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Best Time To Visit the British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands are a cluster of emerald-coloured islands scattered across calm turquoise waters. While the BVI has no shortage of incredible offerings whatever the weather, the temperatures are warm, and the sun will be shining year-round. With that being said, December to April is considered to be the peak season, with lower levels of rainfall and humidity and more activities and events on the islands, with a peak temperature of 30°. The months of May to November can still offer predominantly sunny weather, plenty of memorable unmissable experiences and of course cheaper rates across flights and accommodation. Whichever season you decide to go in, we can help tailor a dream Caribbean getaway to the British Virgin Islands.
Average weather in British Virgin Islands
- Temperature (°C)*
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Weather in the British Virgin Islands
With sunny weather in the BVI expected all year round, these islands truly represent the idyllic Caribbean climate. The pleasant north-east trade winds during peak season will offer a cooling nature to the tropical highs than can be experienced day and night. The cooler dry season offer warm temperatures whilst the low season, although has more rainfall, will reach dazzling highs as the winds recede and increase the humidity. During the wet season the months of September to November will see the heaviest rainfall, however the season is characterised by heavy showers for 10-15 minutes and then glorious sun appears again. It is worth noting that the BVI is within the rare hurricane belt of the Caribbean during the wetter months, so best to check weather reports before travelling to optimise the best weather.
Seasonality in the British Virgin Islands
If you’re still unsure when to travel to the British Virgin Islands, check out our pros and cons of the peak and low season to make the best decision for your upcoming Caribbean getaway.
Peak season in the British Virgin Islands
British Virgin Island peak season falls between December to end of April/Beginning of May, also referred to as the dry season. Weather will averagely fall between temperatures of 21°-26°and a guaranteed 8-9 hours of sunlight a day, so the winter scarf and gloves can definitely be left at home. The relaxing trade wind will offer a cooling breeze to fight the humidity making your trip even more comfortable. The clear waters will also be at a bath-like 26° perfect for the water sports activities you will have planned, like snorkelling at Smugglers’ Cove Bay or exploring the Baths of Virgin Gorda.
As this the perfect time to travel, this is also the busiest time of year on the Islands with a high level of tourists seeking the winter sun and prices will likely be higher too. We'd recommend booking far in advance to make sure you don’t miss out, especially with the smaller resorts with fewer rooms.
Low season in the British Virgin Islands
Low season in British Virgin Islands falls between May to November. Flight and accommodation prices tend to be cheaper compared do the peak season, so experience BVI’s dazzling beaches, turquoise waters and lush national parks for a fraction of the cost. Many fun events happen during this period such as the colourfully celebrated Emancipation festival in August.
A drawback of this season is that there will be a significant increase in rainfall and humidity. While the showers can be consistent, like any Caribbean country the spells will shortly be followed by beaming sunshine with highs of 30° to dry everything again. The biggest drawback would be the humidity which could make hiking and sightseeing more exerting, but don’t worry they’ll be plenty a beach bar to cool off with an icy cocktail at the end of it. Another possible downside is the risk of a hurricane during the wet season but try not to stress as these a very rare with them often occurring once every eight years.
Sumptuous shorelinesPhoto credit: Discover BVI
Tropical Caribbean flavours
Party in paradise Photo credit: Discover BVI
Honeymoon havens
Endless activities
Holidays in the British Virgin Islands
With a selection of over 50 unique islands and cays, holidays in British Virgin Islands promise sun, sea and sand in abundance. Whether you’re a sunbed lover, culture chaser or foodie fanatic, the BVI will definitely not disappoint with its glorious offerings.
A Caribbean holiday will not feel complete unless you have visited a beach. The best time to catch some rays and top up that tan would be in the dry season from December to May. These months will promise little rainfall and less humidity making it a very comfortable lie down on the white sand. The perfect beaches to travel to would be White Bay on Jost Van Dyke, with shimmering waters and impressive yachts in the distance to admire, it’s a perfect setting for relaxing with a cocktail. Kick back and relax in the high temperatures of 27° and enjoy the warm ocean perfect for dipping your toes in at a toasty 26°, even at Christmas time.
Once again, the best month for ideal snorkelling and diving conditions is during the peak season between the months of December and May. Less frequent rain in the dry season leads to perfect underwater visibility to witness the extraordinary reefs, such as the stunning coral off the island of Anegada. The cooling calm trade winds that breeze over the surrounding Caribbean waters allow the water to be groomed for some exquisite diving conditions. Be sure to check out the Rhone National Marine Park near Salt Island for an unmissable look at the RMS Rhone shipwreck, a largely intact site that turtles, octopus and tropical fish now call home.
Surfing in British Virgin Islands may not be at a high quality like similar Caribbean islands nearby, but the gentle to moderate swells that occur can offer a fantastic launchpad for beginners or some easy-going enjoyment for the more experienced. The best time to visit for surfing would be from November to March. Winter months are the period that follows after the peak hurricane season has ended, but the best winds will still be present on the north shore of the Atlantic, creating a perfect swell. Easter months will see the southern shores of the Caribbean Sea bring some soft swells to the coastline. Apple Bay is the most favoured surf hotspot in the BVI for its all-around wave breaks that are perfect for longboards too, a lively beach bar atmosphere and soothing reggae beats constantly in the background.
The best time for sightseeing and activities would generally be in the dry season from December to May as some of the popular tours or excursions in the wet season may run at a reduced service due to the smaller crowds. For land activities such as cycling or hiking, higher levels of humidity and more frequent rainfall in the low season could dampen the excitement of witnessing these beautiful islands, although these activities can be done during a dry hour in the wet season. Another note to remember is the BVI annual Emancipation Festival that happens every August, where although it is bang in the middle of the rainy season, locals join together to celebrate this momentous occasion anyway, so why not try it for yourself and even bag yourself a cheaper hotel room at the same time!
Month by month guide to visiting the British Virgin Islands
British Virgin Islands in January
January is a fantastic time to visit British Virgin Islands. The sunny tropical climate will give a rush of serotonin as you leave the gloomy clouds of home locked away in a distant memory. Temperatures reach highs of 26° and warm lows of 21°. Low humidity makes it perfect for sightseeing in Tortola’s capital of Road Town, walking the cobbled streets and immersing yourself in the rich culture of the charming buildings. Why not start the month at one of the annual New Year's Eve festival weekends found along all major shores. Prices may be pricier as the peak season will be in full swing, but we can happily say it’ll be worth every penny.
British Virgin Islands in February
For some even warmer weather, February is an excellent choice. Sunny temperatures with low humidity make for perfect sightseeing conditions. Why not take a short boat ride to the Prickly Pear Island and National Park, full of winding trails through lush cacti that lead to secluded beaches and bays perfect for a sunset snorkel in the clear undisturbed waters. Swimming at this time of year is perfect as the less frequent rainfall calls for amazing visibility in the 26° waters. Other beach bars on neighbouring Islands will be filled with friendly crowds all drinking their favourite local cocktails and beers whilst basking in the scenery of the BVI in its peak season.
British Virgin Islands in March
March is a very popular time to travel to the BVI. Average temperatures increase to sunny heights of 28° and has the lowest average rainfall of any other month throughout the year. Depending on the date, Easter celebrations will be in full swing with festivals and events in abundance, including the 4-day festival on Virgin Gorda, the home of Easter celebrations. Expect music, dancing and impeccably fresh cuisine to celebrate the night away with. Be aware that the whole Island will be celebrating with you, so some businesses will be shut over this religious festival weekend.
British Virgin Islands in April
April is a month nearing the end of the dry season and as more rainfall is expected, the short shower spells will be counteracted by some stunning temperature highs. This is the perfect time to visit to witness the annual Spring Sailing regatta, one of the BVI’s most important events in the calendar. Witness or take part in the 150-boat procession around the Franci Drake Channel by hopping the islands, followed by parties and festivals each night after a day of being on the dazzling open waters.
British Virgin Islands in May
May brings hotter temperatures, along with more humidity and an increase in rainfall as we near the start of the wet season which results in cheaper rates on accommodation and flights. Be a part of the much-anticipated Wreck Week, a week of celebrating the maritime specialities of the BVI. Dive down in the warm 28° waters to fascinating wrecks that tropical marine now call home, such as the RMS Rhone Marine Park wreckage and the HMS Nymph near Salt Island. Spend each day being awestruck by a new artificial reef created by shipwrecks and finish the day dancing to reggae and drinking native Carib beers with the friendly locals.
British Virgin Islands in June
June is the beginning of the low season in the BVI. Rainfall will be more prominent this month, but the short spells will be replaced by some seriously hot temperatures throughout the day. Hotels and flights will be noticeably cheaper because of the fewer crowds that appear during this season, and you will probably be able to get away with leaving the holiday booking later too as demand will be lower. Make sure to check out the festivities of Whit Monday, a religious bank holiday with lots of parades, music and camaraderie to celebrate the greeting of the upcoming summer months ahead.
British Virgin Islands in July
If the idea of serious heat motivates you, then July in British Virgin Islands is perfect for you as temperatures reach a sizzling 30°. Fewer crowds result in beaches feeling private and remote, perfect for a day trip to Anegada. Rainfall will be present, but showers will be isolated and lasting for a maximum of 30 minutes at a time.
British Virgin Islands in August
August will reach highs of 30° with humidity to match, and fewer rainy days than July on average. Join in the celebrations for the annual Emancipation Festival, a 2-week festival with the first 3 days being bank holidays. A momentous event showcasing freedom with an explosion of colour and music with parades, food festivals and reggae street jamming lasting all night. Balance your trip with a party extravaganza and idyllic undisturbed beaches during the low season with fewer crowds.
British Virgin Islands in September
September is once again in the centre of the low season with more rainfall than other months of the year, but don’t be alarmed as temperatures will also reach the hottest of any other month at a sizzling 31°. The turquoise oceans will also increase to a tantalising 29°, perfect for tropical marine life to migrate to the warmer shores and make for excellent snorkelling views.
British Virgin Islands in October
As the wet season eases off and humidity retracts, blissful sunshine and cooling winds return for a comfortable relaxing stay on the BVI. With the trade winds whirling and the sun shining on the open waters, this is a great time to get your sailing shoes on a enjoy some of the BVI’s best waters with one of the Island’s best charter experiences. Prices will continue to remain affordable as October is still included in the months of the wet season, so this is a great time to escape the cold Autumn nights back home.
British Virgin Islands in November
November is the beginning of the peak season in the BVI, so expect calm and sunny temperatures with cooling winds to maximise your relaxation. This month is a great choice if you're travelling without children as it can also be one of the quieter months as no school holidays coincide with this period. Some great accommodation that we can recommend include the Long Bay beach Report and the Scrub Island Resort, both located in gorgeous Tortola.
British Virgin Islands in December
December in the British Virgin Islands is truly an unmissable experience. With immaculate weather and plenty of festive spirit, the BVI is a great place to spend the religious season. Warm winter weather averaging 26° daily is perfect for the Christmas and New Year’s Eve festivals on the shores of every island, perfect for the whole family. Join in the celebrations of the annual Road Town Christmas Festival, highlighting Caribbean Christmas culture at its best. Hotels will be in high demand and prices will be increased so make sure to book early on to avoid disappointment.
Best time to visit British Virgin Islands frequently asked questions
Weather in British Virgin Islands is good throughout the whole year, but the best time to visit is between the peak season months of December to April and shoulder season months of November and May. The weather at this time has bright sunshine and cooling winds with no humidity.
British Virgin Islands’ dry season is between December to April, with November and May staying relatively dry too. Rainfall is at minimal levels during this period, with shower spells being isolated, and quickly being replaced with 8 hours of sunshine per day.
Rainy season in British Virgin Islands is during months of June to October. Rainfall is more common during these months and humidity starts to intensify, although the sun still shines for the majority of time.
The British Virgin Islands are quieter during the rainy season months of June to October. This is due to the increased levels of rainfall and possibility of hurricanes immerging.
Peak season in British Virgin Islands is between December to April. This is the driest time of year with fewer showers and better weather. Hotels and accommodation will be booked out quickly as the great weather brings in the crowds.
Low season in British Virgin Islands falls between June to October. Fewer crowds will be on the Islands as the rain and humidity increases, so flights and accommodation will be cheaper.