CLIMATE
Guadeloupe has a tropical climate that is tempered by the oceanic effect and trade winds.
Guadeloupe and its neighboring islands have two seasons rather than four:
• A dry season (carême) that runs from mid-February to mid-August.
• A rainy season (hivernage) that runs from mid-August to mid-February.
The average water temperature is 27°C but can climb as high as 30°C in August and September.
Guadeloupe enjoys an exceptional year-round climate – it’s always summer.
With an average temperature of 27°C, there is little difference between the hottest months (25-32°C) and the coolest months (23-29°C).
In addition, because of Guadeloupe’s geography and the contrast between Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, each of the two islands has its own climate. Grande-Terre and its limestone plateaus, along with Marie-Galante, receive considerable sunshine; meanwhile, Basse-Terre’s topography, which blocks the trade winds, keeps rainfall under control.
Even in the middle of the rainy season, you’ll have no trouble maintaining your tan. In fact, the rainy season is good for tourists in three ways: prices are lower, the beaches are emptier and nature is lush and full of vibrant color!
Hurricanes
The hurricane season runs during the rainy season from August to late September. Hurricanes are devastating but also unusual meteorological events.
Guadeloupe experiences a hurricane of moderate intensity every five years, and one or two major hurricanes each century.
These days, most homes are solidly built, and tourists in hotels have nothing to fear apart from losing a few days of beautiful weather!