What’s it like in Jamaica in September – Updated for 2024

Visiting Jamaica in September? Everything you would want to know before you go (Updated for 2024)

Thinking of going to Jamaica in September? 

Jamaica-in-September

Jamaica in September

Everyone wants to know …  What’s there to do in Jamaica in September? What’s the weather like? Is September 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 September a good month to go to Jamaica?

 

If you’re wondering whether September is a good time to visit Jamaica, it all depends on the kind of vacation you are looking for. Here is a brief summary of what September in Jamaica has to offer.

Being the off-season, there are fewer tourists flocking Jamaica in September making it ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate and peaceful getaway. 

One of the standout benefits of traveling to Jamaica in September is the considerable savings you will see on lodging prices.  It’s the perfect opportunity for budget-conscious travelers to enjoy Jamaica without breaking the bank or to get a better price on that luxury villa you have been eyeing. Hint – Lodging prices are generally lowest in September.

There is quite a bit to do in Jamaica in September but not in the way of major events that would attract an international crowd. Not to worry though because the attractions are all open and so you can sightsee to your heart’s content. 

September is one of the rainier months in Jamaica, but that doesn’t mean it rains all day for days on end. And, yes, it’s true that September is part of hurricane season; but, don’t let that deter you. The likelihood of a direct hit is statistically low.

September can be a fantastic time to visit if you want a more quiet atmosphere, wish to save on expenses, and want to enjoy the beauty of the island without the crowds. Learn more about why the offseason is a great time to go to Jamaica.

Read on for a more detailed view about September in Jamaica.

 

Public Holidays in Jamaica in September

There are none!

 

Fruits and Foods in Season in Jamaica in September

 

There is always some fruit in season in Jamaica. Betcha never heard of some of these! Go should try some of these exotic goodies while you are in Jamaica. They will certainly taste better there than if you try to source them overseas.

Ackee

Ackee is the national fruit of Jamaica. Many people think ackee and saltfish is the national dish. It is actually the unofficial national dish. There isn’t actually a national dish. Ackee can be found year-round but the season is from September to December.

Ackee

Avocado

Jamaicans refer to “avocado” as “pear” and they eat pear with almost everything, even bread! No, guacamole is not common in Jamaica. That’s Mexico. Avocados are in season between September and December.

Soursop

Jamaican use this to make a very refreshing drink. Many believe that it helps to soothe the nerves and also with high blood pressure. It is very rich in Vitamin C. Some believe that it has cancer-fighting capabilities; however, that has not been proven. Soursop is most abundant in July to November.

Soursop

Sweet sop

Sweet sop has black seeds covered with white flesh; but, that’s where the similarity to soursop ends. Sweet sop softens as it ripens at which point it is easily broken to reveal the flesh. This fruit can be relied on to be sweet while soursop is usually slightly tart. Sweet sop has a custard-like texture but is not as grainy as custard apples. Fruits bear in April to July as well as August to October.

Swwt-sop-Make-it-Jamaica

Plums

Jamaican plums, are often either yellow or red in color. There is a firm, stony seed around which is a soft pulp. The skin is eaten as well. They are often sold in bags at the side of the road. Plums are generally in season from August to October.

Jamaican-yellow-plum

 

Lobster Season in Jamaica

 

Lobster in Jamaica

Lobster season is open from July 1st 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.

 

Conch Season in Jamaica

Conch season is closed in September! The season is closed from August 1st to February 28th the following year.

 


What to expect of the weather for Jamaica in September 

 

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 September 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 sunshine per day in Jamaica in September: 6 hrs

Average amount of daylight per day in Jamaica in September: ~12hrs

Sunrise & Sunset

Sunrise: between 5:55 and 6:00 am

Sunset: between 5:59 and 6:24 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.

Average maximum daytime temperature in Discovery Bay – Braco area in Jamaica in September is about 86°F/30°C. Average minimum temperature is around 70°F/21°C.

Average-Temperature-in-Discovery-Bay-Jamaica

 

Rain

Is September rainy season in Jamaica? How much rain can you expect? 

Traditionally, the rainy periods are April and May/June and again September/October to November. 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 raindrop 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 14 days with some rainfall, defined as any rain at all, during the month of September. 

Average monthly rainfall for the month of September is 6 inches. Discovery Bay area gets less rain than Ocho Rios.

Average-rainfall-Discovery-Bay-Jamaica

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

The sea is warmest during July through October. Average sea water temperature in Discovery Bay in September is about 84°F/29°C.

Average-sea-water-temperature-in-Discovery-Bay-Jamaica

 

Risk of hurricane in September in Jamaica

Hurricane season is June 1 – November 30.

So yes. September is hurricane season in Jamaica; however, tropical storm risk for the month of September is, historically, about 2%.

Be sure to get trip insurance when you travel, especially internationally. This is particularly true during hurricane season.

 


Is September high or low season in Jamaica?

September is low season, which runs from April 15 – December 15th. Hotel rates may be lower than during high season. See our blog post – 8 Reasons You Should Visit Jamaica in the Off Season.

What are the tourist crowds like in Jamaica in September?

September is traditionally the slowest month for arrivals at Montego Bay Airport.  September, October, and November see the fewest number of arrivals every year. Hint, those are great months to snag deals!

Busiest-Months-for-Arrivals-at-Montego-Bays-airport-in-Jamaica

What to wear in Jamaica in September?

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.

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. 

If you love our house (Mais Oui Villa) and want to stay with us, here is the link to our own website to book directly with us: https://MakeItJamaica.com

 

If for whatever reason you wish to book through an online agency, here are the links to our listings. They will charge you a fee, but if you don’t mind, and it makes you feel better, even safer, then, by all means, go ahead and book through them. We prefer for you to book through them than to not book at all.

VRBO   

AirBnB   

TripAdvisor

 

Things to Do in Jamaica in September: Popular Attractions

 

Some attractions did not survive COVID, but thankfully most did! There are tons of things to do in Jamaica. The options depend on what your interests are. 

Here are two popular ones to get you started.

1.Puerto Seco Beach in Discovery Bay

Puerto Seco Beach Club in Discovery Bay Jamaica

2. Dunns River Falls, Ocho Rios

Dunns-River-Falls-Climb. Is Jamaica safe
Dunns River Falls Jamaica

To see more options, visit our Things to Do in Jamaica page

 

Things to Do in Jamaica in September: Events

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 September

September is the heart of the low season. There aren’t many events or festivals during this time. Jamaican school kids are returning to school, and the focus seems to be on a new start for the new school year. Whatever the reason, even among the locals there don’t seem to be a lot of events. That makes September the perfect time to snag some quiet time on a beach, watch a sunset, or enjoy your pick of attractions because there are no crowds.

Jamaica Bridal Expo

This is a large bridal fair with vendors showcasing their services and an education program as well. If there is a trunk sale, you may be able to get your dress for a great price!

Location: Montego Bay Convention Center, Rosehall

Website:  Jamaica Bridal Expo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jamaica-Bridal-Expo

 

Annual Montego Bay International Marlin Tournament

Location: Montego Bay Yacht Club, Sunset Boulevard, Montego Bay

Website: http://www.mobayyachtclub.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/MontegoBayFishingTournament/

Phone:  876-979-8038

Jamaica in a post COVID world

Masking requirements have gone away. And there are no more curfews. But, we still need to reduce the risk of getting or spreading the virus. By keeping our population healthy, it allows us to be able to have the staff to provide the fabulous vacations for which we are known.

  • Choose outdoor over indoor activities. 
  • Wash or sanitize your hands often. 
  • Stay up-to-date on requirements and or restrictions for travel to Jamaica at the Visit Jamaica website.
  • Get cancel-for-any-reason insurance. COVID-19 is now a known event.
  • Travel with people who take COVID-19 seriously
  • Last but not least, please consider getting the vaccine.

 

Have you visited Jamaica in September? Did we miss something? Do you know of an event or other things to do in Jamaica in September 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.

Jamaica-in-September

FREE Guide: How to Pick the Perfect Villa Rental

If you’re thinking of a villa vacation rental for your Jamaica vacation. Here is a special cool freebie to make vacation planning easy …

Get our exclusive FREE BONUS sent directly to your inbox to help you pick the perfect Jamaica villa vacation rental.

 

‘Til next time.

Think and dream Jamaica!

Sherry, Darrell, and Darrian

Considering a visit to Jamaica with a group? Contact us today for more information about, Mais Oui Tennis & Spa Villa, our boutique 8-BR ocean view Jamaica villa rental experience in beautiful Discovery Bay, Jamaica. Perfect for multi-generational families and groups, retreats, and intimate destination weddings and vow renewals.

Visit our website: https://MakeItJamaica.com

Give us a call: 833-MAISOUI (624.7684) toll-free or 914.709.0457

Like us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/MakeItJamaica

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About the Author Sherry

Sherry & Darrell, owners of Mais Oui Tennis & Spa Villa in Discovery Bay, Jamaica, consider themselves unofficial ambassadors for Jamaica. They look forward to using their insider knowledge to help guests create priceless vacation memories. Feel free to say hi!

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About the Author Sherry

Sherry & Darrell, owners of Mais Oui Tennis & Spa Villa in Discovery Bay, Jamaica, consider themselves unofficial ambassadors for Jamaica. They look forward to using their insider knowledge to help guests create priceless vacation memories. Feel free to say hi!