Kingston in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Kingston

32°C (89°F) High Temp

22°C (71°F) Low Temp

7.6 mm (0.3 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Lower rainfall than peak dry season months with only 7.6 mm (0.3 inches), making outdoor activities more predictable than summer months
Tourist crowds are significantly lighter than December-March peak season, meaning shorter lines at Blue Mountain attractions and better availability at restaurants
Hotel rates drop 20-30% from peak season pricing while weather remains excellent for most activities
Perfect temperature range 22-32°C (71-89°F) for hiking Blue Mountain trails without the oppressive heat of June-August

Considerations

Rain showers become more frequent (10 days) as the wet season approaches, requiring flexible scheduling for outdoor plans
Humidity increases to 70% making midday activities feel more taxing than earlier dry season months
Some mountain roads may experience occasional closures due to increased rainfall and maintenance

Best Activities in April

Blue Mountain Coffee Plantation Tours

April marks the post-harvest processing season when you can see coffee beans being dried and prepared. Cooler morning temperatures 22°C (71°F) make the mountain drives and walking tours comfortable before afternoon heat builds. Tourist groups are smaller than peak season.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through certified plantation operators. Tours typically cost J$4,500-6,500 per person including transportation. Morning tours (8am start) avoid afternoon heat and potential rain showers. Look for tours that include the drying and processing facilities.

Kingston Music Heritage Walking Tours

Perfect weather for exploring Trench Town and downtown music sites before humidity peaks. April coincides with several local music events and sound system sessions. Evening temperatures around 25°C (77°F) are ideal for outdoor venues.

Booking Tip: Book cultural walking tours 5-7 days ahead, typically J$3,000-4,500 per person. Choose tours that start by 9am or after 4pm to avoid midday heat. Look for guides with music industry connections for real feels.

Port Royal Historical Exploration

Sea breezes keep coastal temperatures more comfortable than inland areas during April's warming trend. Lower tourist numbers mean better access to archaeological sites and museums. Morning visits offer the clearest views across Kingston Harbour.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost J$2,500-4,000 including ferry transport. Book 3-5 days ahead. Morning departures (9am) provide best weather conditions and photography light. Combine with underwater city ruins snorkeling for full experience.

Hope Botanical Gardens Nature Walks

April's variable weather creates lush conditions perfect for botanical photography. Early morning visits 7-9am offer comfortable temperatures and active bird watching. Afternoon rain showers keep gardens busy without disrupting morning activities.

Booking Tip: Entry fees J$200-300, guided tours J$1,500-2,500. No advance booking needed for general entry. Private guided tours should be arranged 2-3 days ahead. Bring rain jacket for potential afternoon showers.

Spanish Town Colonial Architecture Tours

Less crowded than peak season, allowing better access to historic buildings and museums. April's moderate rainfall hasn't yet reached levels that affect touring. Comfortable walking weather in early morning and late afternoon.

Booking Tip: Half-day cultural tours cost J$2,000-3,500 per person. Book 3-5 days ahead with certified heritage guides. Start tours by 9am or after 3pm. Look for tours including Old Kings House and Cathedral Church of St. James.

Kingston Harbour Boat Tours

Sea conditions are generally calm with lower wind speeds than winter months. April offers excellent visibility for viewing the Palisadoes and surrounding coastline. Cooler on-water temperatures due to sea breezes provide relief from increasing inland humidity.

Booking Tip: Sunset tours (4-6pm) are most popular, typically J$3,500-5,000 per person. Book 5-7 days ahead during April as demand increases. Choose operators with covered boats due to UV index of 8. Half-day fishing charters available J$8,000-12,000.

April Events & Festivals

Mid April

Jamaica Food and Drink Festival

Multi-day celebration featuring local chefs, rum tastings, and traditional Jamaican cuisine. April timing takes advantage of comfortable evening temperatures for outdoor food events and cooking demonstrations.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - afternoon showers occur 10 days during April and last 15-30 minutes

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 with minimal cloud cover most days

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid synthetic materials in 70% humidity conditions

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - occasional wet surfaces from increased rainfall

Light layers for temperature variation from 22°C (71°F) morning to 32°C (89°F) afternoon

Insect repellent with DEET - April rainfall increases mosquito activity in some areas

Quick-dry clothing for outdoor activities - higher humidity takes longer for clothes to dry

Portable phone charger - humidity can drain batteries faster than usual

Reusable water bottle - staying hydrated is crucial with increasing temperatures and humidity

Light sweater for air-conditioned spaces and evening mountain visits where temperatures drop significantly

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations in New Kingston business district rather than tourist zones - rates are 25-35% lower in April as business travel slows, but you're still central to attractions

Schedule mountain activities for 7am-10am when temperatures are coolest and before afternoon clouds build up - locals avoid Blue Mountain hiking after 11am in April

Use route taxis (shared minibuses) for authentic local transport at J$200-400 per ride instead of expensive tourist shuttles - April's moderate weather makes this more comfortable than peak heat months

Visit Devon House for ice cream during 3-5pm when afternoon showers are most likely - the covered outdoor seating areas provide perfect shelter while still enjoying the garden atmosphere

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities for midday (11am-2pm) when humidity feels oppressive - locals retreat indoors during these hours in April

Packing only summer clothes without considering cool mountain temperatures that can drop to 18°C (64°F) at higher elevations

Not having backup indoor plans for the 10 rainy days - April showers can disrupt inflexible itineraries