17 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in August 2026

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Looking for the best Caribbean Islands to visit in August this year? Visiting the Caribbean in August offers a great chance to experience some of the most stunning islands in the world without having to worry about crowded beaches and peak pricing.

Some of these islands sit outside of the hurricane belt, and those that do not have historically low rainfall during this time. Or, August may be a time of festivals or the perfect time to go diving. I’ve been to Caribbean Islands like St Croix and Aruba in August, so trust me when I say – don’t let the rainy days get you down!

The temperatures on these islands are still warm and inviting, making them perfect for beach activities and sightseeing.

To top it off, prices are also low during August, as this is the off-season for tourism in the Caribbean. All in all, you can still enjoy a trip to the Caribbean in August. Let’s check out these best Caribbean islands to travel to in August.

Where is the best weather in the Caribbean in August?

In terms of the lowest average rainfall in August, these are the best islands to visit in August

BUT! No one can control the weather. I always recommend purchasing travel insurance before heading to the Caribbean, especially during hurricane season!

Compare travel insurance plans and rates through Travel Insurance Master ►

17 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in August

1. Aruba

Aruba boats in a harbor
August is the perfect time to take a sunset cruise in Aruba

On top of the list of Caribbean islands to visit in August is the beautiful island of Aruba.

Aruba averages about 1 inch of rain in August which makes it the perfect time to visit. The temperatures in August are 59°C / 80°F – 32°C / 91°F. In fact, the weather in Aruba is beautiful from January to December!

For a clean and cost-friendly place to stay, consider Palm Beach Retreat. It’s located about 15 minutes walking distance from Palm Beach and saves you pricey hotel costs and resort fees. (Which is always a plus!)

While you’re in Aruba stop by two of the most popular beaches on the island: Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. Both beaches are known for their turquoise blue water and their iconic Caribbean beach look.

Note that Eagle Beach is a little more low key whereas Palm Beach is lined with high-rise hotels and is known for water sports and activities. Both should not be missed!

Another activity to enjoy in Aruba is a visit to the Butterfly Farm. This enclosure gives visitors an up-close look at butterflies in their natural-like habitat.

Aruba is also a popular spot for off-road ATV tours and Jeep Tours to get to off-the-beaten-path natural sites around the island. Keep in mind that jeep tours are better for the environment than ATV tours while you’re booking your trip.

It’s perfect for families, photographers, and nature enthusiasts – and no question that it’s the best Caribbean island in August and October. Stop by Conchi Natural Pool and Airkok National Park for some more beautiful nature destinations.

Enjoy your visit to beautiful Aruba in August!

By Chelsea Espinoza from Adventures of Chels

2. Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Isla Mujeres is a beautiful Caribbean Island just off the coast of Cancun, Mexico. Meaning “Island of Women,” Isla Mujeres is famous for gorgeous turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, great snorkeling, laid-back vibes, ancient Mayan Ruins, and swimming with whale sharks.

The Isla Mujeres whale shark season runs from May 17 to September 17, which makes August the best time to visit for those who want to swim with the whale sharks — the largest fish in the sea.

If this is on your bucket list, you’ll need to book an Isla Mujeres whale shark tour to go. The whale shark zone is about 1-1.5 hours off-shore, and you have to get there by boat.

If you don’t want to swim with the whale sharks, you can also do some snorkeling. There are some great reefs just off-shore, as well as the MUSA Underwater Sculpture Park, with about 500 submerged sculptures.

While August is in the rainy season, snorkeling and swimming with whale sharks aren’t weather-dependent, so you can do both even if it’s raining.

Since August is the rainy season, you can expect lower prices at hotels, so you might even be able to find a great deal at some of the best hotels on the island, like Mia Reef All-Inclusive Resort. All this makes Isla Mujeres the second best island to visit in August.

Submitted by Shelley of Travel Mexico Solo

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    3. Dominican Republic

    The Dominican Republic is one of the best islands to travel to in August. Whilst it is the peak of hurricane season, the temperature remains in the top 80s, and the evenings stay warm.

    Plus there are only 28mm average rainfall, and it usually only rains in short sharp bursts and often only at night, making it a good choice for this time of year.

    In terms of things to do there are plenty, as it is one of the most popular islands in the Caribbean, but if you look hard enough there are still lots of hidden gems in the Dominican Republic. From ATV Punta Cana tours to adult-only party cruises, it is more than worth visiting!

    For example, you can do a street art tour in the colorful city of Santiago de los Caballeros or see flamingos in the wild at Laguna de Oviedo. But if you really want to go off the beaten track, explore Jaragua National Park near the border with Haiti.

    There is a secluded beach called Bahia de las Aguilas which is pretty much only known to locals, so you will likely have the pristine beaches all to yourself!

    A great place to stay in Dominican Republic is Natura Cabana in Cabarete, a treetop cabin with all the luxuries including a spa and a private beach.

    Submitted by Roshni from TheWanderlustWithin.com

    4. Puerto Rico

    Girl on a rock overlooking an El Yunque National Park Natural Pool
    Puerto Rico is one of the best Caribbean islands to visit in August because you can spend rainy days in the rainforest! There are tons of secret hideaways to find in El Yunque.

    Although hurricane season is in full swing by the Fall season, Puerto Rico is one of the best Caribbean islands in August to go visit because it is the start of the offseason for this enchanted island.

    Things like transportation, hotels, and even excursions will be much cheaper during this time of year. You’ll also find the island to be less crowded with tourists.

    Aside from hurricanes, Puerto Rico does receive high average rainfall year-round and August is no exception with an average of 16 days in the capital city of San Juan.

    If you feel like venturing out further from the typical tourist destinations in Puerto Rico like San Juan, try visiting Cabo Rojo and Guanica on the southern and western coasts. They tend to see significantly less rainfall in August with an average of 12 days in Cabo Rojo and only an average of 5 days in Guanica. 

    Regardless of where you visit on the island the best things to do are out in the water or out in nature.

    On the eastern coast, the best place to visit is El Yunque National Forest which is the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest system. If it’s going to rain, you might as well be in the rainforest! And trust me, there’s nothing more magical than exploring El Yunque in a downpour.

    The western coast is the most beautiful and one of the best places to visit here is La Parguera Nature Reserve. 

    Contribution by Haley of Fernweh Foreigner

    5. Cuba

    • Average rainfall in August: 5 inches
    • Average high: 90°F
    • Where to Stay: La Posada de Chacón
    • What to do in August: Carnival of Havana
    Best caribbean islands to visit in August view of Cuban building and colorful, old-school cars
    Cuba is known for its old-school cars and colorful scenery

    August – in particular the first half of August, is a great time to visit Cuba! It is just before the months of September and October when hurricanes and tropical storms tend to occur on the eastern side of the island. But, visiting this Caribbean island in October also brings its positives.

    Even though afternoons in August may have the odd shower, Cuba sees some very sunny days in August!

    Visiting Cuba in August means you will get to experience the Carnival of Havana – an unmissable traditional Cuban festival! Thousands of people join the street parade and join in the dancing.

    August is also when the International Festival of Cuban Rumba is held, which is a must for anyone interested in Cuban music, culture, and dance! Of course, you’ll need to visit the salsa clubs in Havana in the evenings to show off the moves you picked up!

    While there are many hotels in Cuba, staying in a Casa Particular is advisable. Casa Particulars are Cuban homestays and are plentiful across Cuba.

    You have the opportunity to gain real insight into the Cuban lifestyle when staying with a local! It’s the best way to fully immerse yourself in Cuba’s fascinating culture!

    Contributed by Catrina of 24 Hours Layover

    6. St Thomas and St John, USVI

    • Average rainfall in August: 3-6 inches
    • Average high: 90°F
    • Where to Stay: Ritz Carlton St Thomas in Red Hook
    • What to do in August: Antigua Carnival
    Ocean and mountain view from boat deck in St John one of the best Caribbean island to visit in August

    Visiting St Thomas and St John is the perfect vacation because you get two islands in one! There are so many things to do, from scuba diving to sailing around the islands. On St Thomas, you can visit iconic attractions such as 99 Steps to Blackbeard’s Castle or kayaking and snorkeling in Cas Cay.

    You can also enjoy incredible seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants, or relax in the sun on one of its stunning beaches. Coki Beach and Magens Bay cannot be missed while you’re in St Thomas!

    When you’re done exploring St Thomas, head to the Red Hook ferry port and take a short 20 minute island to one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean – St John USVI!

    On St John, you can explore Virgin Islands National Park and discover secluded beaches and hidden bays, with crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming or snorkeling.

    There are also numerous hiking trails in St John to enjoy so you can take in the natural beauty of the island and discover hidden gems like Cinnamon Bay Nature Trail.

    If you’re looking for the perfect beach resort, you can’t go wrong with the Ritz Carlton St Thomas in Red Hook . So if you’re looking for an idyllic vacation with plenty to do, then St Thomas and St John are perfect

    7. St Croix, USVI

    • Average rainfall in August: 5-8 inches
    • Average high: 90°F
    • Where to Stay: Buccaneer Beach and Golf Resort
    • What to do in August: Buck Island Reef National Park Tour
    Carambola Tide Pools is one of the most popular things to do in St Croix

    Shockingly, I’ve only been to St Croix in August. And, as you probably know, is peak rainy season! However, I only saw the rain on the way to and from the airport.

    In August, you’ll see quick rain showers in the afternoon. Sometimes they’re nice just to cool down the humid summer days!

    St Croix is the largest US Virgin Island territory. Buck Island Reef National is off the coast. You can’t visit without taking a tour to the island (which is the only way to get there, since it’s all protected land!).

    If you do happen upon a rainy day, you can explore the historic sites or shops in the two main cities, Christiansted and Frederiksted. There’s no much to do for singles, couples, families, and groups! Rain or shine, it’s safe to visit St Croix in August.

    8. Antigua and Barbuda 

    • Average rainfall in August: 4 inches
    • Average high: 87°F
    • Where to Stay: Hermitage Bay or Dickenson Bay Beach
    • What to do in August: Antigua Carnival

    Antigua and Barbuda is one of the prettiest Caribbean destinations that you must visit once in your life. 

    Just like for any other Caribbean Islands, August falls in the wet season, because the chances of rain and hurricane are pretty high at this time of the year. 

    However, if you look at the stats the average rainfall during August in Antigua and Barbuda is only 3.7 inches, with a 30% probability of rain. 

    Considering the bright side of traveling in August to Antigua, I would take my chances.  In fact, in August you will find lower prices, fewer crowds in Antigua, and still a lot of sunny days and blue skies. This is also the month of the Antigua Carnival when you’ll find the island turns into a whole festival of celebration!

    Also, the weather changes very quickly during the day so you may experience some passing showers, which local calls liquid sunshine, but still a lot of sun time. So I wouldn’t change my beach plans if you wake up with rain, as it may pass in half an hour. 

    Also, the water temperature is nicely warm, making it an excellent time for snorkeling tours and sailing trips around the island.

    Antigua is mainly known as a couples´ destination either for honeymoons or couples’ getaways, mainly for its romantic views of the Caribbean sea from ultra-luxury hotels.

    If you want to stay in one of them, Hermitage Bay is one of the top properties on the island with a beautiful private beach and private cottages with their plunge pool overlooking the bay. 

    If your budget is smaller you can opt for one of the lovely apartments at Buccaneer on the spectacular Dickenson bay beach. 

    A great idea is to rent a car for a couple of days, explore the island, check out the hidden beaches, and take a walk in the charming English Harbour Marina.

    Contributed by Isabella from Boundless Roads 

    9. Bermuda

    • Average rainfall in August: 5-7 inches
    • Average high: 86°F
    • Where to Stay: Wade’s Garden Inn
    • What to do in August: Tour Bermuda’s famous pastel-colored houses
    Bermuda in August is a great way to experience an island vacation outside of the Caribbean hurricane belt!

    While Bermuda sits outside of the Caribbean, it’s a perfect island to visit in August for a few reasons. It’s also still part of the CARICOM (Caribbean Community). Bermuda is a beautiful island in the North Atlantic Ocean known for its pink-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and historic sites.

    One of the best times to visit Bermuda is in August, as the island has historically low rainfall and is located outside of the traditional hurricane belt. This makes it a great destination for those looking to avoid the potential for bad weather during the summer months.

    Bermuda typically receives less than 100 mm of rain in August. This makes it an ideal destination for beach-goers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the summer heat and enjoy the island’s many natural attractions. 

    There is plenty to do in Bermuda in August, with various outdoor activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving, visiting the many beaches such as Horseshoe Bay, and going to its historical sites such as St. George’s, Unesco World Heritage site.

    You can also take a tour of the island to see the famous pastel-colored houses and see the blocal flora and fauna.

    Bermuda offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Definitely consider the Fairmont Southampton Hotel which has fantastic views and even a private beach so you can enjoy your time on the island to the fullest.

    Submitted by Victoria of Guide Your Travel (IG)

    10. The San Blas Islands

    The San Blas Islands are a group of over 300 islands off the coast of Panama. They are the true definition of paradise! These protected islands are home to the indigenous Guna people. This means these picture-perfect remote islands remain untouched with very little development.

    There are a lot of rainy days in San Blas in August, with an average of 6-8 inches. However, there’s plenty of sun throughout the month as well! Plus, The San Blas islands are protected from hurricanes because of their location and proximity to land.

    One of the draws of the San Blas islands is that the local population has prevented mass development so don’t expect fancy hotels or resorts here.

    Saying that, you can feel truly at one with nature and spend time relaxing and enjoying the environment. Snorkeling, swimming in natural swimming pools, and reading in a hammock are the perfect activities to do in the San Blas Islands.

    You cannot visit the San Blas Islands without organizing a tour from either Panama City or a Boat trip to Cartegena in Colombia that has been approved by the Guna People. The whole area is protected so this allows the local population to enjoy their lands and also reap the benefits of tourism. 

    11. Holbox Island, Mexico

    Isla Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh) is fast becoming a must-visit in the Mexican Caribbean. It makes for one of the best day trips from Tulum, Cancun, or Playa del Carmen, as it’s a great place to escape the crowds in these popular towns. Another popular day trip is visiting to Cozumel.

    Holbox Island, Mexico is a nature lover’s paradise with miles of white-sand beaches, mangroves to kayak through, bioluminescence in the sea at night, and epic bird-watching — those lucky enough may even see the famous Holbox flamingos.

    It is a chill town, perfect for a relaxing visit. Holbox is famous for its hammocks on the beach and in the Caribbean Sea, streets paved in beach sand, no traffic lights, no flashy tourist shops, fresh seafood, street art, and friendly locals.

    Though Holbox was once a sleepy fishing village, it has grown in popularity in the last few years. Nowadays, there are accommodations for every budget, so no matter your price range, you’ll find something nice — but if you want to splurge, don’t miss Nomade Holbox Resort.

    Holbox is a great Caribbean island to visit in August for one big reason: you can go swimming with whale sharks! These boat tours are only offered from May 17 to September 17 during the whale shark season, and August is known as one of the best months to see them since it’s right in the middle of the season.

    Submitted by Shelley of Tulum Travel Secrets

    12. St Lucia

    Saint Lucia is one of the most beautiful and loved Caribbean islands. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or a romantic vacation, the scenic and tranquil waters of the island won’t disappoint you.

    You will see mostly glorious sunny days in Saint Lucia during the month of August. Temperatures are an average of 30°C and can drop as low as 24°C. The average rainfall is up to 7 inches and there are very few showers during the day.

    Due to the hot and humid climate, you will find good deals on resorts and hotels in Saint Lucia. There are no significant storms that cross the island. Make sure you pack your summer essentials accordingly to protect yourself from heat.

    There is very little risk of hurricanes in Saint Lucia during any time of the year as it is geographically located very far from the hurricane belt. You can participate in activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and sailing. St Lucia also offers some of the best hiking in the Caribbean.

    A St Lucia snorkel tour with land and sea tours is the best way to see the Toraille Waterfalls, twin volcanic peaks of Pitons, Sulphur Springs, and Marigot Bay. Although you want to try to avoid these activities when cruise ships are in port.

    The Roots & Soul festival is also a highlight for visitors during the month of August. Stay at St. James’s Club Morgan Bay, an all-inclusive hotel located on the secluded Choc Bay beach on the northern coast of Saint Lucia.

    If you’re just searching for beaches, St Lucia isn’t the best choice – try out Turks and Caicos or Grand Cayman instead.

    Submitted by Anjali of Cheerful Trails

    13. Martinique

    Martinique is an overseas department of France, and together with Guadeloupe, they are part of the French West Indies – not to be confused with the more northern island St Maarten and St Martin (half dutch/half french island)

    In August temperatures are between 28° and 30°. On the climate side, the days are characterized by frequent precipitations (average rainfall is 227 mm), as in most of the Caribbean regions. But the island is mostly protected from hurricanes and violent storms.

    It’s true that sunny days are rarer, but August is considered the high season because of school vacations. The ideal temperatures make it one of the best periods to explore, just remember your rain poncho for the long treks!

    Another reason to visit Martinique in August? It’s the festival season! From Jazz festivals to Marathons and other sports events, you will find something perfect for you when visiting.

    The frequent rains change the landscapes into vibrant green. The vegetation is beautiful and this is one of the best period to visit Jardin Balata and the Martinique Zoo and Latouche dwelling.

    Due to the warmer temperatures of the waters, it’s the best time to go scuba diving in the crystalline waters. There are so many ideal spots although the best is around “Trois Ilets” (which translates as Three Small Islands) area.

    Anita Sericano of Anita Beyond the Sea

    14. Turks and Caicos

    15. Puerto Viejo

    Puerto Viejo black sand beach

    You might be interested to hear that the vibrant coastal town of Puerto Viejo on Costa Rica’s east coast is a great place to visit in August if you’re searching for Caribbean vibes.

    The small boho-casual fishing town of Puerto Viejo has much of its culture stemming from the Caribbean and local indigenous tribes which you can explore during your time there.

    You will find superb entertainment like lively reggae bars dotted along the beachfront and guided tours from chocolate plantations and culinary experiences to visiting the indigenous tribe, surfing and jungle trekking.

    There are plenty of soft sandy beaches to explore, abundant wildlife, and with the rainforest abutting the coast, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were on an island!

    Even though August in Costa Rica falls into the rainy season, you’ll be happy to hear that Puerto Viejo experiences less rain than the Pacific coast, however, it will still be wet.

    Visiting at this time has its peaks, you will experience a lush tropical rainforest and fewer crowds, and accommodation can also be cheaper. One of the best places to stay in Costa Rica are the Selina Hotels, and luckily, there is a nice one in Puerto Viejo!

    Submitted by Abi from I’m Going on an Adventure

    16. Curacao

    • Average rainfall in August: 1-3 inches
    • Average high: 91 °F
    • Where to Stay: Lagoon Ocean Resort or Sandals Resort
    • What to do in August: Explore hidden bays tucked into coves
    Best Caribbean Islands to Visit in August view of Curacao town from the water

    Curacao is an amazing tropical paradise located off the coast of Venezuela. Curacao is famous for its white sandy beaches and beautiful hidden bays tucked into coves. The marine life in Curacao is impressive, with a snorkel you can encounter sea turtles, parrot fishes, and many more interesting tropical fish. 

    Not only the marine life but also the culture of Curacao is amazingly diverse. Because of its history, there are Spanish, Dutch, British, and South American influences all over the island.

    These influences are responsible for the great diversity in food, languages and backgrounds of people found on the island.  The colorful capital city Willemstad is the cultural, vibrant center of activity on the island. 

    August is the perfect time to visit Curacao. While the climate on the island is sunny and warm year-round, there are only about 9 rainy days in August.

    Curacao is located outside the hurricane belt, so there is no extreme weather, weather you visit in August or January. Rainy days usually consist of an hour of rain per day, with lots of sunshine for the rest.  

    If you are looking for a nice place to stay in Curacao, I can recommend Sandals Resort in Santa Barbara Beach. If you wish for a more quiet and relaxed accommodation, I can recommend renting a house in the Lagun Ocean Resort in Playa Lagun.  

    Submitted by Sabrina of Shades of Summer

    17. Nicaragua

    • Average rainfall in August: 3-5 inches
    • Average high: 90 °F
    • Where to Stay: Aqua Nicaragua
    • What to do in August: Go volcano boarding on Cerro Negro
    Pool overlooking ocean in a treehouse in Nicaragua

    We’re topping off the best tropical places to visit in August. A great choice for August in the Caribbean is the hidden gem country of Nicaragua. It is the land of beautiful beaches, active volcanos, and abundant wildlife.

    Neighboured by Costa Rica and Honduras, just southwest of Jamaica, Nicaragua is one of the best surfing spots in Central America, but also has plenty of unique activities, such as volcano boarding on Cerro Negro near Leon, paddle boarding with monkeys around the islets on Lake Nicaragua and exploring the colorful buildings in the colonial city of Granada.

    If you love an adventure make sure you visit Masaya Volcano, it is one of the few places in the world where you can see an active lava lake bubbling away.

    The average amount of rain in August is 130 mm, which equates to about 17 rainy days, but this time of year is considered off peak so prices do reflect that. 

    Nicaragua has plenty of hostels to stay at but as you can bag yourself cheap prices at this time of year, you can splurge and experience one of their more exclusive options. Such as one of these cool treehouses in Nicaragua, including one with its own plunge pool, set high up in the trees where daily visits from howler monkeys can be expected!

    FAQ Visiting the Caribbean in August

    Is August hurricane season in Caribbean?

    Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30. However, not all islands are on the hurricane belt. Interestingly, some Caribbean islands see less than 3 inches of rainfall, on average! So, don’t write off a trip to the Caribbean in August just yet!

    Which Caribbean island is safest from hurricanes?

    While no Caribbbean island is completely safe from hurricanes, Aruba and Curacao are located away from the hurricane belt and rarely see dangerous hurricanes or tropical storms.

    Is August a good time to go to the Caribbean?

    Despite the risk of hurricanes, August is a great time to go to the Caribbean. In August, tourism in the Caribbean is at its lowest due to fear of storms.

    This means that prices for flights and accommodation are also much lower than in other months. So, you’ll have more money to spend on excursions and adventures.

    Further, many special activities take place in some of these Caribbean islands to visit in August like the International Festival of Cuban Rumba in Cuba or swimming with Whale Sharks in Isla Mujeres, Mexico.

    Take advantage of festivals celebrating Caribbean culture. Or, bask in the warm weather with outdoor activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and beach-hopping. Ultimately, you can enjoy many Caribbean islands in August, especially if you are looking for an affordable and secluded vacation.

    Summary of Best Caribbean Island to Visit in August 2023

    So, hopefully, you aren’t deterred from visiting the Caribbean during “rainy season” after this post. These 17 Caribbean islands to visit in August offer an incredible variety of activities and excitement for any weather.

    Yes, you may catch some rainy afternoons and hotter temperatures. But, you’ll save a whole lot of money and experience these islands with little to no tourism!

    Rachel is passionate about encouraging you to stop waiting and start exploring. After over a decade of traveling through the Caribbean islands, Rachel is sharing all of her secrets. She's passionate about sharing her expert Caribbean travel tips with you to make planning your trip as easy as lying on the beach.

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