If the idea of hundreds of partying frat bros doesn't appeal to you, beware. When you make your reservations, ask if your hotel is planning to host any big groups.
In the Bahamas, hotels charge their highest prices during the peak winter period from mid-December to mid-April, when visitors fleeing cold north winds flock to the islands. Winter is also the driest season. If you plan to visit during this time of year, make reservations at least 2 to 3 months in advance. At some hotels, it's impossible to book accommodations for Christmas and the month of February without even more lead time.
The Bahamas is a year-round destination. The islands' off-season runs from late spring to late fall, when tolerable temperatures prevail throughout most of the region. Trade winds ensure comfortable days and nights, even in accommodations without air-conditioning. The Caribbean islands closest to South America typically see fewer hurricanes and are generally the best to visit during this time.
They include:. On these Caribbean islands, wildlife, swimming, and ocean conditions in September are generally much as they are in February. Many islanders take advantage of the deals to travel within the islands.
Look for fall promotions, and, of course, read the fine print. Make sure to get travel insurance that includes NOAA warnings and alerts for tropical storms. Most travel insurance also covers cancellation or interruption if a destination is deemed uninhabitable, as long as the policy was purchased before a hurricane or tropical storm was named.
Sites like InsureMyTrip. According to Stan Sandberg, cofounder of TravelInsurance. Cruise ships will reroute when they receive storm warnings, meaning that unless you had your heart set on a particular island, your vacation will be virtually unaffected by unexpected storms.
Caribbean cruise line options range from the high-luxury small ships of Silversea , Seabourn , and Azamara to the big vessels of Celebrity , Carnival , and NCL. Some Caribbean cruises have already started back up after being on hiatus for months due to COVID, but check with the individual cruise line to make sure the cruise sailing is still operating. If an impending storm looks serious, hotels and airlines often let guests cancel or reschedule without penalties.
Ask about policies when you book travel, and if trouble seems to be looming, ask again about your options. This article originally appeared online in September ; it was updated in September and June , to include current information. Sign up for the Daily Wander newsletter for expert travel inspiration and tips. Read our privacy policy. AFAR Advisor. Beaches International Beaches Islands U. Beaches Water Sports.
Cities We Love. Unlike the tropical climate, which remains relatively temperate year-round, the cost of travel in the Bahamas spikes during the wintertime, with hotels charging rates up to 50 percent higher than in the summer months. The season begins in mid-December and continues until mid-April, ending just after Spring Break. Late spring and early summer are more economical for travelers, as the cost of travel drops in the off-season — for outer islands, in particular. Of all the parades and festivals that occur on a near-weekly basis throughout the Bahamas, the Junkanoo is the undisputed favorite.
The energy and joy of the vibrant street parade, with its intricate masks and creative costumes, is reminiscent of Mardi Gras or Carnival, though its heritage is distinctly Bahamian. The celebration continues today, as the Junkanoo is now the National Festival of the Bahamas. Weekend cricket matches the national sport take place from March to November, while bird walks are held on the first Saturday of each month from September to May.
The Tea Party is not to be missed, offering a unique chance to experience Bahamian culture and cuisine. Events to check out:. The weather in the first two months of the year is very dry, with temperatures staying in the mids to high 70s Fahrenheit.
The temperature starts rising in March, reaching the high 80s, and the rain starts pouring a little more regularly, marking the end of the dry season.
This is still peak season for travel, as many hotels will be fully booked through the month, and airfare will potentially double in price. Crowds will begin to thin out by mid-April, just when the average temperature creeps up to the low 80s. Crowds will thin out in mid-April, so by May you will get to fully enjoy the tranquility of the islands and the warmer weather. The peak season of December to March can be occasionally brisk, in the 60s F, while the temperature loiters in the low 80s F in April and May.
July is a great time to visit, not only for the warm weather and the slashed prices, but for two key events: the Junkanoo Summer Festival, and Independence Week.
The rainy season continues, though an afternoon rain-shower or thunderstorm passes by quickly, potentially followed by a rainbow. November is the last calm before the storm of holiday vacationers, and is also a perfect time of year to claim as your own in the islands. Though merely a week away from the peak season, there are still affordable flights to be booked, and rooms to be reserved.
Plus, what better way to stave off the oncoming winter by fighting it preemptively? The best time to visit the Bahamas is the shoulder season from mid-April to early July. The weather is comfortable and it's after the peak tourist season, so it's also a great time for finding travel deals.
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