Hurricane season peaks in the Caribbean toward the end of the third quarter. But fret not, you can still find the best Caribbean island to visit in September with this quick travel guide.
If you plan to go on a Caribbean vacation during this month, you’ll enjoy just the right mix of cool winds and warm waters.
Once you decide which of these islands fits your budget, style, and preferences the most, the only thing that remains is to start packing your suitcases before you revel in everything these fantastic islands have to offer.
And because it’s low season, you can explore the most visited islands in the Caribbean with fewer fellow tourists — and at a more budget-friendly rate.
The Best Island Resorts To Visit in September
Sandals Resorts in Barbados are 5-star, all-inclusive, and adult-only. There are two Sandals resorts on our #1 recommended island to visit in September. Explore the resorts here.
1. Barbados
September is one of the least busy times in Barbados, a southern Caribbean island popular for its friendly locals and mesmerizing beaches that have soft sands and crystal-clear waters.
Barbados September is one of the least busy times in Barbados, a southern Caribbean island popular for its friendly locals and mesmerizing beaches that have soft sands and crystal-clear waters. Going there that month means you’ll have warm weather (about 82 degrees Fahrenheit on average) and a quieter atmosphere compared to its peak season (which is December until early April).
Barbados is a perfectly elegant and sophisticated island, embellished with spectacular coral reefs, a wide range of delectable dining options, and most importantly, absolutely stunning beaches.
The chances of storms in September are relatively low. And though you may experience occasional rain showers, you can use that time to break free from your beach-centric itinerary. Even more, it has beautiful beaches and waters, as well as a lot of history and culture.
Island highlights:
- Snorkel and swim with the abundant marine life at Browne’s Beach
- Dive and discover corals and shipwrecks at Carlisle Bay
- Watch the sunrise at Farley Hill and enjoy overlooking views of the Atlantic Ocean
- Book a hiking tour and explore the island’s trails
- Stroll around the island capital of Bridgetown
2. Aruba
Aruba is part of the so-called ABC Islands, together with Bonaire and Curaçao. These three are some of the best islands to visit in September 2024 as they lie on the southern edge of the hurricane belt. In fact, the average high temperature can hit 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Curacao Average Temperature 79°- 92° Curacao is an island country part of the Caribbean and South America. The island is home to pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and dramatic cliffs; plus it’s an especially popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.
There are also many shipwrecks to explore in the waters around Curacao. If you’re looking for a more active vacation, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore on the island.
Bonaire retains much of its natural beauty and tranquility. It’s a great place to visit for those who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some peace and quiet. So if you’re ever in need of a relaxing vacation, be sure to consider Bonaire as your next destination!
The “One Happy Island of Aruba” is sun-soaked and gifted with a long stretch of sparkling beaches. Besides its picturesque waters, it has dramatic rock formations and fascinating caves that will stir up your explorer’s heart.
Island highlights:
- Swim or do water activities like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking at Eagle Beach
- Visit De Palm Island and mingle with flamingos
- Jump off the iconic cliffs and dive into the Natural Pool
- Explore the Arikok National Park on a Jeep tour
- Take a submarine tour and view the beautiful Barcadera reef
3. Grenada
Spice up your September on the tropical island of Grenada. It’s located outside the hurricane zone, and the average daily temperature is about 88 degrees Fahrenheit.
Because it’s considered the Spice Isle, you can expect a remarkable culinary experience when you visit it. However, it’s just one part of your journey: Grenada has amazing beaches and majestic waterfalls you can check out, swim in, and use as a background for your Instagram snaps.
Island highlights:
- Visit the historic sites at the island’s capital, St. George
- Go kayaking, diving, or cruising at Morne Rouge Beach
- Enjoy your Caribbean vacation at an all-inclusive resort such as the Sandals Grenada Resort & Spa Grenada
- Go sightseeing at the Seven Sisters Waterfalls
- Explore one of the most vital conservation projects on the island, the Levera National Park
4. Mexico
Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is part of the Caribbean. Though it may fall in the hurricane zone, storms seldom hit the area. If there will be rainfall, it typically happens in the middle of the afternoon — which isn’t exactly the ideal time to hit the beach.
Mexico is home to many tourist attractions. Some of the most popular areas are Tulum, Cancun, Cozumel, and Playa del Carmen.
Island highlights:
- Have a glimpse of the past at the Tulum Archeological Zone, which has Yucatan Mayan ruins set against the aquamarine Caribbean sea
- Take a Gran Cenote tour and swim at its sinkhole filled with turquoise waters
- Immerse yourself in Mexican culture at Downtown Cancun
- Hang out at beach clubs
- Take a ferry to Cozumel, dive, and witness the wonders of the second-longest coral reef system
5. Panama
Looking for an attractive alternative to the top Caribbean destinations September you’ll read about in many travel guides? This is the place to be. Panama borders the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean and sits south of the hurricane zone. The daily high temperatures there are around 88 degrees Fahrenheit.
The country boasts a laidback atmosphere during this month — perfect if you wish to enjoy a tropical holiday without those huge crowds.
Island highlights:
- Go island-hopping at the Bocas del Toro archipelago
- Attend the International Festival of the Sea
- Witness the hatching of turtle eggs on the coast of Isla Canas
- Meet several wildlife species at the Coiba National Park
- Go whale-watching at the Pearl Islands
6. St. Lucia
September is St. Lucia’s warmest month. It’s one of the Caribbean’s southernmost islands and has daily high temperatures hovering around 87 degrees Fahrenheit. Though the risk of a hurricane is high, you can enjoy glorious bursts of sunshine.
Apart from whiling away at the beach, you can explore nature trails, ride horses, book sightseeing cruises, or dive and see its rich aquamarine environment yourself in this warm weather.
Island highlights:
- Go yachting on the blue waters of Marigot Bay
- Dive at the Anse Chastanet Marine National Park
- Climb the Pitons — the two towering peaks on the island popular among hiking enthusiasts
- Trekk through the Tet Paul Nature Trail
- Bathe in the springs and visit the parks at the fishing village of Soufriere
7. Trinidad and Tobago
These islands are tucked in the southeastern region of the Caribbean, below the hurricane belt, offering an average high temperature of 86 degrees Fahrenheit during September. There will be bouts of rain, but it won’t necessarily dampen your Trinidad and Tobago vacation, especially if you want to enjoy the tropics at a bargain price.
Island highlights:
- Celebrate their Independence Month and visit aptly decorated heritage sites (e.g., Port of Spain Waterfront)
- Swim at the Maracas Bay
- Visit the village of Sans Souci and surf up
- Go standup paddle boarding at Pigeon Point
- Witness or take part in golfing tournaments (Trinidad and Tobago hosts three every September)
Conclusion
Some areas in the Caribbean bless vacationers with sunny days and little chance of rain even in September when the hurricane season is at its peak. Choose any of the seven islands we’ve recommended above, and you’ll realize your dream Caribbean holiday without paying the usual price.
Already picked the best Caribbean island to visit in September? Waste no time and start planning as early as today.
