Best Time to Visit Jamaica

Due to its location in the tropics, Jamaica’s weather doesn’t have four seasons like you see in Europe or America. Instead, the country has distinct wet and dry seasons. Due to its small size, the weather in Jamaica only varies slightly across the country and most regions experience similar conditions throughout the year.

Peak dry season in Jamaica – December to February

The most popular time to visit Jamaica is during the middle of the dry season, roughly between mid-December and February. Although rain is possible during these months, it will be minimal, and the daytime temperatures remain relatively cool.

However, peak season sees scores of vacationers flock to Jamaica, especially over the end-of-year break. While that means elevated prices, the high season also brings a festive-like vibe and fantastic nightlife.

Average temperatures	24°C (75°F) to 29°C (84°F)
Average rainfall	15 to 34 mm
Is peak dry season a good time to visit Jamaica?	Yes. This season is the best time to visit Jamaica but there are more tourists and higher prices.

Highlights:

• Little rainfall means balmy beach days are all but guaranteed.
• No rain also means better visibility for snorkeling and scuba diving.
• An influx of tourists makes this the best season to shake your booty in Jamaica’s fun-loving clubs and bars.

Travel tips:

• Book your airfares and hotels months in advance to secure the best possible prices.
• Expect to pay more for accommodation, especially around the Christmas/New Year period.

Shoulder dry seasons in Jamaica – November to mid-December, March to April

November to mid-December and March to April are Jamaica’s shoulder season months. Although these periods receive slightly more rainfall than peak season, you will likely admire crystal-clear skies most days. A distinct lack of crowds and lower prices make the shoulder months a favorite among many repeat visitors.

Average temperatures	25°C (77°F) to 28°C (82°F)
Average rainfall	23 to 74 mm
Is the shoulder dry season a good time to visit Jamaica?	Yes. These two seasons offer near-perfect weather and lower prices due to fewer visitors.

Highlights:

• Brilliant beach bumming weather
• Lower prices than the peak dry season

Travel tips:

• Note that the Easter/spring break period brings an influx of overseas arrivals, creating a mini peak season

Wet seasons in Jamaica – May to June, September to October

Jamaica’s two wettest seasons run from May to June and September to October. Wedged in the middle, July and August bring a short little dry spell with relatively low rainfall, aside from the odd hurricane-related downpour. Both these summer months get rather hot; plan to rush between your air-conditioned room and the beach.

June to October is Jamaica’s hurricane season. Five typhoons hit the region on average each season, though most turn northward before making landfall. Nonetheless, if one does strike the coast while you’re there, this ferocious natural force is a surefire way to ruin your holiday—it’ll make for a gnarly travel story, though.

Many resorts undertake renovations during the off-season. Contact your preferred option before booking to assess the noise situation. Keen to let loose with some Jamaican rum? You won’t find much nightlife anywhere on the island (try peak season instead).

Average temperatures	25°C (77°F) to 30°C (86°F)
Average rainfall	89mm to 180mm
Are the wet seasons a good time to visit Jamaica?	No. Hot weather, heavy rain, and the risk of hurricanes can spoil your travel plans.

Highlights:

• Enjoy rock-bottom rates for airfares and hotels.
• Very few fellow tourists make this a tempting time for solitude-seekers.

Travel Tips:

• Pack plenty of wet weather gear.
• Plan a flexible itinerary to cater for rainy days.
• Get travel insurance to cover trips canceled due to hurricanes.