What to expect during your trip to Anguilla
If you’re a planner like I am, you’ve already scoured TripAdvisor to discover which restaurants should be on your radar, which sights are must-sees and have already created a mental packing list for your trip. Weeks in advance.
Now, you’ve also probably read about what to expect for weather during the season (at least the highs, lows and averages) and have refreshed weather.com’s Anguilla weather forecast so you can get a glimpse of what your Caribbean getaway holds. And then you see a screenshot like the one above — 80-something weather and… rain? Ugh, right?
Now, believe me, I get it. We’ve had guests call in before their trip to ask about the weather because the forecast put a damper on their optimism. But here’s the deal: there’s a chance you’re going to see a splash of rain, but in most circumstances it’s a quick 5-minute shower that pours and passes right over. Most of the time, it’s a welcomed cool-off in the Caribbean heat. So, what should you expect for weather during your trip?
High Season {December – April}
Visitors flock to the island from late November through April when the sun is shining and the breeze helps cut the heat. The nights can actually be somewhat crisp (by Caribbean standards). Temperatures will generally range from mid-70s to low-80s and the waves are a bit bigger than what you’d see in the summer months.
Low Season {April – August}
This is actually a tough cluster to lump together because the weather changes somewhat from April to August. Now, it’s not necessarily the temperatures that rise much (there may be a 3 – 5° difference), it’s the humidity that’s the most notable difference. April, May and June were actually extraordinarily pleasant this year. A nice breeze and calm waters. Even for our nuptials in early July, the weather was picture-perfect. You’ll notice the humidity increasing during late-July through August, but the waters are typically calm which means you’ll get to cool off with water sports during the day.
Rest assured, your shorts can take you from day to night during the summer months. Pants can be a bit much for most people unfamiliar with the warmth, but Anguilla’s casual vibe means shorts, collared shirts, blouses and maxi dresses are 100% acceptable for a nice night out.
Keep in mind, Anguilla is a fairly dry island due to its topography. Rain can be an interesting sight on the island. If you’re driving, you can pass through a patch of heavy downpour and exit into the sunshine. Check out this snapshot of rain in the distance: