Honing rich biodiversity among warm tropical waters, Jamaica is much-loved across the global dive community. Shallow reefs attract those looking to learn to dive, while adventurous wrecks await seasoned ocean lovers. The best time of year to dive in Jamaica lightly depends on your climate preferences, with variable conditions and marine life abundant in certain seasons.
In this article, we’ll look at diving in Jamaica season-by-season. Plus, we’ll help you decide when the best time to visit this diving paradise is for you.
As the year reaches early December, hurricane season moves into history and the pristine beaches, temperate waters and excellent visibility return. Jamaica’s water temperatures remain fairly steady year-round, so divers can expect conditions between 26°C to 29°C (79°F to 84°F). Conditions are ideal for a 3mm or 5mm wetsuit, if you chill easily.
A highlight of diving in Jamaica during the dry season is that the visibility excels above any other time throughout the year, reaching 21 to 30 meters (70 to 100 feet). With great visibility comes excellent photography opportunities, especially for seasonal coral spawning events. In these moments, hard corals release their sperm and egg cells into the surrounding water in a colorful underwater blizzard, giving rise to the next generation of coral reefs.
Throughout December to April, Jamaica’s tropical waters offer consistent sightings of marine life, including sea turtles, moray eels, stingrays and nurse sharks as well as regular schools of reef fish residing on the colorful coral reefs.
Explore the Best Dive Sites in Jamaica
If you’re looking for an unforgettable dive vacation but want to save a little on expenses, the shoulder season could be just right for you. Towards the end of the hurricane season and the start of the winter, prices for travel to and accommodation in Jamaica tend to be lower. This is thanks to the slight delay before tourists flock to the island for the holiday season!
Between November and early December, the water is still enjoyably warm, measuring about 26°C to 29°C (79°F to 84°F).
Although Jamaica is less affected by hurricanes than the northern areas of the Caribbean, precautions should still be taken when visiting during the Atlantic Hurricane season. Hurricane season is less suitable for those just learning to dive due to strong winds, waves and lower visibility.
However, marine life is lively here, even during hurricane season. Divers can encounter reef fish and sea turtles, if lucky, thanks to the warmer waters, which measure around 28°C to 29°C (82°F to 84°F ). May to September aligns with turtle nesting season, so visiting at this time could result in emotive moments watching sea turtles hatch.
Abundant with exciting marine life, coral spawning and beautiful dive-ready waters, Jamaica deserves a spot on your dive bucket list. It’s a destination ideal for dive resorts and often visited by liveaboards exploring the Caribbean. To explore dive packages and accommodation across the Caribbean, head to PADI Travel’s website, or speak to a Scuba Travel Expert.
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