best month to visit king island

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Best Time to Visit Kings Island | Know Before You Go

Dealing with long lines, giant crowds, and lots of waiting can affect your long-awaited theme park experience.

In this page, we'll go over the best time to go to visit Kings Island, and why it's the best time to go.

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Best day to visit, best time of day to visit, know about the crowd calendar, best month to visit, worst month to visit.

The best days to visit Kings Island are Tuesday and Wednesday as these are traditionally the least busy days at the park.

Weekdays in general are typically much less crowded and visitors from all over the world plan their trips around the weekend.

Out-of-state visitors usually arrive on Thursdays, stay for the weekend, and then leave on a Monday.

By going to the parks on Monday-Wednesday, you'll be able to avoid most of the crowds that can fill up the park quickly.

This means less waiting in lines, and more experiencing the actual park.

Dealing With Lines

The toughest part about any theme park is dealing with waiting in lines.

You can avoid dealing with this altogether by investing in a Kings Island Fast Lane pass .

A fast lane pass in Kings Island allows you to skip the regular line, and access a faster line to quickly ride your favorite rides rather than waiting in a long line.

After purchasing your pass, you will receive a wristband which will give you access to the 'fast lane lines'.

All that you have to do is show your wristband to the ride operator at the entrance of the ride.

The best time of the day to visit Kings Island is hands down as soon as the park   opens ! Kings Island varies in its opening hours throughout the year.

Normally the park opens at 10 am and closes at 10 pm.  You'll want to double-check   their hours   before visiting the park.

Most theme parks don't fill up until the afternoon rolls around. This gives you a window of opportunity to enjoy the park with less crowds for a few hours. 

A   crowded calendar   is an extremely helpful tool that exists for major theme parks.

The way it works is they use historical data to predict the expected crowd levels for that time of the year. It's even narrowed down by the month, week, and day.

This calendar is color-coded, which makes it very easy for the untrained eye to quickly understand, and use. Essentially orange means extremely packed, and green means it's empty.

Something to note is this Kings Island isn't open every day during the year, and this crowd calendar accurately reflects that.

It comes in handy as it knocks out '2 birds in one stone'. Rather than having to check the Kings Island calendar from the actual site, and then coming to the crowd calendar, you are conveniently able to just check one place.

April - Early May is the best time to visit Kings Island Park, as it is a unique 'dead' period where crowd attendance is low for several weeks. This is the best time to take advantage of riding your favorite rides without dealing with long lines.

July is normally one of the busiest times of the year.

Take one look at the crowd calendar for a Saturday in July, and you'll immediately want to reconsider visiting another month.

A packed park means longer lines, longer wait, and less experience. If you are unable to avoid July, make sure that you visit the park during the weekday.

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Visiting Kings Island in 2024: A Complete Guide

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Amusement parks were a huge part of my childhood, including visits to Kings Island almost every year. No matter where we lived, we’d make the trek to Mason, Ohio, for a day of family fun. While the park has changed since those childhood visits, Kings Island is still one of the best amusement parks in America and home to tons of thrills and family adventures . Keep reading our complete guide to Kings Island to help you plan the perfect family trip this summer.

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What is Kings Island?

King’s Island is a popular amusement park located in Mason, Ohio, northeast of Cincinnati. The amusement park was opened in 1972. The park is owned and operated by Cedar Fair. Kings Island won Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Award for “Best Kid’s Area” from 2001 to 2018. It was also recently named the Park of the Year by the international trade journal Amusement Today at the 2022 Golden Ticket Awards.

Kings Island Updates for 2024

Kings Island has a couple of major park updates for 2024 .

• Camp Snoopy Expansion : Kings Island announced it was expanding its popular kids’ area, Camp Snoopy . The expansion includes Snoopy’s Soap Box Racers, a family-friendly roller coaster, and a new nature-themed play area called Beagle Scout Acres.
• Cedar Fair and Six Flags Merger : Kings Island’s parent company, Cedar Fair, shook up the amusement world with its recent announcement that it was merging with Six Flags . The announcement occurred in November 2023 and is scheduled to finalize in the first half of 2024. The move combines two of the largest theme park operators in North America. For more detailed information, you can read the official press release from Cedar Fair here . It’s a significant change, but it’s unclear yet how this merger will impact park guests during the 2024 season and beyond.

Kings Island Chaperone Policy

Some of the Cedar Fair Parks, including Kings Island, implemented a chaperone policy last season. The policy change was a response to an increased number of incidents within the parks. It is meant to make park visits enjoyable for all guests. Keep the chaperone policy in mind if you are headed to Kings Island with kids or teens. Here is the King’s Island chaperone policy:

“Under this policy, all guests ages 15 years old or younger must be accompanied by a chaperone who is at least 21 years old in order to be admitted to, or remain in, the park after 4:00 p.m. local time to close. The chaperone must present a valid government-issued photo identification with date of birth at ticket entry. One (1) chaperone may accompany no more than ten (10) guests ages 15 or younger per day. In addition, the chaperone must accompany their party during entry, remain inside the park during their visit, and be available by phone throughout their stay. Guests ages 15 years old or younger who are found inside the park unaccompanied by a chaperone will be subject to ejection. This chaperone requirement applies to all Kings Island ticket and season passholders.”

Your Complete Guide to Visiting Kings Island in 2024

We love Kings Island and plan to continue to visit the park each year with our kids. It’s not as short of a drive for us as it is to other Cedar Fair parks, but it’s still worth the trek.

Our Kings Island review below contains helpful information about visiting Kings Island, including ride information, dining, entertainment, shopping, tickets, and much more. We tried to think of everything, but I’m sure we missed a few details. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments, and we will try to answer them. Here is your complete guide to visiting Kings Island in 2024.

Kings Island Opening Day 2024

Kings Island will open to the public on April 20, 2024, and Soak City Water Park will open on May 25, 2024.

Kings Island Rides

One of the highlights of visiting Kings Island, of course, is riding all of the roller coasters and other thrill rides. There are rides at Kings Island for everyone from young children to thrill-seekers to the young at heart. Here’s a look at some of King’s Island’s most popular rides.

Kings Island Roller Coasters

Orion : Orion is one of only seven giga coasters (roller coasters with a height or drop between 300 and 399 feet) in the world. Orion is Kings Island’s tallest, fastest and longest steel roller coaster, reaching speeds up to 91 mph.

The Beast : This rollercoaster is a legend. It opened in 1979 and is still the longest wooden rollercoaster in the world. If you hate waiting in line for hours for what seems like 30 seconds of thrills, then The Beast is for you. The ride lasts four minutes.

The Racer : Always a family favorite, the Racer lets you race around the track side-by-side against park guests in another coaster car. The Racer also once appeared in an episode of The Brady Bunch.

Invertigo : Invertigo is truly an experience as one of the few face-to-face inverted coasters in the world.

Flight of Fear : Take a break from the summer heat to ride this thrilling indoor steel roller coaster.

Diamondback : Diamondback is among the tallest and fastest rides at Kings Island. Also, its open-air seats give you a birds-eye view of all of the action along the way.

Banshee : Another record-breaker, The Banshee is the world’s longest steel inverted roller coaster.

Backlot Stunt Coaster : Think stunt driver simulation, and you get the Backlot Stunt Coaster.

Mystic Timbers : Another wooden rollercoaster full of twists, turns, and drops.

Adventure Express : For less adventurous coaster fans, the Adventure Express offers thrills and fun without the big drops and endless loops.

The Bat : The Bat is a suspension coaster that leaves you swinging under the track the whole ride.

Other Notable Kings Island Rides

Roller coasters rule the skies at Kings Island, but they aren’t the only rides worth checking out. The Park features several other thrill rides that are worth checking out during your next visit.

• Congo Falls
• K.I. & Miami Valley Railroad
• Shake, Rattle & Roll
• Viking Fury
• White Water Canyon

Kings Island Kids & Family Rides

The park offers other rides to make your next trip to Kings Island a special one for kids and families. The park features specific areas geared toward kids and families. Some notable family-friendly rides include:

• Boo Blasters on Boo Hill
• Grand Carousel
• Kings Mills Antique Autos
• Race For Your Life Charlie Brown
• Character Carousel
• Charlie Brown’s Wind Up Joe Cool’s Dodgem School
• Kite Eating Tree
• Linus’ Launcher
• Peanuts 500
• Peanuts Off-Road Rally
• Snoopy’s Junction
• Snoopy vs. Red Baron
• Snoopy’s Space Buggies
• Woodstock Gliders
• Woodstock Whirlybirds

The Eiffel Tower

No trip to Kings Island is complete without a trip up the Eiffel Tower. The Kings Island version is a one-third-scale replica of the one in Paris and stands 314 feet tall. Towards the top is an observation tower providing stunning views of the entire park and surrounding area.

Soak City Water Park

Soak City is the water park attached to Kings Island. Admission to Soak City is included with your Kings Island ticket. The water park features wave pools, a lazy river, swimming areas, splash stations, a bodyboarding wave simulator, and countless water slides. For an extra charge, you can rent a cabana at Soak City for added comfort during your visit.

Kings Island Ride Restrictions

Like most amusement parks, Kings Island has ride policies and restrictions in place to protect all of its guests, including height, weight, health, and other restrictions. Always familiarize yourself with park restrictions before visiting.

Accessibility at Kings Island

Kings Island prides itself in creating a fun experience for everyone who visits the park, including guests with disabilities. King’s Island’s website contains a complete accessibility guide for guests with disabilities who visit the park including:

• Tips for guests with Autism
• Boarding Pass program
• Wheelchairs
• Assistive listening
• American Sign Language interpreting
• Service animals
• Casts and braces
• Prosthetic devices and amputations

Be sure to stop by guest services at the front of the park upon arrival to get assistance, ask questions, and receive a guide to help you during your visit.

Dining at Kings Island

Just because Kings Island is an amusement park doesn’t mean you should expect the worst when it comes to park dining options. The park offers dining options for everyone, including individuals with specific dietary needs .

Kings Island Dining Plans

Dining plans are a great way for families and individuals to save money when visiting Kings Island. The park offers single-meal and all-day dining plans. All-day plans come with an entree and a side at select park restaurants, with only a 90-minute waiting period between meals. Here’s the pricing for Kings Island’s dining plans:

All Day Dining : $33.99

All Day Dining Premium : $45.99

All Season Dining Plan 2024 : From $109

Season Pass Drink Plan Add-On: $34.99

Season Pass Drink Plan+ Add-On: $49.99

All Season Souvenir Bottle : $34.99

Souvenir Bottle or Drink Wristband : $18.99

Single Meal Deal : $17.99

Kings Island Restaurants

While it’s not fine dining, it’s also not carnival food either. Sometimes amusement park dining means inferior food. Kings Island  and Soak City offer a variety of dining choices, including several well-known national and regional chains:

• Auntie Anne’s
• Calypso Coolers
• Chicken Shack
• Coconut Cove Bar
• Coconut Cove Cafe
• Coke Marketplace
• Coney Bar-B-Que
• Coney Treats
• Enrique’s
• Freestyle Cafe
• Graeter’s Ice Cream
• Grain & Grill
• Ice Scream Zone
• Island Smokehouse
• JukeBox Diner
• LaRosa’s Pizzeria
• Meteor Canteen
• Miami River Brewhouse
• Outpost Frozen Cocktails
• Panda Express
• Planet Snoopy Grill
• Planet Snoopy Ice Cream
• Potato Works
• Ralph’s Ice Cream
• Rivertown Funnel Cake
• Skyline Chili
• Snoopy Snow Cone
• Snoopy Treats
• The French Corner
• The Mercado
• Tom & Chee
• World’s Greatest Funnel Cakes

Blue Ice Cream

Nothing captures the playfulness, fun, and history of Kings Island more than the park’s blue ice cream. Now, during my childhood, it was called Smurf ice cream. It’s what I still call it as it rightly should be. For even older park fans, it’s known as Huckleberry Hound ice cream.

Blue soft-serve ice cream has been a part of King Island since 1982. There was a brief stint in 1992 when Kings Island stopped serving it, but it quickly returned before a fan revolt ensued.

It’s not a stretch, at least for me, to say getting blue ice cream is almost worth the price of admission.

Can You Bring Food Into Kings Island?

Unfortunately, outside food and drinks aren’t permitted in Kings Island and Soak City Water Park. The park makes exceptions for individuals with special dietary needs, like food allergies and baby food and formula.

Entertainment at Kings Island

Kings Island isn’t just amusement park rides. The park offers guests several other entertainment options. King’s Island’s shows and other entertainers provide a nice break from the twists and turns of a roller coaster and a chance to sit in the A/C on a hot summer day. From singing groups to fireworks on select nights, Kings Island delivers. Entertainment options have not been announced yet for the 2024 season. We’ll update this section when new information is released.

You can find a schedule of the park’s entertainment options available during your visit in the Kings Island Mobile App.

Kings Island Events

Kings Island has yet to release details on its lineup of special events for the 2024 season. We will update event info as soon as it’s released. The list of 2023 Kings Island events gives you an idea of the type of events you can expect to see at Kings Island this season.

• Halloween Haunt : TBD
• Tricks and Treats Fall Fest : TBD
• WinterFest : TBD
• Fourth of July Celebration: July 4
• Grand Carnivale : July 20 – August 4

Shopping at Kings Island

I begged my parents to buy me souvenirs almost every visit to Kings Island while growing up. I don’t remember if I ever wore them down enough to say yes to my requests, but there are plenty of places for you to get your shopping fix at Kings Island. You can find souvenir shops and other shops scattered throughout the park.

Kings Island Cashless System

Like other Cedar Fair parks, Kings Island operates on a cashless system. Instead of cash, park guests will need to use debit cards, credit cards, or digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. For those who don’t have a card or digital wallet, you can convert cash to a prepaid debit card at Cash-to-Card Kiosks located within the park. Prepaid debit cards from the kiosk require a $5 minimum deposit, and you can add up to $500 to a card. One thing to keep in mind if you choose this option is that you could end up paying fees if you don’t use the card regularly. After 92 days of inactivity, you’ll get charged a $3.95 inactivity fee each month.

Kings Island Park Hours

Kings Island hours vary throughout the season. The amusement park typically opens at 10 AM or 11 AM and is open until either 8 PM or 10 PM, while Soak City normally closes at 7 PM.

How to Buy Kings Island Tickets

Kings Island tickets are available for purchase online or in person at the park. AAA members can purchase discount tickets through the motorist club. You can also find discount tickets at regional retailers like:

Kings Island typically offers several ticket options for individuals and families. Below are the current ticket options and prices for Kings Island tickets in 2024. Ticket prices frequently change, so always check the Kings Island website for the latest ticket pricing and information. Pricing does not include t axes and fees. We will add additional ticket information once Kings Island adds other ticket options.

• Good Any Day Ticket: from $44.99
• Grand Carnivale Bundles: TBD
• Funday Bundle: From $64.99
• Two-Day Ticket: $89.99
• Military Ticket: $39.99
• Bring-A-Friend Ticket: $34.99
• After 4 PM Ticket: $34.99

Kings Island Season Passes 2024

Another way to save money, especially if you plan on visiting Kings Island multiple times during the season is to purchase Kings Island season passes .  The park recently revamped its season ticket options. In 2024, there are three primary pass options — the Silver Pass, Gold Pass, and Prestige Pass. Also, you can purchase the All Park Passport add-on to receive unlimited admission to all Cedar Fair Parks. Here is the current pricing for Kings Island season passes in 2024.

• 2024 Silver Pass: $110
• 2024 Gold Pass : $145
• 2024 Prestige Pass : $350
• 2024 All Park Passport: $100
• 2 024 All Park Passport Plus: $125

Kings Island Pass Perks

Kings Island season passholders are automatically enrolled in the park’s new loyalty rewards program — Pass Perks. To access your rewards, you must register and opt-in to receive emails from Kings Island. There’s nothing you need to do to earn perks. Throughout the season, Kings Island will reward you with various perks like free park treats, discounts, and in-park experiences.

Kings Island Fast Lane Passes

If you love thrill rides but hate waiting in line, you can purchase Fast Lane passes. With Fast Lane passes you can skip the regular ride queues on many of the park’s most popular attractions.  Kings Island hasn’t released the list of Fast Lane rides for 2024. Last season, the list included the following rides:

• Adventure Express
• Backlot Stunt Coaster
• Boo Blasters On Boo Hill
• Diamondback
• Eiffel Tower
• Flight of Fear
• Flying Ace Aerial Chase
• Mystic Timbers
• Race for Your Life Charlie Brown
• Rendezvous Run
• Thunder Falls
• Tropical Plunge

2024 Fast Lane Prices

• Fast Lane Pass : From $85
• Season Pass Fast Lane Pass (Home Park) : $799
• Season Pass Fast Lane Pass (All Parks) : $999

Kings Island FunPix

Kings Island also offers FunPix, a pass that gets you digital downloads of all photos of you taken around the park, including by photographers at the front of the park and photos from various park rides.

• Single Day FunPix : $27.99
• All Season FunPix : $56.99

Kings Island Rentals

Renting strollers and wheelchairs at kings island.

Strollers and wheelchairs are available to rent during your visit to Kings Island. While you can rent strollers and wheelchairs in person, supplies are limited and are first come, first serve. This season, Kings Island offers a way to rent strollers and wheelchairs online, which ensures a rental is reserved during your park day.

Kings Island Rental Prices

• Single Stroller Rental : $17
• Double Stroller Rental : $22
• Manual Wheelchair Rental : $25
• Electric Wheelchair with Canopy Rental : $65

Renting Lockers at Kings Island

Lockers are available throughout Kings Island and Soak City for storage. A small fee is charged to rent a locker. Kings Island prohibits bags, food and drinks, and sunglasses on some of its rides. In those instances, you’ll either need to store the items in a locker or leave them with a non-rider. Cash and credit cards are accepted at all lockers.

Season Pass locker rentals are available for season ticket holders for $170.

Kings Island Cabana Rentals

A great way to relax at Kings Island is to rent a cabana at Soak City. Kings Island offers two options:

Tidal Wave Bay Cabana : From $265

Breakers Bay Cabana : From $155

Kings Island VIP Experiences

Kings Island has added some VIP experiences for an added cost. The VIP Lounge is an add-on experience that features grab-and-go snacks, shaded lounge seating, and other premium amenities. In the past, the park offered an All Access VIP Experience which includes VIP Lounge access, a 2-hour behind-the-scenes guided park tour, parking and more. It’s unclear if this experience will return in 2024.

• Kings Island VIP Lounge : $39.99

Directions To Kings Island

Kings Island is located at 6300 Kings Island Drive, Kings Island, OH 45034.

For visitors traveling by air, the closest major airport is Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, located less than an hour from the park.

Parking at Kings Island 2024

Parking passes are available to purchase in advance online when ordering tickets, or you can pay for parking at the front gate.

Single-day parking at Kings Island costs $30 per vehicle. Kings Island allows you to leave the parking lot and return later as long as you show your original receipt of purchase for that day. Kings Island Preferred parking is $40 per day. You can purchase advance parking passes online at visitkingsisland.com.

Where to Stay At Kings Island

Kings Island opened a new luxury outdoor resort last year called Kings Island Camp Cedar. The property features luxury cottages and an RV park. Camp Cedar is located less than a mile from Kings Island.

Other Hotels Near Kings Island

There are plenty of local accommodations near Kings Island for guests planning an overnight stay near the park.

• Comfort Suites Mason
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Cincinnati – Mason
• Hilton Garden Inn Cincinnati Mason
• Super 8 Mason
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Cincinnati Mason
• Residence Inn by Marriott Cincinnati Northeast/Mason
• Tru by Hilton Mason Kings Island
• Baymont by Wyndham Mason
• Hampton Inn Cincinnati-Kings Island
• Courtyard by Marriott Cincinnati Mason
• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Dayton South

Kings Island Mobile App

The Kings Island mobile app is a great tool for navigating the park and accessing park tickets. Available for iOS and Android, the app includes mobile food ordering, a parking lot car finder, a park map, ride wait times, and access to special park offers.

Kings Island Mobile App – App Store Download

Kings Island Mobile App – Play Store Download

Kings Island FAQs

Does kings island offer rainchecks.

Kings Island doesn’t offer refunds or rainchecks in the event of inclimate weather. The park may close down some rides during hazardous weather conditions.

Can I bring outside food into Kings Island?

No outside food or beverages are permitted inside the park except for those for individuals with special dietary needs, including food allergies and food and formula for babies.

Does Kings Island have special pricing for non-riders?

There is no discount for non-riders at Kings Island.

Does Kings Island offer discounts for military members?

Yes, Kings Island has special discounted tickets available for members of the U.S. military.

What age gets in free at Kings Island?

Children under the age of three do not require a ticket at Kings Island.

Does Kings Island have height restrictions?

There are some height and other restrictions for certain rides at Kings Island. Check the Kings Island website before visiting for specific guidelines.

Can I rent a locker at Kings Island?

Lockers are available to rent (for a small fee) in various areas of the park to store your belongings safely. Season Pass lockers are also available for Kings Island season pass holders.

Can I rent a wheelchair at Kings Island?

Wheelchairs and electronic convenience vehicles (ECV) are available to rent online through Kings Island’s website .

Can I rent a stroller at Kings Island?

Strollers are available to rent online through King Island’s website. Options include single and double strollers. A limited number of strollers may also be available for rent in person at Guest Services.

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Kevin Payne is a travel and personal finance writer, contributing to publications like Forbes Advisor, Bankrate, Fortune Recommends, Fox Money, Matador Network, Newsweek, Time, and USA Today. He founded the award-winning site Family Money Adventure, where he explores the intersection of finance and travel. Kevin also hosts the Family Money Adventure Show podcast.

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Trip Ideas & Culture Guides

Everything you need to know about visiting kings island this year.

This year, Kings Island kicks off its 2024 season on April 20. We want to help you make the most of your visit! Whether you’re a season gold pass holder or a first-timer, this list covers everything you need to know before visiting Kings Island amusement park, including park hours, location, helpful tips, what’s new at the park, and more. Here’s to thrill rides and fun in the sun at Kings Island! 

Kings Island FAQs

Explore answers to the most common questions about Kings Island:

• Where is Kings Island located? 6300 Kings Island Drive, Kings Island, OH 45034 Kings Island is located in Mason, Ohio in the Northeast part of the Cincy Region. The park is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Cincinnati. 
• Are there hotels & places to stay near Kings Island? Yes! Check out hotels in North Cincy or b undle your hotel and Kings Island tickets and save!
• How much are tickets to Kings Island? $35-$109; Kids under 3 are FREE! Buy Kings Island tickets online
• What time does the park open and close? T he park is typically open from Friday-Sunday, 10:00 a.m. - 7/9:00 p.m. Daily hours begin May 15, 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Check the Kings Island website for the most up-to-date hour information.  
• What happens if it rains? There are no refunds for rainy days. Pass the time at one of the park's indoor shows or restaurants!
• Does Kings Island accept cash? Kings Island is cashless. Cash-to-Card kiosks are available throughout the park. 
• Where can I store my stuff while I’m at Kings Island? You can rent storage lockers inside the main gate. *You will need one if you plan on riding the thrill rides Banshee, Orion, and Mystic Timbers. You can pay one flat rate of $5 per day and transfer the locker location as needed.
• What is the policy on alcohol at Kings Island? Guests must be 21 years of age to purchase, possess or consume alcoholic beverages at Kings Island. A valid ID is required and you are not permitted to bring your own beverage into the park. 
• Can I rent a stroller or wheelchair? Yes. You can rent strollers and wheelchairs inside the main gate.
• Can I re-enter the park if I have to leave?  Yes! Just be sure to request a re-entry ticket at the Front Gate or Soak City exit. 
• Can I bring my own food inside the park? Outside food and drink are not allowed at Kings Island. Come hungry to Kings Island and enjoy your favorite Cincy restaurants like Skyline LaRosa's Pizza, and Graeter's Ice Cream. You’ll also find classic amusement park favorites like hamburgers, hotdogs, funnel cakes, deli sandwiches, and more. 

Helpful tips to make the most out of your visit to Kings Island amusement park

1. don’t forget where you parked.

Take a photo of where you park or take a note on your phone. The last thing you want to do after spending all day at an amusement park is wander around looking for your car. Pro-tip: the Kings Island app includes the option to log your exact location when you park!

2. Buy Kings Island tickets online to save money

The best prices for admission to Kings Island can be found online! The ordering process online is quick and easy. You can also purchase a dining and drink package online before you visit. This helps save time and money. After making your purchase, simply download and print your tickets.  Note: Xtreme Skyflyer and various other shows and events require separate admission.

3. Sign up for the Rider Swap Program at Kings Island

If you have little kids in tow you don’t have to miss out on the fun - just sign up for Rider Swap! This program allows one guest to ride while another guest waits with the guest who did not ride. When the ride is finished, the guests swap responsibilities at the exit. For more information or to participate in the Rider Swap program, please visit the Help Center near the Front Gate, the Family Care Center near Planet Snoopy Ice Cream, or Soak City Guest Services. Rider Swap is not available at the water park

4. Little kid fun at Planet Snoopy

Little ones will have a blast at Planet Snoopy at Kings Island. This part of the park features Snoopy-themed rides designed for kiddos. Planet Snoopy also hosts a live show with meet-and-greet opportunities with your Peanuts pals. Don’t miss the famous blue ice cream (blueberry flavor)!

Blue ice cream at Kings Island (photo: @bclaykarla)

5. Take a ride on an authentic steam train 

If your feet need a rest, take the train to the water park. This is a fun activity for young children too. Stops include Rivertown and Soak City. The train is wheelchair accessible. 

6. Take a break from the sun and heat when you need

There are several indoor venues with air conditioning that feature fun and family-friendly shows all summer long. The Miami River Brewhouse is indoors with air conditioning, and a great place to grab lunch. Pop into one of the many shops at Kings Island for a little break. Snoopy Boutique has fun toys for little kids; the Sweet Spot for those with a sweet tooth; the Diamondback Trading Post is packed with unique souvenirs. 

Live entertainment at Kings Island (photo: Kings Island)

7. Stay hydrated at Kings Island

Take advantage of the courtesy cups of water throughout the park and avoid getting dehydrated in the heat. Many of the dining packages include refillable souvenir bottles too. 

8. Take your picture with FunPix

Don’t worry about taking photos with your phone when you’re at Kings Island. There are digital photo locations throughout the park and roaming FunPix photographers. You can purchase a plan online before you visit, at the front gate, or at any FunPix location. Don’t forget to download the Kings Island app to your phone–all your FunPix photos will be stored there! You can download as many digital photos as you want or order prints the same day and receive an awesome discount. 

9. Catch the evening fireworks show at the top of the Eiffel Tower

Starting on May 24, don’t miss the nightly fireworks and drone show at 10 p.m. on International Street at Kings Island. This incredible show features fireworks, fire bursts, laser projections, and more. For the best seat in the house, ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower for the show and an unbelievable view of the park. Pro tip: certain rides will stop running in preparation for this show. 

What’s new at Kings Island this summer? 

Every year you can expect something new at Kings Island!

Camp Snoopy : This park expansion will be part of Planet Snoopy, and feature the below new attractions/elements. 

• Snoopy's Soap Box Racers : A roller coaster that will race both forward and backward along a 672-foot track at speeds of up to 36 MPH.
• Beagle Scout Acres : A new area where kids can run, crawl, play or relax with their families in a shaded, comfortable space. 
• There will also be a new campsite-themed area filled with equipment that makes noise, includes tents to climb through and over, and featuring footprint paths made by Woodstock and his friends. 

Summer in Cincinnati is going to be a blast. See you at Kings Island! 

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A complete travel guide to visiting king island in tasmania..

Growing up on King Island gave me remarkable insight into this charmingly unique place. Even better, working for almost five years at the King Island Airport Cafe allowed me to understand just how special it is. It was during this time that I realised that we as an island lacked a sort of FAQ page. The number of people who would arrive asking for a taxi or why their phone did not work was astounding. Additionally, most people found it hard to see all the best places to visit, and as much as I could tell them till I was blue in the face, they would forget once they drove out. With all this in mind, I decided to write it down myself.

It began with a rant at dinner and my ten (or more) things that people needed to know before coming to King Island. Obviously, way too many travellers did not know some pretty important things. Moreover, it was usually too late to tell them once they got here. After much debate, I worked through the essential things people needed to know. The family went over it, and then finally, I published it on our local community Facebook page for more suggestions and comments. We added a few more details, and I opened it publically to the web and published it on multiple travel pages on Facebook. 

The ‘success’, if you could call it that, drove me to publish two more guides on King Island, the must-see things and must-do things. The same process was applied, but having three separate posts proved difficult. Moreover, it was getting tiresome replying to people who did not realise that the information was spread across three different texts. Therefore, I have decided to write a complete travel guide to King Island! All the information you could need for your trip to King Island, Tasmania , is here!

How to get to King Island.

Unlike the other Bass Strait Island, Flinders Island , there is no passenger ferry to get to King Island. The only way to get here is to fly! Of course, if you have your own boat, that is a different story, but the only regular transport to King Island is by aeroplane. There are three main RPT (regular public transport) companies: Sharp Airlines, Regional Express (REX) and King Island Air. Further, there are also charter companies, which I will list later.

RPT from Tasmania:

Sharp Airlines – flights from Hobart , Launceston and Burnie (Wynyard) airports. 

Regional Express (REX) – flights from Burnie (Wynyard) airport.

RPT from Victoria:

Sharp Airlines – flights from Essendon Airport.

Regional Express (REX) – Flights from Melbourne Tullamarine Aiport.

King Island Air – Flights from Moorabbin Airport. 

Charter companies:

Further, a few charter companies are available that fly to the island. Hiring a charter is an excellent choice if you fly with a large group of people. Depending on where you are flying from, it can be a bit pricey to get to King Island. The companies include:

• Air Adventure
• Southern Airlines
• King Island Surf Charters
• Australian Air Surfaris
• Short Stop Charters
• Southern Golf Getaways

Stay the night, or a few, on King Island.

While there is limited accommodation, it is by no means underwhelming. There is a place to meet all your needs. Choose from a range of accommodation styles, including award-winning retreats. From self-contained to bed & breakfast, you cannot complain about lack of choice. 

For the indulgent traveller, I have listed a few great choices below. All the accommodations on King Island are lovely in their own way, but these will take your trip to the next level. You will find a brief description of each below and the booking website. 

Kittawa Lodge

This award-winning luxury boutique accommodation offers an unparalleled experience on King Island. Perfect for a couple, as the two lodges contain only one bedroom. Choose from six different packages to tailor the experience to your needs. To learn more, click here .

Taraki Lodge

With room to fit four couples or eight people in total, this lodge brings luxury to larger group stays. A Sauna and hot tub await you, with magnificent views over the ocean. If you are looking for a longer-term stay in luxury, this needs to be on your list. To find out more, follow the link here !

Netherby Rocks

Situated just a two-minute drive from the Main Street, this accommodation offers you the best of both worlds; the rugged cost outlook and the closeness to the town. With five bedrooms that lookout on the Southern Ocean, you can’t beat these views for a large group. To book or to find out more, click here .

How to get around King Island.

As stated in things you much know before coming to King Island, there is no public transport or taxi service. Unless you have a vehicle or know a local, hiring a car is best. You have control then of your trip, and it ensures you can explore the richness of King Island. Book with Adam and Anna at the King Island Car Hire, and choose the vehicle to best fit your needs. 

Five things to know before going to King Island.

1. The local’s wave! When driving, you will see other drivers wave at you, usually just with one finger, but still a wave. This is a unique niche that you may find in remote communities. 

2. The weather is unpredictable . This is very important to know. Do not just trust the weather app! Make sure you pack clothes for all four seasons, as the roaring forties can bring them all in one day!

3. Telstra is the only network ! You will not get any reception here if you are Optus or similar. Unless you are looking for a ‘switched off’ holiday, you need to know this one. It may be worth buying a pre-paid Telstra sim for your stay.

4. Shop times . Do not miss out on groceries. Make sure you get to the shops before 6 pm! IGA and Foodworks are located on Main Street in Currie. Additionally, Grassy has a small store available. 

5. Book your restaurants! There are not many restaurants on King Island, so make sure you book! Additionally, most of them are closed Monday and Tuesday.

To continue reading the must-know things for King Island:

10+ things you MUST KNOW before going to Remote KING ISLAND in Tasmania!

Top 5 things to do on king island..

1. Visit the world-renowned King Island Dairy. Relax at a fabulous cheese tasting at the factory before choosing your favourite cheeses to take home! This cannot be missed; you have not experienced King Island without experiencing the cheese!

2. Take a breath at one of the stunning beaches. The beaches here are spectacular. Perfect for a walk, swimming, surfing or fishing. Further, you will usually have the whole beach to yourself! 

3. Taste the Island . Visit the Brewhouse and the Distillery while you are here. The Brewhouse is a world away from the busy city of Currie, nestled in between farmland about 20 minutes drive. The perfect way to spend an afternoon. The King Island Distillery can be found no 2 minutes drive from town on Racecourse Road. Make sure to stop in for a tasting!

4. Watch the local sports . There are three main local sports on King Island. These are AFL football and netball in winter and horse racing in summer! You can also catch some locals surfing at our famous beach Martha Lavinia. 

5. Indulge at Oleada . This small, family-owned and operated restaurant is the perfect place to finish your day. Showcasing as much local produce as possible, you will not find a better meal than this. Be sure to book, as they are usually booked out a week in advance! But do not fear if they are, you can get takeaway too!

To continue reading the must-do things on King Island:

Must Do Things on King Island, Tasmania.

Top 5 must-see things on king island..

1. Check out the tallest lighthouse in the Southern Hemisphere! King Island is not only home to award-winning produce; it is also home to the Cape Wickham Lighthouse, the tallest in the Southern Hemisphere. Established in 1861, it is the perfect backdrop for some memorable photos. 

2. Feel the might of the Roaring Forties at Seal Rocks. Seal Rocks State Reserve is where you can view the strength and power of the Roaring Forties. The jagged cliffs are magnificent to view in all types of weather; just be prepared for the wind!

3. Explore the East Coast from above at the Narracoopa lookout. The lookout is the best view of Sea Elephant Bay and the Jetty, so do not drive past it! Be sure to then take a quick stroll out onto the jetty to get a spectacular view back across the Bay. 

4. The restaurant with no food . Why not indulge yourself with a BBQ, platter or takeaway at the restaurant with no food. This small and distinctive Boat House on the foreshore of the Currie Harbour is the ideal place for group functions or dinners. 

5. Travel south to the Cataraqui Monument and mass grave. Explore King Island’s tragic history of shipwrecks, including the Cataraqui, the worst civil maritime disaster with 399 deaths. 

To continue reading the must-see things on King Island:

These are the Must-See Things on King Island | Tasmania

If you are looking for your next holiday destination, then you can stop looking. King Island offers everything you want and so much more. From its world-famous produce to the surf break, to the community, this place will never let you down. Unwind and breathe in the cleanest air in the world on the beautiful King Island.

Did you enjoy this  travel guide ? Please let us know in the comments below! Do you want to start exploring but have questions on how to start? We are  here to help  with all your  travel  needs! For more inspiration, check out our travel  blogs and vlogs  or the  tips & tricks  section. To keep up to date with our adventures and future travel guides, follow us on  Instagram  and  Facebook , or subscribe to our newsletter! Feel free to send us a message through the  contact page ! We can’t build this  platform  without our readers, so we thank you for your continued support. Stay tuned for many more adventures to come! 

Avalon Stones

Hello! I'm Avalon; a serial gap year taker, co-writer and creator here at yentldoggen.com. I fell in love with traveling at a young age, and after too many years of lockdowns, have finally taken off on the road to start my adventures. However, my passions far outreach just travel and adventure; I hope to be able to use my own knowledge and challenges of travel to inspire people to move out of their comfort zone and into the great world to explore, while also learning about each place along the way!

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48 hours on King Island: what to do, where to go

Cheese is a big feature of any weekend on King Island, but it’s also worth visiting for the great crayfish pies, windswept walks and drinks with the locals

K ing Island may not be the home of day spas and banana lounges, but this windy dot of earth in the middle of Bass Strait – the body of water separating Tasmania from the mainland – is not without its seductions. It’s home to some of the most delicious beef and cheese in Australia, some spectacular beaches, walks and trails, a handful of world-class golf courses under construction, and that all-important holy grail of island holidays: serenity.

You will need to hire a car (there is no public transport on the island), but be sure to engage in the King Island two-fingered wave to other passing vehicles or risk appearing like the tourist that you are.

4pm: King Island golf club Kick off your weekend getaway in the island’s main town, Currie (population 800), with a few pre-sunset drinks at the Boomerang by the Sea restaurant, which has 270-degree ocean views. Then head to the nearby King Island Golf and Bowling Club for dinner, where the restaurant incorporates much of the island’s lauded seafood (including crayfish when available) and produce on its modern Australian menu. Those who truly want to experience island life should head to the King Island Club (it’s like an old-school pub with a bistro) after dinner for a drink.

9am: Harbour Road Cafe Coffee time! Locals are mourning the loss of Renae’s Coffee and Cafe, which was recently lost in a fire, but do not despair – there is a second option for a caffeine hit. Harbour Road Cafe has above-average coffee and you can grab some poached or scrambled eggs for breakfast. Wash it all down with a bottle of Cloud Juice, also known as King Island rainwater, which is the brainchild of mayor Duncan McFie.

McFie isn’t a fan of the local town water, so began selling water “from the cleanest air in the world”, which he now sells locally and overseas. It’s bottled from King Island rainwater and tastes really clean and delicious. You can buy Cloud Juice at the King Island bakery for $2.50 for 375ml bottle; $3.50 for a litre bottle.

10.30am: Seal Rocks Next it’s a 40-minute drive to the beautiful Seal Rocks reserve, which is a rocky cliff face that descends steeply into the roiling Southern Ocean. It is a breathtaking sight. A short walk from the reserve car park takes you to the forest walk (30 minutes return), where you’ll discover the calcified root systems of a 7,000-year-old forest and maybe even spot an echidna.

1.30pm: King Island Bakery Once you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time to head back into Currie for a pie at the bakery. Let’s be clear, however: these are no ordinary pies. The crayfish pie ($14) is made from the island’s prized local shellfish, and while the other pies are also delicious, this is the one to go for.

2pm: King Island museum During the mid to late-19th century, the island was the scene of a number of shipwrecks, as migrant vessels became unstuck by the rocky waters of Bass Strait. King Island became a land of sealers, miners, hunters and finally, when the post-war soldier settlements were established, farmers. You can trace this history at the local museum, which features an entire room of artifacts from the shipwreck Netherby, including the red tartan blanket used to keep the shipwreck survivors warm. The King Island museum is on Lighthouse Street in Currie. Admission: $5 for adults; children $1.

Sunset: penguin parade It’s time to head to the harbour in the township of Grassy to view the little penguins as they waddle in from the sea each evening. Depending on what time of year it is – and when sunset occurs – this could be before or after your dinner.

6pm: King’s Cuisine Local chef Stephen Russell makes great use of the local produce in his meals, and you never know what you’re going to get on any given evening. Choose one of the dishes from the ever-changing blackboard menu, order, sit back and enjoy. Bookings are recommended but not obligatory. Main meals cost between $20 and $35 and make use of the local produce. Think steaks, seafood, and curries.

10am: Cape Wickham drive You’ve probably seen images of the Cape Wickham Lighthouse on the King Island tourist brochures and now it’s time to check it out for yourself. Pick up a picnic lunch in Currie (the local Foodworks does hampers) after your morning coffee and jump in the car for the 40-minute drive up to the north of the island.

You can also stop at some of the beaches along the way (including the impressive Martha Lavinia, where Kelly Slater flies in to surf). The lighthouse, which is the tallest in Australia, is a perfect spot to read a book while enjoying a picnic.

2pm: King Island Dairy Wend your way slowly back towards Currie, but before boarding the afternoon Sunday flight off the island, you have to pay a visit to the King Island Dairy. The next-door fromagerie has a room of King Island cheeses that you can taste, and there are even scorecards and pencils supplied so you can rank each cheese according to flavour. It would be remiss of you to board the plane without a wheel or two in your suitcase, especially considering the cheese is much cheaper than it is on the mainland at close to half the price.

Where to stay

Portside Links Luxury Apartments 255 Grassy Harbour Rd, Grassy Harbour 03 6461 113

Devils Gap Retreat Charles St, Currie‬ 0429 621 180

• All flights leave from Melbourne via Rex airlines . Prices start from $350 return.
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Kings Island Tips and Tricks: How to Have the Best Day Ever

For the perfect combination of thrills, entertainment, and family fun, head to Kings Island in Mason, Ohio.

This world-class theme park boasts more than 100 rides, 36 water slides, and the world’s longest wooden and steel-inverted roller coasters.

Of course, a fun day at an amusement park requires a bit of planning. With these Kings Island tips and tricks, you’ll be all set!

Before You Go

What to bring, at the park.

Everyone knows prepping for a theme park is key. To maximize your time at Kings Island, use this advice before you go.

Buy Your Tickets in Advance

Kings Island is a popular family theme park. As a result, the ride lines aren’t the only lines with lengthy wait times. Ticket lines can be just as long!

To avoid waiting in seemingly never-ending lines before even entering the park, purchase your Kings Island tickets online. On top of skipping the ticket line, you’ll take advantage of great discounts!

Download the Kings Island App

Of the Kings Island tips and tricks on our list, this one is among the most important. The Kings Island app , available for iPhone and Android, is home to a wealth of information pertinent to your visit.

Using the app, visitors can:

• Look up ride wait times
• Use park maps to find their way around
• Remember where they parked using Car Finder
• Take advantage of special food and entertainment discounts

Most guests find the maps and wait times to be the most useful features while at the park.

Download the app before you go!

Know the Height and Weight Restrictions

As with every theme park, Kings Island has specific height and weight restrictions in place for the safety of riders. If traveling with children or those with different physical abilities, look up the height and weight restrictions before you go.

Doing so ensures you know exactly which rides are acceptable and those to avoid during your visit. You can find this information on the app, too.

Remember to look up the height, weight, and age restrictions for the rides and activities at Soak City, too.

Plan to Visit During the Week

If possible, schedule your visit for a weekday. You’ll enjoy fewer crowds and shorter wait times, which means more time on the rides for you!

Although, if this is not possible, arrive at the park early on the weekend and go in when it opens. This allows you to experience as much of the park as possible before the weekend crowds arrive.

Understanding what to bring and pack for your day is a key Kings Island tip. Overpack and you’ll find yourself lugging around the park all day. Bring too little and you’ll find yourself scrambling to buy extra necessities.

Keep our Kings Island tips and tricks in mind when packing for your day at the park.

Wear Appropriate Attire

Choosing the wrong outfit can wreak havoc on your day. It’s recommended that guests dress for the weather forecast and wear comfortable walking shoes.

You’ll be doing a lot of walking all day long, so be prepared! Skip the flip-flops and high-heels and opt for comfortable walking shoes like sneakers.

In addition, if you plan to visit Soak City, the following dress code applies:

• Appropriate swimwear is required. Thongs and transparent clothing are not permitted. We reserve the right to determine the appropriateness of swimwear.
• Guests wearing bathing attire with metal buttons, rivets, zippers, or snaps will not be permitted to ride Paradise Plunge, Pineapple Pipeline, Tropical Twister or Tropical Plunge.
• Footwear is not permitted on Soak City attractions. Aqua socks and aquatic style footwear are permitted on Mondo Monsoon and Zoom Flume.

Do or Don’t Pack Food – Your Choice!

Kings Island does not allow guests to bring outside food or beverages into the park. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t save money and bring your lunch. You will just need to exit the park to eat it.

But don’t worry! You won’t forfeit a full day’s admission by exiting the park. Before you exit, have your hand stamped by the attendant. Upon returning, show this stamp to the staff member at the ticket station.

And, if you need a drink, skip the expensive bottled water and ask for a courtesy cup of water instead. These free cups of water are available wherever you can order food throughout the park.

Budget Accordingly

Unfortunately, many families make the mistake of believing the park admission is the only cost they’ll have for the day. This is far from the truth.

Extra costs at Kings Island can include:

• Food and drinks
• Locker rentals
• Purchasing forgotten necessities (i.e. Sunblock)

As you’re preparing for your day at Kings Island, make sure you budget extra into your day for expected (and unexpected) expenses.

Only Bring the Essentials

It can be tempting to bring everything under the sun to the theme park, especially if visiting as a family. However, packing lightly is key. You don’t want to be carrying a massive bag all throughout the park!

When packing for Kings Island, bring the essentials including:

• Wallet/Purse
• Hat/Sunglasses
• Kids items (if necessary)

A small daypack should do the trick.

Once you arrive at the park, these Kings Island tips and tricks will help you navigate your day for never-ending fun.

Consider Purchasing a Fast Lane Pass

Since Kings Island has more than 100 rides, it’s easy to see why it’s a popular park. With this in mind, wait times can be excessive during peak seasons and days of the week. If you’re a huge thrill ride fan, these lines tend to be the longest no matter when you visit.

By purchasing a Kings Island Fast Lane Pass , you’ll skip past the line and right onto the ride. Kings Island offers different types of passes, including:

Skip the line on 20 rides including Banshee, Diamondback, Vortex, and Drop Tower.

Fast Lane Plus:

Enjoy skipping the line on all Kings Island and Soak City rides, plus unlimited rides on Kings Mills Antique Autos, The Beast, Mystic Timbers, Flight of Fear, Tropical Plunge, Rendezvous Run, Zoom Flume, and Thunder Falls.

This is an additional cost on top of your park admission. The cost can add up quickly when buying passes for an entire family, so budget accordingly.

Head Straight to the Thrills

Those who want a day filled with adrenaline rushes should head right to the biggest and fastest rides first. If you manage to arrive early enough in the day for a rope drop, you can practically walk right onto the best roller coasters if you go there right away!

The longer you wait to ride, the longer the lines will be.

Take Advantage of Lockers

Even if you followed our Kings Island tips and tricks and packed lightly, lockers can still be an advantageous addition to your trip. And, some rides like Banshee require riders to use lockers for all personal belongings due to the nature of the attraction.

Lockers are available to rent for a small fee throughout both Kings Island and Soak City. Lockers are helpful when you get tired of holding your belongings or when everyone in your party wants to ride a particular attraction.

When you need a break from the rides, excess walking, or the weather, go see one of Kings Islands’ shows. From jaw-dropping acrobatics to kids shows featuring Snoopy and Charlie Brown, these shows are wildly entertaining.

Plus, the air conditioning is amazing on a hot summer day!

Use the Boarding Pass Program

If you’re visiting Kings Island with an individual with specific restrictions, take advantage of the Boarding Pass Program.

This program grants guests with mobility restrictions and/or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) access to rides at specified times. Guests can enter the ride using the exit ramp in order to avoid crowds and waiting in the regular queue lines.

To use this program, Kings Island asks visitors to follow these steps:

• Visit Guest Services upon your arrival at the park to express the inability to wait in the regular line and interest in the Boarding Pass Program. Some questions will be asked to ensure the rider has the required physical criteria in order to safely experience rides. From here, a Boarding Pass is issued for the guest in question and up to 3 riding companions.
• In addition to a Boarding Pass, the guest will receive a “Rider Access Form” that lists the rides the guest can safely enjoy.
• The rider (or a member of their party) obtains a boarding time from the ride associate at the Alternate Access Entrance, equivalent to the length of the ride line. The rider can then wait comfortably away from the queue area.
• The guest listed on the Boarding Pass must be present as a rider when a Boarding Pass is being utilized.
• Guests may not accumulate more than one boarding time at a time.

For more information on visiting Kings Island with mobility restrictions, Autism, or other concerns, download the park’s Guest Assistance Guide .

Kings Island Tips and Tricks: Enjoy Your Trip!

With our advice in your back pocket, you’re more than prepared for a thrilling day at Kings Island.

Remember to purchase your tickets in advance to skip the ticket line!

Written by Anne Mercer

2 comments about “Kings Island Tips and Tricks: How to Have the Best Day Ever”

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2024 Kings Island Crowd Calendar

2024 kings island crowd calendar shortest shorter short average long longer longest, kings island wait time statistics.

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Weather and Seasons in King Island

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Best Time To Visit King Island

Worried about tourists flocking or closing hours of King Island while planning your trip? The best time to visit King Island would be a time when you can completely soak in the experience and not worry about such hassles. The weather of King Island is favorable along with the best of activities during this particular time in King Island. If you are thinking about when to go to King Island then, come visit King Island at it's best time where you can make a memorable experience without having to worry about small issues.

King Island Weather in January-June : The highest temperature recorded is 86℉ which would make you want to run to the nearest café to down a glass of chilled drink, but the moderate humidity of 78% makes this an excellent time to visit King Island. This time period sees an average precipitation of 30.43 mm.

King Island Weather in July-August : Temperatures ranging from 36℉ to 59℉ call for delightful afternoon explorations of King Island. Mornings and evening can be a tad difficult to get out owing to the humidity reaching 78% making the weather cooler. Perfect to bank on all that napping! Expect an average precipitation of 56.43 mm.

King Island Weather in September-December : An excellent season to visit King Island, the average temperature falls around 56℉ . The weather is great for outdoors, the air being moderately humid. This is most likely one of the best times to visit King Island and also a tourist high season. The average precipitation recorded around this time is 38.12 mm.

• 20℉ 0℉

Highest temperature in King Island is recorded as 86℉ in March.

Lowest temperature in King Island is recorded as 35.6℉ in July.

Maximum rain recorded in King Island is 1721.45 mm in June.

Months with no rains or lowest rains in King Island is January.

Most humid month in King Island is May.

Least humid month in King Island is February.

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When are the best days to go to kings island

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Kings Island Questions & Answers

I have found Monday's to be the least crowded day. The earlier you go the better!

Avoid Holiday weekends and CG&E day at all costs or be ready to buy a fast pass.

As a rule, Monday's through Thursday tends to be less crowded.

Of course it's Cincy so it can rain whenever.

Hope this helps

Mid-week!!! Tues-thurs are the best but even Mondays & Fridays are better than weekends! Long lines of 1 hr+ on weekends! We've been going for 14 yrs & we always go during the week. Also avoid special days like free military or bring a friend free... People come out of the woodwork for those! Lol enjoy!!

Monday or thursday

I would say weekday for sure Midweek is really the best Tuesday or Wednesday. Weekends get really busy and early too as a lot of locals have passes.

Hard to say in the summertime. Week days will be better than the weekends, though. Expect crowds all summer and also during October weekends due to their great Halloween festival.

I would say week days are the best. I went in May the first weekend and it was a bit crowded

Weekdays if possible to miss the crowd. Try to avoid holiday weekends if you can.

Weekdays. ..Tuesday seems least crowded

Weekdays will be much less crowded. They also have a Mon-Thurs discount in their online ticketing if you plan ahead to definitely do a weekday. If you do go on a weekend, avoid days that have special events. If you can deal with crowds, though, late September and all October weekends can be really fun with the Halloween Weekends event, but plan for further away from the holiday.

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Kings Island crowd calendar

* This crowd level is predicted. All predictions are provided as a guide, you should use your own judgement and contact us if anything seems off. Make sure to check the official opening hours before attending.

Crowd calendar key

Public holidays in june 2024, crowd notes.

Thursday and Wednesday are often the best days to go for shorter queues, while Saturday and Sunday tend to be the busiest. The most popular months are typically December, November and October, while July, June and August are normally quieter. To get the most out of your day we recommend arriving early and leaving late. Make sure to check the live queue times on our site throughout the day to stay ahead of the crowds.

The Best Time To Visit Cancun

A month by month guide.

Updated June 2024 ⋅ Written by Vanessa Howard ⋅ Edited by Laura Schulthies

Welcome to Cancun

On the Caribbean side of the Yucatan Peninsula lies the gorgeous resort town of Cancun, Mexico. This vibrant destination is known for its stunning beaches , nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. Cancun’s proximity to ancient Mayan ruins and other attractions has made it an excellent vacation destination for visitors from all over the world. Cancun’s tropical climate makes it a year-round destination with its warm temperatures. However, it does have distinct dry and wet seasons and fun events and festivities throughout the year. Here is our Cancun month-to-month guide to better help you decide when to visit this tropical paradise!

On the Caribbean side of the Yucatan Peninsula lies the gorgeous resort town of Cancun, Mexico. This vibrant destination is known for its stunning beaches , nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. Cancun’s proximity to ancient Mayan ruins and other attractions has made it an excellent vacation destination for visitors from all over the world.

Cancun’s tropical climate makes it a year-round destination with its warm temperatures. However, it does have distinct dry and wet seasons and fun events and festivities throughout the year. Here is our Cancun month-to-month guide to better help you decide when to visit this tropical paradise!

Cancun in January

January in Cancun means warm and sunny days and cooler nights with little to no rain. Temperatures typically reach a balmy 80°+, making January prime time to hit the beach. You will also find that the water is calm and a vibrant blue, though a little chilly for some. Thanks to cool ocean temperatures, you won’t have to worry about seaweed in Cancun in January.

Visiting Cancun in early January puts you among the Christmas Break visitors who want to soak up the sunshine before returning home to colder weather. You can expect large crowds as this is peak season , and you will also find steep prices at Cancun hotels and Cancun all inclusive resorts .

The biggest festival in Cancun in January is El Dia De Los Reyes or King’s Day. This festival is celebrated on January 6th and marks the 12th day of Christmas. This is when families traditionally exchange presents and eat oval shaped sweet bread.

If you are looking for some fun in the sun you can also attend Luke Bryan’s Crash My Playa Music Festival January 16-20, with featured artists Luke Bryan and Jelly Roll.

Cancun in February

February is a fantastic time to visit Cancun, as you’re between the Christmas and Spring Break crowds. The weather is phenomenal, with bright sunny days and cooler evenings. February can be pretty humid, but the water is cool and refreshing during this month. Seaweed isn’t likely to be a problem in Canun in February. The Caribbean waters are clear, making February optimal for snorkeling and diving.

Keep in mind there are still many tourists in Cancun in February. Make sure you book activities as soon as possible and arrive at the beach early for the best spot because this is still considered peak season.

February in Cancun brings great events. During this month, you can celebrate Candlemas Day (Día de Candelaria), Constitution Day, Valentine’s Day, and the LIV Golf Mayakoba Tournament ! Celebrate Valentine’s Day with friends or your significant other at an amazing beach club, or one of Cancun’s fantastic restaurants . Just make sure you book well in advance because reservations fill up fast!

Constitution Day is the first Monday in February and is a national holiday that commemorates the 1917 approval of the Constitution of Mexico. You can find parades and festivities organized throughout Cancun.

Cancun in March

March brings the Spring Break crowds to the Caribbean, and Cancun is home to some of the largest parties in the world during Spring Break. If you want to avoid crowds, March is not the best month to visit Cancun. Resorts are brimming with college kids having the time of their lives. Huge parties line the beach constantly during this time of the year.

March is a great time to visit Cancun in terms of weather, however, and you can find warm temperatures, low humidity, and about 9 hours of sunshine each day. Daytime temperatures are typically in the low 80s, with nighttime temperatures in the low 70s. As the water temperatures warm during March in Cancun, seaweed will begin to emerge. 

On March 19, 2024, the Spring Equinox takes place. This is the perfect time for a visit to the famous Mayan historical site Chichen Itza! There are plenty of amazing tours of Chichen Itza if you don’t want to explore the Mayan ruins alone.

Cancun in April

April is the beginning of shoulder season in Cancun, which means the crowds start to thin out. While Cancun won’t be completely empty, it’s less packed than in March during Spring Break. You’ll also find that prices drop, making securing reasonable accommodation rates easier.

Cancun in April means amazing weather with hot days and a low chance of rain. With temperatures in the high 80s during the day and dipping into the mid 70s at night, you can enjoy evening strolls on the beach in pure bliss. This is an excellent time of year to hit the beautiful beaches of Cancun as the water is warm and pleasant. However, April in Cancun means you will begin seeing more seaweed on the beaches.  Area attractions won’t have long waits, and there is minimal risk of rain to spoil your Cancun adventures.

Cancun’s Anniversary falls in April and is celebrated with music, exhibits, parades, and other festivities. The deeply sacred Semana Santa , or the Catholic Holy Week of Easter, is also generally celebrated during April. You can expect street decorations, parades, and various religious observances. If you are planning to visit Cancun during the Easter holiday make sure to book accommodations early.

The celebration of El Dia del Nino, or Children’s Day, falls on April 30th. Kids are off school, and there are special discounts at many local Cancun attractions.

  ISLAND LIFE TRAVEL TIP : SEAWEED SEASON IS APRIL TO AUGUST

Since 2008, Sargassum (seaweed) has regularly arrived on the Caribbean coast of Mexico (Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, etc.) from April to August. Many resorts and beaches remove the seaweed from the sand daily, but it can pile up by the water’s edge and be stinky in places where it’s not removed. For this reason, during these months we suggest getting a hotel with a nice pool  area for swimming or spending some time on the islands of  Cozumel  or  Isla Mujeres  which are largely protected from the seaweed.

Cancun in May

May is a truly magical time in Cancun and one of the best times to visit for a unique experience. Not only is the weather perfect, but this is the top time to spot wildlife in the area. At the end of the month, you can watch in awe as nesting sea turtles begin to appear on nearby beaches. This is also when whale sharks start to migrate near Cancun as well. The best way to experience this time of year is by snorkeling. You can usually see these stunning animals in their natural habitat during May, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Keep in mind that s eaweed will begin to be more prevalent in Cancun in May.

May in Cancun is typically one of the hotter months, with daytime temperatures in the 90s. The air is often warm and humid, with nights dipping into the mid 70s.   Keep in mind that some restaurants and local businesses close in May. Visiting Cancun during May is a good choice if you are looking for a slower pace of travel.

While Americans may think Cinco de Mayo is the star of the show in May, celebrations in Mexico are small and few. You might find the occasional bar deal or resort party, but it’s not as big as it is in the United States. Music lovers can head over to nearby Isla Mujeres to relax and listen to music in tropical paradise at Island Fest.

Cancun in June

Cancun hurricane season begins in early June and lasts until early November, with the peak occurring between August and October. The odds of a hurricane hitting Cancun are very low (less than half a dozen hurricanes have hit the Yucatan in the past 40 years), but hurricanes traveling near Cancun can still cause inclement weather. Most days in June are still sunny and beautiful, but there is an increased chance of showers and humidity as summer approaches. June is also when whale shark numbers peak! Make sure to check water visibility because seaweed in Cancun typically peaks in June. Most beachfront hotels and resorts clear the beaches of seaweed daily, but there may still be seaweed in the water. Consider visiting Cozumel , which is largely protected from the seaweed and remains clear. 

June brings warmer temperatures to Cancun, with highs in the mid 90s and lows in the high 70s. Since June also marks the end of the school year, you can find many teenagers celebrating the completion of academics. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, great hotel deals, and a relaxed atmosphere, then June is a great time to visit.

June brings Dia de la Marina , Mexico’s Navy Day, celebrated with parades and fireworks on June 1st. With the water visibility being fantastic in June, this is also a great time to take a Whale Shark tour .

Cancun in July

July is a special time to visit Cancun as this is the month when you can witness baby sea turtles set off for the ocean. It’s an incredible sight to see in person as these little creatures wander towards the water for the first time. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities to get up close and personal with the baby turtles. Otherwise, you can watch from a distance on the beach.

July is low season, and you can get great deals on accommodations and flights. However, if you visit Cancun in July, be prepared for sporadic rain and some hot and humid days. Temperatures are typically in the mid-90s, with lows dipping to the high 70s. Afternoon rains often occur during July as well. The water is at its warmest during this month, but y ou will find seaweed on most beaches in Cancun in July. Beachfront hotels and resorts clear the beaches of seaweed daily, but there may still be seaweed in the water. Consider visiting Cozumel , which is largely protected from the seaweed and remains clear. 

Cancun in August

Cancun is enchanting during August when it comes to wildlife. The warm water brings more sea turtle nesting, whale sharks in pods, and sea turtle babies continue to make their way to the ocean. However, regarding the weather, August isn’t the best month to visit Cancun. August is peak seaweed season in Cancun, and it’s a good idea to avoid the most affected beaches such as Las Perlas, Playa Coral, and Chacmool. Many beachfront hotels and resorts clear the beaches of seaweed daily, but there may still be seaweed in the water. Consider visiting Cozumel , which is largely protected from the seaweed and remains clear. 

August tends to be rainy and unbelievably humid in Cancun, so crowds are sparse during this time of year. That means there is plenty of room at local attractions, resorts, and restaurants. Since August is the low season, prices will be reasonable, but you must confirm that any tours you are considering are running.

Cancun in September

After a long and hot Cancun summer, September is when things begin to cool off. This is your last chance to catch whale sharks, as they will migrate by the end of the month. You are likely to see some sea turtles wandering around, especially down in Akumal . While you will still experience a high volume of seaweed in Cancun in September, the beaches are cleared as often as possible. In fact, beachfront hotels and resorts clear the beaches of seaweed daily, but there may still be seaweed in the water. Consider visiting Cozumel , which is largely protected from the seaweed and remains clear. 

With temperatures dropping into the high 80s during the day and mid 70s at night, the weather is a bit hazy in September. You can find some of the best deals on hotels , all inclusive resorts and tours during this month, as it’s the rainiest month of the year. However, for those looking to visit Cancun without the crowds, September is the prime time to take advantage of these great deals and you should still have some sunny days mixed in there.

Mexican Independence Day is celebrated in September, with festivities beginning in downtown Cancun around September 15. You can expect incredible food, mariachi bands, and tequila in full force while locals celebrate until late. At 11 PM, you can experience El Grito or the call for independence. Fireworks and fun follow this. Mexican Independence Day is September 16 and is commemorated by massive parades.

Cancun in October

Budget travelers will love Cancun in October with cooler weather, few tourists, and inexpensive accommodations. During October, it’s still warm enough to hit the beach and the summer rain showers ease up towards the end of the month. October in Cancun brings an end to the seaweed season, and you will notice that the beaches begin to clear. T he lack of tourists means you can enjoy the white sand beaches, Mayan ruins, and tours without the crowds!

While rain is still present in Cancun in October, the temperatures remain tropical, with highs in the mid 80s and lows in the mid 70s throughout the month. If you plan on visiting Cancun in October, pack a Halloween costume, as there are plenty of spooky festivities to celebrate the holiday. Keep in mind there are very few places to purchase a costume in Cancun.

If you love music, you may want to check out Cancun’s Jazz Festival in late October at the Moon Palace Resort . The festival offers live performances from jazz musicians from around the world.

Cancun in November

The shoulder season returns in November, making it less rainy and bringing more tourists to Cancun than in the previous months. Sunny days return, but crowds are relatively thin before the holiday season brings the masses to the Yucatan. Late November is an ideal beach time and the beaches are clear of seaweed, making this the perfect time to soak up the sun. It also offers the opportunity to visit the ruins and other Cancun attractions without the threat of heat or rain showers.

November brings near perfect weather to Cancun every single day. You will find highs in the low to mid 80s and lows in the low 70s. This also makes November a great time to snorkel, as water visibility is clear.

Travelers are drawn to Cancun in November for the Day of the Dead, or Dia de Los Muertos , celebrated on the 1st and 2nd of November. This unique holiday is when respect is paid to ancestors and those who have passed away. The celebrations include offerings, sugar skulls, and decorating family altars to guide spirits home. These traditional experiences are put on in different parks around town, followed by plenty of parties in the Hotel Zone in true Cancun fashion.

Cancun in December

December brings the true return of Cancun’s high season. While the beginning of December is chill in Cancun, tourists flock to this tropical paradise to escape cold winter temperatures and celebrate the holidays. You can expect crowded resorts, beaches, restaurants, and much warmer weather if you’re coming from the northern United States.

If you dream of celebrating Christmas on the beach in Cancun, book your accommodations and flights in advance, as thousands of others have the same idea. Temperatures are perfect in the low 80s during the day and in the low 70s in the evenings. Seaweed won’t be a problem during December in Cancun, so it’s the ideal time for a sunset stroll on the beach.

Celebrating Christmas in Cancun is such a unique experience. Las Posadas is an annual Christmas festival commemorating the birth of Jesus. This nine-day celebration takes place from December 16 through 24 and includes a nativity procession that represents Mary and Joseph’s journey to find an inn. Local children typically re-enact the journey by walking through the town holding lit candles, and going door to door singing carols!

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For those that have a spirit of adventure, a gourmet desire, or simply see the world through a lens, King Island Tours can take you on an adventure and immerse you into our unique way of our life.

King Island Tour Packages and Travel Deals

Located in bass straight, king island is as spectacular and rugged as you can image.  king island tours will take you on an adventure and immerse you into our unique way of our life. king island tours specialises in group and personalised tours to hand-picked locations where you have the best chance of seeing everything king island has to offer. we have specially designed vehicles to take you where the others can’t. our local tour guides will share their knowledge and love of our island with you. see king island with us. we may take you to the smallest suspended lake in the world, the tallest lighthouse in the southern hemisphere and the tragic wreck site of the cataraqui, australia’s worst-ever peacetime, maritime disaster. our all-inclusive tours include gourmet meals featuring the best of king island's produce and accommodation with ocean views. whichever tour you choose you can be assured there will be a brilliant blend of nature, food, photography and king island lifestyle. not much time try our  one day tour: king island -the hidden experience.

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Here, you live through your senses, you move with the seasons, currents and tides, enjoy fine dining after a big day of exploring..

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Accommodation, custom packages, king island is known as the gourmet island and is a feast to the eyes and your taste buds as its amazing pristine scenery unfolds in front of you., you will have the opportunity to personally meet and chat with the producers of king island produce, dine on king island’s fresh seasonal produce and enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep at the king island wilderness retreat..

Interested to find out more or would like to book with us? Then please

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UPDATE: Reservations no longer required. Check out the Live Crowd Tracker for real-time updates. Summer Season Weekdays (Monday-Thursday) are historically least crowded during the summer season in June, July, and August. Weekends, especially Saturdays, attract more tourists and vacationers. Halloween Haunt The Halloween event tends to be more manageable earlier in the season, especially in September. Sundays and Fridays are least crowded, while Saturdays attract bigger crowds and longer lines. WinterFest November 25 – December 31 (select nights)

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Whether you like to take it easy or would prefer to keep busy, there are plenty of options for everyone on King Island. You certainly can’t see everything in one weekend. To make things easier we’ve asked locals and visitors to share their favourite King Island highlights and have linked them together in the following itineraries. 

These suggestions are all about getting out and exploring as much of the island as possible! You want to get out there and fill your visit with amazing and memorable experiences. This itinerary includes hiking & walking experience, golf and of course surfing.

The Classic Weekend

Time is precious and you only have a couple of days on King Island. You want to make sure that you tick the highlights off your list. We’ve surveyed our visitors over the last few years with the following suggestions encompassing all the experiences they told us we’re top of the list.

Some of our visitors are surprised to learn that you can’t see all of King Island in one day. The south of the island includes some of the best restaurants and the most amazing experiences. There are also plenty of accommodation options down here which means that you could spend your entire visit below 40 degrees south.

Slow down and forget about traffic lights, parking metres and high rise buildings to make way for the relaxed atmosphere of Currie. Here you will find friendly locals, delicious fresh produce to stock up on and infamous crayfish pies.

Just ask a local and they'll tell you this area is pretty special. Beaches galore, natural wonders and ‘that’ golf course. You’ll need to plan your food-stops while you’re touring the north but you’ll find no shortage of jaw-dropping experiences to whet the appetite.

The few residents of Naracoopa claim that their sleepy, east-coast paradise is blessed with a great deal more sunshine than the rest of the island. While other islanders treat this claim with some scepticism, it’s certainly true that Naracoopa is King Island’s only truly coastal settlement and has a wonderfully relaxing ‘seaside town’ feel.

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The Ideal Islands for Each Month of the Year

Figuring out the optimal time to travel to an island can be tricky. “Peak season” often does not mean the best time to go; it just means the most expensive time, based on when school’s out in the countries that send the most vacationers to that island. “Low season” might mean peaceful and lovely, with a brief and pleasantly cooling shower each afternoon, or it might mean that every restaurant and famous site shuts down entirely. In addition to seasonal changes in weather, most islands have limited lodging—which can drive rates to extortionate levels—and some island can get crowds that will overtax the small tourism infrastructure, especially when cruise ships stop there.

We’re here to help—by suggesting a few islands for each month of the year. These are the opportune moments when the destination is at its best yet, in most instances, offers shoulder-season pricing. Craving an island not listed below? Punch its name into the “Destinations” search box at top left; if we’ve got an Insider’s Guide for that island, you can read the best and worst times to go.

Seeking the right island or island-trip-planning specialist for your specific needs? You may ask us here .

January: Madeira, Portugal

This sub-tropical Portuguese island may be small, but it puts on a New Year’s Eve celebration and fireworks show that rivals the ones in Sydney, London, and Rio. (Book early!) Later in the month, the world-class hotels will be far more affordable, yet you can still enjoy virgin laurel forest, panoramic hiking, and great local gastronomy, including the island’s namesake wine.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Portugal , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

January: Mergui Archipelago, Myanmar

With a private yacht at your disposal, the Mergui archipelago is a veritable playground of diving and snorkeling sites full of rare underwater species, mangroves with crystal-clear water, and beaches where the only human footprints will be the ones you leave. In January, the weather is warm and sunny, and the seas are calm.

Ask Wendy  who is the best Myanmar or yacht-charter specialist to plan your specific trip.

January: Raja Ampat, Indonesia

Located where the Pacific currents meet the Indian Ocean, this archipelago is a marine Eden with more than 1,300 species of fish and three-quarters of all the hard corals found in the world. Above the water line, the forested karst islands are home to fantastical creatures such as birds of paradise and tree kangaroos. October through April is Raja Ampat’s dry season; just after the holidays, prices drop considerably.

Ask Wendy  who is the best Indonesia or cruise specialist to plan your specific trip.

February: Isla Palenque, Panama

Isla Palenque is an eco-friendly private-island resort off the Pacific coast of Panama.

A private-island resort off the Pacific coast of Panama, Isla Palenque offers both environmental sustainability and barefoot luxury. Just a 15-minute boat ride from the mainland, it’s easily combined with other parts of Panama or even Costa Rica, and you get seven different beaches, the surrounding Chiriqui National Marine Park, and a jungle full of monkeys and birds. February sees gorgeous weather—and with just eight thatch-roofed casitas and one villa on the 400-acre island, you’ll never encounter crowds.

Ask Wendy  who is the best Panama specialist to plan your specific trip.

February: Venice, Italy

Venice. Photo: Felix_Broennimann/Pixabay

All that is sumptuous and extravagant about Venice is kicked up several notches in February, thanks to Carnevale. A month’s worth of elaborate celebrations—marked by Baroque costumes, masked balls, sinful sweets, and general bacchanalian overindulgence—reach a fever pitch in the “Fat Days” preceding Martedì Grasso (Shrove Tuesday). Carnevale dates vary from year to year but always include at least part of February.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Venice , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

March: Crete, Greece

The island of Spinalonga, Crete, Greece. Photo: Blue Palace Resort and Spa

While many Greek islands go into hibernation in the winter, with resorts and restaurants shuttering for the season, Crete is large enough that it stays vibrant year-round. It’s also Greece’s most southern—and thus warmest—island. Not everything will be open in March, but it’s a great time to get a dose of local culture, and hotel rates are lower than you’ll find later in spring.

Use our questionnaire to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

March: Bermuda

The Reefs, Southampton, Bermuda.

April is when the cruise ships start to arrive for the summer season, letting off up to 4,000 passengers at a time. A month earlier, hotel rates are half their summer peak, temps are in the low 70s (great for golf and tennis, if not bikinis), and there are free tours, lectures, and arts demonstrations all over the island.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Bermuda , and  ask Wendy  who is the best Bermuda specialist to plan your specific trip.

March: Malta and Gozo

Gozo is smaller and more rural than its neighbor Malta.

March sees few of the cruise-ship visitors who arrive daily in Malta come summer. With highs in the mid-60s and a lush green coating on the hills brought out by winter rains, this is a particularly great time of year for countryside walks and cycling on neighboring Gozo, which is smaller and more rural than Malta.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Malta , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

April: The Azores

The Azores are known for breathtaking natural beauty. Photo: Visit the Azores

You won’t find ultra-luxe resorts and 24-hour concierge service in the Azores, but you will find whale- and dolphin-watching (sightings of migrating cetaceans peak in April), breathtaking natural beauty, and locals who are genuinely happy to see tourists at this time of year. For a slower-paced trip, stay just on the main island of São Miguel; if you prefer to see a bit more, base yourself on Faial and take day trips by ferry to Pico and São Jorge.

April: The Maldives

The Maldives. Photo: Cheval Blanc Randheli.

April (after Easter) is when you’ll find a sweet spot of lower hotel rates and ideal weather: Temperatures are consistently in the high 80s year-round, but in April there is almost no rain or wind, so the water is calm for snorkeling and diving.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to The Maldives , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

April: Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is a little-known hiker’s paradise, with trails that bestow views of white-sand beaches and crystalline water on one side, and craggy mountain peaks on the other. But if you go there to walk in summer, you’ll melt. Visit in April instead, when it’s not too crowded, the temperature is pleasant, and the wildflowers are in bloom.

Ask Wendy  who is the best specialist to plan your specific trip.

May: Santorini, Greece

Oia town, on Santorini. Photo: Shutterstock

May weather is warm but not hot, and hotel rates are lower than from mid-June through September. The crowds are less too, which has the added benefit of ensuring the service will be better. During the hectic summer months, when hordes of cruise-ship passengers invade the island, service suffers; you can barely even find an available taxi.

  Use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

May: Capri, Italy

Capri, Amalfi Coast, Italy. Photo: IC Bellagio

Mild spring temperatures make it pleasant to explore this legendary island, which is still in a state of tranquility before the mad crush invades in June. The orange and jasmine flowers in bloom lend wonderful scents and colors; it’s also the time of year for many sailing events, as well as the annual celebration of the island’s Patron Saint San Costanzo.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to the Amalfi Coast , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

May: Corsica, France

Corsica is great for hiking in May. Photo: Philip Haslett

While summer is high season, May and June are hard to beat: The temperatures are a bit lower, the crowds fewer, and the hotels don’t impose minimum-stay requirements. It’s a great time for the hiking, cycling, and canyoning that Corsica is known for—but if you want to spend a lot of time in the water, you’re better off waiting until September.

Ask Wendy who is the best Corsica specialist to plan your specific trip.

May: Oahu, Hawaii

View from the Makapuu Point Lookout, Oahu. Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Mark Kushimi

Oahu’s temps are consistently pleasant year-round (usually between 78 and 82 degrees). The reason May is ideal— except for the Japanese holiday of Golden Week, at the start of the month— is that airfare is less expensive and crowds are fewer.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Oahu , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

Green rice fields on Bali island. Photo: Shutterstock

June has the most reliably pleasant weather in Bali—daytime temps in the 80s and gentle breezes to keep the sun from feeling too hot—and better prices: High-season hotel rates don’t kick in until July.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Bali , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

June: Sri Lanka

Kalpitiya beach, Sri Lanka. Photo: Shutterstock

Sri Lanka’s east coast, stretching from the quiet beaches of Trincomalee to the surf paradise of Arugam Bay, bursts with life this month. Compared to the better-known beaches in the south, those along this coast are more secluded, with a calmer and shallower sea—perfect for whale watching, snorkeling, diving, and fishing. After Easter and before summer vacation, visitors are fewer and the prices are easier on the wallet.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Sri Lanka , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

June: Spitsbergen, Norway

Spitsbergen, the largest island in the Svalbard Archipelago, is one of the world’s best places to see polar bears. While Arctic voyages set sail throughout the summer, going early in the season maximizes your chances of seeing these magnificent animals before the sea ice recedes.

Learn more in our Insider’s Guide to the Arctic , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

June: Mallorca and Menorca, Spain

Find beautiful traditional boathouses, apartments and beaches at Playa Santanyi, located in the south east of Mallorca.Photo: Bespoke Travel Spain and Portugal

Early in the month, you’ll find great weather without the crowds of beachgoers who invade in summertime. Mallorca is a golfer’s dream, with a wide range of hotels, while Menorca is off the typical tourist circuit and ideal for those who want to relax by the sea and enjoy life as the locals do.

Ask Wendy  who is the best Spain specialist to plan your specific trip.

June: Yakushima, Japan

This sub-tropical island, located in the waters just south of Kyushu, is ideal for intrepid travelers: Its mountains and vast forest of ancient cedar trees are crisscrossed by a network of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging ascents. June signals the end of the rainy season, so you’ll find stunning waterfalls along the trails; it’s also when endangered loggerhead sea turtles return to Yakushima’s beaches to nest.

Ask Wendy  who is the best Japan specialist to plan your specific trip.

July: Vanuatu

This Melanesian chain of roughly 80 islands that stretch across 800 miles is a remote and undeveloped paradise. You won’t find five-star resorts, but you will find crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, gorgeous beaches, active volcanoes, and warm and hospitable locals. July and August are a drier, cooler time of year in this tropical island nation.

Ask Wendy  who is the best South Pacific or boat-charter specialist to plan your specific trip.

July: Aeolian Islands, Italy

Italy in July, you say? Isn’t it jam-packed? Not in this chain of islands—some of the most pristine left in Europe—that are just a short sail from Sicily and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in their entirety. While the mainland is mobbed, charter a yacht with a captain who was born on the islands and who can show you beautiful and lush Salina; the jet-setters’ getaway of Panarea; and magnificent Stromboli, where volcanic eruptions frequently light up the night sky.

July: Tahiti

Heiva group dancing contest. Photo: Tahiti Tourism

French Polynesia’s “Heiva” festival falls during July, with the culmination of ceremonies in Papeete, Tahiti, around the 20th. Heiva is a celebration of life and all things Polynesian. The outer islands hold local contests—in everything from outrigger racing to stone carrying and spear throwing, traditional dancing and singing to t ifaifai (quilt) making—and the best go to Tahiti for the main festival. It’s a great time weather-wise as well; the trade winds keep temps in the low 80s and the humidity low.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Tahiti and French Polynesia , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

July: Zanzibar

July is a perfect time to cap off a safari with a few days on Zanzibar’s gorgeous white-sand beaches. It’s one of the island’s driest and sunniest months, with daytime temperatures in the low 80s and not much humidity. Plus, the Great Migration is usually in Tanzania’s northern Serengeti in early July, with the enormous herds of wildebeest and zebra crossing the Mara River into Kenya’s Masai Mara by mid-month.

Ask Wendy  who is the best Zanzibar specialist to plan your specific trip.

August: Faroe Islands, Denmark

There is great hiking on the Faroe Islands, and more sheep than humans. Photo: Tina Thorman

The weather in the Faroe Islands is notoriously dramatic and unpredictable—but your surest chance of warm and sunny days comes in the summer. There is great hiking on the islands, more sheep than there are humans, and a rustic charm and sense of welcome that could have you sharing a home-cooked meal with a local family. Luxury here is not in the bathroom fixtures or the thread count of the sheets, but in the time and space to clear your mind and recenter your soul.

Ask Wendy who is the best Faroe Islands specialist to plan your specific trip.

August: Great Barrier Reef Islands, Australia

Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Photo: Shutterstock

August brings warm weather, good visibility for divers and snorkelers, and calm seas (the wind dies down at the end of July). It’s also the best time to view whales—dwarf minke whales visiting the northern reefs and humpbacks on their annual migration to Antarctica. Every August, Hamilton Island also hosts Race Week, a sailing regatta with festivities on and off the water.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to the Great Barrier Reef , and use our questionnaire to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

August: Madagascar

Ring-tailed lemur, Madagascar

August is deep enough into the dry season that the wildlife viewing is very good (the lush foliage of rainy season makes it hard to see the animals) yet it also precedes the peak season of September and October, when the parks are more crowded (and the weather hotter).

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Madagascar , and use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

August: Ionian Islands, Greece

If August is your only time to travel to Greece and you don’t love crowds, charter a yacht in the Ionians. Many of the smaller islands in this group are accessible only by boat, so you’ll be free of the swarms that plague Santorini and Mykonos this month. Instead, you’ll find a temperate climate, spectacular beaches, lush vegetation, beautiful mountains, and the true flavor of Greece when you disembark from your boat and head into a tiny town for a meal at a local taverna.

September: Ibiza

In September, it’s not nearly as crowded at Ibiza’s beach clubs, restaurants, and nightclubs

Come September, it’s not nearly as crowded at the beach clubs, restaurants, and nightclubs (or on the roads). Rates for hotels and private boating excursions drop, but the weather is still lovely, and it’s warm enough to swim (with ideal air temperatures for hiking and biking as well) right up until the hot spots’ closing parties in early October.

September: Hvar, Croatia

On Hvar in September, it’s still swimsuit season but the party crowds have gone. Photo: Exeter International

It’s still swimsuit season, but the atmosphere is much more laid-back than in July and August, and the travelers are more sophisticated than the summer party crowds. Croatia is known for its excellent wine, and September also coincides with the grape harvest. Later in the month, hotel rates drop.

Ask Wendy  who is the best Croatia specialist to plan your specific trip.

September: San Juan Islands

Lime Kiln Point Lighthouse, Haro Straight, San Juan Islands, Washington. Photo: Shutterstock

The weather in the San Juans (and the Olympic Peninsula) is usually still very nice in September, and there are fewer tourists than you’ll find in July and August. (The best time to see the resident orca whales, though, is June.)

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to the San Juan Islands , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

September: Lofoten Islands, Norway

The village of Reine in Lofoten, Norway. Photo: Shutterstock

In September and October, the crowds are gone, the weather is still pleasant, and the days are long enough to enjoy hiking, kayaking, fishing, and other activities—but with enough darkness that you stand a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

Ask Wendy  who is the best Norway specialist to plan your specific trip.

October: Sicily

The coast of Cefalu, Palermo, in Sicily. Photo: Shutterstock

October is one of the most colorful and flavorful months in Sicily. It is the season of the harvest, which means fresh olives, almonds, chestnuts, wild mushrooms, prickly pears, and carob complement the usual variety of culinary offerings. Air and sea temperatures are still warm and inviting, the ancient cultural sites are bathed in a crisp autumn light, and flights and hotels are less expensive than during the summer..

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Sicily , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

October: The Seychelles

Anse Louis, Seychelles. Photo: Maia Luxury Resort.

October brings calm winds and beautiful temperatures, but it’s not a popular time for Europeans to travel—so rates are lower than usual. It’s also the best month for spotting whale sharks.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to The Seychelles , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

October: Hawaii’s Big Island

Wai’pio Valley Lookout, Big Island, Hawaii.

October is one of the Big Island’s driest months, with daytime temps hovering around 85 degrees.  It’s also a month for deals, given that so few families are traveling.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to the Big Island , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

October: Newfoundland

Berry picking on Fogo Island, Newfoundland.

This month brings out the island’s culinary delights: You’ll find locals foraging for wild berries, delicious food festivals, and restaurants blessed with abundant harvests and the freshest seafood.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Newfoundland , and use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

November: Ambergris Caye, Belize

Ambergris Caye. Photo: Absolute Belize

Before Thanksgiving, hotel rates are at their lowest. The days are hot, but the humidity is dropping, and the evenings are cool and breezy. November 19 is Garifuna Settlement Day and is best spent on mainland Belize in either Dangriga or Hopkins, where the Garifuna people celebrate—with drumming, dancing, and parades—the arrival of their Afro-indigenous ancestors more than 200 years ago.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Belize , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

November: The Galapagos Islands

Blue-footed booby, Galapagos Islands. Photo: Pixabay/Peter Stuart Miller

The Galapagos is a magnet for families with kids during summer and other school vacations; if you’re looking for a quieter time, think November (except Thanksgiving). Blue whales, humpback whales, and whale sharks—the largest fish in the sea, growing up to 40 feet in length and weighing as much as 40,000 pounds—are most likely to be spotted in the Galapagos from June through November.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to the Galapagos , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

November: Papua New Guinea

Milne Bay is home to the most varied scuba diving in Papua New Guinea: Here you’ll find coral structures, exotic creatures hiding in the sandy bottom, and WWII wrecks to explore. The diving in Milne Bay is at its best from November through January, which is the dry season for this part of the country.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Papua New Guinea , and ask Wendy who is the best Papua New Guinea specialist to plan your specific trip.

November: South Georgia Island

King penguins, South Georgia Island. Photo: ExpeditionTrips

A jewel in the Southern Ocean, South Georgia Island will appeal to anyone interested in wildlife, wild places, or the history of Antarctic exploration. The season here runs roughly from late October through early March, but what makes November special—in addition to the king penguins stretching as far as the eye can see—is the plethora of elephant seals and fur seals on shore.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Antarctica Cruises , and  use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

November: St. Barts

Hotel Christopher, St. Barts. Photo: Hotel Christopher

Come November, many resorts, boutiques, and restaurants that closed during the height of hurricane season have reopened, and everything feels fresh and new. The Saint Barth Gourmet Festival also takes place this month, attracting star chefs from France and elsewhere. Plus, hotel and villa rates don’t jump up until mid-December.

Learn more in our Insider’s Guides to St. Barts Beach Vacations and St. Barts Villa Vacations , and use our questionnaire  to be marked as a VIP and get the best possible trip.

December: The Caribbean

Antigua island in the Caribbean. Photo: Shutterstock

From just after Thanksgiving until just before Christmas, you have lovely weather and can enjoy savings of up to 40% off peak-season rates. (Peak season starts just before Christmas and lasts till just after Easter).

Ask Wendy who is the best Caribbean specialist to plan your specific trip.

December: Fiji

A villa overlooking the ocean at the Taveuni Palms Resort in Fiji. Photo: Taveuni Palms

At the start of cyclone season, you’ll find tropical afternoon showers but also great resort deals: free nights, free massages, even free domestic airfares. The Yasawa and Mamanuca islands are your best bet for dry days at this time of year.

Learn more in our  Insider’s Guide to Fiji , and ask Wendy who is the best Fiji specialist to plan your specific trip.

Be a safer, smarter traveler: Sign up for Wendy’s  weekly newsletter  to stay in the know. And read  real travelers’ reviews  of  Wendy’s WOW List  and use it to plan your next trip.

How to Get an Extraordinary Trip: Wendy’s WOW Approach

After 25 years listening to sophisticated travelers tell me their frustrations, I’ve created a system to zap those problems and provide the keys to extraordinary travel: the right fixers, VIP status, the best pricing, and my advice throughout the trip planning. Learn how it works and what you get.

The 2024 WOW List: 96 Top Local Fixers in Countries Worldwide

These are the 86 best local fixers and trip-planning specialists for countries worldwide, based on the latest trip reviews from our highly discerning travelers.

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Best Time to Visit Fiji: Month by Month Breakdown

Fiji is a tropical paradise, and this idyllic archipelago in the South Pacific can be visited any time of the year if you’re looking for hot weather and an escape from the cold.

The country enjoys beautifully warm weather regardless of the season, and it’s a popular place to visit for anyone looking for winter sun. 

Fiji does have a wet and a dry season, but unlike other parts of the Pacific, it’s only rarely hit by cyclones in the worst of the wet season. 

The wet season runs from November to April, and this is when Fiji is hot and humid. You can expect rainfall but it’s often short, although fierce, and it’s a good time to visit for lower prices and quieter tourist spots. 

The best time to visit Fiji is in the dry season, which coincides with winter. This is from May to October, and you can expect beautiful, warm weather, and clear skies. This is also the peak season of course, and prices can be much higher. 

To help you to plan your Pacific getaway, here’s our month by month guide to choosing the best time to visit Fiji. 

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Fiji (Travel Guide)

Table of Contents

January in Fiji

January is the middle of the wet season in Fiji, and that means that it’s also the height of summer. 

Temperatures rise well above 30 degrees Celsius and remain hot even through the night, which can be an uncomfortable experience if you’re not used to dealing with constant humidity. 

January is a popular time though despite the heat because many Europeans or North Americans will visit to escape the cold of winter back home.

It’s also one of the busiest times outside of the dry season because many Australians and New Zealanders visit too, in order to enjoy their Christmas and New Year holidays.

It can be an expensive place to visit in January and it’s not the best time to visit Fiji if you are on a budget.

February in Fiji

February is also the middle of the rainy season, but this is the best time to visit Fiji if you’re looking for a bargain resort getaway. 

The flights to Fiji tend to be much cheaper in February, and because this is low season, the hotel deals can be fantastic.

It’s so much quieter than January but the weather remains the same, with lots of heat and humidity.

You can expect to be caught in frequent rain showers, but generally speaking, these are usually short, although very fierce. Pack the raincoat and umbrella for February. 

February is the best time to visit Fiji if you’re looking to see the waterfalls at their best because the swimming areas and the drops are powerful after heavy rainfall. 

March in Fiji

Just like February, you can expect there to be a lot of rain in March and it’s not the best time to visit Fiji if you’re looking to stay dry. 

This is the rainiest month of the year and it’s also the middle of cyclone season, meaning that if Fiji does get hit by tropical storms it’s likely to happen in March. 

But for budget travelers , the deals on flights and hotels can be a steal compared to the high season.

If you want to experience luxury on a budget, then consider March, and book out a swanky beachside resort or overwater bungalow.

You’ll also find the jungles and forests at their most pristine, as the heavy rainfall ensures that flowers are blooming and the trees and foliage are verdant and beautifully green.

The waterfalls, of course, are easily at their most powerful extent in March too. 

The Yasawas Islands are also a good pick for March because they receive less rainfall than places like Suva or Nadi. 

April in Fiji

April is the last month of the wet season, and it’s a lovely time to be in Fiji if you’re looking to avoid the summer crowds that will soon arrive and enjoy fairly glorious weather too. 

Temperatures are still very hot, and you’ll find it often rises above 30 degrees Celsius in the daytime and still stays high in the night.

The humidity is dropping though as Fiji transitions into winter. 

You’ll still have rain showers in April but these drop off towards the end of the month.

The Yasawas and Mamanucas Islands will have much less rainfall so head here for a lovely tropical getaway.

A beachside resort is a good choice for April as you’ll be able to jump into the ocean to cool off. 

May in Fiji

May is the start of the dry season and it can easily be the best time to visit Fiji.

You’ll avoid the real high season crowds that arrive in June and July and you’ll still have wonderfully gorgeous weather. 

There might be the odd rain shower in May but it’s mostly dry across the islands.

The sun is shining and the temperatures are still hovering around 30 degrees Celsius, which is why this is a great time to explore Fiji. 

Go scuba diving or snorkeling, as the water is still warm and the visibility is already much better than during the rainy season.

Fiji has some of the best coral in the world and one of the largest reefs in the world too.

Head to Vanua Levi for the pick of the snorkeling, or visit Denarau Island to explore the beautiful offshore paradise before the crowds arrive next month. 

June in Fiji

June is the start of the high season because weather-wise this is the best time to visit Fiji. 

The rain is now over and the skies are clear, while the temperatures are starting to drop too.

This is a great time for snorkeling and diving, so head to the tropical idylls of Yasawas or Mamanucas for some world-class underwater views and marine life.

June gets busy in Fiji because in Australia and New Zealand its winter and winter sun-seekers flock to the islands. 

July in Fiji

It’s winter in Fiji in July but that means that it’s a prime time to be exploring.

Everyone else will have the same idea though because this is peak season.

Not only is Fiji packed with winter sun-seekers but it’s the school holidays in Australia and New Zealand too, and for many, it’s the only chance they get to take a vacation.

If you are looking for peace and quiet then July isn’t the best time to visit Fiji.

It’s not a good time if you’re on a budget either because of the prices across the country skyrocket.

You’ll be paying a premium for resorts and paying a lot more for flights too.

It’s a beautiful time weather-wise but if you do go in July be sure to book everything in advance. 

August in Fiji

August can be just as busy as July, especially during school holidays, and August is best avoided if you are looking for a quiet getaway. 

Prices remain high in August, but everywhere in Fiji looks beautiful this time of the year.

You can’t really pick a bad destination in August so try and get off the beaten track if you absolutely have to travel now. 

September in Fiji

September is much quieter than August so try and hold off and visit now instead. 

This is getting towards the end of the dry season but the weather is still perfect. It’s getting hotter and it’s very dry.

This is the best time to visit Fiji if you want to snorkel or dive because the water is incredibly clear.

It’s also manta ray season and you can swim with these beautiful creatures off the coast in the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean.

October in Fiji

October is the last month of the dry season, so make the most of the dry weather and clear skies before the wet season soon begins. 

This is very much a shoulder month and it’s a great time to be in Fiji if you’re looking for a quiet escape.

Visit the Coral Coast or other popular destinations for excellent underwater activities in the clear waters that surround Fiji. 

November in Fiji

November is the start of the rainy season again in Fiji, although it’s more of a transitional month. 

This can actually be the best time to visit Fiji if you want to avoid the summer crowds.

You can still enjoy some great weather because there’s only a spattering of storms and rain clouds throughout the month. 

Prices are cheap after summer and before Christmas so take advantage of the low costs and book into some luxury bargain resorts. 

December in Fiji

Although December is well into the wet season now, and temperatures are high and the humidity is at times unbearable, Fiji experiences a mini high season, especially over Christmas.

Holiday-makers flock here looking for a hot and sunny Christmas or a tropical getaway over the holiday period and prices skyrocket. 

There are lots of rain showers, but actually, the wet weather isn’t too bad in December, which is why Fiji is still so popular a choice.

The warm waters are welcoming for snorkelers and divers and you can book a beachfront resort to enjoy the cool ocean breezes. 

Our Top Recommended Tours:

• Wanderlands Fiji Tour – 8 days
• Fiji Expedition Tour – 9 days
• Fiji Viti Levu Island Experience – 6 days
• Community Development Expedition in Fiji – 14 days

More on Fiji:

• 16 Bucket List Things to do in Fiji
• 9 Adventures You Cannot Miss in Pacific Harbour, Fiji
• Fiji Honeymoon: Ultimate Romance and Adventure Guide
• Cloud 9 Fiji: Is It Worth Visiting?
• 11 Epic Day Trips from Denarau, Fiji
• 10 Epic Things to Do in Taveuni, Fiji (Plus Planning Tips)
• 7 Reasons to Stay at the Koro Sun Resort and Rainforest Spa in Fiji
• 16 Exotic Islands That Are Worth Adding to Your Bucket List

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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Kings Island's Soak City Water Park in Cincinnati, Ohio

Soak City Water Park

With more than 50 water activities, including 36 water slides, Soak City offers entertainment options galore for all ages to experience. Soak City is the premier water park in the Cincinnati area and is included with your Kings Island admission.

Explore Soak City

Slides and Attractions

From the free fall of Tropical Plunge to the splish-splashin' fun of Castaway Cove, the attractions of Soak City Water Park are sure to please every water lover!

Dining and Drinks

Find tempting treats and restaurants throughout the park along with some great places to grab a cold and refreshing drink.

Tickets and Cabanas

Purchase your tickets and make reservations for one of our VIP Cabanas.

Water Park Information

Calendar and Hours

Start planning your fun! Take a look at the park calendar and hours.

Find your way to the fun with point-to-point directions and an interactive map.

Everything you need to know about water park accessibility, appropriate attire, life jackets and more.

A first-timer’s guide to Vancouver Island

May 8, 2024 • 11 min read

Explore stately Victoria (pictured), hike long-distance trails, catch a wave in Tofino and much more besides on Vancouver Island © Aaron Black / Getty Images RFC

Once dismissed as a sleepy retirement home for aging Anglophiles, Vancouver Island has acquired a racier profile in recent years, courtesy of its free-spirited surfing towns, pastoral wineries, community-built biking networks and extravagantly eccentric accommodations.

If you’ve ever spent time fantasizing about “hanging ten” in Tofino , sleeping in spherical treehouses, visiting Canada ’s only commercial tea farm or climbing above the forest canopy on a wooden skywalk, welcome to heaven.

Here's everything you need to know before you visit Vancouver Island for the first time.

When should I go to Vancouver Island?

Most of Vancouver Island has a relatively mild climate. Victoria , in the south, is the balmiest city in Canada, while the nearby Cowichan Valley, famed for its viticulture, is practically Mediterranean. These two areas can be visited year round, although late spring and summer are the driest times. Tofino is another year-round destination with surfing conditions at their best in September and October. The storm-watching season runs from November through February when the winter squalls are spectacular.  

Read more:  A postcard from Vancouver Island: a storm-watching trip in photos

The months of July, August and September enjoy dry, semi-drought conditions, perfect for east and west coast beaches and long-distance hikes such as the West Coast Trail (open May 1 to September 30). Most of the island’s rain falls between mid-October and April. For Mt Washington skiers, the winter season usually runs from early December to early April.

For the best prices, avoid high summer and public holidays (Canada has one every month). Some of the island’s smaller towns – most notably Tofino – can get very crowded during the school summer holidays (July and August), meaning you’ll need to book accommodations months in advance.

How much time should I spend on Vancouver Island?

Short island breaks from Vancouver can be spread over a long weekend, although once you’ve factored in ferry travel, you probably won’t get much further than Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula. To take in additional highlights, such as the Cowichan Valley and Tofino, bank on at least five days. If you’re aiming to visit the island’s wilder north coast and/or indulge in some backcountry adventures, one week is the bare minimum.

How do I get to Vancouver Island?

The only way to get to the island from the mainland is by ferry or airplane. Victoria International Airport has connections to major Canadian cities, plus Seattle in the US. Small planes serve airports in Port Hardy, Campbell River, Tofino and Nanaimo . Harbour Air runs seaplanes between Vancouver and Victoria harbors.  

The main ferry services are run by BC Ferries , which operates vessels between Tsawwassen (Vancouver) and Swartz Bay (for Victoria); Tsawwassen and Duke Point (Nanaimo); and Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) and Departure Bay (Nanaimo). There’s also a smaller central island ferry that runs between Comox and Powell River on the Sunshine Coast. All Vancouver Island ferries carry cars.  

Direct international ferries connect Port Angeles in Washington State , USA, with Victoria. The  Black Ball car ferry runs four times a day in either direction in the summer and twice a day in the winter. The journey lasts 90 minutes. The passenger-only  Victoria Clipper ferry operates daily between Victoria and Seattle, USA.

Is it easy to get around Vancouver Island?

In short, yes. While the island has a relatively scant road network, especially in the north and west, the main highways are in good condition and a car will get you to most places that are of interest to travelers.

The island’s main north-south highway runs between Victoria and Port Hardy – a total distance of 500km (311 miles). It’s called Hwy 1 (the Trans-Canada Highway) between Victoria and Nanaimo and Hwy 19 further north.

Vancouver Island Connector has one daily bus in either direction between Victoria and Tofino, stopping at Nanaimo, Port Alberni and several other towns.  Island Link offers a more comprehensive service running multiple buses between Victoria and Tofino, Victoria and Campbell River, and Campbell River and Port Hardy. Book at least a day in advance. 

There are currently no public trains operating on the island.

Top things to do on Vancouver Island

Surf or storm-watch in tofino.

Abutting the turbulent seas of the Pacific Ocean with a necklace of broad sandy beaches,  Tofino is, inarguably, the best place in Canada to go surfing. From semicircular Cox Bay (host of numerous surfing competitions) to blustery Long Beach inside Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, the swells are legendary – and not just for their wave-riding potential. Backed by a smattering of low-rise accommodations, Tofino has become a popular storm-watching destination in recent decades, with its winter tempests perfectly complementing the elemental surroundings.

Sit down to afternoon tea in Victoria

While Victoria is an increasingly diverse city, it still clings in part to the British traditions of its past, a legacy reflected in its grand legislative building, “royal” museum and local penchant for afternoon tea. The tea ritual prevails in an array of refined cafes and tearooms scattered around town, where fluffy scones and dainty cakes are paired with refreshing cups of orange pekoe sipped from fine china.

The poshest – and also most expensive – place to partake in the repast is the  Fairmont Empress Hotel , where “high tea” (finger sandwiches, homemade pastries and fresh scones) is served in a regal lounge.

Visit a cidery in the Cowichan Valley  

The Cowichan Valley is Vancouver Island’s own Provence, where gentle hills and a warm Mediterranean-like climate provide a fertile environment for vineyards, farm-to-table restaurants and craft drinks. A notable innovator is  Merridale , a craft-cider maker and microdistillery in the farming community of Cobble Hill, whose rustic grounds are speckled with a gnarly orchard and large, gabled barns. Inside, there’s a tasting bar dispatching samples of the fruity booze, a patio bistro serving crusty apple pie and posh yurts for overnight stays.

Feel the full force of nature on the West Coast Trail

Muddy, swampy and slow-going for much of its course, the perennially popular  West Coast Trail is one of Canada’s most celebrated hikes. The 75km (47-mile) trail of ladders, bridges, creek crossings, rock-hopping and beachcombing hugs the Pacific shoreline for most of its course and incorporates large tracts of Indigenous land. You’ll need a permit, camping equipment and between five and seven days to complete it, but despite fickle weather and the ruggedness of the beaches and adjacent forest, the rewards are immense. Book your passage well in advance.      

See one of Canada’s best Indigenous cultural museums in Alert Bay

Head north to Alert Bay on tiny Cormorant Island to see one of the best manifestations of Indigenous culture in Canada. The  U’mista Cultural Centre is a unique museum modeled on a wooden longhouse that displays a vast collection of Kwakwaka'wakw artifacts – including masks, carvings and totems – reclaimed after being confiscated by Canadian authorities in the early 20th century, when potlatch gift-giving ceremonies were prohibited.

Climb above the forest on the Malahat Skywalk

Opened in 2021 and built in collaboration with the Malahat Nation, this novel Skywalk rises like a giant wood-and-glass basket above the forest just off Hwy 1, 30km (19 miles) northwest of Victoria. A 600m-long (1969ft) elevated walkway leads through arbutus forest to the 32m-high (105ft) multi-tiered tower that's been fitted with multiple viewpoints, a bouncy adventure net and a helter-skelter-style slide that’ll shoot you back down to the bottom in 15 seconds.

Looking for more great experiences? Here are our top picks on Vancouver Island  

My favorite thing to do on Vancouver Island  

I’m no daredevil mountain biker, but the extensive and unique trail network around the central-island village of Cumberland is my favorite place for downhill practice (and boy do I need it). The trails were built by a local nonprofit called the  United Riders of Cumberland in the early 2000s with the cooperation of Canadian timber companies. Around the same time, an enterprising group of village residents purchased an adjacent portion of old growth forest to save it from logging and furnished it with walking trails.  

To support the two-wheeled and two-legged tourists, Cumberland’s once downbeat main street of mining-era buildings has sprouted a cool array of independent shops and restaurants. Last time I was in town, I stayed at the  Riding Fool , a friendly hostel with bike rentals available at the adjacent  Dodge City Cycles .

How much money do I need for Vancouver Island?

Prices on the island mostly reflect those of mainland British Columbia (BC) and the rest of Canada. Travelers from the US, Eurozone and the UK may find things slightly cheaper than at home.

How much money you’ll need will depend on the season, your location and your choice of activities. Hit tiny Tofino in the summer for whale-watching and a dinner of baked halibut washed down with a bottle of Muscadet and things could get pricey. But visit nearby Ucluelet in the shoulder season to sample beer in the local brewpub and hike the elemental Wild Pacific Trail for free, and you’ll have some cash left in the coffers.

If you’re just visiting the Victoria area, you can stretch your budget by ditching the car (meaning no parking fees), traveling “walk-on” with the ferry and taking the cheap public bus from the Swartz Bay ferry terminal into Victoria.  

Typical prices:

• Ferry fares for cars/walk-on passengers: from C$50/19.85
• Front-country camping per night: C$20–35
• Backcountry camping: C$5
• Room for two in mid-range hotel: C$180–240
• Kayak rental (two hours): from C$50
• Victoria – Tofino bus ticket: C$73
• Local bus fares: C$2.50
• Coffee: C$3–5
• Fish ‘n’ chips: C$16–22

Are there any wild animals?

There are plenty. Zodiac boats leave direct from Victoria’s Inner Harbour on whale-watching excursions year round. Tofino and Telegraph Cove are also known for their wildlife cruises, and sightings of dolphins, otters and whales are common.  Prince of Whales is the best island operator.

Black bears are present across Vancouver Island and are regularly spotted on popular wooded hikes such as the West Coast and Juan de Fuca trails. There are no grizzly bears on the island itself, but boat trips operated by  Tide Rip run during summer from Telegraph Cove to Knight Inlet on the mainland, where grizzlies are relatively common.

Unbeknownst to many, the island has the highest concentration of cougars in North America.     

What's the bike culture like?

Vancouver Island is one of the most bike-friendly places in Canada. Urban Victoria has a large and growing network of dedicated bike lanes that crisscross the downtown core and complement a wider web of multi-use trails, including the 55km (34-mile) Galloping Goose Trail and the 29km (18-mile) Lochside Trail, both of which are built on top of old railway lines. Further north, the twin surf towns of Tofino and Ucluelet are linked by the newer ʔapsčiik t̓ašii (pronounced “ups-cheek ta-shee”) trail that passes all the best Pacific beaches.  

For off-road action, Cumberland has one of the most comprehensive single-track mountain biking networks in BC, with 170 named trails and a strong reputation among cyclists for its diversity and competitive edge.   

How English is Victoria?

Victoria isn't as English as it used to be, but you can still enjoy several genuine British-style pubs in the BC capital, including such downtown haunts as  The Sticky Wicket (with a cricketing theme), where the menu still lists bangers and mash.

Craigdarroch Castle is a grand neo-Romanesque mansion that once belonged to a British coal baron. It wouldn’t look out of place in the Scottish Highlands.

Fish ‘n’ chips is a local staple, and authentic versions can be procured at the floating food shacks of Fisherman’s Wharf . Afternoon tea is also popular – Murchies Tea & Coffee on Government St does a cheap version.

Look out for games of cricket in Beacon Hill Park in the summer and don’t miss the world-class floral displays at  Butchart Gardens in nearby Brentwood Bay.   

What are the best long-distance hiking trails?

The island has three multiday backcountry hiking trails, all regarded as classics.

The West Coast Trail is world famous and was once used as a rescue route for shipwrecked sailors. It’s open from May to September, and aspiring hikers must book in advance to secure a space.  

The 47km (29-mile) Juan de Fuca Trail is a lesser-known southern extension of the West Coast Trail with no prior reservations necessary.

The newer, more remote 43km (27-mile) North Coast Trail links sandy coves, empty beaches and thick, wind-contorted rainforest via a rough, unkempt path that utilizes sections of boardwalk and cable cars to cross creeks and rivers.

The all-encompassing  Vancouver Island Trail runs south to north from Victoria to Cape Scott, though it still lacks proper signage in some places. See the trail website for details.    

Are there any national parks?

There are two national parks on Vancouver Island: Pacific Rim National Park Reserve , established in 1970, and Gulf Islands National Park Reserve , designated in 2003. The former abuts the stormy west coast between the twin surf towns of Tofino and Ucluelet and is split into three sections: the West Coast Trail (a hiking route), Broken Group Islands (only reachable by boat) and the more accessible Long Beach Unit, where there’s a visitor center and a raft of beach activities.

The Gulf Island National Park Reserve consists of numerous disconnected areas spread across a dozen landfalls on the so-called Gulf Island archipelago between Vancouver and Victoria. Pender and Mayne Islands are the easiest to reach on the public ferry network.  

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12 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit for the Perfect Vacation

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Best for secluded beaches

Turks and caicos.

A British Overseas Territory, Turks and Caicos is an archipelago of 40 islands in the Atlantic Ocean, and it is famed for its stunning shores—but none more so than Grace Bay Beach. Located on the northeast coast of Providenciales and renowned for its pristine white sand and turquoise waters, it's consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world (these are the top beach spots in the United States ) and is the crown jewel of the island. Other notable spots to catch some rays and enjoy the sea are Bright Beach, Smith's Reef and Turtle Cove.

What to do: Ever heard of Seven Mile Beach? It's a reference to the uninterrupted stretch that runs from Leeward Beach (across from Grace Bay Beach, Bright Beach and Smith's Reef) to Turtle Cove and the very reason so many people choose to vacation in Turks and Caicos. Those who love diving will be excited to learn that Turks and Caicos is home to one of the largest barrier reefs in the world (roughly 340 miles of barrier reef surround the islands).

Where to stay: Another major selling point of Turks and Caicos? The resorts. Wymara Resort & Villas sits on the pristine Grace Bay Beach and offers such family-friendly activities as snorkeling excursions, jet skiing and wind surfing, as well as kayaking through the mangrove channels. Indulge in spa treatments at the on-site spa or Caribbean cuisine prepared by award-winning Australian chef Andrew Mirosch. Aside from a luxurious bathrooms and 400 thread count sheets, each room comes with daily breakfast.

Best for Rum enthusiasts

The Caribbean's easternmost island, Barbados is blessed with beautiful beaches and coral reefs (make sure to pack your reef-safe sunscreen ) that line the coast and attract visitors from around the globe with incredible snorkeling and scuba diving. Fun fact: Barbados is the only Caribbean island to have formed from the continental plates colliding rather than by volcano. But many visitors come here with one thing on their mind: Rum. And Barbados is where it all began, making this one of the best Caribbean islands to visit for a fantastic cocktail.

What to do: Mount Gay Rum Distillery became the birthplace of rum in 1703. Here you can tour the facility, try a premium flight of four signature rums or take a cocktail workshop with an award-winning mixologist. When you're ready to take a dip in the sea, calm waters make Bath Beach one of the best for swimming, while Crane Beach is known as one of the most picturesque spots on the island. Adrenaline junkies from around the globe flock to Silver Sands, a gusty outpost on the southern coast, acclaimed for windsurfing. Those looking to escape the sun can venture down into the cave system of Harrison's Cave to see ancient stalactites and stalagmites.

Where to stay: Families can find fun for all ages at Tamarind by Elegant Hotels , a Mediterranean-style all-inclusive resort on the West Coast of Barbados. The property offers an array of Bajan activities, from dialect lessons to beach cricket (Barbados' sport of choice), kids and teens events, as well as unlimited non-motorized sports—snorkeling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

Best for Outdoor adventures

Saint lucia.

From mountains and rainforests to plantations and beaches, the eastern Caribbean island nation of Saint Lucia has a setting for every type of vacationer. This member of the British Commonwealth offers visitors unspoiled and lush scenery, plenty of natural hot springs, waterfalls, diving, beautiful beaches and the iconic Pitons, a pair of pointy mountains on the west coast.

What to do: Adventurers can zipline, hike and explore Gros Piton, the second-highest peak on the island. For animal lovers, there's horseback riding on the beach. History buffs can tour Fort Rodney, built upon a peak located within the Pigeon Island National Landmark, and will be treated to a 360-degree view of the island to boot. Those looking for some R&R can let their stress melt away at Soufriere, a scenic town on the island's west coast that's home to many hot springs and mineral baths.

Where to stay: Luxury-seekers can kick back at one of the island's five-star resorts. Situated on 100 acres of lush rainforest on the site of an 18th-century sugar plantation, Sugar Beach impresses with its picture-perfect views of the majestic UNESCO World Heritage–listed Piton Mountains and the Caribbean Sea. Book a treatment in the Rainforest Spa—there's even a couple's treehouse treatment room built on stilts—or sip a rum cocktail in the poolside cabanas.

Best for white sand beaches

Antigua, located in the Lesser Antilles, encompasses 108 square miles of soft sand and fertile plains. Ringed by coral reefs and cerulean waters, this sun-soaked island is renowned for its expansive coastline and multitude of beaches. There are more than 365, so you could visit a different one each day for an entire year! Coupled with the pleasant climate—cool breezes and low humidity—it's easy to see why Antigua is such a popular tourist destination.

What to do: Looking for the most Instagram-worthy beach on the island? Head to Half Moon Bay on the eastern shore to get those shots. The waves are strong here, so it's best for bodysurfing and boogie boarding and not swimming. Try snorkeling at Galleon Beach in English Harbour or take a long, sandy walk (about a mile) at Jolly Beach.

Where to stay: On the southern part of Antigua is Curtain Bluff , and let's just say there's a reason—well, a few—that it's a mainstay on luxury travel lists. Among them: an unmatched seaside setting, gorgeous gardens and world-class accommodations, complete with marble bathrooms, coffered wood ceilings, oversize soaking tubs and verandas. Those looking to unplug will be pleased to hear rooms do not include TVs.

Best for a quick getaway

Proximity to Miami—it's just a 30-minute flight—makes the Bahamas a convenient escape. But once you arrive, you'll feel as though you're a world away. For starters, the Bahamas isn't one singular island, but 700 isles in the Atlantic. Nassau Paradise Island is a top tourist destination and for good reason: It has 300 days of sunshine a year, water temperatures averaging 80 degrees and beautiful beaches, most notably Paradise Beach on the northern shore.

What to do: There's plenty more to explore beyond Nassau. On the east side of Harbour Island is Pink Sands Beach, a 3-mile swath of soft-pink shoreline punctuated by a handful of private villas and low-rise hotels. The vibe is serene and relaxed and the scenery stunning. While you're there, be sure to savor some local delicacies, like conch. Looking for a wildlife experience you can't get anywhere else? Visit Pig Beach, located on Big Major Cay in Exuma, to swim with a colony of adorable feral pigs.

Where to stay: Those looking for a secluded getaway should consider The Cove Eleuthera , a high-end boutique resort nestled on 45 unspoiled acres. Accommodations include luxury guest rooms, suites, villas and cottages. There are also high-end dining options, a spa and a hilltop infinity pool.

Best for a Multicultural experiences

Saint martin.

Saint Martin comprises two separate countries in the northeast Caribbean Sea and is divided between its northern French side (Saint-Martin) and it's southern Dutch side (Sint Maarten). There's a rumor that it's sunny here 365 days a year. We couldn't quite confirm that with the weather service, but we can say that every day certainly feels sunny when you're relaxing on one of the 37 beaches on this delightful island or taking to the clear, warm ocean to swim, sail, water ski, snorkel or fish. The temperature on the small island averages 80 degrees and never dips much below 70 degrees, even in the middle of winter.

What to do: Orient Bay Beach is the first stop for many Saint Martin visitors thanks to its long coastline and inviting waters. But since it's on the French side of the island, it's worth noting that clothing is optional (the nudity is mostly relegated to the south section). A visit to Loterie Farm, a nature sanctuary on 135 acres, means an afternoon of hiking and zip-lining through the jungle canopy. Leave time for duty-free shopping on Front Street or plan a day out on a catamaran.

Where to stay: Check into the Orient Beach Hotel , the only lodging right on the sugar-white sand of Orient Bay Beach and the perfect location from which to explore the surrounding beaches, restaurants and shops. Along with your comfortable accommodations in one of 35 beachfront suites, beach chairs and umbrellas are complimentary and breakfast is included.

Best for Shore diving and snorkeling

As the lesser-known Dutch Caribbean island off the coast of Venezuela (its cousins are Aruba and Curacao), Bonaire is focused on preserving its natural resources—the land, sea and reef—for generations to come. The Bonaire National Marine Park, founded in 1979, consists of 2,700 hectares of coral reef, seagrass beds and mangroves and is one of the oldest marine reserves in the world. Thanks to this dedicated effort, tourists are treated to a spectacular array of marine life. (If you enjoy underwater adventures, don't miss this list of beaches with the clearest water in the world .)

What to do: Grab a snorkel and some fins (which you can usually rent from a hotel or dive shop) and head straight into the water—this is the best Caribbean island to visit if you don't want to take a boat to a dive site, as 54 of the 85 official dive sites are accessible from shore. Keep your eyes peeled for 57 species of coral and 350 species of fish, including colorful triggerfish, parrotfish, tangs and moray eel, in these clear and warm waters. On land, watch for more than 200 species of birds, explore more than 400 caves or 300 kilometers of biking trails, or try your hand at land sailing on a Blokart, also known as a land yacht. As you drive around the island, be mindful of wild donkeys that often stand in the middle of the road while snacking on vegetation.

Where to stay: There's only one private beach on Bonaire and Harbour Village Beach Club is your key to accessing it. This lush property features enormous and comfortable suites, plenty of hammocks and lounge chairs on the palm-tree-lined beach (read: you won't have to wake up early to save a spot), and breezy seaside dining at the ship-shaped La Balandra Restaurant & Bar, where the barracuda ceviche is a don't-miss appetizer. The best part? The shallow reef butts up against the restaurant, so you can literally walk into the water from the beach and begin snorkeling among colorful fish.

Best for Beach bums

Beaches, beaches, beaches—it's what Aruba, a Dutch island just north of Venezuela, does best. We're talking pure pristine white sand and turquoise ocean heaven, nearly everywhere you look, making it one of the best Caribbean islands to visit if sun and sand are at the top of your vacation wish list. Aruba is blessed with clear skies, bright sunshine and cooling trade winds practically every day of the year. It's also one of 10 islands you can still visit during hurricane season .

What to do: Top picks for a beach day you'll never forget include the award-wining Eagle Beach, which is the widest on the island and the perfect place to view the iconic Fofoti trees. The 2-mile-long Palm Beach is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and Mangel Halto Beach is an ideal spot for snorkeling and shore diving due to the area's influx of parrot fish and blue tangs. When you've had enough beach time, head to Arikok National Park to view cultural heritage sites, such as caves and original rock drawings, and check out Aruba's natural pool (Conchi)—watch for the water spraying over the volcanic rock formation.

Where to stay: Situated on over a mile of white pristine beach, family-friendly Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive offers guests access to 11 dining options, eight bars and four freshwater pools. Plus, you'll find fitness classes, a guided island e-bike tour, snorkeling, a rock-climbing wall and even a kids-only club.

Best for Passport-less Caribbean cuisine

Puerto rico.

 Dubbed the "Dining Capital of the Caribbean," the U.S. territory Puerto Rico offers the perfect destination for those looking to explore the Caribbean culinary scene—and you won't need a passport to taste this tasty cuisine. A fusion of Spanish, African, Taíno Indian and American influences, the island's history and diverse culture shaped its food, resulting in a unique blend of flavors and dishes.

What to do: Puerto Rico has a vibrant street food scene, so be sure to explore food stalls and kiosks alongside finer dining establishments and award-winning restaurants. Consider timing your trip to the numerous food festivals and events being hosted throughout the year to further celebrate the local culinary scene. Once you've had your fill of food, you'll be ready to explore the colorful architecture of Old San Juan, marvel at the Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay after dark and chill out at Flamenco Beach.

Where to stay: Further enhance your food-focused trip with a stay at Dorado Beach , a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. It's known for its exceptional culinary program, which includes three restaurants showcasing the flavors and techniques of Italy, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean. As one of the 10 best resorts in Puerto Rico , this property sits on 50 acres of serene coastline and boasts a spa sanctuary with an infinity reflection pool overlooking a pineapple garden.

best for hiking

Saint kitts.

In 2022, Saint Kitts was awarded the Best Caribbean Hiking Destination in Caribbean Journal's Travelers Choice Awards—and you'll need to plan a longer stay if you want to tackle all the amazing hikes on this West Indies island. Alongside neighboring Nevis, these two islands make up one country known as the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis . Divers will also be impressed with Saint Kitts, with such dive sites as the Wreck of River Taw, Devil's Cavern and Friars Bay Reef.

What to do: Grab your hiking boots and get ready for plenty of action. Mount Liamuiga, a dormant volcanic crater that stands nearly 3,800 feet high, is the highest point on Saint Kitts and Nevis and one of the tallest peaks in the Caribbean. On the way to the crest, hikers are treated to the 360-degree splendor that is Central Forest Reserve National Park. Other popular hikes include Bat Cave and Waterfall (yes, hundreds of small bats make their home here) and Radio Tower, which is a brisk hike that delivers panoramic views of the entire island. Ready for the toughest hike on the island? At Dos D'anse Pond, the trail climbs through green foliage and a 900-foot gutter before reaching the gorgeous freshwater pond that's lined with tropical plants.

Where to stay: Families are sure to love St. Kitts Marriott Resort & The Royal Beach Casino , a beachfront resort with such activities as outdoor movie night, ladder ball, cornhole, pickleball courts and a photo scavenger hunt. Guests can take a dip in one of the three on-site pools and participate in aqua aerobics classes. The Emerald Mist Spa offers massages that can be booked in the resort's beachside cabanas for the ultimate relaxation.

Best for All-inclusive resorts

Dominican republic.

As the second-largest Caribbean country, the Dominican Republic has everything you want in an island vacation: white sand beaches, delicious food, golf courses and plenty of beautiful and exhilarating attractions. And the best way to experience all of this is by staying at an all-inclusive resort, something the island specializes in—from budget-friendly options and family-friendly all-inclusive resorts to luxury and adults-only retreats, these properties make vacationing easy by including your taxes, gratuities, meals, drinks, entertainment and activities.

What to do: Even though everything is already included in your all-inclusive resort, you'll still probably want to get off property and see more of the island and immerse yourself in the culture. Visit the jungle habitat Monkeyland to play with the friendly squirrel monkeys; tee off at the par-72 Jack Nicklaus signature course Punta Espada Golf Course; or enjoy a day trip to Saona Island for a little extra solitude among the beautiful beaches.

Where to stay: Home to the 16,000 square-foot Splash Island waterpark, Panchi Kids Club, Vibe Teen Club, on-site bowling alley, arcade, ice cream parlor, candy shop, escape room and more, the five-star all-inclusive Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino is the ultimate Caribbean oasis for kids and parents alike. Come for the picturesque white sand beaches and stay for the seven freshwater pools, wide array of internationally inspired dining concepts and relaxing spa.

Best for Foodies

Anguilla, a British Overseas Territory in the eastern Caribbean Sea near Saint Martin, is revered as one of the best culinary destinations in the Caribbean, making it one of the best Caribbean islands to visit. This is due to its blend of inspiration hailing from native Caribbean cooking, Spanish, French and English influences and a strong base of African traditions. As such, visitors will find restaurants offering truly authentic dishes, such as barbecue and jerk, callaloo and marinated seafood dishes. Of course, the 33 beautiful beaches aren't too shabby either—Meads Bay Beach tops many best-beaches lists.

What to do: Eat! At only 26 miles in length and a few miles wide, Anguilla does an impressive job of packing a lot of flavor into its small island. The nation's national dish is pigeon peas and rice, a one-pot dish of pigeon peas, rice, spices and herbs. Grilled spiny lobster is a delicious treat at Da'Vida Restaurant, where the views are equally fantastic. For a more laid-back dining experience, visit the Sunshine Shack on Rendezvous Bay for a seafood and barbecue lunch with the sand beneath your toes.

Where to stay: Speaking of the breathtaking Rendezvous Bay, it's where you'll find the 178 luxurious suites and villas of Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club . Aside from multiple golf courses, you'll find a rejuvenating spa, cooking classes and wine tastings, a family-friendly pool complex with a splash pad and lazy river and an amphitheater for live performances.

What to consider when finding the best Caribbean islands to visit

There's more to booking a tropical vacation than looking at some dreamy photos online. (Though don't get us wrong, that  is  a very important part of the wanderlust experience.) For starters, you'll want to consider your travel budget: Set a rate for how much you want to spend on your total trip and research how much flights, hotel stays and meals will cost. It's also a good idea to think about how easy it will be to get to the destination in question; some people may prefer locations they can get to through a quick, non-stop flight. Last but certainly not least, think about the activities a destination offers. From snorkeling excursions to mouth-watering seafood, the options are limitless.

Why you should trust us

The  Reader's Digest team isn't just committed to elevating your home with the best kitchen cabinet organizers and budget-friendly shampoos : We also want to ensure that your time away from home is excellent. Not only did we scour the web for the most popular tropical destinations—and the best places to stay—but we also drew from personal experience to create a comprehensive list. This guide was curated by Jill Schildhouse , an award-winning journalist with over 20 years of experience in travel journalism. (Translation? She knows where to go and where to stay.)

How we chose the best Caribbean islands to visit

I've been to nearly 20 Caribbean islands over the past few decades—including  weekend getaways , luxurious couples escapes and  affordable family vacations —and have stayed at some of the  best Caribbean resorts . The one key takeaway from my adventures is that even though they all have palm trees and sandy beaches, each Caribbean island has a totally unique vibe, culture and scene. That's why it's so important to choose the island that best matches your vacation style, whether you are foodie-focused, looking for wildlife, yearning for adrenaline-pumping thrills or just want to kick back on a secluded beach. Read on for your guide to the best islands to visit in the Caribbean based on your interests.

What is considered the best Caribbean island to visit?

Ultimately, it depends on what you're looking for. All of the islands featured here are worthwhile places to visit in the Caribbean, but it's a good idea to consider what you're  looking for in a vacation. For example, Antigua and Turks and Caicos are known for their dreamy white sand beaches. However, if you have a thirst for adventure, you'll love Saint Lucia.

Which is the safest Caribbean island to visit?

Before you book a trip, you should check the United States Department of State's website for travel advisories. (Anything can happen anywhere; however, the travel advisories will give you a sense of a country's overall safety.) Many countries like Barbados, St. Martin and the Bahamas have the lowest travel risk level.

What is the best month to go to the Caribbean?

If you're all about soaking up the sun and enjoying warm waters, the peak season from December to April is your best bet. Going anywhere during peak season can make your vacation pretty pricey. For an affordable alternative, try one of the shoulder seasons, from May to June or late October to mid-November.

Do you need a passport to go to the Caribbean?

The post 12 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit for the Perfect Vacation appeared first on Reader's Digest .