Minimal rainfall and abundant sunshine
- Average temperatures around 27–28 °C (80–82 °F)
- Calmer seas and steady trade winds ideal for sailing, snorkeling, and diving
This is also the most popular time for tourism, so flights and accommodations tend to be more expensive. In exchange, you’ll enjoy the most pleasant weather and plenty of local festivals, including St. Lucia’s Jazz Festival and Grenada’s Sailing Week.
Wet Season (June to November) – Greener Landscapes, Fewer Crowds
The wet season brings heavier and more frequent showers, though rain often comes in brief bursts followed by sunshine. The landscape becomes especially green and vibrant, offering beautiful scenery for photographers and hikers.
Temperatures climb slightly higher, averaging 29–30 °C (84–86 °F). While the rain may deter some travelers, it’s a good time for lower prices and fewer crowds. The southern islands, especially Grenada, are also less affected by hurricanes, making them a safer choice during these months.
Hurricane Season
The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from August through October, peaking in September. While northern Caribbean islands are more likely to be affected, the southernmost Windward Islands, such as Grenada and St. Vincent, sit outside the main hurricane belt, experiencing fewer direct hits.
If you plan to visit during this time, keep an eye on weather forecasts, consider getting
travel insurance.
Trade Winds and Geography
The islands’ trade winds and surrounding seas create a pleasant marine climate. Even on the warmest days, steady breezes help moderate humidity along the coast. In contrast, the interior highlands, especially on St. Lucia and Dominica, can feel more humid and experience heavier rainfall, which supports dense rainforests and waterfalls.
Travel Tips by Season
- Dry Season (Dec–May): Best for beach vacations, sailing, and outdoor exploration.
- Wet Season (Jun–Nov): Expect beautiful landscapes, quieter resorts, and lower rates.
- Hurricane Season (Aug–Oct): Travel with flexibility and consider southern islands like Grenada for minimal storm risk.
If you prefer fewer tourists and can handle some rain, June and November can be great shoulder months, offering a balance between affordability and decent weather.
The Best Time to Visit the Windward Islands
With year-round warmth and inviting beaches, there’s truly no bad time to visit. However, for the most reliable weather and smoothest travel experience, the best time to visit the Windward Islands is from December through May, when the days are sunny, dry, and perfect for exploring both land and sea.
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