The climate in the West Indies
A sun that shines without burning, refreshing rains, the gentle trade winds: the West Indies have a dream climate, made for holidays… provided you go at the right time!
The mild climate of the West Indies
Between continent and ocean, Martinique, Guadeloupe and more generally the West Indies bask in a humid subtropical climate. Warm, it is not as scorching as the tropical climate, and remains tempered thanks to the ocean.
It is not the temperature variations that mark the seasons: from January to December, temperatures range between 20°C for the lows and 30°C for the highs. Although it is generally warmer from April to September, the thermometer can climb up to 28°C in January, in the middle of winter…
What really changes is the humidity: one distinguishes the dry season, from December to May, from the wet season, from June to November. In the dry season, rainfall is lower, the gentle air is very pleasant. In the wet season, the air is heavier, even though temperatures do not change. It swells with humidity, and if the trade winds do not blow, the humidity is strongly felt.
Before the return of the dry season, when humidity is at its peak, cyclones begin to show up. They reach the West Indies between August and September. They can amount to heavy rains, or even turn into a storm or a hurricane, which correspond to different alert levels.
From the sea to the mountains: sometimes changing weather
On the Caribbean Sea side or the Atlantic side, the waters reflect the mildness of the climate: they remain warm all year round, around 28°C. You will have no trouble getting into the water!
Be careful, it is not warm everywhere in the West Indies. In the mountains, plan to cover up, the air is cool at the summits. The inland areas are also where it rains the most: clouds are stopped by the peaks, creating rainfall zones, which is why thanks to the mountains, the beaches stay dry.
When to go to the West Indies to enjoy the climate?
To relax on the beach in a swimsuit, the best time to go to the West Indies is the dry season. This is also when there are the most tourists and when prices are highest. For more authenticity, the wet season offers pleasant surprises as long as you are prepared. The choice is yours!
What to pack for the West Indies?
Your trip is approaching, you have booked your holidays in the West Indies and now comes the time to pack your bags! You don’t know where to start… Afraid of forgetting something? Here are some valuable tips to make sure you gather in your suitcase everything you need for an unforgettable and hassle-free stay!
For a peaceful trip to the West Indies, make sure you bring some essentials:
- Sunscreen: total block or a sun cream with a high protection factor;
- An effective mosquito repellent;
- A diving mask to explore the seabed;
- A photocopy of your important documents in case of loss;
- A camera, to bring back precious memories!
As for clothing, it is recommended to bring light outfits to withstand the warm temperatures of this tropical climate. However, be careful with your outfits: for hikes or treks, think about covering up to better avoid bites, sunburns or even stings. You should therefore bring clothes that are light but covering!
Not sure which pairs of shoes to pack? It is best to take a pair of sandals, a pair of closed shoes and a pair of sport or hiking sneakers, for all outdoor visits and exploring the West Indian mountains!
Activities to do in the West Indies depending on the season
Whether you prefer adventurous holidays or more relaxing ones, the West Indies are an ideal destination for a wide range of activities! Still, be mindful of the seasons: even if the Caribbean is known for having one of the most pleasant climates in the world, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 30 degrees all year round, the rainy season generally sets in between May and October. Depending on the period you choose, the activities will differ, but rest assured, you will always find incredible places to visit and wonderful treasures to discover!
Scuba diving
The Caribbean is famous for its underwater world, worthy of the most extraordinary aquatic ballets. Giant turtles, corals, colorful fish and crystal-clear waters are a real attraction for visitors, who come back from their dive with stars in their eyes! Here are the most popular spots for exploring the seabed:
- The Lagoon of St. François and the Petite Terre Reserve;
- Pointe de la Grande Vigie;
- Manman Dlo and Yemaya;
- The wrecks of Roraima, Nahoon and Tayama – Martinique.
Visit the sugar cane plantations
During your stay, you will have the opportunity to visit sugar cane plantations, witnesses of the great economic developments of the archipelago. Don’t miss these places full of history while strolling among their rows of sugar cane, a powerful symbol of the West Indies.
Attend a music festival
If you are a fan of zouk, biguine, bèlè or even Creole mazurka, set out to discover one of the many music festivals in the West Indies, such as the All Day Music Festival! Discover the culture of these islands to the melodious rhythm of their traditional music.
Discover the carnivals of Martinique and Guadeloupe
A symbolic and unmissable event in Guadeloupe and Martinique, the carnival reflects the history of the French West Indies. Inherited from the colonial era, the carnival was originally a symbol of joy and freedom. Over the years, this tradition has grown to become a true institution in the islands, blending dance, costumes, glitter and masks, all set to lively traditional music. A timeless moment not to be missed if you are visiting the French West Indies during January or February!
Our destinations in the West Indies
