With warm temperatures and clear skies almost year-round, you can’t go wrong with a vacation in the Cayman Islands. If you’re asking yourself what time of year is it best to visit Cayman Islands, the answer largely depends on what you’re looking for!
At Sunset House, we’ve grown accustomed to the idyllic weather since we opened our hotel for scuba divers in 1958. No matter the season, we’re here to welcome you with our Grand Cayman Dive Packages or with our fully-equipped Rooms at Sunset House Hotel Grand Cayman.
Are you ready to start planning your Cayman Islands vacation? Then keep reading our blog for information on the best time to visit, or get in touch with us for more details on our accommodation.
What is the Weather Like in the Cayman Islands?
Located in the blissful Caribbean, Cayman Islands experience a tropical climate that can be divided between a dry season (winter) and rainy season (summer). Either season offers its perks, whether that’s fewer crowds or optimal scuba diving conditions.
Dry Winter Season in Cayman Islands (November to April)
While the dry season in Cayman Islands may correlate with winter, you sure won’t be experiencing cold temperatures. During this period from November to April, you’ll experience an average of 80.3°F (26.8 °C). Cold fronts bring milder weather, but you’ll still enjoy warm and sunny days.
It’s no surprise that the dry season is the peak season to visit the Cayman Islands, meaning you’ll also encounter higher crowds and likely greater expenses. But don’t let that deter you – these months offer some of the best conditions for outdoor activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, or just tanning on the beach, as you’ll be less likely to be disrupted by rainfall.
Underwater you can experience temperatures averaging around 78-80°F (25-27°C), making swimming blissful. Outside of the rainy season, you can also expect better underwater visibility for diving, with less rainfall and currents from wind.
For more information on scuba diving, read our blog on How Safe is Scuba Diving in Grand Cayman.
Rainy Summer Season in Cayman Islands (May to October)
While the summer season in Cayman Islands may also be referred to as the rainy season, you can still enjoy pleasant weather since showers largely occur in the afternoon. Between the months of May and October, the average monthly rainfall is 6.91 inches, with the months of September and October experiencing the highest amount of precipitation.
During the rainy season, you’ll also enjoy much higher temperatures, averaging around 84.6°F (29.2°C). Dipping into the ocean at this time will be sublime, as the sea water will average around 82-84°F (27-29°C).
The biggest benefits of visiting in the off-season is fewer crowds and lower prices. You might find stretches of beaches largely to yourself, creating a peaceful atmosphere for you and your loved ones. Go snorkeling or diving in the mornings for the best conditions before the afternoon rain. During the summer, you’ll also get to experience the turtle nesting and hatching season, with turtles beginning to nest in May and eggs starting to hatch in July.
A downside of visiting during this time is that some attractions or accommodations may be closed, leaving you with fewer options. Try planning ahead so you can make sure you can make the most of your time in Cayman Islands during the rainy season.
Hurricane Season in Cayman Islands (June to November)
Hurricanes are a reality in Cayman Islands, and these mostly coincide with the summer between June and November. However, hurricanes rarely directly hit the island and they are unlikely to disrupt your vacation. If a hurricane is expected, forecasts will predict one days in advance, giving you ample opportunity to rearrange your plans if need be.
It’s always advisable to get trip insurance for your diving trip, especially around hurricane season in case of weather disruptions. We can recommend DAN Membership & Dive Accident Coverage.
Our Recommended Best Time to Visit Cayman Islands
While there are pros and cons to visiting Cayman Islands in either the dry or rainy season, our recommendation for the best time to visit would be in the shoulder months between April and June or the month of November. During these times, you’ll experience optimal temperatures, fewer crowds, as well as less rainfall.
Other highlights include the Cayman Islands’ carnival in May. Cayman Carnival Batabano is held in the first week of the month, with the islands turning into a spectacle of music, dance, and parades. This is an excellent opportunity to experience the culture of Cayman Islands. The name Batabano in fact refers to the tracks sea turtles leave as they begin to nest in May, another incredible attraction at this time!
Experience Grand Cayman with Sunset House
No matter what time of year you visit the Cayman Islands, it’s guaranteed to be the best. With its glorious weather, countless outdoor activities, culture, and natural abundance, the Cayman Islands will offer an experience like no other.
If you travel to Grand Cayman, the team at Sunset House are here to make your trip unforgettable, whether you choose to stay with us in our hotel or join us for some Grand Cayman Diving with Sunset Divers. Should you have any questions for us about our accommodation or diving packages, contact us and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
