The short answer: Jamaica is warm all year, around 27–32°C on the coast. Mid-December to April is the dry, sunny peak season and the most expensive. May to November is hotter, greener and cheaper, with more rain and the risk of hurricanes from June to November.
The year at a glance
| Months | Weather | Prices and crowds | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-Dec to April | Dry, sunny, slightly cooler evenings | Highest, busiest | Beaches, escaping the Norwegian winter, Rebel Salute, Carnival |
| May to June | Hot, with short heavy showers | Lower | Good-value beach trips |
| July to August | Hot and humid, some rain | Busy with diaspora visitors | Reggae Sumfest, Emancipation and Independence |
| September to November | Wettest, peak hurricane risk | Lowest | Bargains, if you book flexibly |
Rain
- Rain usually comes as short, heavy afternoon showers, not all-day drizzle.
- The north-east (Port Antonio) is the wettest and greenest part of the island. The south coast is the driest.
- The Blue Mountains are much cooler. Bring a warm layer for an early-morning hike.
Hurricane season (June to November)
- The risk is highest from August to October. Most weeks in the season pass without a storm.
- Buy travel insurance that covers hurricanes and cancellations.
- Book flexible flights and rooms if you travel in this period.
- If a storm is forecast, follow your hotel’s instructions and local news.
Hurricane Melissa (October 2025)
Hurricane Melissa was the strongest storm ever recorded in Jamaica. It hit the west and south-west on 28 October 2025. Tourism officially reopened on 15 December 2025, all international airports were running by January 2026, and most hotels and attractions are open again. Some areas, especially the south coast and parts of Montego Bay, are still rebuilding. See Where to Stay for what to check before you book.
Last checked: 3 November 2026. Sources: UK Foreign Office: hurricane season · Travel Noire: Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa.