Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys (Weather, Crowds, and More)
If you are interested in the Florida Keys, one of the main questions you are probably asking yourself is: When is the BEST time to visit?!
Living in Florida my whole life, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting the Keys over 15 times and during different times of year! And the truth is, there’s no bad time to visit the Keys, but each season has its pros and cons!
In this post, I’ll provide my personal opinion on when the best time to visit the Florida Keys is... but I will also give you a breakdown by season, including what you can expect for weather patterns, festivals and events, crowds, and more!
Your preferred time to visit is going to depend on so many things, like your budget, interests, travel style, and more! This guide should help you narrow it down and learn more about what the Florida Keys are like in summer, fall, winter, and spring!
Florida Keys Quick Planning Guide
Don’t have a lot of time? Here’s a quick mini guide to the Florida Keys to help plan your epic adventure!
Where to Stay:
– Kona Kai Resort (Key Largo)
– The Caribbean Resort (Islamorada)
– Isla Bella Beach Resort (Marathon)
– Southernmost Beach Resort (Key West)
Things to Do:
– Go on a snorkel tour in Key Largo
– Feed the tarpon at Robbie’s
– Ride bikes along the 7 Mile Bridge
– Watch the sunset at Mallory Square or go on a sunset cruise in Key West
Places to Eat & Drink:
– Snook’s Bayside (Key Largo)
– Lorelei Cabana Bar (Islamorada)
– Hot Tin Roof (Key West)
Florida Keys Weather Overview
Like I mentioned above, there’s really no bad time to visit the Florida Keys. This is because the Florida Keys weather is tropical year round!
But what does that actually mean?
To start, I wanted to give you a quick overview of what type of temperatures you can expect in the Florida Keys across all four seasons! I’ll go into more specific details (about hurricanes, rain, etc.) in the later sections, but the chart below is a great starting point!
Note: I chose Key West to pull data from, but the average across all the various Keys is typically very similar!
As you can see, weather in the Florida Keys is nice and warm year-round. Depending on the time of year, you can expect highs in the 70s and even up to the 90s!
In terms of lows, It rarely ever dips below 65ºF, unless there’s a freak cold front! Generally, you’ll never need more than a light sweater in the Keys.
Most days are filled with sunshine, but we do get the occasional rain storm, especially during the summer months!
Overall, the weather in the Keys is next to perfect year-round (as long as you like heat and humidity, that is!).
Now that you have a general idea of the weather patterns by month, let’s deep dive each season and discuss weather, events, and more, so you can decide which is the best time of year to visit for you!
And if you need a breakdown of the different areas of the Florida Keys, make sure to check out my Ultimate Florida Keys Travel Guide!
Visiting the Florida Keys in the Spring
Months: March – May
Weather: Cool with little to no rain!
Crowds: Minimal, except for spring breakers
Events: Seafood festivals & fishing tournaments!
Spring Weather in the Florida Keys
Let’s start with Spring time, because it’s personally my favorite time to visit the Keys.
From March through May, the weather in the Keys is just perfect. Highs typically stay under the mid-80°s, and it’s nice and cool in the evenings. Plus, rainfall is pretty low, and so are crowds!!
Hotels shouldn’t be too pricey in March – May, as you are coming off high season (winter). However, there may be some crowds in Key West due to Spring Break, so keep that in mind!
Spring is ideal for spending time outdoors, whether you’re diving into crystal-clear waters, fishing offshore, or having lunch on the water. The warm-but-not-too-hot temps make it easy to enjoy activities all day long.
I’ve attended a wedding at the end of April in Key Largo and also went scuba diving the next day, and the weather was perfect for both occasions!
Spring Events in the Florida Keys
Here are a list of the most popular events in the Keys that take place from March – May:
March:
Key West Orchid Fair
Islamorada Seafood and Art Festival
Marathon Seafood Festival
St. Patrick’s Day Key West Bar Stroll
April:
Florida Keys Island Fest
Seven Mile Bridge Run
Underwater Easter Egg Hunt
Key West Southernmost Air Show Spectacular
Jimmy Buffett Day at Margaritaville Beach House
Conch Republic Independence Celebration
Marathon Sailfish Tournament
7 Mile Offshore Grand Prix
May:
Key Largo Triathlon
Mother’s Day Dolphin Tournament
Key West Dolphin Fishing Tournament
Visiting the Florida Keys in the Summer
Months: June – August
Weather: Hot, humid, and rainy (also hurricanes)
Crowds: Minimal!
Events: Pride, Key Lime Festival, Lobster Season
Summer Weather in the Florida Keys
Summer in the Florida Keys may be the hottest time of year, but it’s also one of the most underrated seasons to visit, especially if you’re looking to save money or avoid the crowds.
From June through August, the Keys see fewer tourists compared to winter and spring. Hotel rates drop, beaches are quieter, and popular attractions are much less crowded.
That said, the tradeoff is the weather: summer is hot and very humid, with highs regularly hitting the 90s, and “feels-like” temps even higher. Afternoon thunderstorms are also common, but they usually pass quickly.
If you’re not used to them, summers in south Florida can be particularly brutal!
This is why a lot of people avoid visiting the Florida Keys in the summertime and why summer is usually the cheapest time to visit.
Summer is also the best time for snorkeling and scuba diving in the Keys. The ocean is warm, the seas are calm, and the water is clear! You can read my guides on Snorkeling in Key Largo and Snorkeling in Islamorada for more details on my favorite spots!
Regardless of the time of year, I recommend going on a snorkel tour in the Upper Keys, no matter the month!
Summer is also the start of hurricane season, which officially runs from June 1 to November 30. However, the peak months are August and September, so if you’re planning a trip during this time, be sure to book refundable accommodations and keep an eye on the weather forecast leading up to your trip!
In terms of events, one of the biggest draws to visiting the Florida Keys in the summer is the start of Lobster season! Mini season is the last Wednesday and Thursday in July, followed by the regular season stretching from August 6 through March 31.
You will normally see an uptick in hotel prices and crowds during mini season and the beginning of lobster season, but then it levels out!
We had the opportunity to go lobstering the last few times we visited the Keys in August, and it was SO much fun!! I highly recommend trying it if you are visiting the Keys during lobster season.
Summer Events in the Florida Keys
Here are a list of other events that take place in the Keys during the summer season:
June:
Skipper’s Dolphin Tournament
Coralpalooza
Key West Pride Week
July:
Key West Mermaid Festival
Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks
Key Lime Festival
Underwater Music Festival
Key West Lionfish Derby
August:
Lobsterfest Key West
Key Largo Triathlon
Key West Tropical Heat
Need help planning your trip to the Florida Keys?
As a Florida local who’s visited the Keys over 20 times, I’ve put all my knowledge and insider tips into this Florida Keys Digital Travel Guidebook!!
This guide offers everything you need in one place – from where to stay and what to do, to the best times to visit and essential driving tips.
With detailed breakdowns of each Key, 2 sample itineraries, a packing checklist, plus an exclusive Google Map with over 100 pinned locations, it’s designed to make your trip easy and unforgettable!
Visiting the Florida Keys in the Fall
Months: September – November
Weather: Rainy then Cool
Crowds: Moderate
Events: Fantasy Fest, Key West Seafood Festival
Fall Weather in the Florida Keys
Fall in the Florida Keys is a tale of two seasons. The beginning of fall (September through mid-October) feels like an extension of summer: hot, humid, and rainy, with a continued risk of tropical storms and hurricanes.
This is still peak hurricane season, and while storms don’t hit every year, it’s wise to have a flexible travel plan and book accommodations with generous cancellation policies.
That said, early fall can also mean great discounts! Hotel rates are some of the lowest of the year, and tourist numbers drop significantly.
If you’re comfortable dealing with the weather and uncertainty, this can be an ideal time to experience the Keys on a budget and without the usual crowds.
By mid to late October, the weather starts to shift. Humidity drops, rainfall lessens, and temperatures settle into a more comfortable range, making late October through November one of the most pleasant times to visit.
I actually got married in mid-November in the Florida Keys, and we had perfect weather (minus a little rain), but then a cold front hit the next day!
The Keys start to come alive again with fall festivals and events, particularly in Key West, where the famous Fantasy Fest takes over the island with costumes, parades, and parties in late October. This is one of the craziest things to do in Key West!
November marks the unofficial start of the “pre-season,” where weather is mild and the crowds haven’t quite arrived yet. It’s a fantastic time to enjoy the islands without the peak-season price tags.
Fall Events in the Florida Keys
Here is a list of other events that take place in the Keys during the fall season:
September:
Womenfest Key West
Florida Keys Lionfish Derby
Big Gay Key West
October:
Key West Fantasy Fest
November:
Key West Offshore World Race
Backcountry Fishing Tournament
Key West Film Festival
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Visiting the Florida Keys in the Winter
Months: December – February
Weather: Cool/Mild
Crowds: HIGH
Events: Key West Literary Seminar, Key West 5K and Half Marathon
Winter Weather in the Florida Keys
Ahh.. winter in the Keys.. the snow on the ground…
JUST kidding 😉
Winter in the Florida Keys is what most people dream of when they picture a tropical escape: warm days, cool evenings, and little to no rain.
With daytime highs in the 70s and lows rarely dipping below the 60s, it’s the perfect getaway for those fleeing cold, snowy winters elsewhere.
For real, the weather in the Florida Keys from December to February is absolutely to die for.. especially because you can still wear shorts and flip flops!
Not surprisingly, this is also high season in the Keys. From mid-December through February, expect to see an influx of visitors, especially in Key West. Hotels book up early and prices surge, so plan ahead if you’re aiming to visit during this dreamy time of year.
The best part of winter is that water temperatures are still completely swimmable—especially for those coming from colder climates! You’ll still find people snorkeling, paddle boarding, and lounging on the beaches.
For those who scuba dive, you might want to wear a shortie wetsuit to stay comfortable in the water, but it’s also not neccessary!
The mild, dry climate also makes this the best season for outdoor activities like biking the Old Seven Mile Bridge, kayaking through mangroves, or exploring the many state parks. If you’re into running, cycling, or fishing tournaments, there’s a full calendar of events every winter!
The holidays in the Keys are especially festive, with lighted boat parades, New Year’s celebrations, and quirky local traditions (like the Conch Shell drop in Key West!). It’s also a favorite time for romantic getaways, anniversary trips, and weddings.
If you’re craving perfect weather and don’t mind a bit of company (and the higher price tag), winter is an unbeatable time to experience the Florida Keys at their finest.
Winter Events in the Florida Keys
Not surprisingly, there are TONS of festivals in the Keys during this time of year thanks to the great weather. Here are some of the most popular:
December (read my full guide on visiting Key West in December!)
Key Largo Bridge Run
Key West Holiday Parade (early December)
Key West Triathlon (mid-December)
January (read my full guide on visiting Key West in January!)
Islamorada Sail Fly Tournament
Orange Bowl Swim Classic
Florida Keys Celtic Festival
Key West 5K and Half Marathon
Nautical Expo
Florida Keys Seafood Festival
Key West Food and Wine Festival
Key West Craft Show
The Southernmost Regatta
Key West Literary Seminar
February:
Nautical Flea Market
Cuda Bowl
Florida Keys Pup Crawl
Fl Keys Brewing Festival
Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys by Category
Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys For Events
If your trip revolves around festivals, live music, parades, or quirky local traditions, then the best time to visit the Florida Keys is between January and April.
During this peak season, the weather is near-perfect and the calendar is packed with exciting happenings like the Florida Keys Seafood Festival, Seven Mile Bridge Run, Conch Republic Independence Celebration, and Key West Food & Wine Festival.
Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys For Weather
In my opinion, April and May are the sweet spot when it comes to weather in the Florida Keys. These months bring warm temps (without being oppressive), low humidity, minimal rain, and calm ocean conditions, perfect for beach days, water sports, and evening strolls.
If you love mild, dry, and sunny days, this is your time to shine. While December and January are also pleasant, the water might feel a bit chilly if you’re planning to snorkel or dive without a wetsuit.
Try to avoid June through September if heat, humidity, and the occasional afternoon downpour aren’t your thing. These months are hot, sticky, and also overlap with hurricane season!
Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys For Low Prices
Looking to save some money? Summer and early fall (June through October) are when you’ll find the lowest hotel rates and fewer crowds from Miami to Key West! This is considered “off-season” due to the intense heat, high humidity, and risk of hurricanes, but that doesn’t mean it’s a bad time to go!
In fact, my last few trips to the Keys were all during the summer months! As a Floridian, I can put up with the soaring temperatures, and if a hurricane comes, I can simply reschedule my trip!
I actually love visiting the Florida Keys in the summer because the crowds are small, hotel prices are low, and the ocean conditions are prefect!
So if you’re comfortable with the heat and plan to be in or on the water most of the day, summer can be a budget-friendly and enjoyable time to explore the Keys.
Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys For Boating
If your trip is centered around boating, sandbars, or watersports, then summer is the ideal season. From June through August, the ocean temps are at their warmest (think: 85-87°F), and you’ll often get long stretches of calm, glassy water, ideal for boating, snorkeling, paddle boarding, jet skiing, and sunset cruises!
It’s also mini lobster season in late July (with real season starting in August), which draws tons of locals and visitors alike. Just be aware of occasional summer storms and the risk of hurricanes, and again, flexibility is key during this season!
Packing for the Florida Keys
Luckily, your packing list for the Keys won’t vary much from season to season. Here is what I recommend bringing along! Don’t forget to check out my guide on What to Wear in Key West for all my packing tips!
- Sunscreen (Supergoop is my favorite!)
- Snorkel Gear (if you don’t have your own, you can rent some)
- Polarized Sunglasses (these are adorable and inexpensive!)
- Bathing Suits
- GoPro
- Waterproof sandals (I love my Reefs!)
- Kimono/Cover Up
- Floppy Hat (this one rolls up for easy packing)
- Umbrella/rain jacket
- Bug Repellent
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Florida Keys?
In my opinion, the best month to visit the Florida Keys is May! The weather is May is warm but not overly hot. The winter crowds are gone so hotel prices aren’t too crazy. Hurricane season hasn’t started yet. Rain chances are low, and the water temperature is warm! It’s the perfect month to visit the Keys.
What is the cheapest time of year to go to Key West?
In general, the cheapest time of year to go to Key West is summer (June – September). Thanks to hurricane season, summer is low season in the Keys. However, this doesn’t mean you CAN’T visit during this time. I personally love visiting the Keys during summer since the crowds are lower and hotel prices are cheaper. Just make sure everything is refundable in case a hurricane does pop up!
What months are hurricane season in Florida Keys?
The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1st through November 30th. The peak is typically in September.
How many days do you need in the Florida Keys?
If you are planning to make the journey from Key Largo to Key West, I recommend at least 5 days in the Keys to see and do it all. However, 7 is even better!
Other Things You Should Know
Hotels in the Keys can fill up FAST in high season or around major events and festivals. I recommend booking six months in advance if you know you’ll be visiting during one of these times!
In general, the further in advance you book, the more availability and better pricing you’ll find. The Keys are becoming more and more popular every year!
And like I mentioned above, if you’re planning to visit the Keys during hurricane season, make sure to book a refundable room! (This is a good idea year-round, to be honest!).
Now that you hopefully know when you want to visit, check out my full guide on Where to Stay in the Keys for a breakdown of each area, with hotel recommendations for each!
Or, check out my other blog posts about the Florida Keys below! ⬇️
Ultimate Florida Keys Travel Guide (+ A Map Of The Florida Keys)
Key Largo To Key West: Florida’s Most Epic Road Trip Itinerary
Best Time To Visit The Florida Keys (Weather, Crowds, And More)
Miami To Key West: 25 Places To Stop Along The Way (Map + Photos)
How Many Keys Are In The Florida Keys? + Other Fun Facts!
The BEST 5 Day Florida Keys Itinerary In Paradise!
Where To Stay In The Florida Keys: Breakdown By Key!
Don’t forget to pin this post for future planning!
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