What's it like in Jamaica in February (Updated for 2024)
Thinking of going to Jamaica in February?
Everyone wants to know … What’s there to do in Jamaica in February? What’s the weather like? Is February a good time of year to visit Jamaica? We answer those questions plus give a few insider tips to help you enjoy your vacation.
Table of Contents
Is February a good month to go to Jamaica?
February is high season and is a very popular month for tourists. The attractions are all open and there are lots of things to do. It’s warm but a few degrees cooler than July and August. It’s Bob Marley’s birthday and there is reggae everywhere. February is a great time to visit Jamaica!
Read on for a more detailed view about February in Jamaica.
Public Holidays in Jamaica in February
There are none.
Fruits and Foods in Season in Jamaica in February
Tamarind
Tamarind tends to be in season when most other fruits are not. It can often be found between January and March.
The fruit is encased in a shell that must be removed to be eaten. The inner brown pulp surrounds a hard, black seed, which is inedible. The pulp is often mixed with sugar and rolled into balls called tamarind balls, which is a popular Jamaican candy or dessert.
The sweet but tart pulp is also used to make jams, jellies, and drinks.
Otaheite apple
This almost pear-shaped fruit is dark red on the outside and snow-white on the inside. There is a hard seed in the center.
These apples bear fruit in February and April and also in June and July
Citrus
The main citrus crop bears between November and April.
In addition to the usual fare such as oranges, tangerines, and grapefruits, Jamaica has some unique citrus fruits.
The ortanique is a cross between an orange and a tangerine.
The ugli, is like a tangelo. It is a cross between a tangerine, grapefruit and an orange. As the name suggests, it is an ugly fruit. With its thickened skin, prominent pores, and sometimes a shriveled appearance, it looks like a deformed grapefruit or orange. It is surprisingly sweet and juicy reminding us to never judge a book by its cover!
Sugarcane
Did you know that sugar, molasses, and rum all come from sugar cane?
Back in the 1800s, Jamaica was one of the leading producers of sugar. Now, barely enough is produced to serve the nation as most of the sugar factories have long closed.
The crop season is from December through March.
Lobster Season in Jamaica
Lobster season is open from July 1 to March 30th of the following year!!
The Jamaican Government can change the end date to close the season, but so far we haven’t heard anything about that.
Weather in Jamaica in February
We all want perfect weather conditions on our vacations. The reality is that nature has its own agenda. Here is a guide as to historical weather conditions in the Discovery Bay – Braco area during February in Jamaica.
Sunshine
On average, there are 3002 hours of sunshine per year in Jamaica out of a possible 4383 hours. The sunniest months are January through April, as well as July and August.
Average amount of bright sunshine per day in February: 7 hrs
Average amount of daylight per day in February: 12 hrs
Sunrise & Sunset
Sunrise: between 6:29 and 6:43 am
Sunset: between 6:04and 6:15 pm
Temperature
Northeasterly trade winds keep the coastal areas cool with island temperatures averaging around 71-88°F year round. Nevertheless, there aren’t wide variations in temperature across the island.
Temperatures do tend to be lower in the mountainous areas such as in the Blue Mountains. Temperatures decrease by about 1°F for every 300ft increase in elevation. The plains such as in Kingston and the more flat and arid southern areas of the island, such as Clarendon, Manchester and St. Elizabeth, are hotter.
The warmest months in Jamaica are July and August with average maximum daytime temperature of about 89-90°F. The coolest months are December through February with maximum temperatures of about 84.
How warm is Jamaica in February? Is it cold in Jamaica in February?
Average maximum daytime temperature in Discovery Bay – Braco area in Jamaica in February is about 82°F/28°C.
Average minimum temperature in Jamaica is around 64°F/18°C. In Discovery Bay, the minimum temperature is usually closer to 70°F, and is at night into early morning before sunrise.
Rain
How much rain can you expect? It varies.
Traditionally, the rainy periods are April and May/June and again October to November/December. June and July are generally the driest months. February and March are also traditionally dry months too. This pattern does vary from year to year with much more variability noted in recent years.
The amount of rainfall and the frequency of showers or days of rain can vary quite a bit in Jamaica, even in nearby towns. For example, there could be significant rainfall in the town of Discovery Bay with hardly a rain drop in our area, five minutes drive away.
In general, the more north-easterly sections of Jamaica get the most rain. These areas would represent areas east of Ocho Rios and on into Portland, where rainfall averages can be significant.
Rain in Jamaica often is at night or early mornings. Sometimes, rain comes on during the daytime in short quick spurts only to disappear just as quickly as it came. In the rainy period, there can be several consecutive days of rain.
On average, there are about 6 days with some rainfall, defined as any rain at all, during the month of February.
Average monthly rainfall for the month of February is 3.8 inches. Discovery Bay area gets less rain than Ocho Rios.
If there are heavy rains, on-river activities, such as river rafting, might be canceled due to high water levels or rapid rivers. Water clarity could also be affected depending on how much rain occurred in the mountains.
Sea water temperature
Can you swim in Jamaica in February? Yes, you can.
You can swim in the sea year round in Jamaica. The sea is warmest during July through October.
Average sea water temperature in Discovery Bay in February is about 81°F/27°C.
Risk of hurricane – Is February hurricane season?
No it isn’t. Hurricane season is June 1 – November 30.
Tropical storm risk for the month of February is, historically, zero.
Be sure to get trip insurance when you travel, especially internationally.
Is February high or low season in Jamaica?
February is high season. High season starts on December 15th and runs through April 14th.
Hotel rates go up during high season; but, tourists come to Jamaica to escape the cold and enjoy the island’s wonderful weather.
What are tourist crowds like in February?
Tourist crowds continue to increase in February as the high season picks up. February is a fairly popular month for arrivals at Montego Bay Airport.
What to wear in Jamaica in February?
Remember, Jamaica is Summer year-round. You have more to worry about with tour buses that crank up the air-conditioning than cold weather in Jamaica.
I usually wear a light jacket of some sort on the flight down so that I will have it with me just in case I need it one evening – or on a tour bus!
Read our article about how to pack for your Jamaica vacation to get more tips.
Where in Jamaica should you stay for your vacation
There are six (6) established tourist regions – Ocho Rios (which includes Discovery Bay, Montego Bay, Negril, South Coast, Kingston, and Portland. Each area has its own flavor.
Read our blog post on how to decide where to stay in Jamaica for a description of the various tourist regions on the island.
Visiting Jamaica in February? Which property to choose for your stay in Jamaica?
Always stay at a property that is licensed by the Tourist Board. This ensures that the property meets the standards for health and safety.
Pick a villa or resort that is loaded with amenities so that you won’t be bored and you can spend more of your vacation relaxing, unwinding, and getting to know your travel partners.
If you are traveling as a group, consider a stay at a villa, such as Mais Oui Villa in Discovery Bay, a much better option than a resort to socially-distance from strangers.
Which attractions should you visit in Jamaica?
There are tons of things to do in Jamaica. The options depend on what your interests are.
Here are three popular ones to get you started.
1.Puerto Seco Beach in Discovery Bay
Puerto Seco Beach Club in Discovery Bay Jamaica
2. Martha Brae Rafting in Falmouth
Martha Brae River Rafting Jamaica
3. Hamden Rum Tour outside of Falmouth
Hamden Rum Tour
If you want other ideas for things to do in Jamaica, click here.
What’s happening in Jamaica in February?
Take note: Most Jamaica events calendars are woefully inaccurate. This is even more true as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Many popular websites still list events that have long been abandoned or happened in the distant past. Outdated websites and inactive Facebook pages are not uncommon.
Typical Annual Events in Jamaica in February
Reggae Month
February was officially declared as Reggae month by the government of Jamaica back in 2008. There will be no shortage of reggae in Jamaica in February.
Website: https://reggaemonthjamaica.com
Dennis Brown’s birthday is February 1st. Bob Marley’s birthday week (February 1-6) and in particular his birthday, February 6th, generally have the most concerts and activities.
There is usually a concert on February 6th at the Bob Marley Museum on Hope Road in Kingston.
The Bob Marley’s Annual Birthday Bash is also held during that week in Negril on One Love Drive, formerly West End Road.
Website: http://www.bobmarleyfoundation.org
In addition to the events associated with the Bob Marley Museum, check out Jamaica Reggae Industry (JaRIA) events which has as its signature events Reggae Open University, Reggae Wednesdays, and the JaRIA Honour Awards. Follow them on social media with the following tags: #ReggaeMonth #JaRia
Website: http://www.jariajamaicamusic.com/
Sagicore Sigma Corporate Run
Sagicor Sigma Corporate Run is an annual 5K which is deemed the Caribbean’s largest road race.
The event starts at Emancipation Park in New Kingston and ends with a celebration and awards ceremony.
Since 1999, over $JA200 million dollars in proceeds have been donated to various health and child-related charities. 2018 marked the 20th staging of the event.
Date: Generally in mid-February
Location: Emancipation Park, New Kingston
Website: https://www.sagicorsigmarun.com/
Jamaica Biennial
The Jamaica Biennial, previously known as the National Biennial, is the National Gallery’s flagship biennial exhibition.
Designed to encourage the development and promotion of Jamaica art, the Jamaica Biennial includes works in all media and genres by a wide variety of artists who enter the exhibition through a juried system or by special invitation.
Dates: Generally February to May in odd years
Location: National Gallery of Jamaica, Kingston
Website: http://www.natgalja.org.jm
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamaicabiennial/
Jamaica’s National Pantomime
Jamaica’s Theatre season runs from December through May. The national pantomime, a central main event of the season, has been running annually since the 1940s.
The pantomime is a play which is usually a musical comedy making satirical reference to Jamaican culture, folklore, as well as historical and or current events and politics.
The costumes and sets are usually vibrant, creative, and colorful.
The dialog is primarily in Patois and without some local knowledge, it can be difficult for foreigners to follow along.
Most Jamaican plays cater to mature audiences; however, the pantomime caters to patrons of all ages and backgrounds.
Date: December 26, – May 31st
Location: Little Theatre, Kingston
Website: http://www.ltmpantomime.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JamaicanTheatre/
Ocho Rios Orchid Society’s Annual Show
The Ocho Rios Orchid Show often joins forces with the Classic Car Club at its annual show.
While the orchids steal the show, the cars bring nostalgia from a long-gone era. Crafts are on sale and, of course, there is always food and entertainment.
Date: Usually, the show is in early February.
Location: Couples San Souci Hotel, Ocho Rios, St. Ann
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ocho-Rios-Orchid-Society-849407425086482/
Have you visited Jamaica in February? Did we miss something? Do you know of an event in Jamaica in February that we should include? Let us know so that we may update the post.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
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‘Til next time.
Think and dream Jamaica!
Sherry, Darrell, and Darrian
Visit our website: https://MakeItJamaica.com
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