The best time to visit Key West: a month-by-month guide

Key West in January

January is a great time to visit Key West if you prefer mild weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds. It’s an ideal month for exploring the town’s historic streets, visiting museums, and enjoying local shops without tourist congestion. Cafés and restaurants feel more relaxed, and accommodations are far more affordable than during peak winter months.

January is also perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Coastal walks, quiet beaches, and clear waters make it a great time for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a morning fishing trip in calmer conditions. Sunset cruises and snorkeling are also very enjoyable this time of year.

Although January is not a major festival month, Key West still offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, seasonal dishes, and a slower-paced local lifestyle. Late January often features the Key West Food & Wine Festival, giving travelers a chance to sample local and international cuisine, attend tastings, and enjoy live entertainment in a festive yet relaxed setting.

For travellers who enjoy calm, culture, and mild outdoor adventures, including a chance to cast a line, January offers a relaxed and budget-friendly way to experience Key West.

Weather in January

Temperature: 65–74°F (18–23°C), mild and comfortable.

Sunshine: Mostly sunny with occasional clouds.

Rainfall: Low, occasional brief showers.

Sea & Nature: Calm waters perfect for fishing, kayaking, snorkelling, and coastal walks.

Key West in February

February is an excellent month to visit Key West for travelers who prefer mild temperatures and a more relaxed pace. The island is less crowded than during the peak winter holidays, making it easier to explore landmarks like Duval Street, Mallory Square, and the charming streets of Old Town without feeling rushed. Flights and accommodations are often more affordable at this time, which is perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

It’s also a wonderful month for enjoying Key West’s outdoor lifestyle. The waters around the island are calm, offering ideal conditions for fishing excursions, snorkeling adventures, or a leisurely paddleboard session. Local seafood shines in February, with fresh catches featured at restaurants along the waterfront. The clear skies and turquoise waters create a picturesque backdrop for both relaxation and adventure.

While the festival calendar is quieter than in spring, events like local food tastings or wine evenings occasionally take place, adding a dash of cultural charm. Coastal strolls, sunrise views over the Gulf, and gentle breezes make Key West feel particularly serene in February.

Weather in February

Temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C), pleasantly mild.

Sunshine: Mostly sunny with occasional overcast days.

Rainfall: Low, brief showers possible.

Sea & Nature: Calm waters ideal for fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, and coastal walks.

Key West in March

March is one of the most pleasant months to visit Key West, signaling the shift from winter into early spring. Days become warmer, the sunshine is more consistent, and the tropical landscapes start to feel vibrant. Crowds are still moderate compared with the peak spring-break season, making it an excellent time to explore the island comfortably.

March is ideal for enjoying Key West’s culture and charm. Duval Street, the historic seaport, and neighborhoods like Old Town feel lively but not overcrowded, allowing visitors to explore galleries, museums, and historic homes at a relaxed pace. It’s also a great month for the local dining scene, with seafood and tropical flavors at their freshest, and casual wine tastings or waterfront drinks in open-air cafés are especially enjoyable.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to do. The surrounding waters are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and paddleboarding, while the mangroves and nearby islands are ideal for birdwatching and eco-tours. Early spring also brings mild breezes and comfortable temperatures, making sailing, fishing, and coastal walks particularly inviting.

Nature lovers will also enjoy spotting local wildlife. Common sightings this month include iguanas basking in the sun, playful dolphins offshore, and a variety of shorebirds such as herons, egrets, and pelicans in the mangroves. Snorkelers may also encounter tropical fish and rays along the reefs.

Weather in March

Temperature: 72–80°F (22–27°C), warm and comfortable.

Sunshine: Mostly sunny days with occasional breezy periods.

Rainfall: Light, scattered showers possible.

Sea & Nature: Perfect conditions for snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, and coastal exploration; tropical flora starting to bloom.

Key West in April

April is one of the most charming months to visit Key West. The weather is pleasantly warm, humidity is lower than in summer, and the island feels lively without the winter crowds. This makes it a fantastic time to enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural events, and the relaxed island pace.

April is ideal for water activities. The coral reefs are clear for snorkelling and diving, kayakers can explore the mangroves and shallow waters, and the Gulf and Atlantic waters are perfect for sailing or paddleboarding. Fishing enthusiasts will also find excellent conditions as many species are active this time of year.

The island’s natural charm is on full display. Wildlife is abundant, dolphins often swim close to shore, sea turtles can be spotted near beaches, and shorebirds like herons and pelicans are frequently seen along the coastline. Evening strolls bring colourful sunsets that make the island feel magical, while cafes, galleries, and local bars begin to buzz with spring energy.

April also hosts several seasonal events, including spring art shows and small food festivals, making it a lively month for culture lovers without the overwhelming winter-season crowds.

Weather in April

Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C), warm but comfortable.

Sunshine: Mostly sunny, with long daylight hours for outdoor exploration.

Rainfall: Occasional brief showers, generally light.

Sea & Nature: Calm seas ideal for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking; wildlife is active and easy to observe along the coast.

Key West in May

May is a fantastic month to visit Key West. The weather is warm and sunny, with longer days perfect for enjoying the island’s beaches, water sports, and vibrant downtown. It’s just before the summer peak, so the crowds are smaller than in June and July, making it easier to explore the historic streets, colorful architecture, and waterfront attractions at a relaxed pace.

The island’s coastal waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and boating, while the calm seas invite visitors to try kayaking, paddleboarding, or chartering a fishing trip. Evenings are pleasantly warm, perfect for dining at open-air restaurants, enjoying sunset views at Mallory Square, or strolling along Duval Street without the intense summer heat.

May also marks the start of the local festival season, with music events, food tastings, and cultural happenings beginning to pop up around the island. With a balance of sunshine, fewer crowds, and vibrant island energy, May is one of the most enjoyable months to experience Key West.

Weather in May

Temperature: 77–86°F (25–30°C), warm and sunny.

Sunshine: Long, bright days ideal for outdoor activities.

Rainfall: Low to moderate; occasional brief showers possible.

Sea & Nature: Calm, warm waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling, boating, and fishing.

Key West in June

June marks the start of summer in Key West, bringing long, sunny days, warm temperatures, and lively island energy. It’s the beginning of the wetter season, so brief afternoon showers are possible, but mornings are generally bright and perfect for exploring the historic streets, colourful architecture, and scenic waterfront.

The waters around Key West are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and boating. Anglers will also find excellent conditions for fishing charters, with calm seas and a variety of local catches. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are perfect ways to enjoy the ocean, while the island itself offers shaded streets, open-air cafés, and relaxed spaces to escape the midday sun.

June is also a great month for island events. Local festivals, live music, and food happenings start ramping up, giving visitors a vibrant taste of Key West culture. With warm weather, extended daylight, and fewer peak-season crowds, June is a fantastic month to experience both the sea and the town.

Weather in June

Temperature: 79–88°F (26–31°C), hot and sunny.

Sunshine: Long, bright days perfect for beach time and outdoor exploration.

Rainfall: Increasing slightly; brief afternoon showers are common.

Sea & Nature: Calm, warm waters ideal for swimming, snorkelling, boating, and fishing; lush tropical landscapes.

Key West in July

July is peak summer in Key West, with hot, sunny days and warm nights. Temperatures typically range from 80–90°F (27–32°C), perfect for enjoying the island’s beaches, water sports, and outdoor activities. Afternoon showers are possible but brief, leaving plenty of sunshine for exploring.

The island’s turquoise waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and boating. Popular spots like Smathers Beach, Higgs Beach, and the waters around the nearby coral reefs are lively but still offer space to relax. Sunset celebrations at Mallory Square add to the vibrant summer atmosphere.

July is also a great month for festivals and events, including local food fairs, live music, and cultural celebrations that bring the streets to life. Warm evenings are perfect for waterfront dining, evening strolls, and enjoying Key West’s laid-back charm.

Weather in July

Temperature: 80–90°F (27–32°C), hot and humid

Sunshine: Long, bright days ideal for beaches and outdoor fun

Rainfall: Occasional brief afternoon showers

Sea & Nature: Calm, warm turquoise waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and boating

##Key West in August

August in Key West brings hot, tropical weather, with daytime temperatures typically between 82–90°F (28–32°C). Humidity is high, though refreshing sea breezes and short afternoon showers help break up the heat. Early mornings and evenings are especially pleasant for exploring the island or enjoying water activities.

The surrounding Caribbean waters are inviting, with warm, turquoise seas ideal for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or sailing. Coral reefs and calm bays make diving and paddleboarding particularly enjoyable. Beaches like Smathers and Higgs provide sunny spots to relax, while the historic streets of Old Town offer a mix of culture, dining, and lively waterfront vibes.

August is a lively month for Key West, with local food events, live music, and evening gatherings at Mallory Square. Long summer days give plenty of time to combine coastal adventures, island exploring, and relaxing sunsets over the sea.

Weather in August

Temperature: 82–90°F (28–32°C), hot and tropical

Sunshine: Bright, long days perfect for water and outdoor activities

Rainfall: Brief afternoon showers possible

Sea & Nature: Warm turquoise waters for swimming, snorkeling, and boating; tropical landscapes lush and vibrant

Key West in September

September in Key West is still warm and tropical, with daytime temperatures ranging from 82–88°F (28–31°C). It’s the tail end of hurricane season, so brief rain showers are more likely, though mornings and early afternoons are usually sunny and perfect for outdoor activities.

The island’s beaches and surrounding Caribbean waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, paddleboarding, and sailing. Calm bays and clear, turquoise waters make it easy to explore reefs and enjoy water sports. Old Town remains lively yet less crowded than in peak winter or spring months, making it a good time for sightseeing, dining, and strolling through historic streets.

September offers a more relaxed Key West experience. Fewer tourists mean quieter restaurants, bars, and beaches, while local events and small festivals continue to bring a touch of the island’s vibrant culture. It’s a month that balances tropical adventure with a slower pace.

Weather in September

Temperature: 82–88°F (28–31°C), warm and humid

Sunshine: Mostly sunny mornings and early afternoons

Rainfall: Moderate; occasional short showers

Sea & Nature: Calm, turquoise waters perfect for water sports; tropical landscapes lush and green

Key West in October

October in Key West marks a transition into the cooler end of the tropical season, with daytime temperatures ranging from 80–85°F (27–29°C). Humidity starts to ease, and while brief rain showers are possible, mornings are often bright and sunny, ideal for exploring the island and its surroundings.

The island’s beaches and turquoise waters remain inviting. Swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and boating are all still enjoyable, and calmer crowds make it easier to relax on sandy shores or take scenic coastal walks. Sunset views from Mallory Square are especially pleasant this time of year.

October is also a great month for cultural experiences. Local markets, art galleries, and seasonal events continue, while historic streets in Old Town are quieter, making it perfect for leisurely sightseeing, alfresco dining, and sampling Key West’s seafood specialties.

Weather in October

Temperature: 80–85°F (27–29°C), warm but less humid Sunshine: Mostly sunny mornings with occasional brief showers Rainfall: Moderate; short, scattered showers possible Sea & Nature: Calm, turquoise waters for swimming, snorkeling, and boating; island landscapes lush and scenic

Key West in November

November in Key West offers warm, pleasant weather with daytime temperatures typically between 78–83°F (26–28°C). Humidity drops slightly, and rainfall becomes less frequent, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities, beach visits, and exploring the island at a relaxed pace.

The waters remain inviting, with calm seas perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and sailing. Quieter beaches and turquoise waters make it easier to enjoy sunbathing, kayaking, or strolling along the shore. The island’s famous sunsets continue to provide spectacular evening views.

November is also a vibrant month for local culture and cuisine. Art galleries, historic sites in Old Town, and seafood restaurants are lively but not crowded. Seasonal events and festivals offer visitors a chance to experience Key West’s friendly, laid-back atmosphere, with opportunities for live music, local markets, and cultural highlights.

Weather in November

Temperature: 78–83°F (26–28°C), comfortably warm

Sunshine: Mostly sunny days with occasional clouds

Rainfall: Low; brief, scattered showers possible

Sea & Nature: Calm, turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling; beaches and coastal scenery serene and inviting

Key West in December

December in Key West is festive, lively, and perfect for enjoying the island’s unique charm. The streets are decorated for the holidays, local events bring a cheerful atmosphere, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities without the intense heat of summer. It’s a great month for travelers who want a mix of relaxation, culture, and seasonal festivities.

The island enjoys warm, comfortable temperatures compared to the northern U.S., with bright, sunny mornings perfect for exploring Duval Street, historic sites, or nearby beaches. The calm waters of the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico make swimming, snorkeling, and boating highly enjoyable. Key West’s sunsets are particularly stunning this time of year, and the relaxed pace of the island adds to its winter charm.

Early December offers lower prices and fewer crowds, making it perfect for a quieter getaway. Later in the month, the city celebrates Christmas with festive lights, seasonal events, and local traditions, including holiday concerts, tree lightings, and special dining experiences that capture the island’s tropical take on the season.

Weather in December

Temperature: 70–78°F (21–26°C), pleasantly warm Sunshine: Mostly sunny with bright mornings and mild afternoons Rainfall: Low; brief showers possible Sea & Nature: Calm, turquoise waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and boating; perfect for outdoor activities and coastal walks