February Weather in the Caribbean
Generally speaking, you can expect February temperatures in the Caribbean to average a low of about 72ºF and a high of about 82º F. But beach weather is not guaranteed, with rain likely on 8 days of the month, on average. Especially in the islands located in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Caribbean -- Bermuda and the Bahamas -- it's more reasonable to expect sunshine and warm weather than the kind of hot days where you can sweat on the beach and then dip into the ocean to cool off.
Visiting the Caribbean in February: Pros
There's a reason this is the most popular time of the year to visit the Caribbean: the weather is warm and sunny even though there's snow and chilly temperatures up north. Also, there is no better time for a romantic trip to the islands than on or around Valentine's Day, when many Caribbean resorts offer special packages designed to woo couples. And of course February is when Mardi Gras - peak of the pre-Lentin celebration - takes place, and the frenzy of Carnival tops out on many Caribbean islands.
Visiting the Caribbean in February: Cons
February is high season in the Caribbean -- the third busiest month behind March and April -- so expect crowds and rates on the high end for hotels and flights. February school vacation brings lots of families down to the islands, so avoid school-vacation weeks if you're looking for a romantic getaway. Book well in advance, and scan my
Caribbean travel deals page to take advantage when hotel rooms and airline tickets do go on sale.
What to Wear and What to Pack
Bathing suits and summer-weight clothing for the days, perhaps a sweater at night. Pack a light jacket if you're heading for the Bahamas or Bermuda.
February Events and Festivals
St. Martin/Maarten, Jamaica, Curacao, St. Barths, Martinique, Trinidad and Dominica are among the islands celebrating Carnival and Mardi Gras in February. The International Love Festival invites romantics to warm up in Bermuda, while Jamaica celebrates the life and music of Bob Marley, born Feb. 6, 1945. For more details, see my article on
Top February Events in the Caribbean.
