What's the weather like in Antigua in February
Temperature
The weather in Antigua in February is very similar to that of January, with relatively cool temperatures and a small amount of rainfall. During this month, the average temperature for the island is 25.5°C (made up of highs of 28°C and lows of 23°) a figure which doesn't change at all as the month develops.
Although it only happens on an average of 10% of days, temperatures have been known to rise above 29°C and drop below 21°C in Antigua in February. The hottest temperature ever registered on the island at this time of year is 31°C, whilst the coldest temperature ever recorded here during this month is 17°C.
Because this time of year is when temperatures are usually at their coolest, February is perfect for holidaymakers who want to visit the island but can't stand the heat. If you love high temperatures and would prefer to visit Antigua when the island is at its hottest, forget about visiting in February and holiday on the island during August instead, when temperatures are at their highest. On the other hand, if you do choose to visit Antigua in February, make sure you pack plenty of suntan lotion, light and airy clothing and waterproofs with you to protect you from the elements.
Rain
Throughout February, Antigua receives an average of 41mm/2 inches of rainfall spread out between 16 rainy days that's slightly less than last month. With some type of precipitation falling on over half of days during the month, there is a very good chance you'll experience a shower or two, so be prepared.
The likelihood of precipitation falling during February starts off at 56% on February 1st and drops down to 55% by February 10th, 53% by February 20th and 52% by February 28th. The most common forms of precipitation you can expect to see in Antigua in February are moderate rain (65%) and light rain (32%).
Average Sunshine Hours and Cloud Cover
Across the month, Antigua boasts an average of nine hours of sunshine each day that's the same as last month along with median cloud coverage which fluctuates between 47% (partly cloudy) and 48% (partly cloudy). On an average day, the sky is clear/mostly clear 32% of the time, partly cloudy 32% and mostly cloudy/overcast 15%.
Average Sea Temperature
The average sea temperature remains pleasantly warm all-year-round in Antigua. In February, it's 26°C that's 1°C cooler than last month which is definitely warm enough to go swimming, despite the drop in temperature.
Humidity
Due to its tropical climate, Antigua is also humid throughout the year. In February, the relative humidity for the island ranges between 62% (mildly humid) and 88% (very humid), rarely falling below 54% (mildly humid) or reaching as high as 97% (very humid). The air is most often at its driest around February 28th, when the relative humidity falls below 66% (mildly humid) three days out of four, whilst it's usually at its most humid around February 11th, when it rises above 83% (humid) three days out of four.
Wind
Just like January, February can also be a breezy month for Antigua. At this time of year, typical wind speeds vary between 4 m/s (gentle breeze) and 9 m/s (fresh breeze), sometimes rising above 11 m/s (strong breeze). The highest average wind speed of 6 m/s (moderate breeze) happens around February 23rd, when the average daily maximum wind speed is 8 m/s (fresh breeze), whilst the lowest average wind speed of 6 m/s occurs around February 4th, when the average daily maximum wind speed is 8 m/s.
Antigua Hotels in February
Couples looking for a romantic holiday in Antigua should consider staying at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort & Spa. Repeatedly voted "the world's most romantic resort", this all-inclusive hotel is located directly on Dickenson Bay where guests can enjoy unlimited scuba diving and water sports, such as windsurfing, sailing, snorkelling and paddle boarding. Accommodation is divided between the Mediterranean Village and the Caribbean Grove, both of which offer luxury, club and butler level rooms. Onsite services and facilities include seven bars serving unlimited premium spirits, 11 speciality restaurants for unlimited dining, free WiFi access, six swimming pools and award-winning spa which offers European-style massages, body wraps, scrubs and facials.
For a more affordable alternative, check out Cocos Hotel Antigua. This romantic resort is made up of Caribbean-style cottages, panoramic sea views and private secluded beaches. Accommodation is provided in the form of standard, superior, premium and premium plus rooms, each of which comes with ocean or pool vistas, personal hammock, king-size four-poster bed, mini fridge restocked daily and fan. A complimentary 20-minute spa treatment is also available per guest for those staying for three nights or more. The nearby beaches provide swimming, sunbathing, water sports, scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities, whilst the onsite amenities provide sea view restaurant, beach bar and in-room spa treatments.
Trade Winds Hotel is perfect for holidaymakers in search of a quiet beachside holiday. Found overlooking Dickenson Bay, this resort is made up of 50 secluded rooms set amongst tropical gardens with colourful Bougainvillea. Guests can choose between deluxe rooms, junior suites and executive suites, each of which comes with sea views, tea/coffee making facilities, free WiFi access, ceiling fan and air conditioning. Onsite you'll find the Bay House Restaurant and Bar which offers fine dining Caribbean style between 7am and 11pm and swimming pool with shuttle bus service to the closest beach available upon request.
If you'd prefer a self-catering resort, consider staying at Dickenson Bay Cottages. This hotel is much more affordable than many others on the island, although the cheaper price tag means there aren't as many services and facilities. Accommodation is provided in the form of one- and two-bedroom cottages, each of which comes with patio/balcony, air conditioning and fully-equipped kitchen so you can prepare all your own meals. Within the hotel's grounds you'll find a swimming pool, with trips to nearby resorts, excursions and island tours available to book via reception.
Antigua Beach for February
When it comes to a top beach for snorkelling, it's got to be Carlisle Bay Beach. Located on the south coast of Antigua, this expansive white sandy beach is lined by calm, clear waters which provide a home for a huge selection of tropical fish. There are no places to rent snorkelling equipment, so make sure you bring your own. You'll find sun loungers and parasols available to rent on the beach, with a great selection of bars, restaurants, shops and hotels located just a stone's throw away.
If you're looking for a long beach with plenty of room, consider spending the day at Galley Bay Beach. Located within St Johns, this white sandy beach is so long that you'll always find the ideal spot to lie down your towel no matter how crowded it is. The sea at either side of the beach can get a bit choppy, so if you're travelling with children, you're best off sticking to the middle where the water is calmest. If you don't mind battling against the waves, the clear waters here are great for snorkelling. Sun loungers and parasols are available to rent on the beach and you'll find a number of bars and restaurants located just a short walk away.
Bars and Restaurants
Cecilia's High Point Cafe is located at Dutchman's Bay, with fantastic views of the beach below. Open for dinner on Mondays and Thursdays and lunch on every afternoon except Tuesdays and Wednesdays, this café offers a casual setting, with Jazz and soul music, comfy chairs and free WiFi access for diners. The menu features pasta dishes, fresh local fish and seafood, international meat dishes and various homemade chocolate and fruit desserts, alongside wines, beers, cocktails and soft drinks.
Situated within Falmouth Harbour, Cloggys at the Antigua Yacht Club is one of the best places to watch your favourite sports whilst on holiday in Antigua. This sports bar/restaurant shows many major international sporting events and offers a comprehensive menu made up of international dishes featuring everything from salads and sushi to steaks, seafood and even full English breakfasts served at lunchtime. The prestigious location means that diners can also enjoy sea views.
For a family-friendly restaurant in Antigua, look no further than Putters Bar and Grill. Here you'll find a simple menu consisting of typical Caribbean dishes alongside pub grub-style snacks all of which are very cheap compared to other restaurants nearby. Live entertainment is provided in the form of bands and artists throughout the week, as well as quizzes every Thursday.
Things to do in Antigua in February
Miguel's Holiday Adventure is one of the most relaxing excursions available in Antigua. Available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays between 10am and 3pm, with private tours available at any other time, these excursions include a boat ride over to nearby Prickly Pear Island where you can sunbathe, swim and snorkel all you like. The price of the tour includes a full Caribbean buffet, plus unlimited rum punch, beer and soft drinks. Your guide will be Miguel or his son both of whom are more than happy to answer any questions you have about the island and the locals' culture.
If you want to move away from the sea and explore further inland, consider doing the Fig Tree Drive. You can rent a car and do the drive yourself or ask a local taxi driver to follow the route. Either way, you'll see some tropical rainforest full of mango and breadfruit trees, a pineapple farm and various booths which will give you free samples of the local fruits if you ask. This drive is a great way to see the green part of the island and get a good idea of what Antigua looked like in the 18th century before the sugar plantations took over.
When it comes to stylish beachwear, Caribbikini is one of the best places to buy it. This shop is located in St Johns and sells a wide variety of bikinis, swimming costumes, sandals and flip flops, making it perfect if you happen to forget your swimming gear when packing for your holiday. Caribbikini is found just a short walk away from the cruise ship terminals, next door to another clothes shop which sells fashionable eveningwear.