In July, most hotels and resorts in Jamaica slash their rates by an amazing 20% to 60%. Package-tour costs are also reduced by as much as 20%, while airfares are reduced between 5% and 10%. Moreover, it is much easier to find airline seats and hotel rooms.
While Jamaica may appear attractive during the winter for those who live in northern climates, there are lots of reasons why your trip may be much more enjoyable if you travel in the low season. Read on for the ultimate guide to visiting Jamaica in July.
What is Jamaica Like in July?
If you’re planning to visit Jamaica in July, here’s what to expect:
- A less-hurried way of life that is perfect for appreciating the food and culture.
- Less crowded beaches and swimming pools.
- Year-round resort facilities at reduced rates, including boating, snorkeling and scuba diving.
- Summer sales by resort boutiques hoping to clear excess stock.
- You can easily get a table at a top restaurant without a reservation.
- No endless waiting for rental cars, tee times or tennis courts.
- Reduced rates in fares for package-tours and individual excursions.
- Easier booking of flights and accommodation.
- The best Jamaican attractions are just as good in the off-season – sea, sand and lots of sunshine.
Is Jamaica Busy in July?
No. The summer months, which include July, are the low season in Jamaica. As such, there are fewer tourist crowds on the beaches, resorts and restaurants. While this may not the best time to visit Jamaica for a party, it’s a great time to grab a cocktail and enjoy a relaxing break on the beach.
July is also summer in the US and the UK. As such, most international travelers have good weather in their own countries for swimming, sunbathing and other summer activities. Therefore, there is no need for them to travel somewhere hotter, when it’s already hot at home.
That said, July is the Jamaican school holiday and is therefore a busy time for domestic tourism with Jamaican families flocking in for their summer holidays. As such, the resorts tend to be busy with locals in July.
Is Jamaica Expensive to Visit in July?
No, Jamaica is not expensive to visit in July. In fact, during the low season summer months such as July, flights and accommodation rates are usually cheaper. Moreover, you can often find high-end accommodation at lower rates.
Is Jamaica Too Hot and Humid in July?
Jamaica is rather hot and humid in July. Because the island nation has a tropical climate, you should expect hot sunshine, high humidity and tropical rain showers throughout the summer months.
July is the rainy season in Jamaica. It is also the hottest month of the year. Average day time temperatures soar to the high 80s ℉ with overnight lows in the mid-70s ℉. Sea water temperatures are at highs of 86 ℉.
July mornings in Jamaica are mostly pleasant with lots of sunshine, while the sea water is warm and pleasant. However, you will not be able to stay out in the sun for too long. The sun is very strong and you will get quickly drained of energy. Be sure to rehydrate often with lots of water.
That said, your location on the island can make a difference in the type of weather you find in July. For example, Treasure Beach on the South Coast has a desert climate while it rains almost every day in Port Antonio in July.
Does it Rain a Lot in July?
In Jamaica, rain is usually very brief at any time of year, unless there is a hurricane or tropical storm in the area, which is less likely in July. That said, there is the slight possibility of tropical depressions in July that can cause extended periods of rain, cloud cover and even flooding.
Rain is possible on most days in July, mainly in the late afternoon or early evening. Expect about 15 minutes to 1 hour of rainfall. But any showers will provide a welcome respite from the heat! Rainy weather may also mean less visibility for activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving.
That said, the amount and frequency of rainfall will depend on where you are staying, as some parts of the island get more rain than others. For instance, in Port Antonio, it rains almost every day in July.
Is July the Hurricane Season in Jamaica?
Yes. July falls within the hurricane season in Jamaica. The hurricane season in Jamaica officially runs from 1 June to 30 November, with August and September as the peak months. That said, the risk of a hurricane occurring in Jamaica in July has historically been less than 1%.
Is July a Good Time for a Honeymoon in Jamaica?
Yes. July is a good time to go on a honeymoon in Jamaica. This is because the low season period is the best time to enjoy a quieter vacation in Jamaica. At this time of year, the tourist areas are typically less busy with fewer crowds, if any at all. As such, the atmosphere in July is just right for a romantic getaway.
What Fruits are in Season in Jamaica in July?
Summer in Jamaica means many delicious fruits are readily available at local markets and street vendor stands. Here is a list of some wonderful fruits that are in season in Jamaica in July:
- Mangoes
- Pineapple
- Otaheite Apple
- Sweetsop & Soursop
- Melon
- Surinam Cherry
- Cashew Apple/ Cashews
- Jamaican Apple
- Passion Fruit
- Star Fruit
Mango season in Jamaica starts in June, with lots of mangoes in supply by July. Visitors can enjoy mango varieties such as the No.11, Bombay, Julie and East Indian. The sweet sugar-loaf pineapple is also available in the summertime.
However, July is too early for guineps; and lime may be difficult to find at this time of year. If you are lucky to find lemons, they’ll be much sweeter than what you may be used to getting from your local supermarket.
To explore the fruits in season in Jamaica in July, it is recommended that you visit a local market. Go early in the morning for the best selection. Or stop by the stands of juice guys and street vendors located along the roads.
What Events are held in Jamaica in July?
Several festivals and events are held in Jamaica in July, including:
- Emancipation Jubilee: The annual Emancipation Jubilee honors the African ancestors and their contribution to present-day Jamaica, with music and dance performances by cultural groups, as well as feasts of traditional food.
- Reggae Sumfest: Reggae Sumfest is a 5-day music festival held every year from mid to late July. The event draws a younger crowd with a lineup of more current artistes.
- National Dance Theatre Company’s Season of Dance: The National Dance Theatre Company is a world-class performing group that showcases Jamaican culture with captivating music and dance. Their dance season runs from July through August.
Does Jamaica Celebrate 4th of July?
No. The 4th of July is an American holiday, not Jamaican. Moreover, Jamaica is visited by tourists from all over the world, not just Americans. Many guests are from the UK and other European countries. As such, the 4th of July is not big on the calendar at Jamaican resorts.
Americans visiting Jamaica on July 4th shouldn’t expect to find the typical celebrations found in the US. In fact, you may even forget that it’s a holiday altogether, as you are likely to find most places quiet with no fireworks shows or special celebrations going on.
That said, some all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica that have a large American clientele often mark the 4th of July. Some have marching band processions through the property, and fun competitions such as beach volleyball, water polo, corn and hot dog eating contests, as well as a crowning of Mr. and Mrs. 4th of July.
Other resorts simply decorate their dining areas in red, white and blue, while others have a few stilt walkers in Uncle Sam costumes. But all this is more of a recognition of the 4th of July than a special event or celebration.
