Best Time to Visit the Bahamas: Weather, Hurricane Season & Prices by Month

Bahamas weather at a glance

The Bahamas have a subtropical to tropical maritime climate. The Gulf Stream and the trade winds keep temperatures pleasant: in winter, daytime highs are usually around 75 to 81 °F (about 24 to 27 °C); in summer, around 86 to 90 °F (about 30 to 32 °C). Long Island lies in the southern central Bahamas and tends to be a little warmer and drier than the northern islands.

There are two main seasons: a drier, slightly cooler season from about December through April, and a warmer, more humid season from May through November, which includes hurricane season.

High season: December to April

Mid-December through April is widely considered the best time to visit. Rain is scarce, humidity is comfortable and temperatures are perfect for beach days, excursions and evenings on the porch. The water is around 75 to 79 °F (about 24 to 26 °C) – refreshing, but comfortable for swimming and snorkeling for most guests.

Demand peaks during this period, especially over Christmas, New Year's and Easter. If you'd like to travel then, inquire six to twelve months ahead. The occasional winter cold front can bring a day or two of wind and cooler evenings, so pack a light jacket.

Shoulder season: May and June

For many seasoned travelers, May and June are the hidden gem. The ocean is already beautifully warm at around 79 to 82 °F (about 26 to 28 °C), the days are long and it's quieter than in winter. The rainy season starts gradually, but showers tend to be short and heavy, followed by sunshine. Hurricane season officially begins on June 1, though early-summer storms are relatively rare.

Summer and fall: July to November

Midsummer is hot and humid, with water temperatures reaching around 84 to 86 °F (about 29 to 30 °C). That's ideal for divers and water lovers; if you don't do well in the heat, spend the midday hours in the shade or the air-conditioned house.

Hurricane season

The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30. Statistically, most storms occur between August and October. That doesn't mean a hurricane hits the Bahamas every year, but the risk is highest during those months. If you travel then, we recommend that you:

• buy travel insurance with cancellation coverage,
• choose flexible airfares,
• keep an eye on the forecast in the days before you leave,
• and contact us directly if you're unsure.

Prices by month

Airfare and accommodation prices in the Bahamas follow the seasons closely. The overview below is a rough guide; for Villa Serenity you'll receive a tailored quote on our rates and availability page.

• January to April: high season, highest demand, Easter especially popular
• May and June: shoulder season, often noticeably cheaper flights
• July and August: summer vacation, moderate demand
• September to mid-November: low season, best prices, highest storm risk
• Mid-November to mid-December: demand picks up again
• Christmas and New Year's: peak period, inquire early

Excursions, rental cars and groceries cost about the same year-round. If your dates are flexible, the shoulder season mainly saves you money on flights.

The best time for your activities

Snorkeling and diving

You'll find good visibility and calm water all year. The ocean is warmest from June through October. Calm, low-wind days are best for snorkeling right off the villa – read more in our travel guide article on snorkeling at Cape Santa Maria.

Bonefishing

Many anglers prefer spring and fall, but the tide and weather on the day matter most – see our travel guide article on bonefishing on Long Island.

Island excursions

For long day trips, such as to Dean's Blue Hole or Clarence Town, the dry winter months are ideal: temperatures are comfortable and rain is rare.

Rain, wind and daylight

Even in the rainy season, rain usually comes in short, heavy afternoon showers, and the sun is often back out soon after. All-day rain is rare on Long Island. The trade winds blow steadily from the east, especially in winter and spring, and keep things pleasantly cool – though in sheltered Galliot Cay bay they're usually gentle.

The bottom line

If you're after sunshine, comfortable temperatures and little rain, come between December and April. If you love warm water, quiet beaches and lower airfares, May and June are ideal. From August to October, Long Island is at its quietest – just plan with some flexibility.

For the best way to get here, see the getting-there article in our travel guide. For ideas on how to spend your days, browse things to do on Long Island.