The Weather
Aside from the idyllic seas and skies, the weather here is a big draw. The average temperature on the Turks and Caicos Islands ranges between 85° and 90°F (29°-32°C) from June to October, sometimes reaching the mid-90s (35°C), especially in the late summer months. From November to May the average temperature is 80° to 84°F (27°-29°C).
Water temperature in the summer is 82° to 84°F (28°-29°C) and in winter about 74° to 78°F (23°-26°C). A constant easterly trade wind keeps the climate at a very comfortable level.
Grand Turk and South Caicos have an annual rainfall of 53 centimeters (21 in.), but as you travel farther west, the average rainfall can increase to as much as 102 centimeters (40 in.). In an average year the Turks and Caicos Islands have 350 days of sunshine.
Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be a problem year-round. However, more mosquitoes come out during the rainy season, which usually occurs in autumn.
If you come in the summer, be prepared for broiling sun in the midafternoon.
Consult the Weather Channel's online forecast for the latest information.
Hurricanes: The curse of Caribbean weather, the hurricane season lasts—officially, at least—from June 1 to November 30. But there's no cause for panic: Satellite forecasts give enough warning that precautions can be taken. Always monitor weather reports if you plan to visit during hurricane season.
The High Season & the Off-Season
Like much of the Caribbean, the Turks and Caicos have become a year-round destination. The high season runs roughly from mid-December to mid-April, which is generally the driest time of year in the Caribbean. Hotels charge their highest prices during the peak winter period, and you'll have to make your reservations well in advance—months ahead if you want to travel over the Christmas or New Year's holidays or in the depths of February, especially around Presidents Day weekend in the U.S. Easter and spring break are popular times for families to visit.
The off-season in the Turks and Caicos—roughly from mid-April to mid-November (although this varies from hotel to hotel)—is a perfectly nice time to visit. Yes, the temperatures are somewhat higher, but the southeasterly trade winds work to temper the heat, as do brief (but more frequent) rain showers. And in most cases, hotels, inns, and condos charge lower rates this time of year.
Note: Some hotels use the off-season for refurbishment or bustling construction projects—which can be an annoyance if you're looking for peace and quiet. Make sure to ask what, if any, work is going on. If you decide to go anyway, ask for a room far away from the noise.
Holidays
• New Year's Day, January 1
• Commonwealth Day, the second Monday in March
• Good Friday, the Friday prior to Easter
• Easter Monday, the Monday after Easter
• National Heroes Day, the last Monday in May
• Queen's Official Birthday, mid-June
• Emancipation Day, August 1—commemorates the freeing of enslaved people in 1834
• National Youth Day, the last Friday of September
• Christmas Day, December 25
• Boxing Day, December 26
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
