When is the best time to visit Long Island?

The best months to visit Long Island are December, January, February, March, April. During this period you will find ideal sailing conditions with steady trade winds, comfortable temperatures in the upper 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, minimal rainfall, and no hurricane risk. These months offer the perfect balance of weather and crowd levels for a memorable charter.

Does Long Island get hurricanes?

Yes, Long Island is in the Atlantic hurricane belt. Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, with peak risk in August, September, October. Most charter operations and experienced sailors avoid the peak hurricane months. If you must travel during shoulder season, early June and late November typically carry lower risk, but always monitor forecasts and have flexible plans.

How warm is the water in Long Island?

Water temperatures in Long Island range from 78°F in winter to 85°F in late summer. The warmest water is typically in August at around 85°F. Even in the cooler winter months, water temperatures remain comfortable for swimming, snorkeling, and diving without a wetsuit.

What are the wind conditions like in Long Island?

Long Island benefits from the prevailing easterly trade winds that characterize the Bahamas. Wind speeds average 12 knots throughout the year. The windiest conditions occur in January with averages around 14 knots. For sailing, the ideal wind range of 10-15 knots is most common from November through April, providing excellent conditions for both experienced sailors and those learning the ropes.

When is the driest time to visit Long Island?

The driest period in Long Island is February with only about 5 rain days on average. Generally, the dry season runs from November through April, with each month averaging 5-8 rain days. Even during the wetter summer months, rainfall typically comes in brief afternoon showers rather than all-day events, leaving plenty of time for sailing and exploring.

Long Island, The Bahamas

Long Island Weather & Best Time to Sail

Long Island offers a tropical savanna climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it excellent for sailing. The dry season from December through April brings comfortable highs of 80-82°F, steady northeast trade winds of 12-15 knots, and minimal hurricane risk. The wet season from May through November sees higher temperatures (85-88°F), increased rainfall peaking in October, and the Atlantic hurricane season risk from June through November. Water temperatures remain swimmable year-round (78-85°F). Long Island's remote location in the central Bahamas means lighter tourist crowds compared to Nassau, with peak visitation from mid-December through April.

Best months to sail: December, January, February, March, April

84°F

Avg High

81°F

Avg Water

12 kn

Avg Wind

Prime Months

Long Island Weather by Month

This table shows historical averages for Long Island throughout the year. Use these figures to plan your charter timing based on your preferences for temperature, wind conditions, and weather stability.

Month	High / Low	Water	Wind	Rain Days	Hurricane	Crowds
January	80° / 71°F	79°F	14 kn	6	none	high
February	80° / 71°F	78°F	14 kn	5	none	high
March	81° / 71°F	78°F	13 kn	5	none	high
April	82° / 73°F	79°F	12 kn	6	none	moderate
May	85° / 76°F	80°F	11 kn	9	low	low
June	88° / 78°F	83°F	11 kn	9	low	low
July	88° / 78°F	84°F	12 kn	8	moderate	low
August	88° / 78°F	85°F	11 kn	10	high	low
September	88° / 78°F	85°F	10 kn	12	high	low
October	86° / 77°F	84°F	11 kn	13	high	low
November	83° / 75°F	82°F	13 kn	9	low	moderate
December	81° / 72°F	80°F	14 kn	6	none	high

Month-by-Month Notes

Each month in Long Island brings its own character. Here is what to expect throughout the year, from the peak winter sailing season through the summer months and into the fall transition.

January

Excellent sailing conditions

Peak dry season with pleasant temperatures and steady northeast trade winds. Excellent sailing conditions with calm seas and minimal rain. High season for tourism but Long Island remains quieter than Nassau.

80°F|14 kn wind|6 rain days

February

Excellent sailing conditions

Continues the ideal dry season weather with the coolest water temperatures of the year. Consistent trade winds provide reliable sailing. Peak tourist season with accommodation prices at their highest.

80°F|14 kn wind|5 rain days

March

Excellent sailing conditions

Driest month of the year with excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving. Slightly warming temperatures signal the transition toward spring. Spring break travelers increase crowds at popular Bahamas destinations.

81°F|13 kn wind|5 rain days

April

Excellent sailing conditions

Shoulder season begins with warming temperatures and slightly increased rainfall. Trade winds remain steady but begin to shift from northeast to southeast. Easter crowds taper off by mid-month.

82°F|12 kn wind|6 rain days

May

Good sailing conditions

Wet season begins with noticeable increase in afternoon showers. Warmer temperatures and calming winds as trade wind pattern shifts. Low tourist crowds offer better value and availability.

85°F|11 kn wind|9 rain days

June

Good sailing conditions

Atlantic hurricane season officially begins June 1. Early season storms are rare but monitoring advisable. Hot and humid conditions with southeast trade winds. Water temperatures become very warm.

88°F|11 kn wind|9 rain days

July

Sailable, but watch the tropics

Peak summer heat with high humidity. Hurricane activity begins to increase. Occasional brief afternoon thunderstorms. Light tourist presence offers uncrowded anchorages and lower prices.

88°F|12 kn wind|8 rain days

August

Use caution — peak hurricane season

Hottest month with peak hurricane risk beginning. Weather monitoring essential for any sailing plans. Warmest water temperatures of the year. Budget-friendly travel period with minimal crowds.

88°F|11 kn wind|10 rain days

September

Use caution — peak hurricane season

Peak hurricane season month with highest storm probability. Increased rainfall and potential for tropical systems. Lightest winds of the year. Many charter operations reduce availability during this period.

88°F|10 kn wind|12 rain days

October

Use caution — peak hurricane season

Wettest month with rainfall peaking. Hurricane season continues but begins declining late month. Temperatures begin cooling slightly. Still low tourist season with good value.

86°F|11 kn wind|13 rain days

November

Good sailing conditions

Hurricane season officially ends November 30. Trade winds strengthen from northeast. Pleasant cooling trend with decreasing rainfall. Shoulder season brings good weather with moderate crowds before holidays.

83°F|13 kn wind|9 rain days

December

Excellent sailing conditions

Dry season returns with excellent sailing conditions. Strong consistent trade winds and minimal rain. Holiday season brings peak tourist crowds and higher prices. Ideal conditions for extended passages.

81°F|14 kn wind|6 rain days

Best Time to Sail Long Island

Planning a sailing charter to Long Island requires balancing several factors: wind conditions, weather stability, water temperatures, and hurricane risk. Based on historical weather patterns, here is our analysis of the best times to visit.

Prime Sailing Season

The optimal months for sailing Long Island are December, January, February, March, April. During this period, you will experience steady trade winds averaging 10-15 knots, minimal rainfall, comfortable air temperatures in the upper 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit, and warm water temperatures perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Hurricane risk is essentially zero during these months, allowing for worry-free charter planning.

Excellent Conditions

January, February, March, April, December offer excellent sailing conditions with reliable winds and stable weather. These months typically see 6 rain days on average, leaving plenty of time for exploring the islands. Water visibility is at its best, making these ideal months for snorkeling and diving excursions between sailing legs.

Shoulder Season

July represent the shoulder season in Long Island. Conditions remain sailable, but you should monitor tropical weather forecasts more closely. The trade-off is often better pricing and fewer crowds at popular anchorages. Experienced sailors who maintain flexible itineraries can find excellent value during these months.

Hurricane Season Caution

August, September, October fall within the Atlantic hurricane season and require extra caution. While not every year brings tropical activity to Long Island, the risk is elevated during these months. Most charter companies reduce operations, insurance may be more expensive or unavailable, and experienced sailors generally avoid scheduling trips during peak hurricane months (August through October). If you must travel during this period, ensure you have comprehensive weather monitoring, flexible rebooking options, and a solid contingency plan.

Planning Recommendations

For first-time visitors to Long Island, we recommend December through April for the most reliable conditions. Those seeking fewer crowds and better rates should consider November or early December. Families with school schedules often find spring break (March- April) offers excellent weather before the summer transition. Whatever month you choose, always check extended forecasts in the weeks leading up to your charter and work with your charter company to adjust plans if needed.

Try Our Weather-Window Finder

Use our interactive tool to compare sailing conditions across all months and find the perfect window for your charter.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Long Island?: The best months to visit Long Island are December, January, February, March, April. During this period you will find ideal sailing conditions with steady trade winds, comfortable temperatures in the upper 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, minimal rainfall, and no hurricane risk. These months offer the perfect balance of weather and crowd levels for a memorable charter.
Does Long Island get hurricanes?: Yes, Long Island is in the Atlantic hurricane belt. Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, with peak risk in August, September, October. Most charter operations and experienced sailors avoid the peak hurricane months. If you must travel during shoulder season, early June and late November typically carry lower risk, but always monitor forecasts and have flexible plans.
How warm is the water in Long Island?: Water temperatures in Long Island range from 78°F in winter to 85°F in late summer. The warmest water is typically in August at around 85°F. Even in the cooler winter months, water temperatures remain comfortable for swimming, snorkeling, and diving without a wetsuit.
What are the wind conditions like in Long Island?: Long Island benefits from the prevailing easterly trade winds that characterize the Bahamas. Wind speeds average 12 knots throughout the year. The windiest conditions occur in January with averages around 14 knots. For sailing, the ideal wind range of 10-15 knots is most common from November through April, providing excellent conditions for both experienced sailors and those learning the ropes.
When is the driest time to visit Long Island?: The driest period in Long Island is February with only about 5 rain days on average. Generally, the dry season runs from November through April, with each month averaging 5-8 rain days. Even during the wetter summer months, rainfall typically comes in brief afternoon showers rather than all-day events, leaving plenty of time for sailing and exploring.

Disclaimer: The weather data presented on this page represents historical averages and is intended for trip planning purposes only. This information is not a weather forecast. Actual conditions vary significantly from year to year and day to day. Always consult current weather forecasts from official sources such as the National Hurricane Center and local meteorological services before and during your charter. Your safety is your responsibility.

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Now that you know the best time to visit Long Island, let us help you plan an unforgettable sailing adventure through the Abaco Islands.

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