JEK Travels
When most people think of a Caribbean getaway, they immediately look at the “High Season” those months between December and April when everyone is escaping the snow. But if you’re a traveler who values space, lower price tags, and a more authentic vibe, I have a secret for you: May, June, and November are actually the best times to visit Antigua.
In the travel world, we call this the “Shoulder Season.” It’s that sweet spot where you get the best of both worlds. Here is why you should skip the winter rush and book a Jetsetter getaway during these months instead.
1. Luxury for Less
Let’s get straight to the best part: your dollar goes further. Once the Easter crowds head home in late April, luxury resorts often drop their rates by 30% to 50%. This is the time to snag that overwater bungalow or cliffside suite that felt a bit out of reach in February. You aren’t getting a “discounted experience” you’re getting the exact same five-star service and views for a fraction of the cost.
2. A Beach for Every Day (All to Yourself)
Antigua is famous for having 365 beaches one for every day of the year. During the peak season, the popular spots like Dickenson Bay can get a little “cozy.” In May or November, you can show up to iconic stretches like Half Moon Bay and feel like you’ve rented the entire island. If you want those pristine, “no-one-in-the-background” vacation photos, this is your window.
3. The “Mama Bear” Weather
Many people worry about rain, but Antigua is actually one of the sunniest islands in the Eastern Caribbean. In the shoulder months, the weather is “just right.” You’ll experience warm, balmy temperatures (usually in the mid-80s) and those famous trade winds that keep things breezy. While you might see a quick tropical shower in the afternoon, they usually last ten minutes and leave behind a gorgeous rainbow and a lush, green landscape.
4. No Reservations Required
During high season, getting a sunset table at Shirley Heights or a prime reservation at the island’s top restaurants requires weeks of planning. In the shoulder season, the island slows down. You can be spontaneous. Want the best seat in the house for dinner? It’s yours. Want a private boat charter on short notice? No problem. The service is more attentive, the locals are more relaxed, and the whole island feels more “neighborly.”
5. Epic Events Without the Crowds
If you time it right, you can still catch the high-energy vibes. Antigua Sailing Week typically wraps up in early May, and Independence Day celebrations in November bring a vibrant explosion of food fairs and parades. You get to experience the culture and the parties without the “tourist trap” feeling.
The Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a quiet, luxury escape where you can actually hear the waves instead of the resort crowds, Antigua in the shoulder season is calling your name.
Ready to see what deals I’ve found for May and June? Click here to check out our latest curated Antigua packages or shoot me a DM and let’s start planning!