Thinking about taking a last minute trip to the Virgin Islands over the next couple of months? While the months of August, September, and October are the height of hurricane season, if you plan accordingly, you can reap the benefits of traveling during this slower time of year.
Here are our top 4 reasons why hurricane season is still an awesome time to vacation in the USVI:
1) It’s Calm & Quiet
During peak season, especially during the holiday weeks, the islands are buzzing with energy. Every business is fully staffed, every activity is fully booked, it can be challenging to find rental cars and accommodations, and restaurants are jamming. While it’s fun to be around everyone in such festive spirits, if what you’re looking for is island serenity, then off season may be just right for you. While some businesses close up shop for slow season, others remain open and have more availability than usual. This time of the year, the calm is like a breath of fresh air. Quiet roads, quiet beaches, quiet bars & restaurants.
2) It’s More Affordable
Because of lower demand to travel this time of the year, you can find budget-friendly deals from airfare, to car rentals, to accommodations. Some local businesses even run creative packages and specials to drum up business, so be sure to follow them on social media for notifications, and ask around when you arrive on island.
3) It’s Easier to Connect with Locals
Since things are less busy in general, people on island may have a bit more time on their hands than they do during high season. The locals who stick around and don’t use this time for their own vacations are a little more freed up to enjoy the islands’ activities and restaurants. Those working tend to not be as slammed in their jobs as they are in high season, and thus have more time and energy for personal connection. What does this mean for you? During slow season, you’ll have more of a chance to connect with the community on-island, if you like. Perhaps you’ll meet new people on the beach, or at a bar, and make some new friends to link up with the next time you return.
4) The Ocean is a DREAM
During these hurricane season months, the weather tends to be pretty stable so long as a storm isn’t forecasted. There’s not much breeze, which means the seas can be incredibly calm. There are days when the surface of the water looks like glass, reflecting the puffy white clouds from above. You’ll have moments where you truly won’t be able to believe it’s the ocean, and not a lake or pool. It’s a great time of the year to enjoy consistently smooth & easy boating, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding. Also, the water is incredibly warm; we locals often refer to it as a “bath tub” this time of year, where you can snorkel for hours without getting the slightest chill.
Important planning note: Do keep in mind that it IS hurricane season, and there is a real chance of a storm brewing. Be sure to purchase the applicable travel insurance that will allow you to change your plans should a storm develop before or during your trip.
Whether you choose to come see us now, or after hurricane season ends, we look forward to welcoming you back!
