When to Go

When choosing vacation dates, keep in mind that the weather here is more extreme than you might expect on a tropical island.

High season extends from December until mid-April, with prices spiking around Christmas and Easter. Spring, being warm and dry, has the optimal conditions. If you’re coming in winter, nortes (north winds) occasionally blow through, churning the sea and lowering temperatures, so pack a shawl or jacket for the comparatively chilly 18°C (65°F) evenings. Note that the windward side is calmer in winter than the leeward one, and the interior is warmer than the coast.

June through October is the rainy season. Summer is generally hot and humid. But crowds disperse and prices drop in the low season—and, if you're a diver, warm water and the year's-best visibility might be enough to induce you to brave the heat. Mid-April through May is the sweet spot. With a lull in tourist business and the fine weather that precedes the rainy season, late spring might be your all-around best bet. November is another good option, provided you avoid Thanksgiving weekend.