Should You Visit Key West in December? Yes! Here’s Why
Are you wondering if visiting Key West in December is a good idea?
(The answer is yes!)
After visiting Key West during many different times of year, I can confidently say that December might just be the most fun (and the best weather!).
In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Key West in December. We’ll talk about what kind of weather to expect, events you can take part in, and things to do during this time of year! I’ll also cover the top 3 reasons I recommend visiting Key West in December.
So whether you’re escaping the winter chill or just looking for somewhere fun to visit for Christmas, Key West is one of the best spots to visit in December! Keep reading to find out why!
Key West Trip Planning at a Glance
Don’t have a lot of time? Here’s a quick mini guide to Key West to help plan your epic adventure!
Where to Stay:
Havana Cabana at Key West (Budget/Moderate)
Margaritaville Beach House (Moderate)
Casa Marina Key West (Luxury)
When to Visit:
– April and May for great weather and few crowds; Winter is high season and summer is low season
Things to Do:
Smathers Beach
Ernest Hemingway Home
Duval Street
Snorkeling or jet skiing
Sunset cruise
3 Reasons to Visit Key West in December
1. Beautiful Weather with Low Rain Chances
As you probably know, one of the primary reasons to visit Key West in December is the incredible weather. Unlike many other parts of the country, Key West enjoys mild and pleasant temperatures during this time of year.
With daytime highs typically ranging from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) and nighttime lows rarely dropping below 60°F (16°C), you can comfortably explore the island without worrying about extreme heat or cold!
Additionally, December is part of the dry season in Key West, which means you can expect plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall. The island averages about seven hours of sunshine per day, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and simply lounging on the beach.
2. End of Hurricane Season
Another significant reason to visit Key West in December is the official end of the hurricane season.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th, meaning that by December, the likelihood of encountering a hurricane or tropical storm is very low.
Compared to visiting in months like August and September where hurricanes are extremely common, visiting Key West in December means you don’t need to worry about your vacation plans getting cancelled at the last minute!
With the end of the hurricane season, the ocean conditions also tend to be calmer, making it a great time for water-based activities.
Whether you’re interested in diving to explore shipwrecks, sailing the clear blue waters, or embarking on a fishing expedition, December in Key West is the perfect time for adventures on the ocean!
You can read more about what’s it’s like visiting the Keys in different months in my guide: When is the Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys?
3. Lots of Events and Festivals
Thanks to the perfect weather, Key West also comes alive with a variety of events and festivals in December, making it an exciting time to visit. The island’s festive spirit is contagious even though there’s no typical snow or winter weather.
One of the highlights is the Key West Holiday Parade, a colorful and lively event featuring floats, marching bands, and holiday-themed performances. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and holiday cheer.
Additionally, the Lighted Boat Parade is a unique and dazzling event where local boat owners decorate their vessels with special holiday lights and decorations, creating a stunning display on the water.
I’ll cover more details on the December events and festivals later in this blog post!
Planning Your Trip to Key West in December: Everything to Know
Now that we’ve covered the 3 main reasons to visit Key West in December, let’s dive into the details on what to expect when visiting, from weather to crowds to events and more!
Key West in December: Weather
As mentioned above, the weather in Key West is as close to perfection you can get. You won’t find any snow here, just sand!
Daytime highs in December range from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C), making it perfect for exploring Old Town or getting out on the water. In addition, nighttime lows rarely drop below 60°F (16°C), so you should only need a light sweater (leave the winter coat behind!).
Note: The Florida Keys can get spontaneous cold fronts from time to time, so it is important to check the weather before your trip. However, it is rare for it to drop below the 50s in Key West!
In addition to warm weather, December in Key West also sees very low precipitation rates compared to the rest of the year (as seen in the graph above). As hurricane season comes to an end (which typically peaks in September), so do the rain chances.
By visiting Key West in December, you are almost guaranteed mild, sunny days every day!
Plus, the sea temperature hovers around a comfortable 75°F (24°C), which is not bad compared to other areas of the world during this time of year. However, if it feels too cold for you, you can always wear a wetsuit!
➡️ Read Next: Visiting Key West in January: Everything to Know
Save this post for later!
Enter your info below and I'll email you the link to this blog post so you can refer back to it later 🙂
Key West in December: Crowds
Thanks to the beautiful weather and holiday time off, December is a very popular time to visit Key West. As a result, the island experiences an increase in tourists, especially during the holiday period and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
While this means a vibrant and lively atmosphere, it also leads to busier streets, restaurants, and attractions. Here are some tips for avoiding the crowds!
- Travel Mid-Week: Consider planning your visit during the middle of the week when there are generally fewer tourists compared to weekends.
- Visit Early or Late in the Day: Many attractions, such as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum or the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, are less crowded early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
- Explore Lesser-Known Attractions: While Duval Street and Mallory Square are must-visit locations, exploring lesser-known areas like the Key West Cemetery, the Key West Wildlife Center, or Fort East Martello Museum can provide a more tranquil experience.
- Dine at Off-Peak Hours: Restaurants and bars tend to be busiest during typical meal times. Try dining slightly earlier or later than usual to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more leisurely meal.
- Book Activities in Advance: Many popular tours and activities, such as snorkeling trips and sunset cruises, can fill up quickly during December. Booking in advance not only secures your spot but can also help you avoid long waits and last-minute disappointments.
- Stay in Less Central Accommodations: Choosing accommodations slightly away from the bustling center can provide a quieter stay. Areas like New Town or Stock Island offer more serene environments while still being within easy reach of Key West’s main attractions.
➡️ Read Next: FREE and Off-the-Beaten-Path Things to Do in Key West!
Key West in December: Events
As mentioned above, one of the best parts about visiting Key West is the myriad of events that take place!
Plus, if you are looking for a tropical Christmas, Key West is the perfect place! There are many holiday events throughout the month of December that will welcome you with palm trees wrapped in twinkling lights.
Here’s a list of the most popular events that take place in Key West in December!
- Key West Holiday Parade (early December)
- Nutcracker Key West (throughout the month)
- Monthly Artisan Market (throughout the month)
- Holiday Concert & Bazaar (early December)
- Lighted Boat Parade (mid-December)
- Key West Triathlon (mid-December)
- Holiday Tours on the Trolley (throughout the month)
- Sunset Sail with Santa (mid-December)
- New Year’s Eve Celebrations
You can check out more details on the official Key West Calendar here!
Key West in December: Activities
Aside from the holiday celebrations, there are plenty of typical things to do in Key West that you can take part in during the month of December!
1. Explore Key West’s Beaches
It’s a common misconception that the Florida Keys have tons of sprawling, white-sand beaches! Unfortunately, most of the shoreline is rocky or covered in mangroves.
However, Key West is the exception thanks to a few man-made beaches that do have beautiful white sand and crystal clear water: Smathers Beach and Fort Zachary Taylor Beach.
Plus, December’s mild weather is perfect for spending time at the beach!
Smathers Beach is completely free to visit, while you’ll need to pay a small entry fee to visit Fort Zachary Taylor since it’s a state park!
2. Water Activities
You might be worried that visiting Key West in December means you will have to stay out of the water. Luckily, that is not the case!
The water temperature in Key West typically hovers around 75ºF in December. Depending on where you are from, this might feel a little chilly, but you can always wear a wet-suit!
Seas can be rough or calm depending on the day, so make sure to check that in advance and bring some Dramamine if needed!
While I personally prefer the snorkeling in Key Largo and Islamorada, you can find great snorkeling in Key West too. Just make sure the tour you book says “reef snorkeling”.
This reef snorkel tour is the one I recommend! 🐠🤿🌊
If you’re not into snorkeling, there are plenty of other ways to get out on the water in Key West – without getting your face wet!
My top choices are to go on a kayaking tour or a jet ski tour! Both of these will allow you to see more of the island from the sea and experience what the Florida Keys are really about!
Or, if you’re looking for an action-packed adventure, consider taking a day trip to the Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson. My friend Alexys has a whole blog post about visiting the Dry Tortugas here!
3. Historic and Cultural Tours
Did you know that Key West has a rich history and vibrant culture? Originally called “Cayo Hueso” by the Spanish, meaning Bone Island, the name evolved over time.
English sailors mispronounced it as “Kay Way-so,” which eventually became known as “Key West.”
Pssst: You can read more fun facts like this in my blog post: How Many Keys are in the FL Keys + Other Fun Facts!
December’s pleasant weather makes it very comfortable to spend a whole day out exploring the cultural sites of Key West. Below are some of the most popular spots to check out!
- Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: Open 9:00am-5:00pm every day, here you can learn more about Hemingway in this home-turned museum! Make sure to look for the six-toed cats!
- Harry S. Truman Little White House: Open 9:30am-4:30pm every day, this Little White House has housed many presidents besides Truman and is the State of Florida’s only presidential site!
- Key West Historic Seaport: The Seaport is a great place to grab lunch with a view!
- Key West Holiday Old Town Trolley: Take part in the Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Sights & Festive Nights Tour to see all of the holiday decorations around the island while learning about Key West history!
- Key West Aquarium: One of the oldest attractions in Key West, you can learn more about local sea creatures and conservation in the heart of Mallory Square.
5. Relax and Unwind
One of your main goals for visiting the Florida Keys is probably to just relax! Luckily, Key West makes it easy to do so – there are plenty of relaxing activities to take advantage!
My personal favorite thing to do in Key West is watch the sunset from the sea! I have a whole blog post about the best Key West sunset cruises because there are so many to choose from.
But trust me when I say watching the sky come alive with stunning shades of orange and pink while listening to live tropical music is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Another relaxing activity to do, especially if you are visiting Key West as a couple, is to hit the spa! There are plenty of luxurious spa options in Key West, but I recommend checking out SpaTerre at Ocean Key Resort!
Lastly, make sure to spend time exploring Key West on foot, specifically around Old Town and Duval Street. There are tons of cute shops, fun bars, art galleries to check out.
For more ideas on what to do, make sure to check out my blog post on 25 Epic Things to Do in Key West!
Where to Stay in Key West
Key West can be divided into two main areas: Old Town and New Town, and where you stay in Key West will determine on what your overall vibe and budget is!
Old Town Key West is probably what you think of when you picture Key West, with its picturesque Classical Revival-style houses and narrow streets. This is where the popular attractions are like the Hemingway Home, the historic Seaport, and Mallory Square.
You’ll find many vacation homes, small B&Bs, and a few luxurious resorts in Old Town to choose from. However, because of the convenience and beauty, staying in Old Town Key West can be pricey, especially in December.
If you want to stay in Old Town while visiting Key West in December, I recommend booking as early as possible!
The other option of course is New Town! New Town refers to the eastern half of the island, closer to the airport and beaches but further from the main attractions.
New Town Key West has larger and more popular hotel chains like Margaritaville Beach House, Hilton Garden Inn, and the Hyatt Vacation Club.
Staying in New Town typically means smaller crowds and lower hotel prices; however, you will either need to bike, drive, or take a shuttle down to Old Town.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is December a good time to visit Key west?
December is a GREAT time to visit Key West! The temperature is extremely mild. The water is still warm enough to swim in, and it’s also the end of the Atlantic Hurricane Season. Plus, there are tons of fun events and festivals in Key West in December.
Can you swim in Key west in December?
Yes! The water temperature averages around 75ºF in December in Key West, which is still plenty of warm to swim in. If it feels too cold for you, however, you can always opt for a “shortie” wetsuit.
Is Key West crowded during Christmas?
Unfortunately, yes! Thanks to the beautiful weather and holiday spirit, Christmas is a very popular time to visit Key West for those trying to flee the winter weather. However, it is still enjoyable to visit Key West in December!
Which Florida Key is good to visit in December?
All of them! But, there are some pros and cons to each. Key West is the busiest Key almost year round, so if you are looking to avoid crowds in December, consider a small Key like Big Pine or Tavernier. If you love to camp, check out Long Key or Curry Hammock State Park.
Is Key West warm in December?
Yep! Average highs in December in Key West range from 75ºF to 79ºF, and average lows stay in the upper 60s. So, if you are hoping to escape winter weather, Key West is the place!
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!
What to Pack for Key West in December
Before we wrap up this guide on visiting Key West in December, I wanted to touch on what to pack for your trip!
By now you know that you won’t need winter coats, scarves, or beanies for your trip to Key West in December. Instead, you should pack, lightweight breathable clothes like linen pants, comfy t-shirts, and sundresses.
In terms of footwear, lightweight sneakers are good for walking around during the day. However, lots of people stick with sandals or flip flops! I love my waterproof Reef sandals, which are perfect for boat days and walking around town.
Speaking of boat days, don’t forget to pack bathing suits, sunscreen, and a hat! In addition, I highly recommend a long-sleeve rash guard to protect yourself from long days in the sun.
Lastly, make sure to pack a lightweight sweater or jean jacket to wear at night, as sometimes there is a cool breeze!
For more packing tips, make sure to check out my detailed guide on What to Wear in Key West and don’t forget to download my FREE Florida Keys Packing List below!
Final Thoughts
As you can see, December is a magical time to visit Key West, with its perfect weather and festive events! Whether you’re watching the Christmas Parade down Duval Street or snorkeling at a shipwreck, Key West offers an unforgettable holiday experience in warm weather!
I personally love visiting Key West around the holidays, even though it can be very busy.
I hope I have convinced you that visiting Key West in December is a great idea! And if you’re ready to keep planning your trip, be sure to check out my 3 Day Key West Itinerary!
Or, check out my other blog posts about Key West below! ⬇️
The Ultimate 3 Day Key West Itinerary (With A Map Of Key West)
25 EPIC Things You Need To Do In Key West, Florida
Things To Do In Key West For Couples: A Complete Guide!
10 FREE Things To Do In Key West, Florida!
ULTIMATE Guide To The Best Key West Sunset Cruises
What To Wear In Key West: Complete Key West Packing List
Should You Visit Key West In January? Yes! Here’s Why
Should You Visit Key West In December? Yes! Here’s Why
Don’t forget to pin this post for future planning!
