Florida, aka The Sunshine State, is a spot most individuals have on their bucket checklist. Understanding the very best time to go to Florida provides you with the prospect to do precisely what you need, with none regrets. Theme Parks, Mickey Mouse, buying, wonderful white sand seashores, wildlife, and loads of solar; what’s to not love?
Understanding when to go to Florida, USA may 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 overlook the extremely lovely Florida Keys.
Such an enormous space means barely completely different climate in keeping with every season, however the excellent news is that Florida is rarely 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 will help you whittle down your selections, let’s speak about the very best month to go to Florida and revel in every little thing this gorgeous state has to supply.
General Greatest Time To Go to Florida
The most effective time to go to Florida is determined by the place you wish to go and what you wish to do, however general, I significantly get pleasure from visiting in September. In case 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.
Nevertheless, September implies that at the least the most well liked 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 advocate enthusiastic about what you wish to focus your time on, reminiscent of seashores, nature, buying, theme parks, and so forth. That approach, you possibly can zero in on the realm you plan to spend essentially the most of your time in and discover the very best month for you.
Peak Season in Florida
(Might to Early September)
Whereas completely different elements 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 very best time to go to Florida should you like highly regarded temperatures, nonetheless, you too can 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 general peak season is that it’s important to anticipate larger costs and lodges are nearly at full capability in some locations. Buying round and reserving early would possibly prevent some cash, however inevitably, you need to anticipate to pay extra presently of 12 months.
Shoulder Seasons in Florida
(March – Might & Mid-September – November)
For my part, the shoulder seasons are the very best 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 an amazing alternative to get out into nature and profit from being in The Sunshine State.
In case you journey to Florida throughout October, anticipate all method of Halloween celebrations, in addition to Oktoberfest in Tampa. In April, make sure you try the Dunedin Highland Video games and Pageant, in addition to the Gasparilla Pageant of The Arts in March.
You’ll typically discover cheaper resort costs throughout Spring and Fall, with financial savings as much as $100 per night time in some circumstances. Whereas restaurant and attraction costs will stay the identical, should you can preserve some money in your pocket out of your resort reserves, you’ve obtained 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. Actually, from December to February, many individuals from different elements of the US head to Florida to take in 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 very best time to go to Florida if you wish to keep away from crowds, nonetheless, sure elements of the nation expertise a increase in guests presently, significantly the southern seaside cities. It’s fully attainable to swim within the Florida Keys and even Miami presently, though undoubtedly not as nice as in the summertime months.
Christmas and New Yr provide loads of festivities, however you too can try Youngsters’s Gasparilla Days in Tampa in January.
When to Go to Florida For Seashores
The most effective time to go to the seaside 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 very best thought round. In fact, everybody else has the identical thought so you possibly can anticipate seashores to be busy.
Locations like Clearwater Seaside and Miami Seaside particularly are very talked-about presently, and resort stays are larger in worth.
Nevertheless, round Christmas and New Yr can be a nice season to go to the seashores within the south, particularly the Florida Keys, which experiences its peak season presently of 12 months.
When to Go to Florida For Festivals
The biggest variety of festivals in Florida happen between January and March. The climate is snug presently of 12 months, which suggests you possibly can discover completely different occasions with out feeling confused by the warmth and humidity. I believe that is the very best time to go to Florida for trip if seaside time isn’t your factor.
A number of fascinating festivals presently embody the Youngsters’s Gasparilla Extravaganza in Tampa, the Everglades Seafood Pageant in February, and the Florida State Truthful in Tampa. I actually loved the Naples Nationwide Artwork Pageant, which takes place in February, together with the Calle Ocho Pageant in Miami, which at all times 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 thought and Florida presents some nice spots to just do that. Tampa is filled with incredible sights, together with Ybor Metropolis which spills historical past at each nook. Miami is filled with fascinating 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 choice. I don’t love strolling round busy cities within the hottest months, so I believe Might, the top of September, and October are nice selections. Nevertheless, Miami can be fantastic within the cooler months, when you possibly can discover in January and nonetheless catch a suntan.
When to Go to Florida For Whale Watching
The most effective month to go to Florida for Northern Proper Whale watching is February, and also you’ll should be within the northeast of the state, round Cape Canaveral and Jacksonville. The one problem is that you just’ll must look your self as there are not any excursions to take you out recognizing; these whales are slightly elusive, however should you keep it up, you could be fortunate.
In fact, you possibly can go manatee or dolphin recognizing as a substitute, and these are usually discovered all through the whole 12 months. The most effective time to go to Florida to see manatees is often 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
The most effective time to go to Florida to avoid wasting money is often between January and March, nonetheless, you can find costs drop after September as the height season ebbs and crowds are much less.
Take into account that these reductions do rely upon the place in Florida you’re as a result of the southern a part of the state, and particularly the Florida Keys, are likely to see larger costs presently as folks have a tendency to flee the chilly climate from elsewhere.
Lodge costs are sometimes round 10%-20% cheaper presently of 12 months, particularly in comparison with June-August. That is predominately the case in Orlando, which sees enormous crowds and excessive costs through the summer time months.
When to Go to Florida For Climbing
Climbing isn’t the very best thought when it’s scorching so the shoulder months are the very best instances to get your boots on. The nice factor is that there’s year-round climate in Florida so even should you do wish 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 should you’re within the south, the Anhinga Path within the Everglades is a surprising stroll.
The Greatest Time to Go to Florida By Month
The most effective time to go to Florida for you could be another person’s worst time; it’s completely subjective. So, that will help you out, I’ve compiled an inventory of what to anticipate every month throughout completely different areas. Keep in mind, Florida is large so the climate might 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 delicate temperatures and fewer crowds.
Climate in Florida in January
January might be the most cost effective time to go to Florida as everybody remains to be getting over the festive rush of Christmas and New Yr. Nevertheless, that doesn’t imply the climate is gloomy; you possibly can anticipate averages of 88°F (31°C) through the day with delicate evenings.
The south is usually hotter than the north and inland elements of the state, so, should you’re in search of the very best 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 case you’re not a fan of flocks of individuals, January is a superb time to go to Disney World Resort and soar on some rides with out fairly so many queues. It’s additionally a busy time for festivals throughout the state, and the delicate climate makes for a good time. For me, January ticks each field: the climate is nice, it’s not so crowded, and resort costs are often slightly 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 can too benefit from the milder climate with the Miami Little Havana Meals & Strolling Tour and take a look at all method of scrumptious treats whereas getting some train. Click on right here to study extra.
Florida in February
Delicate climate and low rainfall proceed into February, which means you possibly can benefit from many out of doors actions with out coping with excessive temperatures and crowds.
Climate in Florida in February
Florida in February remains to be in the midst 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 well liked temperatures as soon as once more skilled within the south.
Issues To Do in Florida in February
February is in fact the month of affection, so it’s the perfect time to get pleasure from a romantic break with a liked 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 study extra.
February can be the very best time to go to Florida if you wish to go mountaineering. In case you occur to be in Orlando, undoubtedly try the Three Lakes Loop which takes you thru some actually breathtaking surroundings. Alternatively, head to Boggy Creek for an airboat journey and a few wildlife recognizing. In case you go presently of 12 months, 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 presently of 12 months.
Climate in Florida in March
As March arrives, the remainder of Florida catches up with the south and temperatures are usually on a par. You’ll be able to anticipate common highs of between 70°F (21°C) to 79°F (26°C), with delicate evenings excellent for wandering round your location. Rainfall remains to be very low presently of 12 months, though it may be slightly windy on the coast.
Issues To Do in Florida in March
The Kennedy Area Heart is one in every of my favourite issues to do in Florida, and March is a superb time to go because of fewer vacationers round. There are lots of ticket choices accessible however click on right here for extra data.
March is the very best 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 data.
Carnaval Miami takes place in March, and this can be a must-visit should you’re within the space. At Daytona Seaside, you’ll additionally be capable of try Bike Week, which I undoubtedly advocate should you’re in search of one thing slightly completely different.
Florida in April
Florida in April brings barely hotter temperatures, however decrease costs for lodges in comparison with the approaching months. It’s an amazing 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 presently of 12 months, which modifications slightly as the height months arrive. On common, temperatures are round 77°F (25°C) – 85°F (29°C) with delicate 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 case 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 slightly. Click on right here for data.
In fact, should you’re in Miami, it might be a disgrace not to take a look at the Everglades on a tour. A information provides you with all the knowledge you want, and this can be a nice time to identify some native wildlife. I completely liked the Everglades and might’t wait to return. Click on right here for extra data.
In case you’re in Clearwater, try the Pier 60 Sugar Sand Pageant, which takes place yearly and is an fascinating and enjoyable approach to spend a number of hours on the seaside.
Florida in Might
If you wish to go to Florida in the summertime, then Might is your greatest guess. That is the ‘official’ begin of summer time, 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, however it’s the very best time of 12 months to go to Florida should you like heat however not excessive warmth.
Temperatures start to fluctuate very barely throughout the state presently, 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 essentially the most rain towards the top of the month.
Issues To Do in Florida in Might
Might’s heat evenings make it the perfect time to discover through the night hours in addition to the day. The Miami Night Cruise is a superb thought presently of 12 months, and also you’ll get to see gorgeous views from Biscayne Bay. Click on right here for particulars.
One of many greatest festivals of the 12 months takes place in West Palm Seaside in Might: Sunfest. This music competition is one you merely should attend should you’re visiting presently, and there’s much more occurring moreover issues, with meals and craft stalls accessible.
In case you’re in Tampa, undoubtedly try 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 each time I’m within the space.
Florida in June
Florida in June implies that summer time is nearly in full swing and temperatures are rising. Costs begin to rise barely presently of 12 months, however you might be able to discover some good resort 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 improve because the month goes on. Nevertheless, downpours don’t are likely to final too lengthy, (simply carry an umbrella with you). The draw back is that rain and heat are likely to deliver humidity, and this begins to extend as June progresses.
Issues To Do in Florida in June
June is the very best time to go to Florida should you love seashores and don’t wish to wrestle for a spot on the sand. The growing warmth means a number of hours of having fun with the ocean and solar is good, so head to Clearwater Seaside for a incredible day trip. There are rides, amusements, retailers, and loads of eating places to get pleasure from. Click on right here for instructions.
In case you’re across the Naples space, head to Marco Island – it’s one in every of my favourite seashores in the entire of Florida. The seaside may 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, try the annual Key Lime Pageant, for limitless enjoyable and scrumptious meals.
Florida in July
The warmth is certainly on in Florida in July, and that is the most well liked month of the 12 months within the area. It’s additionally some of the costly, however it ensures enjoyable within the solar.
Climate in Florida in July
In case 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 certain 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 presently of 12 months is humidity. My recommendation is to see as a lot as you possibly can however to maintain issues regular; don’t go dashing from place to position and preserve hydrated.
Issues To Do in Florida in July
For me, the very best factor to do in July is to be both close to or within the water. There are such a lot of lovely spots across the Florida coast, and the St Petersburg to Egmont Key catamaran cruise is an effective way to see a few of them. That is such a chilled-out day, and I’d extremely advocate it. Click on right here for particulars.
If boats aren’t your bag, Florida has some incredible 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 could possibly 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 may 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 essentially 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. Nevertheless, 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 a lot to see and do. On dry days, a personal helicopter tour over Miami is a superb thought and provides you with the prospect to take some wonderful images and see the state from a unique perspective. Click on right here for particulars.
You would possibly want to flee a sudden downpour, and should you’re in Orlando, heading to WonderWorks on Worldwide Drive is a enjoyable but surreal place to go to – it’s someplace I at all times pop into once I’m within the space. Alternatively, head to Madame Tussauds and have your photograph taken along 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 observe 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 should you can hear the sigh of aid. Regardless of that, it’s nonetheless the center of the hurricane season, so storms might come your approach often.
You’ll be able to anticipate temperatures between 86°F (30°C) – 90°F (32°C), progressively cooling because the month goes on. Humidity is larger at the beginning 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 should you’re within the space, I’d advocate reserving tickets forward of time to keep away from disappointment. It’s such a enjoyable competition and is filled with wonderful music performances.
The Pensacola Seafood Pageant can be an amazing go to, with dishes domestically caught from the Gulf of Mexico. Alternatively, September is the perfect month to go dolphin recognizing, and there are numerous journeys to strive. Little Toot Dolphin Journey at Clearwater is one in every of my favorites and leaves loads of time for having fun with the realm afterward. Click on right here for particulars.
Florida in October
Florida in October means loads of conventional fall and spooky enjoyable to take in. The entire state goes loopy for Halloween and also you’ll discover numerous incredible occasions irrespective of the place you might be.
Climate in Florida in October
October is the very best time to go to Florida if you would like decrease costs, cooler climate (but nonetheless delicate), and fewer rain.
Issues To Do in Florida in October
You can’t go to Florida in October with out making an attempt 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 data.
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Occasion 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 journey later into the night time and watch spooky parades, with particular snacks on provide. Oktoberfest in Tampa can be a incredible occasion presently of 12 months, 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 situations.
Climate in Florida in November
Florida in November brings huge modifications 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 suggests it’s far much less more likely 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 best temperatures towards Miami and the south. Presently, the busy season in that space slowly begins to select up once more; peaking in January and February. Nevertheless, Tallahassee, Orlando, and Tampa particularly are very nice presently of 12 months.
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, retailers, and eating places might shut for the day, however they’ll give discover beforehand. In case you’re in Miami with youngsters, head to the Miami E-book Truthful for a fun-filled and academic day trip.
It’s a lot simpler to stroll round and discover presently of 12 months, and also you’ll discover numerous strolling excursions accessible. One in every of my favorites is the Ybor Metropolis Shared Historic Strolling Tour. You’ll discover essentially the most historic a part of Tampa with the assistance of a educated information. Click on right here for data.
If meals is extra your deal, the Ybor Metropolis Meals Strolling Tour is a superb selection, 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 thought as a result of not solely is the climate splendid for out of doors actions and exploring, however you additionally get to get pleasure from loads of festive occasions.
Climate in Florida in December
‘Delicate’ might be the easiest way to explain Florida’s climate in December, and that goes for the whole state. As at all times, the southern half is hotter than the north or inland areas, however solely by a number of levels.
In case you ask a local Floridian, they’ll in all probability let you know it’s ‘chilly’ in December, however it’s undoubtedly 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 very best time to go to Florida for enjoyable and celebrations as Christmas and New Yr add loads of glitz and glamor. You’ll see a number of 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 at all times extraordinarily busy so I’d counsel getting there early.
The guided Christmas Tour in Orlando will present you the very best decorations and festive enjoyable within the space and is appropriate for kids too. Click on right here for particulars. All the main 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
The most effective time to go to Florida will likely be completely different for everybody. It’s subjective in some ways as a result of every traveler enjoys various things and various kinds 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 situations.
Florida is an incredible vacation spot, irrespective of the time of 12 months 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 seaside resort for you. The most important downside is whittling your selection down to at least one or two locations.