Florida, aka The Sunshine State, is a spot most individuals have on their bucket listing. Understanding the most effective time to go to Florida gives you the prospect to do precisely what you need, with none regrets. Theme Parks, Mickey Mouse, procuring, wonderful white sand seashores, wildlife, and loads of solar; what’s to not love?
Understanding when to go to Florida, USA might be difficult as a result of it’s a a lot larger state than folks give it credit score for. It’s not simply Orlando, however Tampa, Miami, Tallahassee, the Everglades, Jacksonville, St Petersburg, Sarasota, and far more. Oh, and let’s not neglect the extremely stunning Florida Keys.
Such an enormous space means barely totally different climate in line with every season, however the excellent news is that Florida isn’t freezing chilly. I’ve visited Florida on numerous events, extra instances than I can keep in mind, and I’ve by no means as soon as been chilly sufficient to want greater than a lightweight jacket.
So, that can assist you whittle down your selections, let’s speak about the most effective month to move to Florida and revel in every little thing this beautiful state has to supply.
Total Finest Time To Go to Florida
One of the best time to go to Florida will depend on the place you need to go and what you need to do, however total, I significantly get pleasure from visiting in September. In the event you’re within the central a part of the state, together with Orlando and Tampa, you’ll discover milder temperatures and fewer humidity. The identical goes for the south, the place you’ll discover Miami and The Everglades.
I’m not an enormous lover of excessive temperatures and sticky climate, so July and August are out for me. The shoulder seasons provide fewer crowds and higher climate, however that additionally varies throughout the area.
Nonetheless, September implies that at the very least the most popular temperatures have handed, and whereas it’s nonetheless the hurricane season, humidity has fallen and you’ll sleep extra comfortably at night time.
When deciding when to go to Florida, I’d suggest eager about what you need to focus your time on, equivalent to seashores, nature, procuring, theme parks, and so forth. That approach, you possibly can zero in on the world you plan to spend probably the most of your time in and discover the most effective month for you.
Peak Season in Florida
(Might to Early September)
Whereas totally different components of Florida expertise peaks in customer numbers at sure instances of the month, you possibly can sum peak season up as Might to early September. That is the most effective time to go to Florida for those who like highly regarded temperatures, nonetheless, you may as well anticipate crowds, particularly in Orlando’s enormous theme parks.
Sunfest, an enormous music competition, takes place each Might in West Palm Seaside, drawing enormous crowds. Tampa Riverfest additionally takes place in Might, and the Pensacola Seaside Air Present is hosted in July.
The draw back of Florida’s total peak season is that it’s a must to anticipate larger costs and resorts are nearly at full capability in some locations. Procuring round and reserving early would possibly prevent some cash, however inevitably, you must anticipate to pay extra right now of yr.
Shoulder Seasons in Florida
(March – Might & Mid-September – November)
In my view, the shoulder seasons are the most effective time to journey to Florida. The climate is cooler, humidity is much less intense, and crowds aren’t fairly so troublesome. You’ll be able to discover extra freely, and it’s a terrific alternative to get out into nature and benefit from being in The Sunshine State.
In the event you journey to Florida throughout October, anticipate all method of Halloween celebrations, in addition to Oktoberfest in Tampa. In April, make sure you take a look at the Dunedin Highland Video games and Pageant, in addition to the Gasparilla Pageant of The Arts in March.
You’ll usually discover cheaper lodge costs throughout Spring and Fall, with financial savings as much as $100 per night time in some instances. Whereas restaurant and attraction costs will stay the identical, for those who can hold some money in your pocket out of your lodge reserves, you’ve bought a superb deal.
Off-Season in Florida
(December – February)
I’ll use the time period ‘low season’ loosely right here as a result of Florida doesn’t have a winter like the remainder of the world is aware of it. The truth is, from December to February, many individuals from different components of the US head to Florida to absorb the milder climate. The coldest month to go to Florida is January, however even then, it’s heat in comparison with elsewhere.
Between December and February is the most effective time to go to Florida if you wish to keep away from crowds, nonetheless, sure components of the nation expertise a increase in guests right now, significantly the southern seashore cities. It’s totally potential to swim within the Florida Keys and even Miami right now, though positively not as nice as in the summertime months.
Christmas and New Yr provide loads of festivities, however you may as well take a look at Youngsters’s Gasparilla Days in Tampa in January.
When to Go to Florida For Seashores
One of the best time to go to the seashore in Florida is between June and the top of August. That is when the climate is scorching and humid, and leaping into the ocean is the most effective concept round. After all, everybody else has the identical concept so you possibly can anticipate seashores to be busy.
Locations like Clearwater Seaside and Miami Seaside particularly are extremely popular right now, and lodge stays are larger in value.
Nonetheless, round Christmas and New Yr can also be a nice season to go to the seashores within the south, particularly the Florida Keys, which experiences its peak season right now of yr.
When to Go to Florida For Festivals
The biggest variety of festivals in Florida happen between January and March. The climate is comfy right now of yr, which implies you possibly can discover totally different occasions with out feeling harassed by the warmth and humidity. I feel that is the most effective time to go to Florida for trip if seashore time isn’t your factor.
Just a few attention-grabbing festivals right now embrace the Youngsters’s Gasparilla Extravaganza in Tampa, the Everglades Seafood Pageant in February, and the Florida State Honest in Tampa. I actually loved the Naples Nationwide Artwork Pageant, which takes place in February, together with the Calle Ocho Pageant in Miami, which all the time pulls in an enormous crowd.
When to Go to Florida For Cities
Strolling round a metropolis and doing a spot of sightseeing is a superb concept and Florida affords some nice spots to do exactly that. Tampa is full of unbelievable points of interest, together with Ybor Metropolis which spills historical past at each nook. Miami is full of attention-grabbing road artwork, whereas Downtown Orlando and the state capital Tallahassee additionally boast loads of sights to take a look at.
Deciding when to journey to Florida if you wish to base your self in a metropolis comes right down to climate desire. I don’t love strolling round busy cities within the hottest months, so I feel Might, the top of September, and October are nice selections. Nonetheless, Miami can also be great within the cooler months, when you possibly can discover in January and nonetheless catch a suntan.
When to Go to Florida For Whale Watching
One of the best month to go to Florida for Northern Proper Whale watching is February, and also you’ll have to be within the northeast of the state, round Cape Canaveral and Jacksonville. The one problem is that you simply’ll must look your self as there are not any excursions to take you out recognizing; these whales are a little bit elusive, however for those who keep it up, you may be fortunate.
After all, you might go manatee or dolphin recognizing as a substitute, and these are typically discovered all through your complete yr. One of the best time to go to Florida to see manatees is usually November to April, particularly within the Crystal River space. Right here, you possibly can snorkel with manatees; click on right here for extra particulars and to e-book.
When to Go to Florida for Low-cost Costs
One of the best time to go to Florida to avoid wasting money is normally between January and March, nonetheless, you will see costs drop after September as the height season ebbs and crowds are much less.
Understand that these reductions do rely on the place in Florida you’re as a result of the southern a part of the state, and particularly the Florida Keys, are inclined to see larger costs right now as folks have a tendency to flee the chilly climate from elsewhere.
Lodge costs are sometimes round 10%-20% cheaper right now of yr, particularly in comparison with June-August. That is predominately the case in Orlando, which sees enormous crowds and excessive costs throughout the summer season months.
When to Go to Florida For Climbing
Climbing isn’t the most effective concept when it’s scorching so the shoulder months are the most effective instances to get your boots on. The nice factor is that there’s year-round climate in Florida so even for those who do need to head off on a brief hike within the so-called winter months, that’s completely doable.
The Riverwalk in Tampa is a superb route that passes by loads of leisure choices, or for those who’re within the south, the Anhinga Path within the Everglades is a shocking stroll.
The Finest Time to Go to Florida By Month
One of the best time to go to Florida for you may be another person’s worst time; it’s completely subjective. So, that can assist you out, I’ve compiled an inventory of what to anticipate every month throughout totally different areas. Keep in mind, Florida is large so the climate could differ from one place to a different, together with crowd ranges.
Florida in January
Florida in January is a really nice time, and you’ll anticipate gentle temperatures and fewer crowds.
Climate in Florida in January
January might be the most cost effective time to go to Florida as everybody continues to be getting over the festive rush of Christmas and New Yr. Nonetheless, that doesn’t imply the climate is gloomy; you possibly can anticipate averages of 88°F (31°C) throughout the day with gentle evenings.
The south is usually hotter than the north and inland components of the state, so, for those who’re on the lookout for the most effective of the climate, head to Miami or the Florida Keys. Crowds will likely be barely larger in these areas.
Issues To Do in Florida in January
In the event you’re not a fan of flocks of individuals, January is a superb time to move to Disney World Resort and bounce on some rides with out fairly so many queues. It’s additionally a busy time for festivals throughout the state, and the gentle climate makes for a good time. For me, January ticks each field: the climate is sweet, it’s not so crowded, and lodge costs are normally a little bit decrease.
The Crystal River Manatee Pageant takes place in Crystal River in mid-January yearly, and households ought to head to Tampa to benefit from the Gasparilla Pirate Fest. You may as well make the most of the milder climate with the Miami Little Havana Meals & Strolling Tour and check out all method of scrumptious treats whereas getting some train. Click on right here to be taught extra.
Florida in February
Delicate climate and low rainfall proceed into February, which means you possibly can make the most of many outside actions with out coping with excessive temperatures and crowds.
Climate in Florida in February
Florida in February continues to be in the course of the state’s dry season, so you possibly can anticipate little to no rainfall. Temperatures vary between 64°F (18°C) to 75°F (24°C), with the most popular temperatures as soon as once more skilled within the south.
Issues To Do in Florida in February
February is after all the month of affection, so it’s the best time to get pleasure from a romantic break with a cherished one. I actually loved the Key West Sundown Dinner Cruise, the place you’re served a scrumptious tropical buffet dinner to get pleasure from. Click on right here to be taught extra.
February can also be the most effective time to go to Florida if you wish to go mountaineering. In the event you occur to be in Orlando, positively take a look at the Three Lakes Loop which takes you thru some really breathtaking surroundings. Alternatively, head to Boggy Creek for an airboat trip and a few wildlife recognizing. In the event you go right now of yr, you’ll miss the largest crowds. Click on right here for particulars and to e-book.
Florida in March
Florida in March means spring has sprung and barely hotter temperatures are across the nook. Crowd ranges are nonetheless pretty low right now of yr.
Climate in Florida in March
As March arrives, the remainder of Florida catches up with the south and temperatures are typically on a par. You’ll be able to anticipate common highs of between 70°F (21°C) to 79°F (26°C), with gentle evenings good for wandering round your location. Rainfall continues to be very low right now of yr, though it may be a little bit windy on the coast.
Issues To Do in Florida in March
The Kennedy House Heart is considered one of my favourite issues to do in Florida, and March is a superb time to go due to fewer vacationers round. There are a lot of ticket choices obtainable however click on right here for extra info.
March is the most effective time to go to Florida if you wish to wander round extra freely, and a day at Common Studios is excessive on the agenda for me. Click on right here for extra info.
Carnaval Miami takes place in March, and this can be a must-visit for those who’re within the space. At Daytona Seaside, you’ll additionally have the ability to take a look at Bike Week, which I positively suggest for those who’re on the lookout for one thing a little bit totally different.
Florida in April
Florida in April brings barely hotter temperatures, however decrease costs for resorts in comparison with the approaching months. It’s a terrific month to go to for {couples} and households who don’t like crowds.
Climate in Florida in April
Throughout Florida, you possibly can anticipate related temperatures right now of yr, which adjustments a little bit as the height months arrive. On common, temperatures are round 77°F (25°C) – 85°F (29°C) with gentle evenings. You’ll be able to anticipate a tiny bit extra rain than the earlier months, however no matter showers do come will likely be very short-lived.
Issues To Do in Florida in April
In the event you occur to be in Key West, I counsel you so as to add the Sandbar Tour & Kayak Tour to your itinerary. It’s such a enjoyable day trip and is well-priced contemplating meals and drinks are included. The climate in Key West is gorgeous in April and the crowds of the earlier months have cleared a little bit. Click on right here for info.
After all, for those who’re in Miami, it might be a disgrace not to take a look at the Everglades on a tour. A information gives you all the data you want, and this can be a nice time to identify some native wildlife. I completely cherished the Everglades and might’t wait to return. Click on right here for extra info.
In the event you’re in Clearwater, take a look at the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Pageant, which takes place yearly and is an attention-grabbing and enjoyable method to spend a couple of hours on the seashore.
Florida in Might
If you wish to go to Florida in the summertime, then Might is your finest guess. That is the ‘official’ begin of summer season, however the highest temperatures, humidity, and crowds haven’t arrived but.
Climate in Florida in Might
Florida in Might means hotter climate and lots to see and do, nevertheless it’s the most effective time of yr to go to Florida for those who like heat however not excessive warmth.
Temperatures start to differ very barely throughout the state right now, with hotter temperatures inland, in locations like Orlando, in comparison with the coastal areas. You’ll be able to anticipate between 82°F (28°C) – 88°F (31°C) with heat evenings. The moist season begins in Might, though you possibly can anticipate probably the most rain towards the top of the month.
Issues To Do in Florida in Might
Might’s heat evenings make it the best time to discover throughout the night hours in addition to the day. The Miami Night Cruise is a superb concept right now of yr, and also you’ll get to see beautiful views from Biscayne Bay. Click on right here for particulars.
One of many greatest festivals of the yr takes place in West Palm Seaside in Might: Sunfest. This music competition is one you merely should attend for those who’re visiting right now, and there’s much more occurring in addition to issues, with meals and craft stalls obtainable.
In the event you’re in Tampa, positively take a look at the Cuban Sandwich Pageant in Ybor Metropolis. I can’t clarify how a lot I like Cuban sandwiches and it’s my go-to snack every time I’m within the space.
Florida in June
Florida in June implies that summer season is nearly in full swing and temperatures are rising. Costs begin to rise barely right now of yr, however you might be able to discover some good lodge offers early on within the month.
Climate in Florida in June
You’ll be able to anticipate extra rain in June in comparison with Might, and rainfall will enhance because the month goes on. Nonetheless, downpours don’t are inclined to final too lengthy, (simply carry an umbrella with you). The draw back is that rain and heat are inclined to carry humidity, and this begins to extend as June progresses.
Issues To Do in Florida in June
June is the most effective time to go to Florida for those who love seashores and don’t need to wrestle for a spot on the sand. The rising warmth means a couple of hours of having fun with the ocean and solar is right, so head to Clearwater Seaside for a unbelievable day trip. There are rides, amusements, outlets, and loads of eating places to get pleasure from. Click on right here for instructions.
In the event you’re across the Naples space, head to Marco Island – it’s considered one of my favourite seashores in the entire of Florida. The seashore might be reached by way of a bridge, and I’m speaking impossibly white sand and translucent sea. Click on right here for instructions.
For these in Key West, take a look at the annual Key Lime Pageant, for limitless enjoyable and scrumptious meals.
Florida in July
The warmth is unquestionably on in Florida in July, and that is the most popular month of the yr within the area. It’s additionally one of the crucial costly, nevertheless it ensures enjoyable within the solar.
Climate in Florida in July
In the event you don’t like warmth and crowds, that is the worst time to go to Florida, but when none of that bothers you, you’re positive to have a good time. You’ll be able to anticipate temperatures to climb as much as 87°F (31°C) – 92°F (33°C). It’s additionally more likely to rain because the month goes on, as we transfer towards the rainiest month of August.
The most important difficulty right now of yr is humidity. My recommendation is to see as a lot as you possibly can however to maintain issues regular; don’t go speeding from place to position and hold hydrated.
Issues To Do in Florida in July
For me, the most effective factor to do in July is to be both close to or within the water. There are such a lot of stunning spots across the Florida coast, and the St Petersburg to Egmont Key catamaran cruise is a good way to see a few of them. That is such a chilled-out day, and I’d extremely suggest it. Click on right here for particulars.
If boats aren’t your bag, Florida has some unbelievable waterparks. Aquatica in Orlando is the largest waterpark within the state, and it’s a full day of splashing round, thrilling rides, and normal enjoyable. You may even select to remain the night time and benefit from the night leisure. Click on right here for ticket particulars.
Florida in August
Florida in August might be summed up in two phrases: humid, and wet. That is the state’s rainiest month throughout the board, but it nonetheless brings very excessive temperatures.
Climate in Florida in August
In the midst of the hurricane season in Florida, you’ll discover loads of rain coming your approach, not essentially from a hurricane, however just because it’s the wettest month. It’s additionally probably the most humid by far at round 75% – ensure you e-book lodging with air con!
You’ll be able to anticipate common temperatures between 88°F (31°C) -91°F (33°C) with not a lot of a drop within the evenings. Nonetheless, the largest change right here is the quantity of rain that falls, with round 15 days of rain throughout the month. You’ll want each solar lotion and an umbrella in your bag.
Issues To Do in Florida in August
Because of the warmth and rain, there aren’t as many festivals in August, however there’s nonetheless loads to see and do. On dry days, a personal helicopter tour over Miami is a superb concept and gives you the prospect to take some wonderful images and see the state from a special perspective. Click on right here for particulars.
You would possibly want to flee a sudden downpour, and for those who’re in Orlando, heading to WonderWorks on Worldwide Drive is a enjoyable but surreal place to go to – it’s someplace I all the time pop into after I’m within the space. Alternatively, head to Madame Tussauds and have your photograph taken together with your favourite superstar waxwork.
Florida in September
September is my favourite month in Florida. The rain has barely abated, temperatures begin to come down, and crowds comply with the identical pattern.
Climate in Florida in September
Florida in September means a slight transfer away from rain, though it’s nonetheless fairly humid, abating because the month goes on. Fall is simply across the nook, and it’s nearly as for those who can hear the sigh of aid. Regardless of that, it’s nonetheless the center of the hurricane season, so storms could come your approach sometimes.
You’ll be able to anticipate temperatures between 86°F (30°C) – 90°F (32°C), regularly cooling because the month goes on. Humidity is larger firstly of the month than on the finish, and rain follows the identical sample.
Issues To Do in Florida in September
September is the annual Sing Out Loud Music Pageant in St Augustine, and for those who’re within the space, I’d suggest reserving tickets forward of time to keep away from disappointment. It’s such a enjoyable competition and is full of wonderful music performances.
The Pensacola Seafood Pageant can also be a terrific go to, with dishes regionally caught from the Gulf of Mexico. Alternatively, September is the best month to go dolphin recognizing, and there are numerous journeys to attempt. Little Toot Dolphin Journey at Clearwater is considered one of my favorites and leaves loads of time for having fun with the world afterward. Click on right here for particulars.
Florida in October
Florida in October means loads of conventional fall and spooky enjoyable to absorb. The entire state goes loopy for Halloween and also you’ll discover numerous unbelievable occasions regardless of the place you might be.
Climate in Florida in October
October is the most effective time to go to Florida if you would like decrease costs, cooler climate (but nonetheless gentle), and fewer rain.
Issues To Do in Florida in October
You can not go to Florida in October with out attempting a ghost-hunting tour., and also you’ll discover them throughout. For these in St Augustine’s, don’t miss the Ghosts & Gravestones Outdated City Trolley Tour. Your information is a so-called “ghost,” and also you’re transported from haunted spots to spooky areas by a trolley, so no strolling is required. Click on right here for info.
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Celebration at Magic Kingdom, Orlando is a fun-filled occasion for the entire household, and even huge youngsters (like me) get pleasure from it. You’ll be able to trip later into the night time and watch spooky parades, with particular snacks on provide. Oktoberfest in Tampa can also be a unbelievable occasion right now of yr, and one to not be missed.
Florida in November
With the hurricane season coming to an finish, cooler temperatures, and fewer humidity, November is a month of decrease costs and extra nice circumstances.
Climate in Florida in November
Florida in November brings huge adjustments within the climate, and it’s noticeable from the get-go that humidity has dropped proper down. It’s now the dry season once more, which implies it’s far much less prone to rain, and also you don’t want to hold an umbrella with you always.
You’ll be able to anticipate temperatures between 71°F (23°C) – 79°F (26°C), with the very best temperatures towards Miami and the south. Right now, the busy season in that space slowly begins to choose up once more; peaking in January and February. Nonetheless, Tallahassee, Orlando, and Tampa particularly are very nice right now of yr.
Issues To Do in Florida in November
November means Thanksgiving and also you’ll discover loads of occasions to mark the custom. Keep in mind that some bars, outlets, and eating places could shut for the day, however they’ll give discover beforehand. In the event you’re in Miami with youngsters, head to the Miami E book Honest for a fun-filled and academic day trip.
It’s a lot simpler to stroll round and discover right now of yr, and also you’ll discover numerous strolling excursions obtainable. One in every of my favorites is the Ybor Metropolis Shared Historic Strolling Tour. You’ll discover probably the most historic a part of Tampa with the assistance of a educated information. Click on right here for info.
If meals is extra your deal, the Ybor Metropolis Meals Strolling Tour is a superb alternative, the place you’ll get to get pleasure from these wonderful Cuban sandwiches. Click on right here for particulars.
Florida in December
Visiting Florida in December is a superb concept as a result of not solely is the climate best for outside actions and exploring, however you additionally get to get pleasure from loads of festive occasions.
Climate in Florida in December
‘Delicate’ might be one of the best ways to explain Florida’s climate in December, and that goes for your complete state. As all the time, the southern half is hotter than the north or inland areas, however solely by a couple of levels.
In the event you ask a local Floridian, they’ll in all probability inform you it’s ‘chilly’ in December, nevertheless it’s positively not climate for a coat. You’ll be able to anticipate common temperatures between 72°F (22°C) – 77°F (25°C). It’s additionally the dry season, so rain is fairly uncommon.
Issues To Do in Florida in December
December is the most effective time to go to Florida for enjoyable and celebrations as Christmas and New Yr add loads of glitz and glamor. You’ll see numerous magical parades and occasions all through the final couple of weeks of the month. The Winterfest Boat Parade in Fort Lauderdale is a must-do, and it’s all the time extraordinarily busy so I’d recommend getting there early.
The guided Christmas Tour in Orlando will present you the most effective decorations and festive enjoyable within the space and is appropriate for youngsters too. Click on right here for particulars. All the foremost theme parks embellish for the vacations and have particular parades, together with the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Common Studios, Orlando. Click on right here for ticket particulars.
In Conclusion
One of the best time to go to Florida will likely be totally different for everybody. It’s subjective in some ways as a result of every traveler enjoys various things and several types of climate. Personally, I’m not a fan of humidity, so I keep away from the months when it’s moist and scorching — however perhaps you don’t thoughts these sorts of circumstances.
Florida is a tremendous vacation spot, regardless of the time of yr you go. Whether or not you’re all about theme parks, and seashores, otherwise you’re into nature, meals, or events, there’s a city, metropolis, or seashore resort for you. The most important downside is whittling your alternative down to 1 or two locations.
