Travel time: Year-round
St. George’s, the capital of Grenada, serves as a classic example of a humid tropical marine climate. Strategically positioned on the southwestern coast, the city is characterized by high temperatures, consistent humidity, and a rhythm dictated by the prevailing Northeast Trade Winds. Unlike temperate zones, the seasons here are divided not by temperature—which remains remarkably stable—but by the presence of rainfall.
The climate in St. George’s is dictated by a diurnal cycle that locals and visitors alike quickly adapt to. In the early morning, the air is often at its freshest, with temperatures hovering around 75°F (24°C). As the sun rises over the island's central mountains, heat builds rapidly, peaking in the early afternoon between 86°F (30°C) and 88°F (31°C).
The Trade Winds are the most critical factor in daily comfort. These steady breezes blow from the east/northeast, providing a natural cooling effect that prevents the high humidity from feeling oppressive. When the winds stall, the "real feel" temperature can soar, making the air feel thick and heavy.
Often referred to as "Lent" by locals, this is the period of maximum sunshine. February through April are the driest months. During this time, the vegetation on many of the hillsides around the harbor may turn a golden brown.
This season coincides with the Atlantic Hurricane Season. Rainfall increases significantly, often arriving in the form of intense, short-lived tropical downpours. It is rare for it to rain all day; instead, dark clouds gather quickly, dump heavy rain for 15 to 30 minutes, and then vanish to reveal bright sun.
St. George’s sits in a transition zone. Because it is on the coast, it is significantly drier than the rainforest interior (such as Grand Etang National Park) just a few miles inland. While the capital might be enjoying a sunny afternoon, a traveler looking toward the mountains will often see a permanent shroud of mist and rain clouds over the peaks. This orographic lift—where moist air is pushed up the mountains, cools, and condenses—means the interior can receive up to double the rainfall of the coastal capital.
Locals have a deep respect for the weather's power, particularly during the hurricane season. Following the historical impact of Hurricane Ivan in 2004, there is a strong culture of "weather-watching." Daily life is flexible; if a heavy downpour begins, people simply stop and wait under an awning, knowing the sun will likely be back out within the hour.
Architecture in St. George’s also reflects the climate. Traditional buildings feature high ceilings, large sash windows, and shaded verandas designed to facilitate cross-ventilation, capturing the trade winds to keep interiors cool naturally.
For those venturing into the Carenage or nearby beaches, the water temperature is consistently warm, ranging from 80°F (27°C) in February to 84°F (29°C) in September. The harbor and southwestern coast are generally protected from the more aggressive Atlantic swells found on the eastern side of the island, offering calm, turquoise waters year-round.