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Best Time To Visit Florida
When considering the best time to plan a trip to Florida it is worth considering the weather, anticipated numbers of tourists, as well as the costs of accommodation and flights.
March through to May is one of the best times to visit, the weather is becoming pleasantly warm whilst the humidity and chance of storms remains low. Crowds are still relatively light at this time of year and rates are competitive as this is classed as an off-peak part of the season. However, beware of US school holidays that occur in March, when crowds and costs can rapidly increase. Summer runs from May to September and attracts the greatest number of visitors to the state with an accompanying hike in prices. Additionally, whilst temperatures are at their best the humid conditions can become unpleasant and there is an increased risk of thunderstorms.
As the autumn season takes over, the months of October and November can provide some real bargains and probably offers the best time to secure a late deal, which coupled with low tourist numbers can make this time of year appealing. However, be warned this is also when hurricanes can strike, so be prepared to experience some weather disrupted days. During December to February an additional million people are estimated to relocate to Florida to escape the harsh winter conditions of their home states. But don’t let that put you off, as the crowds at the major tourist attractions remain low and there are some great extended stay deals to be found.
Average weather in Florida
- Temperature (°C)*
- Rainfall (Inches)*
Weather in Florida
Located between the Gulf of Mexico to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Florida is a state in the south-east of the United States. It enjoys a subtropical climate and an average of 237 days of sunshine a year. No wonder it's known as the "Sunshine State". The summer months are uniformly warm, with a typical daily temperature of around 33°C, while the winters are mild but always very pleasant. From June to September, Florida can become extremely wet and is prone to thunderstorms, particularly in the afternoons. From August to October, these storms often develop into hurricanes.
Seasonality in Florida
Unsurprisingly, Florida is an extremely popular holiday destination for tourists all year round. However, Florida is still divided into two distinct seasons: high season and low season. During the high season, prices for accommodation, tours and flights are incredibly high, and Florida is very busy with holidaymakers. In the low season, on the other hand, prices drop and tourism is a little lower than in the high season.
Peak season in Florida
For the majority of Florida, there are two peak seasons. These occur during winter between mid-December to mid-April and Summer between mid-June and mid-August.
During the peak seasons, you can expect tourist attractions and theme parks to be inundated with large amounts of people and for many hotels to be at maximum capacity. In turn, be aware that prices will be considerably higher compared to other times of the year.
The south of Florida, however, is slightly different compared to the rest of the state as their only peak season is during the winter months.
Low season in Florida
Low season in Florida is entirely dependent on what part of the state you’re visiting. In the south, the summer months are classed as the low season ensuring hotels and excursions are quieter and cheaper in comparison to other parts of Florida at this time of year.
Alternatively, low season occurs in other parts of the state during October and mid-December. Although Florida is never without its crowds, the low season tends be a little less busy and cheaper in contrast to peak season.
Wildlife
Palm-laden beaches
Disneyland fun
Golf excursions
International Flower and Garden festival
Refreshing mojitos
Holidays in Florida
You'll be pleased to know that the sunshine state of Florida is known for much more than theme parks and orange groves. Whether you want to spend a stress-free holiday relaxing on the beach and basking in the hot sun, or get up close to Florida's impressive marine wildlife, we're here to help you do just that. Below we recommend the best times to visit Florida so you can make the most of your dream holiday.
Florida is blessed with warm temperatures all year round. But if you want to enjoy the famous Florida sunshine and dip more than just your toes in the water, the best time to visit Florida is April-May and October-November. These four months offer glorious sunshine and warm waters, with less rain and humidity than at other times of the year.
Overall, Florida has suitable diving conditions all year round. However, the water temperatures are at their warmest between March and November. During this period, you can expect clear visibility of up to 30 metres and you can wear a 3mm thick wetsuit without fear of getting cold. Also keep in mind that the further South of Florida you go, the hotter the climate is.
Alternatively, the best time of year to go snorkelling in Florida, is during April and August. This is when the waters are at their clearest and the temperature is warm enough to snorkel in just a t-shirt for prevention from the sun.
If you want to avoid strong weather conditions when diving, it’s important to be aware that Florida’s hurricane season peaks between August and October.
Florida offers ideal surfing conditions all year round. However, the best time to go surfing, especially if you're an expert, is in August and September. These months are at the heart of hurricane season and bring with them large waves that can reach an impressive three metres in height.
The main swell season in Florida is between November and March, which means that the winter months are also a good time for all keen surfers to enjoy the many majestic waves.
Month by month guide to visiting Florida
Florida in January
Although January is one of the coldest months of the year in Florida, it's much warmer than here at home, with average daily temperatures of 16°C.
Florida in February
In February, the temperature stays at a constant average of 16°C throughout the day, but can drop as low as 9°C at night.
Florida in March
March is the first official month of spring, which means that temperatures rise to a very pleasant 20°C throughout the day, but drop to 13°C at night. March is also one of the driest months of the year.
Florida in April
April enjoys an impressive 10 hours of sunshine a day, making it one of the sunniest months of the year. Temperatures are also higher than in previous months, reaching a daily average of 22°C.
Florida in May
May enjoys nine hours of sunshine a day and temperatures are higher than in the previous month, reaching an average daily temperature of 25°C.
Florida in June
June is officially the first month of summer, which means that temperatures often exceed 32°C during the day and rarely fall below 21°C at night.
Florida in July
July is one of the hottest months of the year in Florida. Temperatures often reach an impressive 33°C during the day and only drop to 22°C at night.
Florida in August
Along with July, August is the hottest month of the year in Florida. Temperatures reach an impressive 33°C during the day and 22°C at night.
Florida in September
September is the last official month of summer in Florida. The average daytime temperature is still 27°C and the sun shines for eight hours a day.
Florida in October
October is a mild month in Florida, with temperatures averaging 24°C. With a comfortable humidity level (70% on average) and pleasant weather conditions, October is an ideal time to visit Florida. Halloween is one of the most popular holidays in the country. So expect spooky shows, fun theatre performances and armloads of candy.
Florida in November
November is generally less rainy, with average temperatures reaching 19°C, creating idyllic conditions for excursions and sightseeing. Be sure to pack light, cool clothes and watch the region prepare for festive celebrations.
Florida in December
Although December tends to be one of the coolest months of the year, it is also one of the driest, with temperatures generally hovering around 16°C. You can expect up to 10 hours of sunshine a day as you watch this wonderful region indulge in the magic of the festive season.
Best time to visit Florida frequently asked questions
The best time to visit Florida and enjoy the fine weather is generally between March and May. During this period, the weather remains pleasantly warm and there is little rainfall or risk of thunderstorms.
The dry season in Florida generally runs from December to May and offers perfect conditions with endless sunny days.
The rainy season in Florida spans from June to September, with July being the wettest month of the year.
The relatively quietest time in Florida occurs from October to early December.
Florida tends to have two peak seasons throughout the year. These coincide with the winter season, between mid-December to mid-April, and the summer season, between mid-June and mid-August.
The low season in Florida varies across the state. In short, the south of the state experiences low season during the summer months due to its climatic conditions, and the rest of Florida tends to experience low season from October to mid-December.
