When is the best time to visit Barbados?

When is Barbados’ dry season?

December to April marks Barbados’ dry season. So, you can expect warm dry temperatures, sunshine and cloudless blue skies – basically, everything you’d want from a winter sun escape. Not only does Barbados line up some of the world’s best beaches – the award-winning Crane Beach and Silver Sands included – activities like catamaran cruises and jet-skiing are geared towards perfect weather. If you’re travelling at the peak holiday season in January, stay near Sandy Lane and you’re more than likely to spot some famous faces, as loads of celebs seem to congregate on the island post-Christmas.

Find out how to do Barbados like a celebrity

When is Barbados’ rainy season?

Rainy season in Barbados runs from June to November. But, the good news is, the rain isn’t a gloomy all-day affair like it tends to be in the UK. Rather than constant grey clouds, mud and endless drizzle, the showers are short and sharp, punctuating an otherwise hot and sunny day. They usually happen mid-afternoon, so you’ll be able to plan your day around the potential showers. In fact, you might even find that they’re a reprieve from the humid, muggy weather, and will help to cool down the temperature considerably just in time for those evening cocktails.

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When is Barbados’ official hurricane season?

Along with the rest of the Caribbean, Barbados’ official hurricane season can start as early as June and end around October. The Met Office states that the highest risk of hurricanes is between September and October, due to the higher sea temperatures, however, this usually just means high winds and the occasional storm.

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When is it quietest in Barbados?

If you want to avoid the crowds in Barbados, then June to August is the perfect time to go to avoid the peak holiday season. You’ll have the perfect white-sand stretches (almost) all to yourself and be able to really unplug. Combine relaxation and luxury at the Ocean Two Resort & Residences from our A La Carte collection, which comes with a beachfront setting, waiter service on the sand and a choice of stylish suites.

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Top events in Barbados

Want to plan your holiday around a top event? Check out what’s happening this year…

Mount Gay Round Barbados Race Series
January
The Round Barbados Race Series features three days of open-water sailing, including a race to Antigua and the Round Barbados race, so you can catch the impressive boats sailing past mid-sunbathing session.

Holetown festival
February
Barbados’ most famous festival kicks off in February. Shimmy along with the street parades, watch the queen of the festival be chosen and crowned, then grab a seat for the nightly concerts.

Crop Over festival
August
Crop Over is the island’s annual six-week carnival, marking the end of the sugarcane harvest. It involves street parties, singing competitions and a costumed parade through the Bridgetown.

Barbados Food and Rum Festival
Mid-November
Tuck into cuisine prepared by international chefs across the island in renowned restaurants, plus cocktails made with Bajan rum.

Independence celebrations
30 November
This ceremony marks Barbados’ independence from the UK back in 1966. You can expect marching troops and military bands at this event.

Run Barbados Marathon
Early December
This weekend of running events includes a fun run, a 5k, a 10k and a full marathon. Sign up and you can swap the London streets for a marathon on the beach. After the event there’s usually a party, that everyone is welcome to join, so you can celebrate your win.

Ready to book your Barbados holiday?

Browse through our holidays to Barbados. Looking for more Caribbean holiday inspiration? Find out the best time to visit Mexico, Jamaica and Cuba.

 Author: Selina Akhtar