We went in January once after having been only in July. We noticed a difference - northern swells (which we hadn't seen in July) were up and there was "surf" (less than a 1 foot; small waves compared to what I think of as surf) at beaches that had been calm in July. We also noticed more current while snorkeling and the water was not a clear as it has been on previous trips. I'm sure this varies yearly if not weekly; it was a one-time observation for us.

ccasebolt,

Is it still decent snorkeling or since it is our first time on the island, we wouldn't notice it anyway?

Try to go early (hard to get up early when you're on vacation). The winds get stronger as the day wears on it always seems.

Yes - we still had decent snorkeling. If the swells are up on the north shore beaches, you can try Salt Pond or Lameshur to the south. Even Waterlemon might be better because it is more protected, though the current may be strong around the cay. It varies beach to beach. And as JudyK said, the earlier the better.

This may be a silly question but how do you know "the swells are up in the north"? Is this just something you see because the water is choppy or is it something that is announced like a weather report in advance? Thanks!

Unless someone knows something I don't, I think you just see it when you get there. The north side is more prone to swells because of the winds at this time of year.