The Seasons of the British Virgin Islands: Best Time to Visit

December to April: dry season

The BVI’s high season coincides with the dry season, and visitors can expect warm temperatures, very little rainfall and low humidity – perfect for those who want to escape colder climes at home.

The BVI’s are known as the sailing capital of the Caribbean, and their calm waters and steady trade winds make this an ideal time for yachting. A must-see event for nautical enthusiasts, the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival draws sailors and spectators to the islands every March for seven days of exciting coastal racing.

Minimal rain also means plenty of opportunity to relax on The Branson Beach Estate’s private beach on Moskito Island or on Necker Island’s many sandy beaches.

May to June: Spring transition

As the high season ends, the weather remains warm and dry while the humidity levels increase slightly, and the occasional rain shower occurs. With visitor numbers decreasing, popular spots on the island are less crowded, making this a great time to explore The Baths on Virgin Gorda, where giant granite boulders on the beach conceal caves and tranquil lagoons which can be explored via shallow wading pools, ladders and ropes.

The waters of the Caribbean Sea remain warm and clear, ideal for snorkelling and diving, discovering the islands’ abundance of marine life and spotting turtles and rays. Conditions are also ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and kiteboarding.

The BVI Music Festival, held in May on Tortola, offers a star-studded line-up of international and local artists, exciting performances, delicious food, and thrilling activities.

July to October: low season

Summer and early autumn bring the rainy season with increased humidity and rainfall, but rain often comes in short bursts, and there are still plenty of sunny days.

Some of the best waves of the year appear during this season, making it the perfect time for surfing.

Fewer crowds also mean visiting local markets, museums, and historical sites becomes a more relaxed activity. Stop by the Callwood Rum Distillery in Cane Garden Bay, where Arundel Rum has been produced for over 200 years. The oldest rum distillery in the Eastern Caribbean, visit its historical building, find out all about the distillation process and finish the tour by sampling the end product.

During this time, the islands are also at their greenest. Hike through Tortola’s Sage Mountain National Park, spotting colourful birds and taking in the views from the BVI’s highest peak, while the trails on Anegada offer plenty of opportunities to observe flocks of pink flamingos, the endangered Anegada rock iguana and plenty of native birds and plants.

The BVI Emancipation Festival, held over two weeks at the end of July and the beginning of August, is the highlight of the season. It celebrates the islands’ history and heritage with spectacular parades, music and plenty of delicious, traditional food.

November: Autumn transition

As the rainy season ends, November is a great time to holiday in the Caribbean, with a mix of good weather and exciting activities. The winds pick up again, perfect for water sports.

Join GroundSea Adventures for an immersive kayak or stand-up paddle tour through indigenous mangroves, learning all about mangrove conservation and cultivation before getting hands-on with planting propagules (seedlings).

For foodies, there is the Anegada Lobster Festival, featuring plenty of seafood treats and celebrations.

Still not sure when to visit?

The best time to visit the British Virgin Islands depends on your travel preferences. If you want perfect weather and world-class sailing, visit during the high season. For a mix of adventure and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons are ideal. If you are interested in local culture and festivals, summer brings vibrant celebrations.

Regardless of when you go, the BVI’s natural beauty, warm turquoise waters and welcoming atmosphere make it a fantastic year-round destination.