Climate

Jamaica is a year-round destination as the weather is always holiday-friendly, where coastal temperatures tend to average around 26°C to 30°C all year-round. The mountainous areas are cooler with lows of around 18°.

The rainy season is normally from May to November, with the peaks being June and October. Generally, the rain falls in the afternoon for short periods and it is quite possible to enjoy long days of sunshine during your visit throughout this season.

March and April are considered the windy months in Jamaica and in more sheltered beach areas this can create perfect watersport weather. Jamaica’s hurricane season ranges from June to November, however there have only been a few direct hurricane hits in the past 100 years. Generally, Jamaica will receive some after-effects such as winds and rain but this often does not last very long, and returns to warm sunshine.

The tourist high season usually runs from mid-December to mid-April as this is the dry season and generally holds the best conditions for a Caribbean getaway.

Events

Bob Marley Week (early February): A celebration of the world famous reggae artist which coincides with his birthday on 6 February. Events include music concerts, karaoke contests, exhibitions and lectures.

Carnival (late March/early April): Known as Bacchanal, Jamaica’s carnival is held the week after Easter and includes a grand costume parade through the streets of Kingston as well as plenty of musical performances.

Ocho Rios Jazz Festival (early June): The week long festival features performances by international and Caribbean jazz musicians as well as family and community events.

Reggae Sumfest (Late July): Held in Montego Bay, the festival takes place over the course of three days and showcases the best in reggae and dancehall music.

Jamaica Independence Festival (early August): The festival takes place around 6 August, Jamaica’s Independence Day and includes street parades, pageants and other events all over the island.

Restaurant Week (November): Each November, many of the Kingston, Ocho Rios and Montego Bay’s top restaurants offer special discounts and packages.