When’s the best time to visit Jamaica?

When is high season?

Make tracks for Jamaica during the UK’s winter months to escape the cold, as high season – also known as dry season – falls from mid-December to mid-April. At this time of year, the average temperature peaks at a toasty 32°c. Think blue skies offering plenty of opportunity to top up your tan. The combination of warm weather and low rainfall makes December to April the best time of year to visit the island for laidback beach holidays.

When is rainy season?

Like the majority of the Caribbean, Jamaica has a rainy season, running from May to November. But don’t worry that it’ll make your holiday a washout – showers tend to come in short blasts during the afternoon, followed by sunshine.

When is hurricane season?

Jamaica’s official hurricane season runs from June to November, with most of the storm activity taking place in the late-summer months and autumn, including August, September, and October.

When is it quietest in Jamaica?

The beautiful weather means it's always a great time to visit the island, but the best way to avoid the crowds is to travel outside of high season. January, February, and mid-March are the months when the hotels are at their busiest, so try November or December if you’d rather have a quieter holiday. Or, if you’re after an early spring break, skip the island’s capital, Kingston, and head to Montego Bay instead. Alongside the luxurious hotels there are miles of beaches, made for both relaxation and watersports.

Find out more about Montego Bay

Add these events to your calendar

Bob Marley Celebrations

When: February

Warm weather isn’t the only reason February is a good time to visit Jamaica. Reggae music’s biggest star is honoured every year with a week of celebrations. Loads of the events take place at the Bob Marley Museum, including karaoke contests, fashion shows, exhibitions, and concerts.

International Reggae Day

When: July

Celebrate the influence reggae music has had on Jamaican culture and around the world at this day-long party. The festival focuses on bringing people together using music, media, and communication – and you can expect plenty of nods to the original king of reggae, Bob Marley.

Jamaica Food and Drink Festival

When: October

If you and your tribe are foodies, get Jamaica’s Food and Drink Festival on your to-do list. Spend five days on the island celebrating the tastiest dishes and biggest names in the Jamaican food scene. Try traditional favourites like jerk chicken and crispy pork belly, before sampling international delicacies like Peking duck and sushi.

Harbour Fest

When: December

Does spending your next New Year’s Eve on an island paradise sound ideal? Gather with thousands of locals to watch the free fireworks as you ring in the New Year on Kingston’s Down Town Harbour.

Ready to relax?

Browse our long-haul holiday deals, and for more on Jamaica, check out how to have the Bob Marley experience, plus how to see the island like a VIP.

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Author: Lizzie Butler