Travel time: Year-round
English Harbour, located on the southern coast of Antigua, possesses a tropical maritime climate (Af) characterized by consistently warm temperatures, moderate to high humidity, and the pervasive presence of the northeasterly trade winds. Unlike many other Caribbean islands with high mountain ranges that trap moisture, Antigua is relatively low-lying, making it one of the drier islands in the eastern Caribbean. In English Harbour, the intersection of colonial history and maritime geography dictates how both locals and visitors experience the elements.
Weather in English Harbour is defined by a predictable daily rhythm. The day typically begins with clear skies and a gentle build-up of heat toward midday. Because it is a harbor protected by high ridges, such as Shirley Heights, the air within the basin can sometimes feel more stagnant and humid than on the exposed windward coasts.
While the temperature is remarkably stable, the year is divided into distinct wet and dry seasons.
Often considered the peak time for maritime activity, this season sees the "Christmas Winds"—stronger, more consistent trade winds that are favored by the sailing community. Humidity is at its lowest (around 71% in March), and rainfall is minimal, often falling as light, overnight drizzles. February and March are historically the driest months.
Temperatures and humidity rise during this period. Rainfall increases significantly, peaking in September and October. This period coincides with the Atlantic hurricane season. While direct hits are statistically rare, the region often experiences the "fringes" of passing systems, resulting in heavy cloud cover, increased swell in the harbor, and sustained rainy periods.
English Harbour’s topography creates unique microclimates. The high ground of Shirley Heights and the Lookout often experience wind speeds 5–10 mph higher than the village level. Conversely, the inner recesses of the harbor can become a "heat trap" during the summer months when the trade winds occasionally slacken.
One specific phenomenon is the Saharan Air Layer (SAL). Between June and August, plumes of dry, dust-laden air from the Sahara Desert can travel across the Atlantic. This creates a hazy, milky sky, suppresses rainfall, and can increase the "feel" of the heat while reducing the intensity of the UV rays.
Historically, English Harbour was chosen by the British Royal Navy specifically for its weather-sheltered position; it is a "hurricane hole," a deep-water bay where ships could be safely moored during storms. Even today, the harbor remains a critical refuge for the regional yachting fleet during the summer months.
Locals have adapted to the semi-arid nature of the island by becoming masters of water conservation. Because Antigua has no permanent rivers, the weather is closely watched for its impact on the island's catchments and dams. You will notice that most traditional homes and historic structures feature large cisterns to collect every drop of the seasonal rain.
In English Harbour, the temperature on the thermometer (averaging 29°C) rarely tells the whole story. The Heat Index is a significant factor from July through October; high humidity can make 31°C (88°F) feel like 38°C (100°F). However, the constant easterly breeze acts as a natural air conditioner. When the wind stops—known locally as a "calm"—the tropical sun feels markedly more intense. The UV index is almost always 'Extreme' (11+), meaning the sun can burn skin much faster than its perceived warmth might suggest.