When to Go

High Season kicks off around American Thanksgiving at the end of November and winds down in May. The major spike in visitors are Christmas and New Year’s Day, Easter weekend, and academic spring breaks throughout March and April. Hotels are at their peak rates during this time and are typically booked out well in advance, especially in popular Out Island destinations, so advanced planning is necessary during this time. If you plan on visiting an Out Island at any time of the year, pay attention to events such as regattas or Junkanoo, and long holiday weekends. It may be a challenge to book a domestic flight at the last minute and room rates are at their peak.

Low Season starts to slow down in August when children head back to school. The heat intensifies and the threat of hurricanes loom. You’ll find that most hotels and restaurants shut down in the Out Islands from September until around American Thanksgiving at the end of November. Rates will be at their lowest during this time, if you can find a hotel that’s open. Nassau doesn’t see much of a change in rates however, since travelers continue visiting year-round. It’s an extremely quiet time of year in the islands, so be prepared for R&R. If you need diversions, it might not be the best time to visit.

The winter months can be cool as there are regularly passing cold fronts pushing down from the Northeast, but it’s still warmer than most northern locales so most visitors don’t mind. Keep in mind the farther north you are, such as The Abacos, the cooler it could be, and farther south is significantly less affected by northern weather and can be much warmer, such as The Exumas and Long Island. The summer months bring the heat, stifling humidity and the wet season with daily afternoon thunderstorms, but if you prefer beaches all to yourself and warmer ocean temperatures, then you’ll enjoy a trip during the summertime. Summer is when you can find the most discounted rates at hotels, if they are open.

Peak hurricane season is August and September, and in recent years we’ve also seen several major hurricanes as late as October. Many resorts, restaurants and gift shops in the Out Islands shut down from Aug-Nov, so be aware that you of that when planning your vacation and looking for diversions. You may find a resort or two open, but not a lot of restaurant options except for local cuisine.

As with most sub-tropical island locales, come prepared for coastal weather. Full rain regalia may not be necessary, but a long sleeve shirt or shawl is helpful year round.