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Best time to visit Barbados
Barbados boasts a warm, welcoming, laidback vibe. The hospitality you’ll experience here is second to none. The beauty of Barbados is that any time is the perfect time to visit based on your personal preference. This stunning island boasts around 3000 hours of sunshine every year.
Barbados is an incredible island to visit all-year round, with its breath-taking beaches, beautiful range of hotels and large resorts and mouth-watering cuisine. It is generally considered that the best time to jet-set off to Barbados is between December and mid-April. This is the dry season, meaning there will be less rainfall and temperatures tend to be at around 30 degrees Celsius. However, the prices tend to be higher during peak dates. Travelling during the wet season between July and October may carry a greater risk of rainfall, but the prices will be more affordable, and it will be less busy.
Average weather in Barbados
- Temperature (°C)*
- Rainfall (Inches)*
Weather in Barbados
Barbados is located close to the equator and has a desirable tropical climate. Understanding the weather in Barbados is a good place to start when it comes to deciding on when to plan your trip. The dry season tends to run from December to mid-April, where the weather is delightfully warm and there is little chance of storms or rainfall. The shoulder season between mid-April and July sees temperatures heating up, but northeast trade winds cool this down to comfortable levels. The official hurricane season is between July and October, and this is when the humidity is at its peak. There is a higher chance of rainfall, but often clear blue skies will follow.
Seasonality in Barbados
Not only is Barbados home to some of the world’s best beaches and hotels, but it also has the most enviable climate.
Peak season in Barbados
The peak season, otherwise known as the dry season, is generally regarded as the best time to visit Barbados due to its drier weather and less humidity. The peak season is between December and May and great weather is almost always guaranteed. The con of the peak season is that usually the prices are a little higher as everyone wants a slice of Barbados action during this time.
Low season in Barbados
Between June and November is hurricane season, known as the low season due to its soaring heat and humidity. While this time is undeniably hotter, the trade winds from the northeast stop the island from becoming unbearably hot. There is a higher chance of rain, but don’t let this stop you from visiting during the low season as following a short, sharp shower, the sun will often follow.
The Platinum Coast
Sample the finest Bajan rum
Pack your hiking boots
Colonial buildings & buzzing local culture
Culinary capital of the CaribbeanPhoto credit: Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.
Holidays in Barbados
Barbados is a fantastic Caribbean destination, the months of December to May generally have the best weather. Barbados is a popular holiday destination for beaches, water sports, rainforest walks and spotting exotic wildlife.
If you’re looking for a trip to relish in the sun, sea and beaches then look no further than Barbados. For drier and less humid weather, head to Barbados during the high season, between December and June. For the opportunity to maximise your tanning potential and take advantage of more affordable rates, visit Barbados during the low season, between July and October. During the shoulder season (May, June and November), you will benefit from it being a little quieter than the peak season and not having to fight for the last room at your desired accommodation, plus the weather still tends to be great. Stay in St James and St Peter on the western side of the island for the best of the Platinum Coast.
Snorkelling is an absolute must-do in Barbados, and for the more adventurous, the diving is second to none too. With an abundance of marine life to marvel at, from coral to sea turtles, the underwater world is where it’s at. Water temperatures are warmest during the summer months, but snorkelling can be done all year round. The best time to catch a glimpse of leatherback turtles is between February and July. The green turtle and hawksbill turtle nest mainly between May and October, although it is common to see them in other months too. Folkestone Marine Park in St. James on the west coast, and Carlisle Bay Marine Park in St. Michael are well worth checking out.
From October to March is the best time for surfing in Barbados in the South and South East coast. Head to Freights Bay on the south coast or Dover Beach on the east coast, which are ideal for beginner surfers. For the more advanced surfer, Sandy Lane and Tropicana on the west coast have some fantastic options for wave breaks.
The best time to sightsee and experience the plethora of outdoor activities Barbados has to offer would be the driest time of year, between December and April. During October and November, there are a few sites and restaurants that will be closed as this is the off season, so ideally don’t travel over this time if you’re looking for an action-packed trip of sightseeing and activities.
Month by month guide to visiting Barbados
Barbados in January
Some people say that January is the best time of year to go abroad and beat those January blues. This is especially true with Barbados which sees some of its best weather in January.
If you’re visiting Barbados during January, a must-see is the Barbados Sailing Week. Admire the outstanding sailing race in association with Mount Gay Rum and Barbados Tourism.
Barbados in February
The glorious sunshine and warm weather continues throughout February. Check out Holetown Festival in St. James, held annually in February with an abundance of activities and Barbadians showcasing their culture and traditions.
Barbados in March
During Easter weekend there is Oistins Fish Festival in Christ Church, which is a step up from the weekly Fish Fry and sees locals showcasing and selling their catches, plus dancing, karaoke, and fun competitions. March is a popular time to visit Barbados as it is the last month before the humidity really kicks in.
Barbados in April
April in Barbados sees the best of both the peak and low seasons. You can expect great weather and make the most of the lower rates as the busy season comes to an end. The temperature starts heating up.
Check out the Barbados Reggae Festival, regarded as the ‘best reggae festival in the world’, exploding with music acts, lively dancing and various events for all to revel in.
Barbados in May
May is typically the last month of the dry season, but before the official hurricane season, meaning you still benefit from great weather, although slightly hotter and potentially wetter. Plus, there are lower travel and accommodation costs during this time. Beware those prices increase over the May half-term holiday.
Barbados in June
If you’re travelling in June, bear in mind that it is the first month of the rainy season, however, there is also lots of sunshine. the rainfall gives some much-needed relief from the heat and humidity. June is a great time to visit Barbados due to the lower rates. You can also check out various events and entertaining performances at the colourful Crop Over Festival, which starts in June.
Barbados in July
For those among us who prefer the hotter climate, travelling to Barbados in July is a winner. If you can get out there before the school holidays, then you will benefit from the lower rate airfares and accommodation. During the school holidays, there are also some fantastic last-minute deals to be found.
Barbados in August
August is the peak of the hurricane season and is particularly hot and humid, so sun worshippers be prepared. The humidity may make it too hot for more vigorous activities but lounging by the pool or on the beach may be just what the doctor ordered. Higher chances of rain will offer some much-needed relief from the soaring temperatures and will be sure not to spoil your holiday.
If you fancy a day out, head to the Crop Over Festival on the first Monday in August and enjoy the legendary Grand Kadooment Day.
Barbados in September
The prices in September tend to be at their lowest due to it being the ultimate month for higher chances of rainstorms and with some hotels, shops and restaurants being closed. Don’t let the potential for rainfall put you off though, as, during any storm, this is the perfect opportunity to explore some of the indoor activities such as rum distilleries and museums. Once the rain has passed, you will witness stunning clear blue skies and sunshine.
Barbados in October
October continues to benefit from the warmer temperatures and is still in the hurricane season. Bear in mind that there are still some closures of restaurants and bars. Accommodation and flight prices are usually at their lowest during October, with the exception of October half term, so grab yourself a bargain and book your dream holiday with SNO.
Barbados in November
Coming to the end of the hurricane season and hurtling into the winter, November sees around 8 hours of sunshine a day, with temperatures reaching highs of around 29°C. Travelling in November is a great opportunity to find an absolute steal as the prices tend to be at their lowest.
If you’re travelling at the end of November, join in on the festivities for Barbados Independence Day on 30th November. The island is teeming with colourful celebrations, diverse events, musical entertainment, fun sports contests, and picnics.
Barbados in December
December is the start of the dry season and is widely considered as the best time to visit Barbados due to the dry, warm weather, reaching highs of around 28°C. It is likely to be busier though, especially over Christmas and New Year as many holidaymakers flock to the island for some eagerly-anticipated winter sun. The beginning of December sees slightly lower prices, with rates creeping up over the holiday period.
Best time to visit Barbados frequently asked questions
For a chance of uninterrupted, dry, warm weather with the most hours of sunshine, December to April tops the list, with highs of around 30°C.
Dry season runs from mid-December through to mid-April. The driest months being February to April. This tends to be the most popular time to travel, however, it’s important to keep in mind that due to the higher demand, the airfares and accommodation costs are usually higher, and you may need to book activities prior to your arrival due to availability.
The wet season is officially from June to November. It is more likely to rain, however, don’t let this be a deciding factor on your holiday as the weather can also be beautiful during this season. It is more humid during this time, so take the necessary precautions.
Visiting Barbados at the beginning of July or the end of September tends to be quieter, and you can avoid the crowds by narrowly missing the school holidays.
The height of peak season is from mid-December to mid-April. This is when the weather is at its most favourable and less humid. There is an abundance of activities to enjoy during peak season. Christmas and New Year are generally buzzing with people enjoying the frivolities on the island.
The months between July and October are recognised as being the low season, which falls within the wet season. The perks to travelling for your tropical island holiday over this time is that the rates will be lower, and it will be less busy.
