Looking for a fun Caribbean vacation in the summer or fall without worrying about the risk of hurricanes? Then you may be interested to know which Caribbean islands are outside of the hurricane belt. The good news is, there are several to choose from.
Read on to learn more about Caribbean destinations outside the hurricane belt and what to do if you’re traveling here in hurricane season.
Caribbean Islands Outside of Hurricane Belt Quick Take
There are 5 main Caribbean islands outside of the hurricane belt. These are Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Trinidad, and Tobago.
Caribbean Islands Outside of Hurricane Belt Overview
Hurricane season is June 1 through November 30 and peaks from late August through October. It affects the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico. The vast majority of islands in the Caribbean lie within the “hurricane belt,” or the area in which hurricanes have historically happened and are most likely to occur again.
While some experts disagree on the exact area of the hurricane belt—and emphasize that severe weather can happen anywhere in the Caribbean—there are several islands that are generally considered to be outside that area and therefore almost risk-free.
Which Caribbean islands are not on the hurricane belt? They are the Dutch Caribbean islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao, as well as the island nation of Trinidad and Tobago. These islands are located in the far southern Caribbean, off the coast of Venezuela.
The ABC islands are an especially good bet for summer vacations in the Caribbean if you want nice weather since it is the dry season there. This is the opposite of most Caribbean islands, which have their rainy season from May to October or November.
The rainy season in Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao lasts from September to early January, but even then rainfall is relatively low, with average daily amounts rarely exceeding 1 inch.
Which Caribbean islands are most affected by hurricanes?
The Caribbean islands with the highest risk and history of hurricanes are located in the northeastern and western Caribbean. These include The Bahamas, the British Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands, Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saba and St. Eustatius, the Caymans, St. Maarten/St. Martin, St. Barts, Puerto Rico, Anguilla, Turks & Caicos, Guadeloupe, and Jamaica.
Caribbean Islands Outside of Hurricane Belt: Aruba
Although all three ABC islands lie outside the hurricane belt, Aruba actually has the lowest statistical risk of getting hit by a storm, making it one of the absolute best Caribbean islands outside of the hurricane belt for summer trips. This popular destination is known for its fun nightlife and casinos, charming capital of Oranjestad, beautiful beaches, and plentiful activities.
Average summer and fall temperatures range from low to high 80s, and there is very little rain during this time. The best time to visit Aruba is April to August; the weather is sunny and dry, and there are tons of festivals and events to check out.
Caribbean Islands Outside of Hurricane Belt: Bonaire
Tiny Bonaire is one of the top scuba diving destinations in the Caribbean, offering more than 80 dive sites from wrecks to vibrant coral reefs to the Bonaire National Marine Park. Other types of watersports are very popular here as well.
The weather in the summer and fall is similar to Aruba’s. The best time to visit Bonaire is from May to October when the weather is dry and ocean conditions are perfect.
Caribbean Islands Outside of Hurricane Belt: Curacao
Curacao features the colorful capital of Willemstad, cultural and historic sites, lovely white-sand beaches and vivid blue water, and plenty of activities including watersports.
Summer and fall weather is the same as in Aruba and Bonaire. The best time to visit Curacao is from May to November for excellent weather and a variety of festivals.
Caribbean Islands Outside of Hurricane Belt: Trinidad & Tobago
This small nation features two very different islands. While both have scenic beaches and lush rainforests, Trinidad is more developed and is famous for its festivals, while Tobago is unspoiled and is popular with nature lovers.
Summer and fall weather differs from the ABC islands in that Trinidad & Tobago is more humid, Also, this area’s rainy season is June to December. Average temperatures in summer and fall range from mid 70s to 90 degrees.
The Caribbean coastline of Panama is also outside of the hurricane belt. You’ll find pristine nature in the Bocas del Toro region, which features gorgeous beaches, clear water, and affordable resorts with amenities like overwater bungalows.
Other Caribbean islands that have a low risk of hurricanes are Barbados, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, and Grenada. While these islands have been affected by storms in the past, it is very rare. They also don’t tend to get direct hits.
Is St. Lucia out of the hurricane belt? While it technically lies within it, this lush and gorgeous island is also in the southeastern Caribbean and does have a somewhat lower risk.
Traveling to the Caribbean During Hurricane Season
Regardless of which island you visit, if you’re traveling to the Caribbean during hurricane season (June 1 to November 30), you’ll want to keep an eye on the forecast and be sure to get travel insurance.
Although you will often have plenty of warning in advance of an approaching storm, they can pop up quickly, so it’s smart to stay updated throughout your trip. Have a plan in place and make sure your travel insurance covers emergency evacuation.
The good news is that the chances of a hurricane directly impacting your trip are relatively small. Also, traveling during this time usually means you can find lower rates and fewer crowds, so it can be an excellent experience.
Have we told you all you want to know about which Caribbean islands are safest from hurricanes? If not, let us know in the comments. And if you’re ready to plan that Caribbean vacation, our expert travel advisors can help!