Cuba’s irresistible charm isn’t just found in its music, history, and cigars—it’s also blessed with a near-perfect climate. Thanks to its tropical location and the cooling influence of the Caribbean trade winds, Cuba enjoys warm sunshine almost all year round. Unlike other tropical regions, the island avoids extreme heat, making it one of the most comfortable destinations in the Caribbean.
With an average of 330 days of sunshine annually, Cuba invites you to relax on its beaches, stroll Havana’s colonial streets, or light up a fine Havana cigar in the open air.
Cuba’s Two Distinct Seasons
Cuba enjoys two very different but equally appealing seasons:
- Dry Season (November to April): Clear skies, warm days, and lower humidity make this the most popular time to visit. With temperatures around 25–27°C, it’s perfect for sightseeing, beach escapes, and evening cigars on the terrace.
- Rainy Season (May to October): Hotter, more humid weather (28–32°C) brings short but refreshing tropical showers. Don’t be put off—the rain often passes quickly, leaving sunny skies behind. The landscape turns lush and green, and crowds are fewer.
Month-by-Month Weather in Cuba
Here’s how the weather plays out across the year:
- January – Dry, sunny, pleasantly warm (24–26°C). A top choice for winter sun seekers.
- February – Similar to January, with mild evenings and clear skies—great for cigar factory tours.
- March – Warm and bright (26–28°C). Excellent beach conditions, very little rain.
- April – Hotter and dry, with highs around 28°C. Ideal for a mix of sightseeing and beach time.
- May – Rainy season begins, but showers are short-lived. Humidity rises and the countryside flourishes.
- June – Hot and humid (30–32°C). Mornings are sunny; afternoon showers are common.
- July – Peak summer heat, averaging 32°C. Festivals and lively nightlife add to the energy.
- August – Very warm and one of the driest rainy-season months. Sea temperatures peak at 28°C.
- September – Hot, humid, and wet, but quieter beaches and cheaper travel.
- October – Rainfall starts to ease. Still warm (30°C) with lush, tropical scenery.
- November – The dry season returns, bringing warm, comfortable weather (26–27°C).
- December – Sunny, dry, and festive. Average highs of 25–26°C make it one of the best months to visit.
Cuba Weather by Month (Average Conditions)
| Month | Avg Temp (°C) | Rainfall (mm) | Sunshine Hours | Sea Temp (°C) | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 24–26°C | 60 mm | 7–8 hrs | 25°C | Dry, sunny |
| Feb | 25–27°C | 50 mm | 8 hrs | 25°C | Dry, mild |
| Mar | 26–28°C | 40 mm | 8–9 hrs | 25°C | Warm, dry |
| Apr | 27–29°C | 60 mm | 9 hrs | 26°C | Warm, dry |
| May | 28–30°C | 120 mm | 8 hrs | 27°C | Start of rainy season |
| Jun | 30–32°C | 170 mm | 7 hrs | 27°C | Hot, humid |
| Jul | 31–33°C | 160 mm | 8 hrs | 28°C | Hot, festive |
| Aug | 31–32°C | 130 mm | 8 hrs | 28°C | Warm, driest rainy month |
| Sept | 30–32°C | 180 mm | 7 hrs | 28°C | Wet, quiet |
| Oct | 29–30°C | 150 mm | 7 hrs | 27°C | Rain easing |
| Nov | 26–28°C | 80 mm | 7 hrs | 26°C | Start of dry season |
| Dec | 25–26°C | 70 mm | 7 hrs | 25°C | Dry, festive |
Best Time for Cigar Lovers
Cuba’s weather doesn’t just shape travel—it also defines its world-famous cigar industry. The tobacco-growing cycleruns in harmony with the island’s seasons:
- November to February – Tobacco planting season. The dry, cool weather helps crops thrive. A fantastic time to visit plantations in the Vuelta Abajo region.
- March to May – Harvesting and curing season. Farmers hang the leaves in curing barns, filling the countryside with the aroma of tobacco.
- June to August – Fermentation and sorting. A fascinating behind-the-scenes stage of the cigar-making process.
- September to October – Preparation for the next cycle. Rain revitalises the soil for planting.
For cigar enthusiasts, the best months to visit are January–March, when the weather is dry and sunny and the tobacco fields and barns are at their most active. Pair a plantation visit with the annual Habanos Festival in February, and you’ll experience Cuban cigar culture at its finest.
Why Cuba’s Climate Matters
- Year-round warmth: Average 25.5°C
- Perfect seas: 25°C in winter, 28°C in summer
- Comfortable humidity: Around 78%, moderated by trade winds
- Cigar culture tied to climate: The weather creates the conditions for the world’s finest tobacco
Where to Check Today’s Weather
Planning your trip? For up-to-date forecasts, visit the Met Office.
Whether you’re escaping the winter cold in January, soaking up festivals in July, or visiting during the tobacco harvest in spring, Cuba’s climate offers the perfect setting to enjoy its beaches, history, and, of course, a legendary Havana cigar.