Planning a trip to Antigua? This Antigua Weather & Best Time to Visit Glossary breaks down the island’s weather patterns, peak seasons, and month-by-month highlights to help you choose the perfect time for your Caribbean getaway.
🌞 Antigua’s Climate at a Glance
- Climate Type: Tropical maritime (warm year-round)
- Average Temperature: 75°F–85°F (24°C–29°C)
- Water Temperature: 79°F–84°F (26°C–29°C)
- Trade Winds: Consistent breezes keep humidity manageable
📅 Best Time to Visit Antigua
1. Peak Season (December–April)
- Weather: Sunny, low humidity, minimal rain
- Pros:
- Ideal beach and sailing conditions
- Major events (Sailing Week, Carnival prep)
- Cons: Higher prices, crowded resorts
- Best For: Honeymooners, families, sun-seekers
2. Shoulder Season (May–June & November)
- Weather: Warm with occasional brief showers
- Pros:
- Lower prices, fewer crowds
- Lush green landscapes post-rain
- Best For: Budget travelers, nature lovers
3. Low Season (July–October)
- Weather: Hotter, more humid, higher rain chance
- Pros:
- Deep discounts (up to 50% off resorts)
- Vibrant culture (Carnival in July/August)
- Cons: Risk of hurricanes (peak: Sept–Oct)
- Best For: Adventure travelers, festival-goers
🌦️ Month-by-Month Weather Guide
| Month | Avg. Temp (°F/°C) | Rainfall (inches) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 77/25 | 2" | New Year’s parties, perfect beach weather |
| Feb | 77/25 | 1.5" | Valentine’s luxury escapes |
| Mar | 79/26 | 1.5" | Sailing season begins |
| Apr | 81/27 | 2" | Antigua Sailing Week (late Apr) |
| May | 82/28 | 3" | Shoulder season deals start |
| Jun | 84/29 | 3.5" | Early summer tranquility |
| Jul | 85/29 | 4" | Carnival (late Jul–early Aug) |
| Aug | 86/30 | 5" | Hot but festive; watch for storms |
| Sep | 85/29 | 6" | Lowest prices; highest hurricane risk |
| Oct | 84/29 | 5" | End of rainy season |
| Nov | 82/28 | 4" | Independence Day (Nov 1) |
| Dec | 79/26 | 3" | Holiday festivities begin |
🌀 Hurricane Season in Antigua
- Dates: June 1–November 30 (peak: Sept–Oct)
- Travel Tips:
- Buy travel insurance with hurricane coverage
- Monitor forecasts via Caribbean Hurricane Network
- Resorts often offer rebooking policies during storms
🎯 Best Time for Specific Activities
- Beach Hopping: December–April (calm seas, clear water)
- Sailing & Yachting: April (Sailing Week) or December (Charter Yacht Show)
- Snorkeling/Diving: May–June (warm water, great visibility)
- Festivals: July/August (Carnival) or November (Independence Day)
- Budget Travel: September–October (lowest prices, if you risk storms)
🧳 Packing Tips by Season
- Dry Season (Dec–Apr): Sunscreen, hats, light clothing, sailing shoes
- Wet Season (May–Nov): Quick-dry clothes, waterproof phone case, umbrella
- Year-Round: Reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, motion sickness pills (for boat trips)
