Trade Winds: The Beneficial Winds of Saint Barthelemy
These steady easterly winds shape St. Barth's ideal climate and make the island a paradise for water sports
Current winds
Real-time conditions
East-Northeast - Steady
Trade winds: the secret to St. Barth's perfect climate
If Saint Barthelemy enjoys such a pleasant tropical climate, it is largely thanks to the trade winds. These steady winds blow from the east year-round, bringing freshness, air renewal, and ideal sailing conditions.
Unlike other tropical destinations where the heat can be stifling, St. Barth benefits from a constant breeze that makes the island comfortable even in the middle of summer. This natural phenomenon is one of the island's major assets for residents and visitors alike.
Trade wind intensity throughout the year
20-25 km/h
Strongest trade winds, ideal for kitesurfing and sport sailing
18-21 km/h
Moderate strength, welcome cooling during the hot period
15-18 km/h
Calmer conditions, perfect for paddle, kayak, and peaceful swimming
Where do trade winds come from? Scientific explanations
Origin of the phenomenon
Trade winds are permanent winds that blow from subtropical high-pressure zones (around 30° latitude) toward the equator (low-pressure zone). This air movement is caused by Earth's rotation (Coriolis effect) and uneven heating of the Earth's surface.
In the northern hemisphere, trade winds blow from the northeast toward the southwest. In Saint Barthelemy (17.9°N), they generally arrive from the east-northeast, creating this steady airflow that characterizes the Caribbean climate.
In St. Barth, trade winds blow from the east-northeast about 85% of the year. This exceptional regularity allows predicting weather conditions and choosing beaches according to desired orientation.
Saint-Jean Airport is famous for its spectacular landings facing the trade winds. Pilots use these steady winds for stable approaches despite the short runway.
The many benefits of trade winds for St. Barth
Natural cooling
Reduce the perceived temperature by 3 to 5°C, making the tropical climate very pleasant
Ideal water sports conditions
Regular winds perfect for sailing, kitesurfing, and all water sports
Air quality
Constantly renew the air, remove humidity, and limit mosquitoes
Well-formed seas
Create regular waves on the Atlantic side, calm water on the lagoon side
Water sports enhanced by trade winds
| Activity | Optimal period | Conditions | Recommended spots |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kitesurfing | Dec-Mar | Excellent | Toiny, Grand Cul-de-Sac |
| Windsurfing | Nov-Apr | Excellent | St-Jean, Grand Cul-de-Sac |
| Catamaran | Year-round | Ideal | All around the island |
| Dinghy sailing | Dec-Jun | Excellent | Gustavia, Colombier |
| Paddle & Kayak | Sep-Nov | Optimal | West side (leeward) |