Visiting Antigua and Barbuda is a tropical adventure, and many travellers choose to rent a car to explore its beautiful beaches and historic sites. Driving gives you freedom, but it also means you need to be prepared for the island’s weather – especially if you visit during the rainy season. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about driving in Antigua when the rain pours down.
Driving in Antigua during wet weather can be challenging. For instance, water on the road reduces the friction between your tyres and the asphalt, meaning your car has less grip. If you're not careful, this can lead to longer stopping distances and even skidding. Visibility is another issue. Heavy rain can make it hard to see road signs, potholes, or other vehicles.
Antigua and Barbuda have a tropical climate, which means they experience distinct wet and dry seasons. There are certain months when you can expect more rain. The rainy season in Antigua runs from June through November. During these months, the island gets most of its yearly rainfall, often in short, tropical downpours rather than all-day drizzles. Don’t be surprised if a sunny morning suddenly turns into a quick thunderstorm and then clears up again.
Antigua’s wet months coincide with the Atlantic hurricane season. While direct hits are rare, tropical storms can bring heavy rainfall and gusty winds. For example, September and October are typically the wettest months. September sees around 5.5 inches (140 mm) of rain on average. Barbuda, Antigua’s sister island, has the same weather pattern. The good news is even in the rainy season, you’ll still enjoy plenty of sunshine between showers.
One major challenge is the condition of the roads. Many roads in Antigua are narrow and winding, and they can be bumpy outside the main tourist areas. Potholes and cracks are common, especially in rural areas. During the rainy season, these potholes often fill with water. If you accidentally hit one, it can damage your tyre or suspension. Moreover, the edges of some roads can erode; in hilly areas like Fig Tree Drive, parts of the road edge might crumble away after heavy rain. You should avoid driving too close to the shoulder on wet days.
Another challenge is reduced visibility. Tropical rain can be very heavy, so much so that you might need to slow down to crawl because you simply can’t see far ahead. It gets even tougher at night.
Finally, consider the risk of flash floods in low-lying areas. After an intense downpour, water can collect on the roads or flow across dips. Streets in towns might have poor drainage, leading to large puddles. If drains overflow, sections of road can become temporarily flooded. Even shallow-looking water can be dangerous. Authorities in Antigua warn that as little as one foot (30 cm) of fast-flowing water can sweep a car off the road.
A well-maintained vehicle can handle rain much better than one with worn-out parts. Key systems like brakes and tyres rely on proper friction and tread to work in the wet. So when you rent a car in Antigua, take a few minutes to check it over.
Firstly, look at the tyre tread. The tread helps channel water away so the rubber stays in contact with the road. The car can easily skid on wet pavement if the tyres are bald or worn. Good tyres with deep tread are essential for traction in the rain. Also, ensure the tyres are properly inflated because under-inflated or over-inflated tyres don’t grip as well on slick roads.
Next, test the windscreen wipers. You’ll rely on fast, effective wipers in a tropical downpour to maintain visibility. If the wiper blades are old and leave streaks or don’t work at high speed, that’s a problem. Most rental cars in Antigua should have decent wipers, but it’s worth checking. Turn them on briefly with some water on the windscreen to see if they clear it well. If they squeak or streak, request a replacement car or new blades.
Check that all the lights on the car are working. This includes headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals. In rainy weather, you’ll use your headlights to see and be seen, even during the day. If one headlight is out, for example, the car will be less visible to others and won’t light up the road properly for you. Also, ensure the brakes feel responsive and not too soft or grinding. Good brakes are even more crucial when roads are wet, since you may need to brake gently but earlier than usual.
Finally, consider what type of vehicle to rent. You don’t necessarily need a 4×4 in Antigua for normal roads, even in the rainy season. A regular car can reach most tourist spots. However, a higher-clearance vehicle or even a small SUV is better if you plan to venture onto dirt roads or areas known for poor road conditions.
Here are some essential tips for staying safe on wet roads:
Sometimes, rain in Antigua can be extremely heavy, causing minor floods or streams across the road.
If you must cross a water-covered stretch and you’re confident it’s not deep, drive very slowly and steadily through it. Keep the car in a low gear and maintain a gentle but constant speed. Once you get through to the other side, lightly tap your brakes a few times if there’s no one close behind you to dry them off. Brakes can be less effective when wet.
Heavy rains can cause other hazards besides flooding. For example, storm runoff may scatter debris like branches or rocks onto the road, especially near hills. Avoid debris or drive over it slowly, since swerving on a wet road can be dangerous. Also, be cautious if you see mud across the road. Mud can be extremely slippery and cause loss of traction.
Another hazard to consider is other drivers' behaviour. Not everyone will drive cautiously in the rain. Local drivers in Antigua are generally used to the road conditions, and some may still drive relatively fast or overtake even when the roads are wet. Defensive driving is your best strategy. Assume that other vehicles may do something unexpected, and always stay alert and prepared.
Most visitors rely on rental cars to get around Antigua, so it’s worth discussing a few extra tips related to insurance.
Check if your rental includes 24/7 roadside assistance. It can be a lifesaver if your car breaks down in bad weather. Also, consider renting a vehicle with an automatic transmission if you’re not used to driving on the left side. That way, you can focus on the road and traffic rather than shifting gears with your other hand.
During the rainy season in Antigua and Barbuda, heavy showers often occur in the afternoon, so plan longer drives for the morning or when forecasts are clear. Keep an eye on local weather updates. If a day looks very rainy, consider postponing your road trip or indoor activities.
Driving in Antigua during heavy rain and on wet roads might sound intimidating for first-time visitors. But with the right preparation, you can handle it. The key points are to ensure the rental car is in good shape, adjust your driving stle by slowing down, and always respect the weather. Rainy days often pass quickly in Antigua, and the island becomes beautifully green after the rain. So go ahead and explore this lovely island with confidence.
To make your trip seamless, rent a car in Antigua with Final Rentals. You can pick up your vehicle at V.C. Bird International Airport and explore the island. Choose from compact cars, SUVs, or 4x4s with transparent pricing and instant confirmation. For extra convenience, you can also download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
