St Lucia is a stunning Caribbean island getaway with breathtaking beaches, rugged rainforests, and iconic Pitons mountains rising from the sea. However, the weather and crowds can vary greatly depending on when you visit. Certain times of the year bring heavy rainfall, sweltering heat, inflated prices, and packed resorts.
Use this guide on the worst time to visit St Lucia to help pick dates for the best experience. We’ll provide tips on avoiding the rainiest and hottest periods, peak hurricane season, busy holidays, and more. Read on to find the ideal time to book your St Lucia escape.
Worst Time to Visit St Lucia
The Rainy Season to Avoid
The first factor making some months the worst time to visit St Lucia is the heavy rainfall. The island has a tropical climate with a very pronounced wet season. The rainiest months to avoid are:
- June
- July
- August
- September
- October
During these months, St Lucia averages 8 to 12 inches of rainfall per month. June through August are the wettest periods, while September and October are transition months when the rain tapers off slowly.
Sudden downpours and residual showers occur frequently, especially in the interior mountains. This can dampen beach and sightseeing activities. September is often impacted by tropical weather as the heart of hurricane season approaches.
To experience the best dry weather for swimming, boating, and exploring, visit St Lucia between mid-December and mid-April. During these drier months, rainfall averages only 2 to 3 inches per month.
Sweltering Summer Heat
Another factor making summer the worst time to visit St Lucia is the stifling temperatures you’ll encounter. The hottest months on the island are:
- June
- July
- August
- September
High temperatures average 88°F to 90°F (31°C to 32°C) on the coast and a few degrees warmer inland and at lower elevations. August and September, in particular, experience nasty heat waves pushing 100°F (38°C).
The combination of oppressive heat and humidity can make enjoying the beaches or attractions feel unbearable without constant air conditioning. Hotel pools will be crammed as well.
For weather more comfortable for sightseeing and beach time, plan your trip between mid-December and April. Highs stay in the 80s F (27°C to 29°C), with pleasant breezes off the ocean.
Hurricane Season Dangers
Visiting St Lucia between June and November also brings the major risk of tropical storms or hurricanes. The peak hurricane season runs from:
- August
- September
- October
Some of the strongest storms on record have impacted St Lucia and the Eastern Caribbean in September and October. This not only endangers travel plans but can damage infrastructure on the island.
While the odds of a direct hurricane hit are moderate, it’s safest to avoid this worst time for Caribbean travel. Make sure to purchase travel insurance that includes hurricane coverage if visiting during the rainy season.
Holidays to Avoid
Peak holiday periods attract huge crowds of tourists and inflated hotel rates in St Lucia. It’s best to avoid:
- Christmas/New Year’s (Mid-December through New Year’s Day)
- Valentine’s Day (February 14th)
- Easter Week
Finding availability at hotels and luxury resorts over Christmas and New Year’s can also be very challenging, with minimum night requirements. Rates soar over Valentine’s and Easter as well.
If you must travel over the holidays, make reservations many months in advance. But the crowds will still be intense at popular activities and attractions.
St Lucia Jazz Festival
Another extremely busy event is the St Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival held in early May. While offering lively music performances, this popular festival draws huge crowds.
Book accommodations months ahead if attending, as hotels fill fast. Expect inflated rates, crowded venues, and busy beaches during the 10 days of festivities.
The Worst Time to Visit St Lucia
To summarize, the worst times to visit St Lucia include:
- June to August – The rainiest and hottest months of the year. Frequent downpours.
- September & October – Still very wet, with likely impacts from tropical weather.
- Mid-December through New Year’s – Holiday crowds and the most expensive rates of the year.
- February (Valentine’s Day) – A very popular romantic getaway leads to high demand and prices.
- Easter Week – Another holiday that packs beaches and hotels.
- Early May (Jazz Festival) – Hectic crowds for this famous music event.
The Best Time to Visit St Lucia
In contrast, here are the recommended times that provide ideal weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds:
- Mid-January to Mid-April – The prime dry season, with comfortable temperatures and sunshine.
- Early May and November – Shoulder seasons with decent weather, before rains and hurricanes arrive.
- Early to mid-December – Some showers possible but lighter crowds and rates before Christmas.
No matter when you decide to visit, St Lucia’s incredible natural beauty and island culture shine through. Following these tips on the worst time to go will help ensure your vacation lives up to expectations. Check resort policies carefully before booking in case you need to change dates to avoid St Lucia’s challenging weather seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting St Lucia
What is the rainiest month in St Lucia?
The rainiest month on average is June, with over 11 inches of rain. July, August, September, and October also see very heavy rainfall.
Is December a good time to visit St Lucia?
Early December provides lower rates before Christmas crowds arrive in mid-December. The weather is fairly dry, though some quick showers still occur.
How hot is St Lucia in September?
September is one of the hottest months, with average highs of 88°F to 90°F (31°C to 32°C). Heat waves can push temperatures to 95°F (35°C) or above.
Are there hurricanes in October?
The peak season for tropical storms runs from August to October. Some of St Lucia’s worst hurricane impacts have occurred in September and October.
Is Easter week busy in St Lucia?
Easter week draws large crowds of tourists for the holiday, driving up hotel rates. Resorts, activities, and flights will be booked up months in advance.
What is the weather like in early January?
Early January falls in the prime dry season, so excellent beach weather and lower rainfall. Average high temperatures are comfortable, around 83°F (28°C).
