

Tourists and locals enjoying the sunset in Mallory Square in Key West. Erika Cristina Manno/Shutterstock
With sun-drenched shores and temperatures hovering between the mid 70s°F and lower 90s°F year-round, you could easily argue that there's no such thing as a bad time to visit Key West. For those seeking a tropical island paradise and the warm vibes that come with it, almost every month of the year will keep you happy.
Waters spanning the blue color spectrum, international culinary delights and an aquatic underworld like no other are guarantees for any Key West adventure. But to avoid crowds, maximize your money and minimize your chances of a weather-related encounter, there are optimal times for a visit. Here's how to choose the perfect month for your Key West trip.

December to March is best for winter sun and spring break
Weather in Key West in winter: This is where people flock to escape the winter chill elsewhere. Temperatures hover around 78°F, rainfall is limited to a couple of days per month and almost every day is drenched in sunshine.
For folks needing or wanting a reprieve from frigid climates, winter is a dreamy – and popular – time for a vacation. Snowbird season, as it's known, traditionally happens between October and May, when folks from the northern states leave their freezing-cold towns to reside in sunny Florida, and peaks between January and March. An overlap of snowbirds and spring breakers makes March the pinnacle of peak season in Key West. This is when you’ll find some of the highest prices for lodging, along with swelling crowds.
The island is swathed in colorful lights throughout December to ensure everyone feels the holiday spirit in the sunshine. The island is loaded with holiday-infused events, culminating in a New Year’s Eve fireworks spectacular over Key West Harbor. Get involved at the BeLighted Bike Ride and the Key West Hometown Holiday Parade.
The , one of the area's biggest annual events, typically falls at the end of January, giving the masses another reason to visit early in the year and continue the holiday spirit. Also in January, draws crowds for a multi-day lineup of live music on stages big and small by established and up-and-coming artists.
Valentine's Day and President's Day bring welcome excuses for long-weekend adventures during February and the Key West Art and Craft Festival brings creative energy to the shore. Spring breakers start rolling into town in March as visitors numbers rise. The celebrations for draw big crowds to amidst all its colorful glory.

Sweat it out between June and August
Weather in Key West in summer: The weather in South Florida during summer is no joke. It's hot and humid, with average temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s, and you should arrive prepared to sweat.
From fishing and kayaking to swimming and scuba, the best way to cool off when visiting Key West in the summer is to head to the water. The easy-to-access beach near Fort Zachary Taylor is a popular spot for snorkelers, with many fish surrounding the beautiful coral reefs. (Note: there is a to access this beach.)
Smathers Beach is a popular free option for sunbathers, swimmers and snorkelers on the southern side of Key West, just off Highway AIA. Higgs Beach is a small, lesser-known beach with a pier, playground, nearby dog park, tennis and pickleball courts and a short fitness trail. Although you’ll need a reservation on the ferry or your own boat to get there, Dry Tortugas National Park has incredible locations for underwater and on-land exploration.
Though the nearby village of Islamorada claims the title of “Sport-Fishing Capital of the World,†there are still some prime locations in Key West to cast a line. Charter a boat to fish offshore where you might catch tarpon, yellowtail, snapper, grouper, marlin, tuna or redfish – Knight Pier and Fort Zachary Taylor Park are popular shore and pier fishing spots. There are tournaments and events throughout the year dedicated to the sport, including the Key West Fishing Tournament, which has countless events from January through July.

The worst of the humidity hasn't really kicked in during June and that's a welcome relief as locals and tourists take to the streets to celebrate with a spectacular rainbow of color and fun events. Typically held in mid-July, celebrates one of the Keys' most famous residents: Ernest Hemingway. Festivities include look-alike contests, poetry readings, rum tastings, a sunset run, beach parties and a multi-day marlin fishing tournament.
Also held in July, the showcases the islands’ iconic dish, the key lime pie. Be sure to sample ’s authentic-style pie topped with meringue, with whipped cream or other interpretations from local favorites like or .
The Atlantic hurricane season kicks off June 1 and runs through the end of November; pack some rain gear, but you'll be rewarded with generally cheaper hotel rates and quieter beaches than snowbird season. The ocean is like a warm bath during August, but a dip still provides welcome relief from hot weather. Check if your hotel has a pool because it will be sweet relief this month. Pride isn't the only big LGBTQ+ event during summer – Tropical Heat brings the party for five days mid-August at a variety of events and pool parties.

Save some cash in September and October
Weather in Key West in fall: Stormy weather during hurricane season is to be expected, but there are still lots of balmy days to enjoy – it's famously unpredictable so keep an eye on local weather reports. Pack a bathing suit and light, comfortable layers.
Typically the heart of hurricane season, September and October are widely regarded as the low season in Key West. Still, this time can be hit or miss for any community along the Eastern US and Gulf of Mexico shores – you could go years without a hurricane-related event, or several could affect a specific area in a single season alone.
That inconsistency can result in stellar deals on accommodations and activities in the Florida Keys – just keep a close eye on the weather, opt for travel insurance and be flexible with your plans if need be. If the weather behaves, you can enjoy balmy days on the beach, walk the streets of Old Town or cycle around the island. Everything calms down a little after the summer rush as kids go back to school in September and a tranquil buzz takes over the island. Another LGBTQ+ event that brings in lots of visitors is the annual at the beginning of the month, a warm and wonderful celebration of women.
October is when arrives in town, an annual 10-day extravaganza for grown-ups with revelers decked out in imaginative costumes and creative art, music and theater exhibitions. The event began in 1979 to revitalize the slow month of October with a massive party, combining the island’s artistic spirit with the mischief and mayhem of Halloween. Themed events occur across the island, from pool parties and burlesque shows to ghost tours and masquerades. Don’t miss the Fantasy Fest Parade as the party makes its way down Duval Street. The Fantasy Market, Living Art Expo and Robert the Doll’s Fantasy Facade are also staples of this one-of-a-kind event.

Plan with a local