Traveling to the Caribbean during hurricane season gets a bad reputation. While some destinations in the region warrant caution, the truth is that the entire region doesn’t fit a one-size-fits-all approach for traveling in the summer. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and during this time, airfare and hotel prices fall, and so do the crowds.
While no destination is immune to the impacts of hurricanes and severe weather, there are destinations throughout the Caribbean where the threat is significantly lower, and they are not equally exposed to storms. Most of these Caribbean destinations are located to the south. Here’s a breakdown of the best Caribbean destinations to visit year-round, especially in the summer during the height of the hurricane season.
Aruba
Hurricane systems mostly track westward across the Atlantic, then veer northward into the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico. Located near the coast of Venezuela in the Southern Caribbean Sea, Aruba’s southern position usually shields it from the paths of hurricanes entirely.
That doesn’t mean Aruba doesn’t get its fair share of rain from tropical storms or hurricanes passing through the region during hurricane season. Still, it’s known as a destination with a ton of sunshine.
With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, Aruba is nicknamed “One Happy Island.” Take advantage of the sunshine by visiting one of its several award-winning beaches or experiencing the melting pot of flavors on the island. Aruba is home to more than 90 different nationalities.
Bonaire
Similar to Aruba, Bonaire’s position in the Caribbean means severe tropical storms and hurricanes are extremely rare. Direct hurricane strikes in Bonaire occur only once every 38.5 years, making the risk low for travelers.
Each year, the island receives anywhere between 2,800 and 3,000 hours of sunshine annually. On average, that’s about 8 hours of sunlight per day. Bonaire is one of the sunniest places in the Caribbean.
Consistently ranking as a top spot in the Caribbean, this island is for travelers seeking water adventures. Praised by visitors for its pristine coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, Bonaire is a paradise for snorkelers and divers of all levels. With over 80 official dive sites, expect to witness an abundance of marine life and breathtaking views.
Curaçao
Curaçao offers one of the most reliable climates and environments in the Caribbean. The island is another destination that lies below the hurricane belt and receives minimal rainfall. There are an impressive 340 days of sunshine, totaling over 3,000 hours annually.
The longer days are perfect for exploring the colorful capital of Willemstad. The city has earned UNESCO World Heritage site recognition for its beautiful blend of Dutch and Caribbean history, culture, and cuisine. The island has it all. There are more than 35 hidden coves and white-sand beaches to explore, along with world-class water adventures, shopping, and a vibrant culture and dining scene.
When adding Curaçao to the mix of the best islands to visit year-round, it becomes a part of a trio known as the “ABC Islands,” which stands for Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao.
Barbados
Barbados is located further south than many of the islands that have been repeatedly affected by hurricanes. Fewer storms have hit Barbados because of its location, making it an island that’s worth traveling to during the summer.
Even with the chance of rain, Barbados turns up the fun during the summer. One of the main reasons is its iconic annual festival, Crop Over. There are plenty of beaches to visit for a day of relaxing, including Carlisle Bay, Bathsheba Beach, or Pebbles Beach. These three beaches are perfect for a morning dip or to simply slow down while lying in the sun.
Take a rum tour on the island that invented it, and don’t forget to drink from the fountain of youth on an island with one of the largest populations over 100.
Trinidad And Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago lie south of most historical hurricane tracks. Many of the tropical storms that have tracked over or near Trinidad were early in their development and eventually relatively weak. The handful of storms that have affected Trinidad formed unusually far south in the Atlantic and then tracked directly west. This rare combination is the reason Trinidad is said to lie south of the hurricane belt.
The main attractions in the region include Tobago’s Pigeon Point and Bucco Reed, Trinidad’s Maracas Beach, and Asa Wright Nature Center. There are two main airports to choose from. There is Piarco International Airport (POS) in Trinidad and ANR Robinson International (TAB) for Tobago.
Cartagena, Colombia
Colombia’s Caribbean coast sits south of 11 degrees north and rarely experiences hurricanes. It’s worth noting that during the hurricane season, Cartagena is experiencing its wettest months. September and October are when travelers usually see the heaviest downpours.
It’s the off-season, so travelers will enjoy some incredible perks such as off-season hotel rates, affordable airfare, and shorter lines at major city attractions. Prioritize indoor activities during the hurricane season, such as visiting indoor museums, taking a cooking class to learn to make arepas or local fresh ceviche, or enjoying a salsa show.
Panama
Panama City avoids hurricanes because it sits too close to the equator, where the Earth’s rotation (the Coriolis effect) is too weak to spin storm systems into hurricanes. The city sits south of the main Atlantic hurricane belt, making direct hits or storm formations extremely rare. However, the rainy season runs from May through November, with the heaviest rainfall peaking from September to November. The rain is short but very intense, typically in the afternoons.
Take advantage of the rainy season with the lower prices. Hotels and attractions are usually heavily discounted during the low season. Head to the Panama Canal to watch the massive cargo ships pass through the Miraflores Locks, then head to one of the city’s most vibrant and historic districts, Casco Viejo.
While some people steer clear of the Caribbean during the Atlantic hurricane season, there are ways to visit the Caribbean islands responsibly during the wet season, and that’s by visiting places with limited risks. To travel successfully during this time, be sure to have travel insurance when you book your flight.
Travel insurance for hurricane season must include Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption for pre-paid, non-refundable expenses, as well as Travel Delay and Emergency Evacuation benefits. Also, be sure to purchase the optional “Cancel For Any Reason” (CFAR) upgrade. This provides the flexibility to cancel your trip out of an abundance of caution, even if the hurricane does not constitute a standard “covered reason” under your policy.
