The weather should be definitely taken into consideration when planning a vacation in Jamaica. While you may picture this tropical paradise as only offering clear blue skies and plenty of sunshine, the island is certainly not without its period of extensive rain and high winds. Use this helpful guide to determine the best season that you would enjoy visiting the island.
Jamaica is known for its tropical climate which means hot and humid at sea level however, inland areas see a more temperate climate so you should always have a thin jacket handy, especially if you’re in the mountains or on a boat. Average annual temperatures range from 80 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit with the coolest months being in January and February and the temperatures significantly increasing in March. If you like it really hot, July and August are the warmest months.
Rain
There are also rainy seasons in Jamaica from May through June and then September through October. However, their rainy season is probably not what you’re used to wherever you live. Rain on the island consists of a brief afternoon downpour and the sun coming right back out to dry everything back up again.
Average annual rainfall in Jamaica is about 50.7 inches but it falls in an uneven pattern across the island. The eastern coast where you find Port Antonio, sees the most rain while the southwestern coast where Treasure Beach and Mandeville are experience very little rain at all.
Wind
Although that cool breeze can be very refreshing, it can also be quite overwhelming at times, especially if you’re looking to participate in certain activities. April is traditionally the windiest month so if you were hoping to do some snorkeling or diving, this is not the time to go. High winds means strong waves and currents and many facilities won’t rent out equipment in these conditions, even if you’re experienced. You may also want to consider that August and September are the biggest hurricane months so if you’re planning a beach wedding this is probably the best months to visit.
When Should You Go?
Many people will say that the best time to visit Jamaica is from December through April because you’ll be granted the most desirable temperatures and plenty of sunshine however, this is also the most expensive time to visit as well. If you want to save a little money or if you happen to enjoy a nice heavy downpour, other months can be just as enjoyable.
- January – Average temperatures are around 86 degrees Fahrenheit in Jamaica to start the year with only 2.7 inches of rain for the whole month. Temperatures can drop to around 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night which feels cold after being in the sun so bring something with long sleeves to wear.
- February – Pretty similar to January with less precipitation, only an average of 1.8 inches of rain for the month.
- March – This is a peak month for tourists as weather is pretty much picture-perfect everyday. Average temperature jumps to 87 degrees Fahrenheit and rain increases to 2.3 inches.
- April – Things are warming up in Jamaica with an average temperature of 88 degrees Fahrenheit. Afternoon showers become frequent but refreshing, adding to an average rainfall at 2.5 inches.
- May – It’s hot, 89 degrees Fahrenheit on average and there’s a good chance you’ll see an afternoon thunderstorm at least once on your visit. Average rainfall in May is 5.9 inches but hotel rates decrease as Jamaica enters its low season.
- June – Hot and humid and there’s a small chance of a hurricane starting to form. Temperatures average 90 degrees Fahrenheit with rainfall around 5.5 inches for the month.
- July – Can you take the heat? It rarely drops below 91 degrees Fahrenheit which could be quite a nice change for all the northern visitors who shoveled snow all winter. Rainfall decreases to 2.9 inches for the month so you may not see any during your stay.
- August – Here you have a repeat of July with a significantly higher chance of a hurricane. Average temperatures are 91 degrees Fahrenheit and rainfall is 5.2 inches for the month. You’ll want to be mindful of the weather when planning any outings.
- September – Still sizzling, very humid and you should expect rain along with a chance of a hurricane. Average rainfall is 6.1 inches with 90 degree temperatures.
- October – You are going to see a good mix of rain and sunshine in Jamaica in October. Monthly rainfall averages 7.4 inches and temperatures are reduced to an average 89 degrees Fahrenheit.
- November – Tourists begin to flock in again as rainfall is reduced to 5.5 inches and temperatures stay right around 88 degrees.
- December – The high season officially beings. Prices increase but when you are granted so much sunshine and little rain you can’t complain. Temperatures average 87 degrees Fahrenheit and rainfall is barely at 3.6 inches for the month. Days are warm, skies are clear and a cool breeze is expected.