What Is Key West Like In The Winter?
While you might think the winter months are the worst time to plan a beach vacation, Key West is a year-round tropical paradise waiting to melt away your winter blues! Key West is ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, fishing, sailing, biking, and touring historical sites during winter.
How To Get To Key West?
You can fly to the Key West International Airport for the most direct path to this island getaway, or do as the snowbirds and ride the Overseas Highway across the iconic Seven Mile Bridge to Key West! Driving the Seven Mile Bridge provides stunning ocean views and connects several keys in the Florida Keys.
Is It Warm Enough To Swim In Key West In December?
Yes—it’s warm enough to swim. With water temperatures typically around 74–77°F (23–25°C), you can snorkel and swim comfortably. On breezy days when a cold front passes, a light rash guard or shorty wetsuit can make swims more comfortable. Key West’s winter is characterized by clear skies, low humidity, and very little rainfall, making it the driest season. Whether you’re exploring reefs or joining December holiday tours, the Keys keep the warmth and holiday spirit alive all season.
Check out our top seven reasons why you should plan to spend winter in Key West this year!
1) Explore A Private Slice Of Heaven In The Florida Keys
Key West is one of the most beautiful places to explore in the Florida Keys because of the incredible marine life and tropical vibes all year round. The Florida Keys are split between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, so Key West has some of the most stunning ecosystems in the world!
If you’d like to spend a day on the water exploring the island paradise of Key West, then you don’t want to miss our incredible excursion opportunities at Key West Boat Trips. From private sandbar and beach adventures to shared experiences on our Hurricane boats, there’s something for everyone on the agenda!
Here are just a few of our tour experiences:
- Hopping Sandbars in Key West – Our captains know where all the best sandbar locations are, and after only a 25-minute ride, you can explore any spot you’d like!
- Key West Sunset Cruise – We have the best sunset cruises in Key West! Hop aboard, and we’ll take you to a quiet sandbar where you can watch the sun dip beyond the horizon in one of the most beautiful settings in Key West.
- Key West Lunch or Dinner Cruise – Take a private tour of the backcountry waters before reaching a secluded destination where you’ll enjoy some island exploration and a fresh seafood feast!
Ready to trade snow boots for sandy toes? Dive into your perfect winter getaway with us—book your Key West adventure today and start counting down to sunshine, smiles, and unforgettable memories!
Make the most of your time in Key West this winter by booking one of our exciting boat tours!
2) Is Key West Nice In The Winter?
Many people wonder if Key West is nice in the winter, and the answer is a resounding yes! Key West is the southernmost point in the Continental United States, so visitors to Key West and the rest of the Florida Keys should count on Summer-like weather all season long! Daytime temperatures range anywhere from mid to low 70s, and evening temperatures stay in the 60s.
Because the weather stays warm and pleasant throughout the winter, your favorite water sports are available year-round. You can still swim at our stunning white-sand beaches since the water stays warm and comfortable!
You can even travel to other islands like Bahia Honda Key to see epic views like the old Bahia Honda bridge! Bahia Honda State Park is known for its beautiful beaches and various activities like snorkeling and hiking.
Good To Know: Hurricane Season has already ended by the time the holiday season arrives in Key West, so you don’t have to worry about watching any storms while you’re in town! December is considered a good time to visit Key West for lower accommodation prices compared to peak season.
3) Ignite Your Holiday Spirit With Festive Celebrations In December!
From holiday tours through various areas of Key West to magnificent light displays sprinkled throughout the island, there’s no shortage of holiday fun! Beyond wandering the island to explore the holiday lights on your own, the whole family will enjoy several exciting events on the calendar in December.
Here are just a few of the things you can look forward to this December in Key West:
- Sail Into the Season at Key West’s Lighted Boat Parade – The Lighted Boat Parade takes place in Key West Harbor in mid-December, showcasing decorated vessels. Head to the harbor, where boats glide by fully decked out in holiday lights and decorations.
- Hometown Holiday Parade – Key West celebrates a Hometown Holiday Parade every December featuring local bands and colorful floats. A traditional holiday parade for the whole family!
- Harbor Walk of Lights – Stroll down the harbor with your family or special someone for an evening of magical fun by the water! The Harbor Walk of Lights transforms the Historic Seaport into a holiday wonderland with illuminated palm trees and decorated ships.
- The Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Tour allows guests to explore Key West’s beautifully decorated neighborhoods on a trolley.
Visiting Key West during these lively parades is pure magic! You’ll feel the island’s festive spirit come alive with colorful floats, joyful music, and smiling faces everywhere. It’s the perfect way to experience local culture, make unforgettable memories, and join in the fun under the warm Florida sun.
Pro Tip: While parades and self-guided walks of the island are free, several holiday tours and events throughout the season may have a cost. Historic inns in Key West open their doors during December for tours showcasing festive decorations and holiday traditions.
Good To Know: Holiday light displays in Key West typically begin in late November and remain illuminated through New Year’s Eve.
4) Ring In The New Year In Key West To Kick Off January Fun In The Sun
There are so many fun things to do in Key West in winter, and one of our favorites is ringing in the New Year to start January off with an unforgettable experience!
New Year’s Eve in Key West features the Conch Shell Drop at Sloppy Joe’s Bar and the Drag Queen Drop at Bourbon St. Pub. Guests dance the night away to live music, and the party keeps going well past midnight!
Whether you love to explore the cuisine whenever you travel or you’d prefer to hear live music at an event, there’s always something fun to experience here in January!
- Mile 0 Fest – The annual Mile 0 Fest in January is a multi-day music festival held at Truman Waterfront Park. This Red Dirt and Americana festival showcases more than 50 artists, from legends to rising acts.
- Key West Half Marathon and 5K – Join the sports lovers of Key West by signing up for or simply spectating this energetic event every January.
- Key West Food and Wine Festival – Taste delectable cuisine and rich wine pairings from nearly every region at this extensive culinary festival.
Pro Tip: Check out the updated dates and vendor information for festivals beforehand to ensure you don’t miss your favorite artists or events.
5) February Events Wrap Up Winter In Key West
There’s no shortage of fun to be had in Key West in February! Festivals carry on the fun all month with tasty treats, lively music, and much more! Grab your dancing shoes and your stretchy pants for these exciting winter events!
- Florida Keys Seafood Festival – Grab fresh seafood, listen to music, and attend fun family activities at this weekend event in February!
- Valentine’s Day Events – Key West has many romantic options for couples, like cozy dinners and the annual Valentine’s Day Gala, making it a great place to celebrate love.
- Key West Arts and Crafts Festival – This 2-day event features the largest art show in Key West, featuring local artists on the Quay in beautiful Truman Waterfront Park.
Pro Tip: February is peak month here in Key West, so be sure to book accommodations in advance!
6) Discover The Vibrant Social Scene On Duval Street
Exploring Duval Street offers bars, restaurants, art galleries, and unique local shops. Duval Street is perhaps the most lively street in all of Key West! With nightly music pouring from the bars, and local businesses serving up delicious cuisine like the staple dessert Key Lime Pie and delicious seafood, this is not a location you want to skip while you’re in town!
Key West is known for its seafood—especially shrimp, conch, and Florida spiny lobster. Popular conch dishes include fritters and ceviche. Cuban cuisine is also prominent, with favorites like ropa vieja and fried plantains. Cuban coffee is a popular staple to start the day in Key West, reflecting its cultural influences.
From the best places to eat to clubs you can’t miss, here are a few of our favorite spots to visit on Duval Street:
- Margaritaville Restaurant – Known for its fun and casual atmosphere, Margaritaville offers attentive and friendly service, a diverse menu, and an excellent selection of drinks. Live music plays most nights, making it a favorite spot for enjoying delicious food alongside great entertainment.
- Bourbon Street Pub – Dive into the lively bar scene here with great drinks, fun pool parties, and a vibrant atmosphere that keeps the energy high all night long. It’s the perfect spot to let loose and enjoy Key West’s nightlife!
- La Concha Key West – Stay right in the heart of the action at this comfortable hotel. With easy access to Duval Street’s bars, restaurants, and shops, La Concha offers a cozy retreat after a day of exploring the island’s vibrant social scene.
Pro Tip: If you’re leaving the kids at home or simply taking a trip with friends or a significant other to Key West in winter, staying in one of the resorts or hotels is a great option if you plan on partying!
7) Iconic Key West Experiences You Won’t Forget
No matter what time of year you head to Key West, there are a handful of things every traveler should experience at least once! From some of the most beautiful views to national parks and celebratory events, there can be a lot to consider!
Here is a short breakdown of some of the most iconic things you don’t want to miss while visiting Key West in winter:
- Sunset Celebration – The sunset celebration at Mallory Square features street performers, food vendors, and a festive atmosphere. Every night of the year visitors gather at the Sunset Pier to watch the sun dip below the horizon!
- Southernmost Point Buoy – You don’t want to miss this photo spot. This colorful buoy marks the southernmost spot in Florida!
- Visit Old Town – Hop on the Old Town Trolley this winter to get a quick tour of the area and hop on and off at the attractions that excite you the most!
- Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum – Visiting the Ernest Hemingway House allows guests to explore the life and work of the famous author and meet his famous six-toed cats.
- Smathers Beach – This is the largest public beach in Key West and is ideal for sunbathing and leisure.
- Must-Visit Restaurants In Key West – Popular picks include El Siboney for authentic Cuban fare and B.O.’s Fish Wagon for casual seafood.
- Dry Tortugas National Park – About 70 miles west of Key West, it’s home to historic Fort Jefferson and offers excellent snorkeling.
Pro Tip: The Old Town Trolley ticket is good for an entire day! So make the most of your time in that area of Key West by using the hop-on-hop-off feature to explore without wearing yourself out!
Make Your Winter Trip To Key West An Unforgettable Experience
Now that you know warm weather and island vibes await you in Key West, what are you waiting for? We have all the winter fun you could want without the chilly temperatures that drive everyone inside!
Here at Key West Boat Trips, we want to make sure you take in stunning ocean views with our half or full day trip options!
Ready to trade the cold for sunshine and unforgettable adventures? Visit our website to discover all the fun activities waiting for you in Key West this winter. Your perfect getaway is just a click away—let’s make some amazing memories together!