Known as the no-winter island, Cuba cycles through mild to warm to hot-as-hell weather with the changing seasons.
With its gorgeous beaches and tropical climate, sunbathing is possible in Cuba year-round. The summer months of July and August see the warmest weather, however, it is essential to check the weather forecasts before planning a trip, particularly during the June to November hurricane season.
School closures in Cuba during July and August lead to increased local tourism, while cultural festivals and live music fill the calendar all year long.
Peak Tourist Season: November to March
Between November and March, Cuba sees a surge in visitors as families escape the colder climates of North America. Consequently, prices for hotels and homestays reach their peak, especially around Christmas and New Year.
During this peak season, making reservations for accommodations and car rentals is essential. The weather is generally mild, with dry and sunny conditions. However, cold fronts can bring cooler evenings in January and February, so packing a light jacket is advisable.
December features a film festival in Havana, complemented by provincial festivities and traditional events known as parrandas and charangas, where locals celebrate with fireworks.
If visiting in January, expect vibrant jam sessions in Havana and Santiago de Cuba during the start-of-the-year jazz festival, Festival Internacional de Jazz, which draws musicians and enthusiasts globally.
February is ideal for diving and snorkeling along Cuba’s southern coast and outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. During this month, over 260 species of migratory birds utilize Cuba as a temporary staging post.
March is especially great for birdwatching as these migratory birds mix with resident species, making it the best month to observe them in wetlands such as Ciénaga de Zapata and Peninsula de Guanahacabibes in Pinar del Río.
July and August: The Hottest Months
The summer months of July and August are the busiest and hottest times to visit Cuba, bringing a fair amount of rain. With local schools closed, expect lively beaches and crowded hotels, particularly in popular tourist spots.
Advance bookings for accommodations and activities are highly recommended. In July, Santiago de Cuba hosts Carnaval, one of the nation’s most vibrant festivals filled with colorful parades and lively rhythms.
August continues the energetic vibe with Havana’s carnival and a fantastic music festival in Varadero, blending jazz and son cubano – a foundational element of modern salsa. It’s worth noting that hotel rates typically decrease after August 25.
April and October: Fewer Crowds
By April, Cuba’s weather is pleasantly warm with reduced rainfall compared to early summer. Additionally, beaches are less crowded during this month, except during Semana de la Victoria when Cubans flock to Playa Girón to celebrate their historic victory over anti-Castro forces in 1961. This event sometimes coincides with elevated foreign visitor numbers during Easter.
October remains hot but not oppressively muggy, providing an excellent opportunity for budget-conscious travelers to discover good deals before peak season begins. However, be cautious as there is still a risk of severe tropical storms before hurricane season concludes in November.
Budget Travel: May, June, and September
These months are characterized by hot weather and increased rain; nonetheless, they represent the low season, making it the best time to find great deals on hotels and casas particulares (private homestays). Always check forecasts before departure since June to November marks hurricane season, with the possibility of strong storms.
In May, events like Romerías de Mayo in Holguín attract music fans, while Mayo Teatral in Havana is a treat for theater enthusiasts. Additionally, May celebrates the LGBTIQ+ community with the colorful Conga Cubana contra la Homofobia y la Transfobia, showcasing lively dances throughout Havana’s La Rampa (Calle 23).
June, while ushering in hurricane season, offers warm beach days with fewer tourists, making it an opportune time to attend local festivals before conditions change.
