Though the hurricane season kicks off in August in the Caribbean, there are islands in the region that are more likely to remain dry on most days. You can still have a great getaway if you pick the right destination. Here’s an article to help you choose the best Caribbean island to visit in August — plus the things you can do there besides having a blast at the beach.
#1 Curaçao
Searching for the driest Caribbean island in August? We’re talking 90 degrees and just 1.6 inches of rain. Curaçao is a tropical gem you can enjoy even during the rainy season.
The month of August is part of the shoulder season of the island, which means there wouldn’t be throngs of people. You can enjoy the island’s best beaches and attractions without worrying about touristy prices.
Island Highlights
- Walk along the vibrant Willemstad: The capital of Curaçao is bursting with colors, courtesy of its Dutch colonial houses. It’s also considered UNESCO World Heritage Site. After scuba diving (this place is also known for its colorful underwater world), you can explore the town on foot and visit its many museums and cafes.
- Explore the Island’s West Coast: Most tourists will be familiar with Willemstad. If you have a penchant for undiscovered gems, the West End of Curaçao will be a paradise for you. Contrary to the capital’s zest, this side will usher in tranquility. It will get you close to nature with its quiet beaches and unique, untouched landscapes.
- Enjoy non-stop music entertainment at North Sea Jazz Fest: Want some great escape from the hustle and bustle of life? Let music send you adrift: Curaçao is home to the three-day North Sea Jazz Fest, which welcomes international stars and homegrown talents alike to its stage. Past performers include Prince, Stevie Wonder, and Alicia Keys.
#2 Jamaica
Any list enumerating contenders for the best Caribbean island to visit in August isn’t really complete without Jamaica. And with several top-rated resorts, such as Sandals Montego Bay, choosing this as your holiday destination isn’t hard.
This best Caribbean island to visit in August gets around four inches of rain for several days, with temperatures remaining moderate in mid- to high-80s. During the month, the local celebrates Independence Day and Emancipation Day. It’s also a great time to discover some tropical fruits you might not have seen all your life, such as jackfruit, breadfruit, sweet sop, and sour sop. If you love lobsters, it’s also the best time to get them.
Island Highlights
- Take a splash on Montego Bay’s beaches: Get tanned skin and dip your toes in the fine sands of Doctor’s Cave Beach. If you want someplace where you can have fun on water slides and go-karting facilities. If you want a change of scenery, the Jamaican city is also popular for its golf spots, including the Cinnamon Hill Golf Club.
- Surround yourself with nature in Blue Lagoon: Nestled in Port Antonio, Blue Lagoon is a haven for nature lovers and has the most breathtaking views in Jamaica. Its turquoise waters are surrounded by thick greenery and are a great place to swim, snorkel or go rafting.
- Climb the Dunn’s River Falls: Up from some adventure? Sweat your stress off and spend a good hour climbing the famous natural falls near Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Apart from hiking, this park has popular spots for walking and birdwatching. There’s also a beach at the bottom where you can relax after.
#3 Antigua
The island has fairly warm weather and has an average rainfall of about four inches per month — one of the lowest in the Caribbean. August temperatures hit the high 80s, with nighttime averages in the mid-70s. While tourism drops a notch during the month, there are still a ton of things to do in this best Caribbean island to visit in August.
In case you’re planning a vacation in Antigua, you will be in time for their Carnival Monday and Carnival Tuesday. There could be some international soccer tournaments at this time of the year, too. It is also the season for turtle-watching on the island. Plus, so much more (and did we say hotel rates could be lower?).
Island Highlights
- Swim with stingrays in Stingray City: In case you don’t know it yet, stingrays are incredibly friendly. Want to make your Caribbean trip a bit different? Spend time with them as you swim in the turquoise waters in Stingray City. You can also pet and even feed them!
- Attend the Carnival: Want to have Caribbean carnival dates during your trip? Visiting in August means you can participate in what is touted as the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival. Highlighted by great music and cultural activities, the Carnival runs from the end of July until the first Tuesday of August.
- See 18th-Century Architecture in Nelson’s Dockyard: One way to immerse yourself in a foreign place is to look at its architecture. In Antigua, you can do just that when you visit Nelson’s Dockyard, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apart from 18th-century architectural wonders, you can explore its gorgeous harbor or drink the night away with Caribbean rum.
#4 St. Thomas
St. Thomas is the chief island in the US Virgin Islands. It’s a top Caribbean holiday in August because of the low amount of rainfall and many enjoyable activities to include in your itinerary. It’s the hottest time of the year in this corner of the Caribbean, with the average temperature hitting as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Given the ideal weather, you can pretty much do whatever you desire on the islands during your vacation.
Island Highlights
- Go snorkeling at the Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge: If Stingray City lets you enjoy the waters with stingrays, the Buck Island National Wildlife Refuge is a place to snorkel and get friendly with resident sea turtles at Turtle Cove. However, it’s not just turtles that you can find in its waters. Beautiful coral reefs also surround this 45-acre property. Sailing is another activity you can add to your to-do list.
- Book a boat tour: Several businesses offer catamaran charter trips and full-day cruises so you can take a good look at this island. You can choose pre-arranged trips or organize a DIY one. If you want to visit the neighboring St. John, opt for a package with that as a stopover.
- Take a Skyride to Paradise Point: Don’t just enjoy this Caribbean Island from its waters — be in awe of its beauty by going to its top scenic attraction via a Skyride tram. Once there, you can have the best views of Water Island and Puerto Rico, and enjoy good food and drinks served by welcoming locals.
#5 Turks and Caicos Islands
You won’t run out of the best things to do in the Caribbean. Among the hundreds of islands it offers, Turks and Caicos will offer you double the fun and relaxation. While you will be visiting during the hurricane season, these islands get just around 2.6 inches of rainfall and average temperatures at around 82°F.
The archipelago is well-known for its breathtaking barrier reef, the best beaches, conch farm, and more. Here are some of the best things you can do during your Turks and Caicos holiday.
Island Highlights
- Visit the Grand Turk Lighthouse: This lighthouse is a renowned symbol of Turks and Caicos, situated at the peak of Grand Turk, the islands’ capital. After touring this landmark, you can bathe in the surrounding blue waters and go snorkeling or scuba diving.
- Go to the Turks and Caicos Music and Cultural Festival: Held from late July to early August each year, this festival showcases the musical and cultural marvels of the Caribbean islands. During this week-long festivity, you can find several stalls that offer diverse island foods. Another highlight is a local beauty pageant.
- Watch scenic sunsets at Grace Bay Beach: Stretching across a good 12 miles, Grace Bay Beach is the personification of pristine. It’s clean and calm and offers a front-row seat to some of the most dramatic sunsets you’ll ever watch.
Conclusion
The choices are endless regarding the best things to do in the Turks and Caicos Islands. It’s up to you whether you’re heading to the Caribbean to relax on its beaches or do every flavor of watersports you have not tried before.
If there’s one piece of advice we want to give you, leave your burdens behind and have the time of your life while in the Caribbean.
