What Is The Best Time To Visit Florida Key

Are you dreaming of a tropical paradise with crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and endless sunshine? Thinking about Florida and wondering what is the best time to visit Florida Keys?

My opinion is it’s always a great time to visit those islands that are literally Heaven on Earth. This string of islands off the southern coast of Florida is a popular vacation destination for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and endless activities.

But with its year-round warm weather, when is the best time to visit the Florida Keys? Today, I am going to break it down for you.

We’ll explore the different seasons and events in the Florida Keys to help you plan your perfect vacation. My last trip was in September and I will be honest, it was HOT.

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If you prefer to travel when it’s a bit cooler, you will want to avoid summer as well as the months of May and September for a trip to the Keys.

The Seasons in the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys have two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season runs from November to April, while the wet season runs from May to October.

Dry Season (November–April)

The dry season is the most popular time to visit the Florida Keys, and for good reason. The weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s.

This makes it the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities like snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking. It is cooler so be sure to bring a jacket.

The dry season also coincides with the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. However, the trade-off is that you’ll have access to all the popular attractions and events, such as the Key West Food and Wine Festival and the Key West Literary Seminar.

Wet Season (May–October)

The wet season in the Florida Keys brings higher temperatures and increased humidity, with average temperatures ranging from the high 80s to low 90s. While this may not be ideal for some, it’s the perfect time for water activities like swimming, diving, and boating.

The wet season also brings more rain and the possibility of hurricanes, so be sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan accordingly. However, the lower tourist season means you may be able to find better deals on accommodations and activities.

Events and Festivals in the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are known for their vibrant culture and lively events. Even better? They are a hop, skip and a jump from Miami.

Below are some of the top events and festivals to consider when planning your trip. A lot of events are held in Key West, but you will also find plenty of things to do throughout the island chain.

Key West Food and Wine Festival (January)

The Key West Food and Wine Festival is a must-visit for foodies. This five-day event features tastings, seminars, and cooking demonstrations from some of the top chefs in the Florida Keys. It’s the perfect opportunity to sample local cuisine and learn about the unique flavors of the region.

Key West Literary Seminar (January)

For book lovers, the Key West Literary Seminar is a must-attend event. This four-day event brings together writers, readers, and scholars to discuss literature and the craft of writing. Past speakers have included Margaret Atwood, Joyce Carol Oates, and Salman Rushdie.

Key West Songwriters Festival (May)

The Key West Songwriters Festival is the largest festival of its kind in the world, featuring over 200 performers and 50 shows over five days.

This event celebrates the art of songwriting and showcases some of the top songwriters in the country. It’s a must-visit for music lovers.

Key West Pride (June)

The Key West Pride event is usually the first half in the month of June, and it is very well attended. Street fair, parade and more to celebrate at this event for the LGBTQ community.

Hemingway Days (July)

Held in honor of the famous writer who called Key West home, Hemingway Days is a week-long festival that celebrates the life and works of Ernest Hemingway. The festival includes a look-alike contest, readings, and a marlin fishing tournament.

Fantasy Fest (October)

Fantasy Fest is a wild and colorful event that takes over Key West for 10 days in October. This adult-themed festival features parades, costume contests, and street parties.

It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t want to miss. To reiterate, this is an ADULT festival. A lot of people use body paint and nothing else.

Hidden Gems in the Florida Keys

While the Florida Keys are known for their popular attractions and events, there are also some hidden gems that are worth exploring.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Located on the beautiful island of Key Largo is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. The first time I visited this state park, was when my oldest daughter had a middle school field trip to this park, and I was a chaperone.

We snorkeled the reef, kayaked the mangroves and ate our lunch and snacks in the park. It is truly a magical experience and one I continue to return to every so many years.

Dry Tortugas National Park

Located 70 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote and secluded paradise. I really enjoyed my last visit to the Dry Tortugas and snorkeling.

The park is only accessible by boat or seaplane, making it a perfect escape from the crowds. It’s home to Fort Jefferson, a historic military fort, and offers some of the best snorkeling and birdwatching in the Florida Keys.

Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda State Park is a beautiful and tranquil state park located on Big Pine Key. It’s known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and diverse wildlife.

You can also camp at this Sunshine State Park, but you really need to plan ahead as sites are often booked. Visitors can swim, snorkel, and kayak in the park, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking views.

The Turtle Hospital

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon is a must-visit for animal lovers. This non-profit organization rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured sea turtles back into the wild. Visitors can take a tour of the hospital and learn about the different species of sea turtles and the threats they face.

Plan Your Florida Keys getaway

As I mentioned, above, the best time to visit the Florida Keys depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. The dry season offers warm weather and popular events, while the wet season brings lower prices and fewer crowds.

Whenever you choose to visit, the Florida Keys are sure to provide a tropical paradise experience that you won’t forget. The links below will help you plan the perfect trip for you: