US Virgin Islands (St. Croix) in October

December through May offers the most reliable weather, with temperatures in the low 80s and minimal rainfall. This is also peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds at popular spots like Buck Island. Hotel rates can double during Christmas and New Year's weeks. June through November brings afternoon showers and hurricane risk, but also better deals and fewer tourists. The trade winds keep things comfortable even in summer, and many hotels drop their rates by 30-40%. Hurricane season peaks in August and September, but St. Croix sits far enough south to avoid many storms. Shoulder seasons (May and November) offer the best balance of good weather and reasonable prices. The rains haven't started in earnest, but the winter crowds have thinned out. Many restaurants that close for renovations in September reopen by November with fresh menus.