Weather & Best Time to Visit
Saint Martin enjoys a pleasant tropical climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 23 °C (73 °F) to 32 °C (90 °F). The island is cooled by steady trade winds, making the heat very manageable even in the peak of summer.
An ideal tropical climate
Saint Martin's climate is divided into two main seasons. The dry season ("Lent") runs from December to April: it's the most pleasant time, with little rain, generous sunshine and moderate temperatures. The wet season runs from June to November, with more frequent showers (usually short and intense) and higher humidity.
When to visit?
Best time
The best time to visit Saint Martin is December to April. The weather is sunny and dry, temperatures are comfortable (around 27-29 °C / 80-84 °F), and the sea stays warm year-round (26-29 °C / 79-84 °F). This is also peak tourist season, with higher prices and lower availability.
Good compromise
May and June offer an excellent compromise: prices drop, beaches are less crowded, and the weather remains very pleasant despite occasional showers.
Time to avoid
September to November is the peak of hurricane season. While the statistical risk remains low, it's the rainiest and most unpredictable period.
Month-by-month temperatures & rainfall
| Month | Air temp. | Sea | Rain | Rainy days | Sun (h/d) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 23 – 28 °C | 26 °C | 65 mm | 11 | 8h |
| February | 23 – 28 °C | 26 °C | 50 mm | 9 | 8h |
| March | 23 – 29 °C | 26 °C | 45 mm | 8 | 9h |
| April | 24 – 30 °C | 27 °C | 70 mm | 9 | 9h |
| May | 25 – 31 °C | 27 °C | 100 mm | 12 | 8h |
| June | 26 – 31 °C | 28 °C | 75 mm | 11 | 9h |
| July | 26 – 32 °C | 28 °C | 85 mm | 12 | 9h |
| August | 26 – 32 °C | 29 °C | 115 mm | 14 | 8h |
| September | 26 – 32 °C | 29 °C | 145 mm | 14 | 8h |
| October | 25 – 31 °C | 28 °C | 130 mm | 14 | 7h |
| November | 24 – 30 °C | 27 °C | 145 mm | 14 | 7h |
| December | 23 – 29 °C | 26 °C | 85 mm | 12 | 7h |
Hurricane season
The official Caribbean hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity between August and October. Saint Martin was notably hit by Hurricane Irma in September 2017 (Category 5). Since then, the island has remarkably rebuilt. Accommodations and infrastructure meet hurricane-resistant standards, and local authorities have effective alert protocols in place.
Tips for hurricane season travel
- Get travel insurance that covers weather-related cancellations.
- Check the National Hurricane Center (NHC) forecasts before and during your stay.
- Hotels and rentals have safety protocols. Ask your accommodation provider for details.
What to pack?
Light clothing
Go for natural fabrics (cotton, linen). Shorts, light dresses, sandals and swimsuits are the essentials. Bring something a bit dressier for restaurants.
Sun protection
SPF 50 sunscreen (preferably reef-safe), hat, sunglasses. The UV index is very high year-round.
Rain & cool evenings
A light windbreaker or small umbrella for tropical showers. In the evening, a light jacket can be useful in air-conditioned restaurants.
Hiking
If you plan to hike (Pic Paradis, Sentier des Froussards), bring closed-toe shoes, insect repellent and a water bottle.
Weather data shown are indicative averages. Actual conditions may vary from year to year.