When's the best time to visit Barbados?
With temperatures rarely falling below 23oC and 8-9 hours of sunshine each day, Barbados is a year-round beach destination. The island only has two seasons -- wet and dry. February to April are the driest months to visit, while July and August are usually the wettest. Despite these contrasting seasons, the temperature remains warm throughout the year, meaning you can relax outside and swim in the sea whatever the weather. Thanks to its easterly position, Barbados benefits from the northeast trade winds, making the heat manageable even on the hotter days.
Wet season: This runs from June to November and offers the best value for money, with many hotels offering reduced rates. Temperatures peak at 31oC, and the sea is a warm 28oC, making it an ideal time for relaxing swims.
There is a risk of heavy storms during this period, and sometimes even hurricanes, so it pays to research before you go. However, keep in mind that Barbados is struck by a hurricane once every 25 years, on average. Despite the wet weather, you can still expect an average of eight hours of sunshine a day - just one hour less than in the dry season.
Another reason to head to Barbados during the wet season is to experience the lively street parties of the annual Crop Over festival, traditionally a celebration of the end of the sugar cane harvest. This takes place for several weeks through July and August and is a key event in the Barbados calendar, featuring colourful carnival parades, art displays, markets, calypso competitions and beach parties.
Dry season: Being a tropical island, no month is truly dry in Barbados. However, with significantly less rainfall and lower humidity, this season runs from December to May - temperatures range from a high of 28oC to a low of 23oC. With clear blue skies, a cool breeze and umpteen world-class beaches, you'll get the true Caribbean experience. Thanks to the lack of storms and sparse rainfall, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect to pay higher prices for your holiday during this time.
To get the best of both worlds, May is arguably the best time to travel. Hotel prices start to drop after the peak tourist season, and the chances of rain remain low, with an average of nine rainy days in the month.
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