Expert: Andy Mendyk - 2/21/2006

Question
My husband and I are planning a trip to Aruba.  We enjoy snorkeling.  Our last 2 trips to the Carribean were in March.  We went to Grand Cayman and Cozumel.  Both were incredibly windy.  It was so windy at Cozumel that we couldn't snorkel the entire week we were there.  The surf was too rough.  What months are the calmest winds in Aruba?  We were thinking of planning our trip for April 2007.  How are the winds in April?  I see that June is the month for windsurfing competition, so I assume it is the windiest month.  Thanks,


Answer
Hi Betty!!  I found that the winds start "kicking" up in March, and reach a peak from April to late May. I myself go to the island mostly August/September as I hated that "sandblasted" feeling while on the beach. The tradewinds are normally mild, but they can kick it up a few seconds or so at any given time, as this depends on weather conditions in the Atlantic. However, if the winds affect snorkeling, there are areas at the southern part of the island ( Rogers and Baby Beach) where the water is mostly calm, and I hear positive comments in regards to that. Hope you have a great time there, and if I can be of any further assistance, feel free to contact me again!