The Bahamas in July is hot and slow, making it a great time for a trip on a budget. Most people prefer to visit the islands when the humidity is lower and the weather is less rainy. Since July is known for rain and heat, the weather drives the tourists away and the prices down.
To sum it up, July in the Bahamas is a great time to save money on your vacation. July is the beginning of hurricane season and frequent thunder storms which keeps most travelers away. However, diving and fishing are at it’s peak in the Summer, plus costs are lower and crowds are fewer. This means you can do more on a smaller budget in July in the Bahamas.
Looking to book a trip to the Bahamas in July but not sure what to put on your itinerary? We’ve done all the research for you and compiled it into different sections to help you plan.
Bahamas Weather in July
July weather in the Bahamas feels like Summertime in it’s purest form: hot, muggy and rainy. July is the second hottest month of the year and it’s the beginning of hurricane season in the Bahamas. While there are low chances of hurricanes affecting this area, the season does play a big part in the daily weather patterns.
Expect afternoon rain showers, occasional thunderstorms and a possible chance of tropical storms this month. If you plan to visit in July, the weather might have a big impact on your daily activities. One thing you can count on is that the afternoons are likely to be rainy. This means you should plan to do your tours and outings in the morning and be back to shelter by early afternoon.
Dusk through nighttime will usually be clear, so you can get back to the fun around that point. This isn’t necessarily true every single day, but it’s best to plan for your day like this. Daily temperatures will be highs around 89F and lows at 77°F.
July is also part of sea lice season. This means you’ll want to watch weather warnings, as well as beach signage and health advisories. Sea lice are actually jelly fish larvae that travel in groups along the shoreline and can be spotted along the coast. They cause rashes and irritation if they come in contact with your bare skin, so avoid swimming in areas where they’ve gathered.
Bahamas July Weather Cheat Sheet
| Average Low Temperature | 77°F (25°C) |
| Average High Temperature | 89°F (32°C) |
| Average Sea Water Temperature | 84°F (29°C) |
| Humidity | 76% |
| Average Rainfall | 3.1 inches (78.7 mm) |
| Average Days with Rain | 9 days |
| UV Index | 11 (Extreme) |
| Day Length | ~13 hours 20 minutes |
| Sea Conditions | Generally calm to slightly choppy |
| Visibility | Typically good, 8-10 miles |
| Dew Point | ~75°F (24°C) |
| Air Quality Index | Good |
| Likelihood of Hurricanes | Moderate to High |
Bahamas Affordability & Crowds in July
July vacation affordability is pretty favorable in the Bahamas. This is mainly due to the fact that it’s hot and muggy, plus it’s the beginning of hurricane season. If you don’t mind a little daily rain, potential thunder storms and high humidity, this is a great time to save on a trip to the Bahamas.
July is technically still shoulder season in the Bahamas, but it’s the slowest part of shoulder season. This means you’ll still be sharing your vacation with other island visitors, but not nearly as much as you’d see in the early Spring. The down side to visiting this time of year is that some places, tours and hotels may take frequent breaks or take this opportunity to improve their businesses.
On the bright side, though, rates will be fair for travel, transportation and accommodations. Overall, July is a great time of year to plan a spontaneous trip that doesn’t require a lot of prior planning so long as you’re ok with rescheduling certain experiences do to unfavorable weather.
Traveling to the Bahamas in July
Flying to the Bahamas in July is probably the best option for transportation this month. We suggest flying for guaranteed arrival and lower chance of flight cancellation or rescheduling. We also recommend flying because July is a great month to get discounted rates on flights. You can get the best rates by flying to busier airports like Nassau. Smaller jets will cost a bit more but will take you to less populated islands.
Cruises are another great way to get an all-inclusive trip to the Bahamas. You can find discounts on cruises in the Summer and the rates will be fairly decent in July, as well. The pros of taking a cruise include food, drinks and a scheduled itinerary included with your getaway. The cons of cruising is that storms can affect your trip.
Taking a ferryboat is the final suggestion we’d give for visiting the Bahamas. It’s very economical for those who live in Florida and it only takes approximately 2.5 to 4 hours to reach your choice of Nassau, Freeport or Bimini. The ride can be scenic and breezy, but not entertaining or inclusive like a cruise. However, the weather can affect ride cancellations and rescheduling, so this is the most unreliable form of transport in July.
Best Bahamas Islands in July
Paradise Island is one of the most popular islands in the Bahamas to visit. If you want to experience all the grandeur at a lower price, July is a great time to book a room at the famous Atlantis Hotel, the Four Seasons or the Ocean Club on Paradise Island. Plus, you’ll have access to all that New Providence Island has to offer by bridge.
Paradise Island
Paradise Island is the number one destination in the Bahamas and for many good reasons. It’s easily the most family-friendly island in the archipelago, with loads of fun things for kids to do, as well as plenty of adventure and hangouts for adults. It’s located only 15 minutes from Nassau’s downtown, and is easily accessible from the Lynden Pindling International Airport. Cruise ports at Nassau are not too far, either.
You get the best of both worlds when staying on Paradise Island: ritzy resorts in a safe environment with exciting Nassau within close proximity. There’s plenty of lodging to choose from and lots of entertainment, dining and recreational opportunities. Kids will love the water parks, pools and slides at the island’s resorts, and will love the marine habitats for stingrays, turtles, sharks and more.
The beaches here are the cleanest out of all the islands. Cable Beach is the most notable, along with beautiful Cabbage Beach and Cove Beach. The resorts also have pristine pools and play areas for families to enjoy, along with many ways for adults to relax away from the kids. The Atlantis Aquaventure is open for guests, but visitors can also purchase a day pass to experience the river rides, slides and more.
Check out the Crystal Court Shops, Marina Village or the Atlantis Malls for luxury shopping, or play at the 24-hour casino. The Ocean Club’s casino was actually featured in Casino Royale, starring Daniel Craig as James Bond. Paradise Island Golf Course is a tourist favorite; an 18-hole course designed by Dick Wilson with a stunning view of the ocean.
Dining and nightlife are also thrilling on Paradise Island. But if you prefer to tuck away into a quieter atmosphere to end the night, there are a handful of speakeasys, jazz clubs and comedy centers. During the day, you can take the experience up a notch by seeing the Versailles Gardens and French Cloister or shopping at the famous Straw Market in Nassau.
Best Things to Do in the Bahamas in July
July might be hot and rainy in the Bahamas, but it’s a great time to enjoy some of the best Summer activities with fewer visitors on the island. Scuba diving and spearfishing is especially good this time of year, along with swimming and snorkeling with the wildlife. In addition to these great excursions, there’s plenty to do in the Bahamas during your July getaway.
Go Spearfishing
Spearfishing in the Bahamas is at its peak in the month of July. The Bahamas has over 700 islands that are teeming with varieties of fish and crustaceans for your next underwater adventure. Lobster, Grouper, Snapper, Hogfish and Lionfish are among the top targets for spearfishing around the islands.
Spearfishing can be fun, but you should familiarize yourself with the laws before you take off. A guided charter is the best way to ensure you don’t break any rules. Many of the rules pertain to the gear you use, the spear you have and the locations you choose. For instance, spearguns are prohibited in the islands, so divers use Hawaiian slings or pole spears instead.
Scuba diving without a spear is also really fun in July. This month, you’ll have some of the most perfect diving conditions guaranteed. There are also many different sites you can dive including the National Marine Parks, lots of ship wrecks, large blue holes and Caribbean reefs.
Divers who have their own boats can go it alone or at their own pace around the archipelago. If you don’t bring your own boat, book a guide or do a liveaboard tour. Liveaboards will take you to lots of different sites over the course of several days or a week, so this option is often best for those who are strictly looking to dive in the Bahamas.
Tour the Islands
Bus tours are a great option in July to help you avoid the heat while still taking in all the islands have to offer. The tours are a half-day experience that usually treats guests to a full history of Nassau and more. Some of the tours even include food from popular local eateries, which really make the excursion worth it.
Nassau food tours in particular will take you to some of the most popular restaurants on the island, as well as the John Watling’s Distillery for a rum shot to end the day. It can be a bit warm during the day for these walking tours, however, they’re easier to book in July.
The beach buggy tours on Nassau are also a blast for those who need a little more adventure. The buggies for rent can seat up to 6 people for your desired amount of time. You can choose explore the island at your own pace with a small group or you can follow a guide on a tour of different sites like the Queen’s Staircase, Fort Fincastle and other unique attractions.
Finish the night on the water with a luxurious sunset cruise. Many of the cruises set sail from Nassau or Paradise Island and serve a dinner of local delicacies like barbecue ribs, lemon pepper chicken and Bahama Mama cocktails. The night’s not over after watching the sunset; you’ll often be treated to live music or additional bar service before coming back to port.
Fish Inshore and Offshore
Bonefish are one of the top catches in the Bahamas and some anglers will plan to go to these islands specifically for this fish. Bonefish can often be found on the flats and near the mangroves, especially near the Abaco Islands, as well as Andros and off New Providence. Residents often recommend fly fishing as the number one way to catch these, but there are many different ways to land them.
You can bring your own gear and go it alone, but we always recommend booking a pro to get you to the best fishing spots in the islands. A charter captain can also lead you to other fish in season in July, such as Amberjack, Barracuda, Blackfin Tuna, Blue Marlin, Bonita, Grouper, Permit, Shark, and Snapper.
The sportfish like Blackfin Tuna and Blue Marlin require a more extensive fishing trip offshore or deep sea. These trips can last at least half a day, but they are extremely fun for those seeking more of a thrill. Tarpon are also big this season and can be found inshore, swimming through the breakers and through the currents. Both of these experiences are great for bigger groups.
See the Rock Iguanas
Swimming with the pigs on Exuma is one of the top adventures in the Bahamas and it’s well worth it to go in July when fewer people are there. Keep in mind that morning and late afternoon will be the best time to take a tour since they are likely to be sleeping during the heat of the day.
There are lots of boat tours that head out to Exuma for this purpose, along with snorkeling tours that include the pigs in their itinerary. You could also opt to take a small plane, or you can book a cruise that has Exuma on their schedule.
While in Exuma, be sure to check out the endangered Rock Iguanas which feed on vegetation around the Northern parts of the island. They can also be found on Allen Cay, or Iguana Island. The iguanas lay eggs in the Springtime, so July is the perfect time to spot freshly hatched babies exploring the island.
The warm waters in July are also great for swimming with stingrays. Great Harbour Cay in the Berry Islands or the coast of Bimini are the best places to wade in 3-4ft deep water with dozens of Southern stingrays. The Atlantis Stingray Experience is another great experience that puts you in the water with Cownose rays instead of the usual Southern Stingrays. Cownose rays are known for their rounded face and pointed wings.
Shop in Nassau
If you’re looking for a little reprieve, shopping around the Bahamas could be a great way to relax. There are lots of different types of stores and markets to choose from that can accommodate any mood. One of the top recommended places to go is the Nassau Straw Market. It’s been in operation since the 1940’s and sells many locally carved and woven goods.
Most of the shops you’ll want to see are located in Nassau, specifically in the historic district like Bay Street. Bay Street has every kind of store you could imagine and is usually very busy. You might be lucky in July and have an easier time visiting the stores while the island isn’t as full. Festival Place on New Providence Island is another good suggestion, where you can find everything from artisanal creations to edible treats or small keepsakes.
The open air shopping markets are also fun to explore, like Port Lucaya Marketplace in Freeport on Grand Bahama. This huge marketplace has local souvenirs both handmade and mass produced alongside plenty of food and drink spots where you can wind down after shopping. If you’re staying at Atlantis on Paradise Island, Marina Village has a similar vibe with more luxury shops and restaurants.
Rent Water Vehicles
There are some pretty thrilling experiences you can have while exploring the Bahamas coastal areas on the water. Glass Bottom boats are a really fun way to get on the water while also seeing the creatures underneath it. These unique tours are designed to hold around 10-15 people and travel over busy reefs and fish schools so passengers can see marine life through the glass bottom.
Feeling even more adventurous? Get right up close and personal with the marine life by renting a Personal Underwater Subs in Nassau. These underwater vehicles allow you to find sea creatures at your own pace while operating your own submarine. It’s a great alternative to scuba diving, as these vehicles can go up to 40 feet below the surface.
Other rentals are available from local island shops or at your resort. You’ll find anything from snorkel gear, jet skis, and banana boats for rent on the beach. Any one of these rentals can enhance any beach day, especially if you want to spend less on a tour or have limited time in the day.
July Events in the Bahamas
Independence Day
Independence Day is July 10 in the Bahamas, but festivities often start on July 1. It’s typically celebrated with an annual theme which spans across the different parades, festivals and church services held on all the different islands. The country gained independence from British rule in 1973, so 2023 marks 50 full years of freedom.
Junkanoo Summer Festival
The Junkanoo Summer Festival lasts nearly the entire month of July, so visitors can experience this fun and colorful event almost any time they visit. Each weekend a different production, parade and market is held to celebrate the cultural history and modern day island residents. Lots of music, food, dancing and singing makes this a lively Summer event.
Conclusion
July in the Bahamas is a great time of year for planning a vacation on a budget. Fewer people like to come to the islands when there are storms in the forecast and when the weather is at it’s hottest, so prices are quite favorable for those looking to save money. If low rates are a priority for you, July will be one of the best months to visit the Bahamas.
Despite the weather, and potential hurricanes this month, July is the perfect month for fishing charters and scuba diving. Spearfishing is also great this time of year and there are loads of different kinds of fish to go after. Snorkeling can be fun and boating in general is good in July. As long as you go with an expert or keep up with the forecast each day, you can accomplish a lot between weather patterns.
Since you can save on a trip in July, you might as well go to one of the most popular places in the Bahamas: Paradise Island. It’ll be significantly less crowded this month and will usually have better rates than you’ll find in the high season. Everything will still be open and available to visitors here and you won’t have to travel far to experience everything the island has to offer.
If you love the idea of basking in the hot summer sun, diving in tranquil waters, fishing for a great catch and saving money while you’re at it, try going to the Bahamas in July!
This article is part of Roundtript’s series of expert Bahamas travel guides for every month of the year.
 Spring in The Bahamas |  Summer in The Bahamas |  Fall in The Bahamas |  Winter in The Bahamas |
|---|---|---|---|
| March | June | September | December |
| April | July | October | January |
| May | August | November | February |
For a summary of each Switzerland month & season all in one place, check out our big guide to the Best Times of the Year to Visit The Bahamas.
