What’s the Best Times of the Year to Visit Key West?
We’re of the firm belief that there’s no bad time to visit Key West, but hey, we live here! Still, if you’re not familiar with the Keys, you may be wondering when is the best time to plan your visit for. Here’s a brief overview of the seasons, and what they have to offer.
December – February
“Sushi,” hangs in a giant replica of a woman’s red high heel over Duval Street, late Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2014, at the Bourbon Street Pub in Key West, Fla. The Red Shoe Drop is a Key West New Year’s Eve tradition (AP Photo/The Key West Citizen, Rob O’Neal)
Cold weather in the rest of the country makes Key West a popular destination during this time. This is reflected in higher prices at hotels, but sometimes, getting away from the snow and spending some time in sunny Key West is worth the price tag. Plus, you can look forward to the holiday season
Events not to miss:
Lighted Boat Parade & Bike ride
New Years Eve
Food & Wine Festival
March – May
March is peak high season in Key West, but the weather is great, with every day at 75°F and low humidity. The downside is higher prices for flights and lodging.
April sees a small dip in crowds, and May is a great shoulder season time to come. Prices drop and and crowds thin. April and May are also great times to go out on the boat, fishing and diving.
Events not to miss:
Taste of Key West
Conch Republic Independence Celebration
Conch Shell lowing Contest
June – August
Photo//Keys Weekly
This is the rainy season, which usually means higher temperatures and higher humidity. But, you can also get airfare and hotels significantly cheaper at this time of the year. If you’re into the food and music scene and don’t mind staying under a roof, you can join the locals and still have an absolute blast in Key West.
Events not to miss:
Pride Fest
Lobster Fest
Hemingway Days
Tropical Heat
September – November
Photo// Sun Sentinel
This is another shoulder season when hotels are cheaper and the crowds thin out, but the weather is better. You can get into restaurants without reservations, and of course there is Fantasy Fest at the end of October. Frankly, we’re surprised more people don’t come during this time!
Events not to miss:
Key West Brew Fest
Women’s Fest
Goombay Caribbean Festival
Zombie Bike Ride
Fantasy Fest
Need a recommendation on when to come based on your specific interest? Reach out to us!