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Best time to visit the Bahamas
Drenched in sunshine around 300 days a year and with an abundance of hotels and activities, there is no reason not to visit the notorious Bahamas. Although the Bahamas is a fantastic year-round destination, the best time to visit in terms of weather is between mid-December and mid-April. There is a low chance of rainfall and temperatures tend to stay between 24°C and 29°C, plus an average of eight hours of sunshine a day. It is important to note that although the winter months are blessed with an enviable climate, hotel rates and airfares skyrocket during this time and the islands will be a lot busier. Give our wonderful team of knowledgeable travel specialists a call on the number above to get the ball rolling on your Bahamian adventure!
Average weather in Bahamas
- Temperature (°C)*
- Rainfall (Inches)*
Weather in Bahamas
Situated southeast off the coast of sun-drenched Florida and surrounded by the tempestuous Atlantic Ocean, lies 700 islands that make up the bountiful Bahamas. Each island offers a slightly different experience weather-wise. The northwestern islands situated on the east of Florida, including Grand Bahamas, New Providence, Little Abaco, and Andros, are cooler in the winter than the southern islands of San Salvador, Long Island, the Exumas, Crooked and Acklins Islands, Inagua and Mayaguana.
If you’re looking to bask in warm temperatures with lower humidity, then the best time to visit the Bahamas is between November and April, during their high summer season, where the average daily temperature is around 24°C. The risk of hurricanes is greater between August and September.
Seasonality in Bahamas
Not only is the Bahamas home to some of the world’s best beaches and hotels, but it also has the most enviable climate. Whilst this tropical treat is known for being a year-round destination, it is imperative to understand the seasons, so you know what you’re letting yourself in for on your heavenly holiday.
Peak season in Bahamas
Peak season runs from mid-December to mid-April, which falls during the dry season. The island starts to heat up and rainfall is at its lowest over this period. January and February are perfect for warm sunshine but low humidity. The evenings are pleasantly cooler, so it is wise to pack a light jumper. Bear in mind that with peak season the island footfall will be higher due to the glorious weather. Airfares and hotel rates will also be higher, so try and book as far in advance as possible if you’re planning a trip to the Bahamas in peak season. There are lots of events and regattas on during this time too, so there is plenty to keep everyone entertained for hours.
Low season in Bahamas
Low season falls between late August and November. While you’re more likely to experience some showers during this time, there is still plenty of splendid sunshine to bask in. If you’re in search of quieter beaches, hotels and attractions and don’t mind about the odd rain shower, then travelling in low season is the one for you and is a great time to travel to keep the cost down.
Beachfront blissPhoto credit: Bahamas Ministry Of Tourism & Aviation
See the famous swimming pigsPhoto credit: Bahamas Ministry Of Tourism & Aviation
Fresh flavoursPhoto credit: Bahamas Ministry Of Tourism & Aviation
Dive a fabled frontierPhoto credit: Bahamas Ministry Of Tourism & Aviation
Honeymoon havens Photo credit: Bahamas Ministry Of Tourism & Aviation
Holidays in Bahamas
Stunning beaches, glimmering turquoise waters, breathtaking scenery and endless activities - what more could you possibly wish for? With 32 out of the 700 islands inhabited, it’s up to you to decide where to plonk to yourself on your bespoke Caribbean trip.
To maximise your tanning potential or make the most of the watersports on offer, make sure you visit during the dry season, which runs from mid-December to mid-April. The archipelago of the Bahamas sees beautifully, warm, dry weather during this time, making it a popular holiday destination with people from across the globe.
The sea is at its warmest in the height of the wet season in August and the waters tend to be warmer in the southern islands, such as San Salvador, The Exumas and Long Island. June is the beginning of the hurricane season, but the southern islands see less rain than the northern islands. The waters are beautifully warm at this time of year, making it the perfect time for a dip in the ocean, and is a welcome relief from the hot sun belting down on you on the sand.
The Bahamas is renowned for being home to some of the best spots for scuba diving in the world. During the dry season, between November and June, the sea is at its warmest, making it the perfect time for snorkelling and diving. May is known to be one of the best months for snorkelling and diving as it is bursting with marine life.
Keen divers will be in their element as the Bahamas is home to over 100 square miles of protected Land and Sea Park and boasts some of the world’s best and biggest reefs teeming with colourful marine life. For the chance to swim among the most sea life, visit the Bahamas during the months of January or July, where you will see sharks, whales, turtles, rays, and dolphins. It certainly is a sight to behold! Bear in mind that January is peak season and July is during the low season. Airfares and hotel rates will be cheaper during July
Head to Eleuthera for some of the best surfing on this tropical, sun-drenched archipelago due to its positioning on the Atlantic Ocean. The Atlantic Ocean dominates the north and east sides, making these the best for waves and hitting the surf. October through to April is prime time for surfing as the water is delightfully warm and the waves are at their greatest with regular swells.
Maximise your trip to the Bahamas with some fun cultural activities, such as visiting Elbow Reef Lighthouse at Elbow Cay or discovering viridescent treelined routes Clifton National Park on New Providence, where you can also find hidden beaches in between spotting some exotic birds and wildlife.
To make the most of the sights with less chance of interruption from the weather, we advise going during the dry season between November and June. Hop over to Ardastra Gardens, Zoo & Conservation Centre in Nassau, home to the Bahamas’ Native Bird, the Caribbean Flamingo and an abundance of tropical trees and plants bursting with colour. Although sightseeing is preferrable in the dry season, the National Parks will be at their most verdant during the rainy season.
Month by month guide to visiting the Bahamas
Bahamas in January
The Bahamas produces some of its most glorious weather in January, with the peak season truly underway. Expect high daily temperatures of 25°C. Rainfall is unlikely and averages around just 39mm of rainfall in the month.
Don’t miss New Year’s Day Junkanoo festival, held on many popular Bahamian islands; a vibrant, lively celebration of West African Heritage featuring music, dancing, colourful parades, and lots of merriment. There is also the New Year’s Day Sailing Regatta in Nassau and Paradise Island.
Bahamas in February
Whisk yourself away from the cold and bask in warm, reliable sunshine during February and an average of eight hours of daylight. Daily temperatures tend to stay around 25°C but increase to around 28°C in the south. Rainfall is still very low at an average of 42mm. The sea temperature is at its lowest in February but that’s no excuse not to go for a dip!
The Farmer’s Cay Festival is held on the first Friday and Saturday in February.
Bahamas in March
March is known for being one of the driest months of the year in the Bahamas with average daily temperatures of 26°C and lows of 22°C, this is the perfect month to jet off on your Caribbean adventure.
The islands tend to attract a younger crowd during Spring Break and tourism increases during this time. The weeklong Bacardi Billfish Tournament is traditionally held in mid-March in Freeport.
Bahamas in April
Relish in the quieter period towards the end of April and soak up the beautifully warm temperatures of around 25°C.
April has a higher footfall due to the Easter period. Easter is widely celebrated in the Bahamas, given that the population is predominantly Christian. Expect an abundance of traditional food, Easter egg hunts and plenty of activities. Shops and restaurants will mostly be closed on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday. On top of Easter, there is also the Bahamas Family Island Regatta in George Town on the Exumas, featuring boat races and a plethora of land activities.
Bahamas in May
As we enter May, gliding closer to the humid heights of the summer rainy season, the temperatures start to hot up. Catch a glimpse of the Bahamas Billfish Championship; a four-part fishing tournament spanning from April to June at different venues. This is certainly an event for the fishing aficionados and the curious-minded.
Bahamas in June
Hurtling towards the wet season and marking the beginning of the official hurricane season, June sees the humidity stepping up a notch. Take advantage of the lower rates in June and the beauty of less crowds. Eleuthera comes alive with colourful arts and crafts and street parades during the first week of June for the Eleuthera Pineapple Festival.
Bahamas in July
Independence Day is celebrated across the Bahamas on the week of 10th July. Expect lively parades, fireworks, and masses of entertainment for all ages to enjoy. July and August are the hottest and most humid months on the island, so there tends to be fewer people on the islands. This is a good time to grab a deal as airfares and hotel rates will be lower.
Bahamas in August
Bahamians celebrate Emancipation Day on the first Monday in August. This is an annual celebration of the end of slavery since 1st August 1834. Relish in the jubilant atmosphere and party with the locals. Along with July, August is the hottest month or the year and there is an average of 10 hours of sunshine a day to enjoy.
Bahamas in September
September sees a dip in footfall due to it being the height of the hurricane season. Many hotels, restaurants and venues on the Out Islands choose to take this quiet period to carry out maintenance work, thus closing. If you’re a bit of a risktaker and fancy taking advantage of the absolute steals on offer, then time your stay with the Abaco Sailing Regatta.
Bahamas in October
Similarly to September, October is a tricky time in terms of weather and the quietness on the islands. For those seeking isolation and peace, with low weather expectations, this may be a great time to go. The Great Bahamas Seafood and Heritage Festival is held during October; a perfect place to put your palate to the test and indulge in some of the most delicious and fresh seafood.
Bahamas in November
Welcome to ideal warm temperatures, low humidity, and reduced risk of rainfall. November is regarded as one of the best months to visit the Bahamas as there will be fewer people as it falls outside of school holidays and is regarded as the end of the main hurricane season.
November is a quiet month in terms of events and festivals and there may be some restaurant and venue closures, but this is a wonderful time for a relaxing escape from the incoming chilly winter in the UK.
Bahamas in December
December sees airfares and hotel rates soar due to the popularity of the festive season. Christmas is an especially magical time in the Bahamas and sees all islands lit up with colourful decorations, hotels putting on epic feasts, and the traditional Bahamian Junkanoo parade adorning the streets, bringing celebratory cheer to all.
Best time to visit Bahamas frequently asked questions
Between November and April is the best time to experience the Bahamas weather at its peak. There is a low chance of rainfall and temperatures are consistent with the average around 24°C.
Dry season runs from mid-December through to mid-April. The driest month being January. Bear in mind that the dry season is the most popular time to travel due to the enviable uninterrupted rainfall. Flights and accommodation costs will be 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 during this time but don’t let this put you off as you will also be treated with some glorious sunshine too. It is more humid during the summer so take the necessary provisions.
August to November tend to be the quietest months of the year due and the risk of hurricanes is at its highest. However, this is also the best time of year to grab an absolute steal and avoid the crowds.
Peak seasons coincides with the dry season from mid-December to mid-April. The islands will be busier, hotels will have less availability and prices will be higher during this time.
Low season is from late April to early December. Travel during this time is advised if you’re looking for that quintessential Caribbean experience without crowds of tourists.
