visit florida in october

Top 10 Best Places In Florida In October To Visit

Florida, known as the Sunshine State, is a great place to visit throughout the year. However, with warm weather comes some hot days that can be unbearable for those not used to it.

For some, the summer can be too hot to comfortably enjoy being outdoors. This is why, for many people, the fall months are the perfect time to visit Florida. October is an ideal month.

The temperature is warm and comfortable for enjoying the outdoors, and the climate turns from humid and rainy to dry and cool.

October is one of the slowest tourist months of the entire year, another reason it ’ s an attractive time to visit.

You can expect smaller crowds, which brings down the prices of flights, hotels, and other entertainment in the area, making October also a great month to save a bit of money in Florida.

Florida is the only state in the US with a subtropical/tropical climate all year long.

So while October starts to cool down from the hot summer months, it ’ s still warm. The average high temperature in October around the state is about 80 degrees Fahrenheit and there is an average low of 67.5 degrees Fahrenheit which mainly occurs at night.

The southern part of the state is the warmest.

October is also nearing the end of hurricane season in Florida, which can be no longer stressful and daunting for visitors and residents.

By October, you don ’ t need to worry about storms ruining your vacation. There are very few hurricane watches or warnings in October so you can safely plan a trip and not have to have concerns about it being canceled.  

Fall weather is warm enough to hang out on the beach without being too hot and needing to get out of the heat.

It also means the nights will be cooler, which will allow you to find reprieve from the heat. As a result, the days are very comfortable, and there are fewer crowds. It ’ s the best of both worlds.

Florida has over 4,000 islands that are part of the state. These are great to explore in the fall when the weather is perfect for being outside.

October would be a great time of year to explore some of the islands that have been on your bucket list.

Some cities in Florida, like Tampa, even celebrate Oktoberfest , a fun-filled beer festival that happens in Munich, Germany, each year but has made its way all over the world, and Oktoberfest events are now held in tons of places.

Other fun events that occur throughout Florida during October are Halloween parties.

Best Places In Florida To Visit In October

Keep reading for a list of ten of the best places to visit in Florida during October.

October is an excellent month to visit any place in Florida because of the decline in tourist crowds, more attractive pricing, and great weather.

October is a great time to visit Orlando. All the kids have returned to school, so fewer families crowd the amusement parks and the city.

The temperature will be much more bearable when you ’ re standing in line waiting for your favorite Disney ride.

If you have children, this is a great time to bring them to the parks when there aren ’ t as many families. Don ’ t have children? Capitalize on the fact that kids will be in school during the week.

Walt Disney World is the most popular attraction in Florida and is busy no matter what time of year it is, but luckily October is a little slower than the summer months.

Walt Disney World consists of Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, as well as two water parks. There are also some great beaches near Disney World.

Not only do hotel and flight costs decrease in October, but so does park pricing, so it ’ s a great time of year to save money and not wait in lines for nearly as long.  

🏨 Stay Here – Ette Luxury Hotel – The top-rated hotel in Orlando.

October is a great time of year to visit Tampa. The fall marks the start of manatee season and Tampa is surrounded by parks worth checking out where you may get lucky and spot a manatee.

For instance, visit ZooTampa and check out the animals or Adventure Island, which is a large water park that is part of SeaWorld.

Not far from Tampa is Little Manatee River State Park and Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River, both of which have tons of manatees for you to hopefully see.

🏨 Stay Here – Tampa Edition – Where Jungle meets Boho. Very cool hotel that you will love.

3. Siesta Key

This coastal 8-mile barrier island is on the Gulf of Mexico off of Sarasota. It ’ s known for its stunning beaches and shallow waters, which are great for swimming.

With silky white sand and turquoise blue water, October is one of the best times of year to visit Siesta Key and enjoy a day on the beach. It is the perfect small beach town in Florida .

The mild, comfortable temperatures will allow you to lounge and relax without overheating under the sun.

Siesta Key welcomes you to relax and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Siesta stands for an afternoon rest on a hot day which is very fitting for this island city.

🏨 Stay Here – Capri Siesta – Great Location and Friendly Staff

4. Sanibel Island

While summer on Sanibel Island can be crowded and busy, fall is just right. Expect to find a nice piece of beach real estate to lounge on for the day, whereas this can be hard to comfortably find in the summer months.

Sanibel Island hosts an event known as “ Ding” Darling Days at the “ Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge in October each year.

The event encourages people to get outdoors and explore the refuges in their area. Events include a free family fun day, art day, and free visits to the refuge.

Besides this, there is plenty to do on Sanibel Island .

🏨 Stay Here – Seahorse Cottages – Awesome Boutique Hotel in the best location.

5. Palm Beach

This very popular city in Florida is known for its glitz and glamor. The barrier island is on the Atlantic coast and separated from the mainland by the Lake Worth Lagoon.

Palm Beach received its name from the palm trees that line the streets. For example, Worth Avenue is lined by palm trees and is known worldwide for its upscale shopping opportunities.

It has luxurious resorts, gorgeous mansions, tons of history, and gourmet restaurants. If you want to be pampered for your vacation, this is the place to be.

It ’ s also known for its beautiful beaches. The famous Lilly Pulitzer brand began in Palm Beach. Golf is another popular activity on the island, with luxurious views of Lake Worth Lagoon.

🏨 Stay Here – The Breakers – Right on the Beach.

6. The Florida Keys

The Keys are one of the most popular destinations in the US because it feels entirely like a tropical vacation and not at all like you’re in the state of Florida.

The Keys are accessed by the Overseas Highway. In October, the water temperature is still low 80s, so it ’ s a great time to swim, hang at the beach, snorkel, and jet ski.

The weather is perfect for being outdoors and out and about on the water. Key West and Key Largo have some of the most stunning beaches of the Keys.

These islands are a fun place to visit and a must-see if you get the chance. Be sure to indulge in key lime pie and the freshest seafood you could imagine.

Then, party the night away and enjoy all that The Keys are known for.

🏨 Stay Here – Douglas House – Top rated hotel in Key West

7. Clearwater Beach

Known for being one of the most famous and popular beaches in Florida, Clearwater Beach has fine, powdery-white sand and crystal turquoise waters.

It ’ s named after its clear waters that are surreally visible. The calm waters make it a great place to swim, paddle board, kayak, and parasail.

Clearwater holds many events in the fall, including the Clearwater Jazz Holiday, Clearwater Offshore Nationals, and the Seafood Festival.

Check out the Clearwater Marine Aquarium during the day and by night head to Pier 60 and be prepared to be entertained by the artisans and street performers there each night.

There is a great coastal promenade where you ’ ll always find people walking, running, cycling, and rollerblading. The promenade is also lined by restaurants, bars, and cafes.

🏨 Stay Here – Legacy Resort – Friendly Staff and Great Location

Naples is known for its high-end shopping, gourmet restaurants, and luxurious golf courses. Naples is a beautiful place on the Gulf Coast in southwest Florida.

There are a ton of waterfront bars and restaurants where you can grab a bite and enjoy the turquoise-colored view.

The Naples Pier is a great spot to catch the sunset and go for a walk and was first built in 1888 and has since become a symbol of the city.

It’s also a popular spot for fishing and dolphin spotting. The sand in Naples is known as sugar sand for its fine properties. October is a great time for all the outdoor activities in Naples.

🏨 Stay Here – Inn at Pelican Bay – Cute boutique hotel

9. Amelia Island

One of the oldest places in Florida, Amelia Island dates back to 1562 and has a history of being ruled by the Spanish, French, British, and Americans.

It ’ s most well known for its golf courses with fantastic ocean views. Amelia Island is located near the northeastern border of Florida by Georgia.

It’s known for its history and in the historic district, you may even find ghost tours in the old town.

Enjoy the beach and all the waterfront restaurants that dot the coast. Main Beach Park has a public boardwalk with sand dunes, beach sports, and other recreational activities.

🏨 Stay Here – Spring Hills Inn – Stunning pool and close to the beach

10. St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is a city off the coast of Tampa in the Tampa Bay area. It ’ s a popular place for golfing, boating, fishing, and of course, beach-going.

The city is known for its art, and The Dali Museum has the most extensive collection of Salvador Dali ’ s work outside of Spain.

In addition, the city has several art districts and many more art museums. St Petersburg is also home to Dunedin, Florida’s oldest microbrewery.

🏨 Stay Here – The Hollander – Great Downtown Location

Conclusions

Hopefully, this has convinced you that October is a great time to visit Florida, despite what you might have previously thought.

It ’ s a great opportunity to save money and enjoy visiting beaches and parks with fewer crowds than normal.

The weather is ideal because it ’ s not unbearably hot and humid like it is in the summer months. October is underrated and a great time of year to visit Florida.

Do you have a favorite spot in Florida that you like to visit in October that wasn’t mentioned on this list? Say so in the comments below

Other articles you might like

• Best Places to Snorkel in Florida
• Packing List for Florida
• Best Tropical Vacations in September
• Best Places to Party in Florida

Related Posts

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Florida in October: Best Events & Fun Things to Do in 2023

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Looking for the best things to do in Florida in October? As a Floridian, I’m sharing my favorite things to do in Florida in October!

Most travelers associate Florida with beaches and theme parks on spring break. October is an underrated time of year to head to The Sunshine State. If you aren’t tethered to school schedules or waiting for a long weekend , travel during a month like October has plenty of advantages.

It may sound strange, but October, November , and December are three of my favorite months of the entire year to avoid large crowds and see popular destinations with good weather.

The crowds are at a year-round low for most travel destinations, especially theme parks. The weather is about as comfortable as it gets for Florida, with milder temperatures and less rain. There are plenty of festivals and events taking place throughout the state, and the conditions for outdoor recreation are basically perfect. 

Here’s a quick guide for what to expect, what to pack, and what to be excited about for your October trip to Florida!

Florida Weather in October

Weather in South Florida in October

The Southern tip of the peninsula will feel relief from summer temperatures starting in late September, so expect temperatures in the mid to upper 80s (this is considered “cooler” in places like the Florida Keys). It’s still in the rainy season, though it’s less frequent. A light afternoon shower is generally the worst of it! 

Weather in North Florida in October

The weather in Northern Florida is slightly cooler than in southern parts of the state, with mild temperatures around the low 80s during the day and 70s for the mornings and evenings. The rainfall will start to decrease in September, making October one of your best bets for packing in a full day of activities during trips. Humidity levels are quite low compared to other months, so October days are absolutely delightful for outdoor activities, especially hiking and camping. 

A Note on Hurricane Season… 

October is still technically part of hurricane season, but it’s the tail end of it. If you’re traveling to Miami, the Keys, or other coastal regions of the state, you’ll still want to familiarize yourself with what to do during a hurricane. Checking the weather before your trip is always useful. If you’re camping or visiting state parks, the authorities will be diligent in updating you on whether it’s safe to travel, and if areas will be open. Research and awareness always help! 

What to Pack for Florida in October

The weather during October is one of the most comfortable times of year in Florida, but you’ll want to plan for a wider range of temperatures than you would during warmer times of the year. T-shirts, shorts, flip flops, and swimsuits are all must-packs, but you’ll want to plan for milder evenings and mornings. A windbreaker or light coat will likely be useful at least once. While the rains are subsiding, having something for a drizzle never hurts! 

If you’re doing any trip to Florida correctly, you’ll be spending plenty of time outside. While the days are shorter, you’ll want to bring some SPF. Believe me, you want to make sure you don’t show up to work with an inexplicable sunburn in the middle of October! Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and they will be even more useful if you can pair them with jeans for the evenings. 

Things to Do in Florida in October

October may not have the crowded event calendar that the winter months have, but that’s what keeps the crowds away. The fall holidays tend to focus more on fun, with Oktoberfest and Halloween having relaxed expectations. These holidays are the most prominent events to look into, and most cities will have some programming dedicated to getting spooky or wearing lederhosen and drinking beer. 

Top Florida Music Festivals in October

While other regions tend to wind down their festival season as temperatures dip, Florida’s music scene picks up quite a bit in October. A diverse array of music festivals take place throughout the state. Here are a few: 

• Country Thunder (Kissimmee, FL) : This 3-day concert featuring the latest headliners in country music
• Clearwater Jazz Holiday : a 4-day celebration in Coachman Park that has been a crowd favorite for over 40 years!
• Jazz in the Park (Sanford, FL) : Located in Centennial Park, this annual music and food festival is free for everyone to enjoy.
• III Points (Miami, FL): Tastemaking electronic, rock, hip-hop, and pop acts come together for one of the country’s best-curated music festivals. III Points is held during the third weekend of October at the Wynwood. 
• The FEST (Gainesville, FL): A sprawling event featuring dozens of underground punk, rock, and metal bands.
• Music Events at Suwannee (Live Oak, FL): Suwannee Roots Revival holds a festival the first weekend of the month, bringing Grateful Dead-inspired rock to the Suwannee Music Park. Later in the month, Suwannee Hulaween brings a diverse range of rock, electronic, and hip-hop to massive crowds and  Halloween events.

Oktoberfest in Florida

I’m always a sucker for a good Oktoberfest! While Florida may not be a top destination for this fun October holiday, you’ll find plenty of outstanding festivals throughout the state. Here are a few of the best options for Octoberfest in Florida.

• Oktoberfest of the Palm Beaches : Top on the list is a glorious annual event in Lake Worth. This was one of my favorite childhood events, yet it’s still more popular with adults. You’ll find authentic Bavarian live music, food, and beer! As I mentioned it’s family-friendly with a carnival with new rides and plenty of games for all ages.
• IRB Oktoberfest (Indian Rocks Beach) : The annual IRB Oktoberfest at the beginning of October. It is usually held on the first Saturday of the month in Kolb Park. This beachy, non-traditional style German event is full of fun things to do, including beer, food vendors, live music, a silent auction, and a crafts show. Don’t miss my favorite Keg Throwing event!
• Oktoberfest by the German American Society of Central Florida: Arguably, the most authentic festival around! Join the fun from live entertainment, dancing, food, and beverages served in their Biergarten!
• Oktoberfest Tampa : This annual 3-day weekend usually occurs mid-month at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. You’ll see some of the finest traditional dances, craft beer, and plenty of fun things to do along the Tampa Riverwalk.

More Florida Festivals in October

Beyond live music, much more is happening in the Sunshine State. Here’s a quick look at some of the top Florida events to check out in October.

• Micanopy Fall Festival (Micanopy, FL) : The Antique Capital of the US hosts their annual event in October. For over 45+ years, local artisans, craftsmen, and musicians put on one of the finest events in North Florida.
• Tampa Pig Jig (Tampa, FL) : For 10+ years, this not-for-profit event has raised money for a debilitating kidney disease in Tampa. Come out for the barbecue, live music, and craft beer, and tickets go to a good cause.
• Cedar Key Seafood Festival : One of my long-time favorite sleepy fisherman villages is Cedar Key. For over 50 years, they have held their incredible seafood festival with fresh seafood, live music, and more festivities.
• Annual Treasure Coast Seafood Festival (Vero Beach, FL) : Held at the Indian River Fairgrounds, this family-friendly event has delicious fresh seafood, arts and crafts, and a kid’s zone!
• Annual Stone Crab Festival (Naples, FL) : For some of the best stone crabs and more delicious seafood, you’ll want to head to Naples. This end-of-the-month event boasts plenty to see, from shops, activities, arts and crafts, and live music.

It’s Spooky Season At Florida’s Theme Parks 

While the Halloween holiday isn’t specific to Florida, the state’s numerous theme parks are perfect hosts for Halloween festivities. While these events are very popular, the crowds will be more manageable than when school is out. The weather also makes it very comfortable, especially if you’ll be dressing up! 

Walt Disney World Florida in October

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, held at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, brings Halloween events to the park. You’ll see a flurry of spooky floats, live music, and Disney villains. Costumes are encouraged, as all your favorite characters will also be dressed for the occasion.  If you have little ones, Magic Kingdom is a less frightening choice for Halloween.

EPCOT at Disney World offers its annual Food & Wine Festival that runs through November. This includes live entertainment, exclusive marketplaces, and in recent years a scavenger hunt. This is a wonderful time of year to visit EPCOT because of the fun food and beverages to try, and you can enjoy cooler weather!

If you get time to explore beyond the Disney parks, you’ll want to check out some of their free entertainment and shopping in Disney Springs and Disney’s Boardwalk .

Universal Studios

Universal Studios hosts its Halloween Horror Nights, which features haunted houses and live shows aiming to bring scares to parkgoers of all ages. I particularly enjoyed Universal’s Halloween event as a teenager and a young adult with scare zones, themed food, and haunted houses.

🎃 Pro Tip: Early October, when Universal Studios holiday season starts, is ideal for avoiding tourist crowds.

More Theme Parks with Florida October Events

Legoland, SeaWorld, and Busch Gardens also put together great Halloween-themed programming and have the same advantages of smaller crowds and comfortable weather. I highly recommend looking at tickets ahead of time for opportunities to save.

🤑 Pro Tip: I found incredible deals at all three of these parks by purchasing tickets during their summertime specials. For example, I’ve been able to use the Fun Card I bought at SeaWorld for over a year as many times as I wanted to go. Legoland also ran a special with 50% off ticket prices to use by November.

Best Florida Cities to Visit in October

I’m a bit biased as a Tampa Bay resident regarding Florida cities! However, there are plenty of other parts of the state I love to spend time during the month of October.

Miami, Florida

Miami is one of my favorite places in Florida in October, as the South Florida weather is as comfortable as it will get, and the hordes of tourists are taking a break between summer and winter. It’s not for everyone, but I like to think of it as a place everyone should visit at least once, and October is easily one of the best times to do it. 

For adults travelers looking for party vibes, there’s no better place for a big night out than a trip to the nightlife capital Miami. Nightclubs, bars, and restaurants host events celebrating the holiday, with drink deals, costume contests, and fantastic energy. Stretches like South Beach almost feel like “adult trick-or-treating” with clubbers and revelers dressing up when they hit the town. Miami also hosts a perfectly serviceable Oktoberfest, with a full-fledged festival celebrating all things German. 

Tampa, Florida

Visiting Tampa in October is a delightful experience, especially for those keen on exploring the city’s unique events and attractions. The month is packed with activities, starting with the much-anticipated “Howl-O-Scream” at Busch Gardens, a Halloween-themed event that promises both thrills and chills. October is a great time to catch a Tampa Bay Buccaneers game and feel the electrifying energy of the NFL season.

Tampa has one of the best Oktoberfest celebrations of any large city in Florida. The event is held downtown along the gorgeous waterfront. Later in the month, a spectacular array of Halloween events. Overall, Tampa in October provides a balanced blend of leisure and excitement, making it an ideal getaway.

🌴 Related: Best Downtown Tampa Hotels

St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, a city adorned with beautiful Spanish colonial architecture, offers a captivating experience for its visitors, especially during the autumn months. If you’re up for an adventure, St. Augustine is one of the most haunted cities, which makes for super fun ghost tours !

The Castillo de San Marcos , a centuries-old fortress, stands as a testament to the city’s rich past and provides panoramic water views. And if you’re a food enthusiast, the city’s culinary scene, deeply influenced by its Spanish heritage, is a treat, with many eateries hosting special autumn-themed menus. In essence, St. Augustine in the fall is a mosaic of history, culture, and gastronomy, awaiting exploration.

Top-Rated St. Augustine Tours

Orlando, florida.

With all the events in Orlando, Florida in October, you can’t leave it off the list. It’s ideal for anyone who loves theme parks, especially if you enjoy Halloween celebrations! I also find Orlando to be one of the best places for golfers and shoppers. There’s 100+ golf courses in the Orlando area and some of the best malls and outlets, you’ll have plenty to do!

Best Florida Beaches in October

I’m a firm believer that any day by the beach is a good day!

The weather in Florida is comfortable enough during October that basically any beach is worth visiting. But, there are a few white sand beaches that I particularly like to visit in October due to smaller crowds and favorable weather conditions.

Anna Maria Island, Barrier Islands

Anna Maria Island is just outside of Bradenton, north of Sarasota and Siesta Key. This beautiful stretch of land (located just south of Tampa Bay) juts out into the Gulf of Mexico and features 7 miles of sandy beaches flanked by historic streets and fishing piers. Fishing charters are especially popular for group trips. 

Clearwater Beach, Tampa Bay

While Clearwater Beach may have gorgeous beaches year round, but you’ll have a great time exploring downtown Clearwater without the larger crowds. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is perfect for a rainy day, and Pier 60 will provide some post-dinner entertainment. I frequently staycation in Clearwater Beach. For ultimate pampering, my go-to hotel is the Sand Pearl Resort . Plus, Clearwater Beach is just a short drive from Tampa for more fun things to do like football season!

Fernandina Beach, Amelia Island

This remote stretch of Nassau County features some of the most stunning beaches on the Atlantic, but the main feature is its picturesque town. The historic Main Street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy when you’re not splashing away or taking sunrise runs along Fernandina Beach. 

Smathers Beach, Key West

This Key West hotspot is ideal for its miles upon miles of Bahama-imported white sand. Because of the preservation efforts to combat coastal erosion, the conditions of Smathers Beach are ideal year-round.  I can’t get enough of The Florida Keys. You feel like you are living in a Hemingway novel. And for those of us living on Florida’s Gulf Coast, you can take the Key West Express ferry and skip the drive!

Enjoying the Outdoors in Florida in October 

With the heat finally subsiding, Floridians start to pursue outdoor activities they’ve been putting off during the summer scorchers. The weather is about as good as it will get for hiking, trekking, kayaking, and other activities, and camping is less tedious with the milder temperatures. Even better, October is when pesky mosquitos will finally start to disappear!

Best Florida Camping and Recreation in October

Ocala National Forest (Ocala, FL)

Situated just north of Orlando, this is one of the best camping destinations for travelers coming in from other states. Ocala is only a few hours away from Orlando International Airport, with car and RV rentals being easy to arrange before heading to this tranquil region. The region boasts a wide range of natural beauty to appreciate, including Juniper Springs, Salt Springs, Lake Kerr, Lake George, and the Yearling Trail. Plus, Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is a short drive away to see manatees up close.

Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo (River Ranch)

For novice campers, “glamping” might be the best introduction to the pastime. Central Florida’s coolest destination is this 1,700-acre ranch that’s been repurposed into a luxury outdoor destination. There are covered wagons that have been converted to camping tents, complete with furniture and even ceiling fans. 

I’ve been visiting Westgate River Ranch since childhood, and I say it’s come a long way! If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination for horseback riding, trails, and wilderness adventures, it’s one of the best in Florida.

Suwannee River Wilderness Trail (Mayo)

Located between Tallahassee and Gainesville, this trail spans miles upon miles of winding river. This is the best place in Florida for kayakers, as they can paddle between the trail’s five campsites for a convenient multi-day trip down a stunning river. 

Final Thoughts on Florida in October

With crisp temperatures and the crunch of leaves arriving in most of the country, anyone missing summertime should look into an “offseason” trip down to Florida. Smaller crowds, comfortable weather, and a variety of events make the Sunshine State a superb travel destination during the fall. 

Whether it’s an all-night Halloween party in South Beach or a quaint stroll through one of Florida’s historic coastal towns, empty-nesters, yuppies, and elderly travelers can all take advantage of Florida’s ideal travel conditions during this month. Families will also find plenty of reasons to travel to The Sunshine State. Either way, Florida should be on your shortlist of destinations for your next October vacation! 

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October in Florida: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Angel Ferrer / Getty Images 

Florida Weather in October

Atlantic hurricane season, what to pack, october events in florida, travel tips.

With summer humidity breaking and the Atlantic hurricane season starting to wind down, October is one of the best times of year to visit Florida for the weather alone. In October, high temperatures usually hover between 80 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, varying by region.

There are plenty of things to do in Florida during the month, including a variety of festive fall events and Halloween celebrations across the state. Whether you're looking to spend a pleasant day at one of the state's many beaches or wandering through a unique cultural celebration, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover Florida in October.

October brings relief to Floridians every year because the summer humidity and rain finally start to slow down. You can expect temperatures near 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius) throughout the state, though the northern parts of Florida may experience chillier evening temperatures, especially toward the end of the month.

Another great part of visiting Florida in the fall  is that the water temperatures are still pretty warm, with ocean and gulf temperatures hovering in the low 80s all month long. There is always a possibility of rain, but much less than the rainy summer months and it shouldn’t ruin your plans. If rain does happen, it usually occurs in a short burst instead of a long and protracted storm. Overall, October's climate and weather in the Sunshine State make it a pleasant month to visit.

Each year, the Atlantic hurricane season brings a series of tropical storms and hurricanes to the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States, including Florida. The hurricane season typically lasts from June 1 to November 30 each year, although mid-August to mid-October is considered the peak of the season. As a result, you should be prepared for severe storms during your trip if you travel to Florida during this period—even if the chances of a hurricane making landfall in Florida are slim.

While October offers a welcome relief from the hot temperatures and high humidity of summer, you'll still experience hot, sunny days this month. Be sure to bring sunscreen and light clothing—as well as your swimsuit if you plan to hit the beach. You'll be comfortable in shorts during the day, but it may be necessary to add a sweater in the evening. This is particularly the case if you'll be near the water, such as taking a moonlit cruise. Bug spray is always useful in Florida as well to repel pesky mosquitos.

October is all about celebrating fall in Florida. From Halloween "spook-taculars" to autumnal festivals , there are lots of fun activities happening across the state. However, fall and Halloween events aren't the only things happening in Florida this month; you'll also find plenty of cultural celebrations and events dedicated to food, motorcycles, and even reptiles.

Many events in 2020 are scaled back or canceled, so be sure to confirm details on the individual organizer's webpage.

• Biketoberfest :  Daytona Beach's must-attend fall tradition for bikers draws in over 100,000 visitors each year for food, live music, and lots of speed-worthy events over four days in mid-October. While most of the large scale events are canceled in 2020, several of the local businesses that make up the event are open.
• Busch Gardens' Howl-O-Scream :  One of Florida's most popular Halloween celebrations, this annual spooky event at Busch Gardens in Tampa transforms the entire park with haunted houses, scare-worthy actors, and festive decorations for the entire holiday season. Howl-O-Scream is open on weekends from September 25 until November 1, 2020, but advance tickets are required to enter and the maximum capacity is limited.
• Epcot International Food & Wine Festival :  Enjoy a celebration of the world's greatest foods and cuisines combined with continuous entertainment, live music, and celebrity chef appearances. The 2020 festival is a modified version without much of the hoopla that generally accompanies the festival, but guests can still enjoy delicious plates that are served in areas throughout the park. In addition, the 2020 version is extended until at least winter, so visitors have more time to have a taste of one of Disney's most popular events.
• Fantasy Fest :  Experience Key West's wacky, adult-only Halloween celebration full of off-the-wall events, parades, nudity, and lots of drinking. Considered the Mardi Gras of the Keys, the 10-day celebration includes costume contests, body artists, and all-day drinking events throughout late October. Fantasy Fest 2020 is canceled but returns October 22–31, 2021.
• Halloween Horror Nights :  Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights is one of the country's largest and most elaborate Halloween events wherein the entire park is turned into a frightening scare zone filled with haunted houses, ghoulish characters, and lots of screams. While Universal Orlando is open in 2020, Halloween Horror Nights is canceled until 2021.
• Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: This special ticketed event on select nights at Disney World's Magic Kingdom features "Mickey's Boo-to-You Halloween Parade," Mickey's Mouse-Ka-Rade costume parties, Halloween storytelling, live shows, and a special Halloween-themed firework display above Cinderella Castle. During the event, families also enjoy a complimentary photo, unlimited use of the attractions, and opportunities to trick-or-treat throughout the theme park. Disney World is open in 2020, but Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is canceled until 2021.
• SeaWorld's Halloween Spooktacular:  Halloween meets the sea during SeaWorld Orlando's underwater "fantasea," where youngsters trick-or-treat among friendly sea witches, octopuses, mermaids, and pumpkin fish. Kids can enjoy the event on weekends from September 19 until November 1, 2020. The event is included with park admission, but in 2020, advance reservations are necessary due to the limited capacity.
• Rattlesnake Festival : This annual festival in San Antonio, Florida—just outside of Tampa—celebrates local wildlife alongside a massive arts and crafts fair. Serpents are the main draw of the festival, and curious attendees can hold, touch, and learn about local rattlesnakes. Visit this unique Florida event at the Pasco County Fairground from October 17 to 18, 2020.
• With kids back in school, Florida theme parks are not too crowded during October. Each has its own Halloween festivities and celebrations—some requiring special after-hours admission. Order tickets to theme park Halloween events ahead of time for discounts and to avoid waiting in line.
• Expect bigger crowds at major attractions like Disney World on "Columbus Day" (the second Monday in October observed as Indigenous Peoples' Day in other states) and Halloween weekends.
• While the summer humidity may have come to an end, mosquitos are still out in full force this time of year. Be sure to bring or buy bug repellant if you plan to spend a considerable amount of time outdoors during your trip.
• Due to the chance of hurricanes being higher in October—especially earlier in the month—prices at resorts, hotels, and even airlines will be cheaper this time of year.

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Florida in October: [Weather, What to Wear, What to Do]

Planning a trip to Florida in October and don’t know where to start? We’re happy to help!

October is one of the best months to visit Florida because it’s the month of the year with the most favorable weather.

With Florida’s cool and calm weather conditions in October, there’s no better month to enjoy the “sunshine state.”

October has a low turnout of tourist crowds, making vacation peaceful and memorable.

Additionally, October is the end of the hurricane season, so there’s no storm issue to deal with during vacation.

Many harvests and Halloween events occur in the tenth month. 

No matter your plans for October’s vacation to Florida, Our writer, born and bred in Florida, has every information you need to learn about the weather, events, places to visit, great beaches, and more. Her local knowledge of Florida will guide you throughout your entire stay.

So, whether you want to learn Florida’s history on a ghost tour, enjoy relaxing moments on the beach, or spend your day around the beautiful theme park, our expert tips will make your stay in the sunshine state the most memorable experience of your life.

Table of Contents

Weather in Florida in October

October in Florida is characterized by warm water and warm temperatures, with the average highest temperature between 26°C to 29 °C degrees Celsius or 80 °F to 85 °F degrees Fahrenheit. 

Keep in mind that this varies from region to region. With an average of 8 inches, monthly rainfall in October is usually on the decline.

The humidity level declines, and the night feels breezy and chilly.

Heat/Humidity In October

Humidity in Florida usually changes rapidly, but it is generally lower than in other months.

In October, average humidity ranges from 54% to 86%, and higher around 4 am or after a heavy rain shower. 

Rainfall in October

Rain, tropical storms, and hurricanes end in October. Although hurricanes are still a possible threat , their chances of creating significant damage are low, unlike the previous months.

There are still a few rain showers in Florida in October . But the intensity of the rain is on the lower side (if it rains at all). The frequency of rainfall may change from daily to weekly or even monthly. 

Keep in mind that south Florida has a higher risk of hurricanes and tropical storms and may experience a bit of downpour.

Any chance of all-day rainfall? We cannot guarantee, but it can rain for a few hours. 

However, afternoons are the most common time of the day for rain in October. 

Water Temperature in October

The warm water temperature in Florida is one of the main reasons for hurricanes in the state. Water temperature increases as you go further south. The Atlantic area has warmer temperatures than the opposing gulf area.   

Where is the warmest water?

The warmest water in Florida is usually around the keys and the southern tip of Miami, which is at 80°F – 82°F(27°C – 28°C) .

The southern region is suitable for activities that require warmer water.

Just be alert against tropical storms and hurricanes. Beaches around the gulf coasts like Tampa beach have a water temperature of 81°F (27°C) , while Fort Myers, Sarasota, and other further southern regions have 82°F (28°C) water temperature. 

Around the north area of the panhandle, you’ll find a water temperature of 78°F.

The Atlantic area of Florida, close to West Palm Beach, has a water temperature of 83°F (28°C) . Cocoa beach and Daytona have 80°F (27°C) .

Best Florida Beaches in October

Florida is blessed with numerous beautiful beaches vacationers visit every year. Here’s a list of the best beaches in Florida and what you should expect from them. 

The sun coast is the most popular area in Tampa Bay, full of luxurious beaches.

It’s an enjoyable place to visit on the gulf, with an average water temperature of 81°F (27°C) . 

On the flip side, Tampa Bay is usually affected by hurricanes. Even if they occur, their effect is less intense.

St Pete beach and Clearwater Beach have the most populated beaches. However, the sun coast also has great park islands. 

The Honeymoon Island and the Caladesi Island State Park are usually secluded. Locals recommend them because they’re less crowded in October.

First Coast

The first coast sits at the top of Atlantic shores in the Northeast of Florida. The beach boasts the ancient Jacksonville and St. Augustine, the oldest cities in Florida.

In October, the water temperature cools to an average of 79.5°F.

The historical part of this region and the fantastic quiet shores attract visitors to this area. 

St. Augustine is a lovely beach to visit for your vacation. Thanks to its beautiful foods from great restaurants and top-quality drinks from its local bars.

Cultural Coast 

Our favorite is the cultural coast, where we chill out with the family. Here, the weather and water are warm, and the ocean records an average temperature of 82°F. 

The cultural coasts deliver an exciting but slightly beachy experience – not so luxurious and not so quaint. 

Like most beaches, a hurricane cannot make it that far in October. 

We recommend a vacation on Anna Maria Island in this area, especially for its simple beach town experience. However, if you want something with a little luxurious longboat key, Captiva or Sanibel Island is a good option. 

Emerald Coast

The Emerald coast spans from Tallahassee to Pensacola. The water temperature cools off in October in preparation for the upcoming winter weather. The average ocean temperature in October is 74°F -78°F (23°C – 26°C) .

Some of the most visited vacation spots around the Emerald coast are the Panama City, Destin, and Pensacola beaches.

We recommend these beaches because they’re a suitable spot for families and groups of friends and couples. They’re filled with different recreations and activities to accommodate travelers of other races. 

Gold Coast is one of Florida’s most famous coasts on the Atlantic side of Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Miami records the highest Florida temperature and places with the highest hurricane risk at a water temperature of 80°F -83°F . Beaches here are not overcrowded in October.

As you probably know, Miami is a lively place for visitors, especially the downtown area with its diverse culture. Although October is usually hot in Miami, the place remains a visitor’s vacation destination. 

Space Coast

The space coast is located around the Atlantic side of Florida and close to Orlando. It has multiple popular attractions like the Kennedy space center in Cape Canaveral and International Speedway in Daytona. These spots have been a popular tourist attraction for decades, and they’re less busy in October. The water temperature is around 81.3°F here. 

Treasure Coast

Treasure coast is famous for its luxurious atmosphere. Located close to Miami, it shares a similar risk of hurricanes and storms with Miami, but that won’t be a threat in October. The Treasure Coast is a beautiful vacation location, and the warm temperature of 82.6°F in October supports a warm vacation.

The most popular beaches on the Treasure Coast are Pompano, West Palm, Boca Raton, and Delray. But they all have a slightly different style.

Paradise Coast

Paradise Coast is located in southwest Florida and is home to famous cities like Fort Myers and Naples. We recommend this area for the older folks whose friends and family may visit to enjoy Florida’s warm weather.

This area usually experiences hurricanes, but the probability is low in October. Here, water temperatures are warm, with an average of 82°F. Feel free to explore the popular beaches in these areas, including Naples, Fort Myers, and Marco Island.

Camping in Florida

Florida has no shortage of unique locations where you can pitch your tent or park your RV. 

From civil war forts to turquoise springs and bucolic beachfront, you have many options for camping in Florida. 

When it comes to campsite offerings, Florida has a little bit of everything for every type of vacationer- from filling Rv hookups to clamping sites and private beach camping.

One of the places we love to camp in Florida is the flamingo campground along Florida bay, where you can unplug. This quiet campground has up to 274 tent sites and 65 RV sites, and a few extra eco tents that house some beds and patios.

Other exciting places for camping in Florida include the campsite at Walt Disney World, Pensacola Beach RV Resort at Pensacola, etc.

What To Wear In Florida in October

What you can wear during October in Florida includes shorts, t-shirts, capris, blushes, and a sweater in the morning and evening.

In addition, you can come along with bathing suits, shoes, and trunks. Although there is only a little rain in the months before October, you should still come with a raincoat.

Comfortable shoes are compulsory for your vacation in October. Your visits may require some walking (for example, Disney world needs up to 10 miles of walk). Clothing items in your suitcase should include but are not limited to:

Walking without comfortable shoes may blister your leg and end up with bruised feet. Don’t wear flip-flops when you’re in theme parks.

Add sandals to support your comfortable shoes. You’ll need them when you want to visit parks in Tampa, Orlando, and more.

Other packing ideas include sunglasses, water shoes( for boating and water sports), sunscreen, water bottle, coolers, portable fan, etc.

Additional info:  Floria’s state hosts different festivals and Halloween this month. Children and adults will be able to mimic the dress style of their favorite characters.

Again, keep a light jacket or a sweater handy during your stay in Florida when you want to dine out in a Florida restaurant.

Because it’s hot outside, many restaurants set the Air conditioning to the lowest temperature. This tip will guide you if you’re easily affected by a cold.

Fishing in Florida in October

Fishing in Florida is peaceful and affordable. Get ready to be reeled in something unique – from panfish to monster bass.

To fully enjoy what Fishing in Florida has in stock, the following fishing destination will be a perfect getaway for your family.

Stuart sat on the eastern seaboard of Florida and surrounded by waterways, making it a suitable fishing destination. Nicknamed the “sailfish capital of the world,” Stuart’s emblem is a sailfish.

Fishing here is fantastic year-round with other available activities. This makes it a suitable option for families who want to get busy.

Key west is not only one of the most popular destinations in Florida but also the best fishing destination. 

The location offers offshore and flat fishing with the opportunity to catch saltwater fishes like tuna, bonefish, tarpon, and marlin. Ernest Hemingway, who fished here for decades, can testify.

Dubbed “the world’s luckiest fishing village,” Destin has the biggest fishing fleet in Florida. Rent a boat to fish offshore with the family.

Or you can just cast a line and hope to get lucky. In addition to fishing opportunities, Destin creates that small town impression with great beaches to cool off, suitable for vacation.

Fort Lauderdale

If you own a yacht or would love a bustling city with exciting nightlife, you may want to fish at fort Lauderdale. Dubbed the “Venice of America,” the town features a canal system with hundreds of boatyards and Marinas.

Things to do in Florida in October

Visit the amelia island.

Amelia Island is close to the state of Georgia and is famous for its amazing white sand beaches, luxurious accommodation, and professional golf courses. Most visitors will look for a fun beach trip, but there’s much to do in the oceans.

The fantastic downtown island, filled with the rich history of British, French, and Spanish influence, has its streets blessed with exquisite restaurants and boutiques.

The Maritime Museum offers opportunities for entertainment and education, and you can also explore the Amelia Island Lighthouse. 

Chill Out On Palm Beach

Palm Beach is a fabulous beach for upscale travelers who want to visit a lovely coastal destination. 

Unlike most beaches in Florida, palm beach packs a lot of style and glamor that makes a beach vacation worthwhile.

The beach is located north of Fort Lauderdale and on the city’s Atlantic coast. 

Henry Flagler, a popular name in Florida (his name is everywhere, from the keys to Florida), lived on palm beach while building a railway across the Atlantic. 

Today his home is dubbed the Flagler Museum with ancient features, making palm beach a historic place to explore. 

Besides the landmark nature of palm beach, there’s still more to discover in Palm beach. A visit to this fantastic beach will unleash more mouthwatering features of this beach.

Experience Walt Disney World

Disney world is one of the most prominent places of attraction in Florida and a perfect, less crowded location in October. Overall, the crowds are average. But remember that some venues are always overcrowded, even in October.

Feel free to enjoy the food and wine festival at Disney in October, including their Halloween party. Hence, there’s so much crowd to expect on weekends. 

Although Walt Disney packs many attractive features like golf courses and water parks, its main attraction is the four theme parks. 

The attractions and rides in Magic kingdom are indeed magical. For a perfect Disney world experience, we recommend a 5-7 days visit. However, if you only have 2-3 days on your sleeve, explore Animal kingdom and Magic kingdom. 

In a nutshell, dedicate two days to each park in Disney World.

Explore Weeki Wachee

The Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is a traveler’s favorite every year. Located in Hernando county, this spring not only rose to fame for the presence of mermaids in these waters but also for the fact that no one has ever found the spring’s bottom.

Florida is home to different natural sprigs, but the everyday underwater show makes the Weeki Wachee unique.

Mermaids in Weeki Wachee host these shows using a theme from different folklore and movies to give the audience a magical experience.

Besides watching the mermaids, visitors can ride the spring boats, rent a kayak, or tour the entire spring.

Florida in October | Final Thoughts

October in Florida recently welcomed change in season and goodbyes to storms and hurricanes. The weather is cooler in October with a few hours of hot days, making Halloween and other outdoor events fun and exciting. 

October is the ideal month to visit Florida for tourists who want to save travel expenses. 

Whether you’re planning to visit Disney world or hike the Orlando Trail, Florida is a suitable vacation location. 

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The best times to visit Florida

Apr 6, 2024 • 6 min read

The Sunshine State serves up great experiences at any time of year © jmsilva / Getty Images

With spectacular year-round sunshine, never-ending entertainment and action-packed activities, there's certainly no bad time to visit Florida . But depending on your interests and what you're trying to find (or avoid) when you get here, there's likely to be a "best time" to come.

Although northerners consider sun-drenched Florida a four-season dreamland, the state's tropical and subtropical climate is subject to intense fluctuations. Temperatures also vary dramatically from the northern Panhandle to the southern Keys, especially during winter when there's a chilly bite to the northern air.

Summer (June–August) is often unbearably hot, though the rainy season (mid-May to mid-October), brings brief, biblical downpours providing respite from the heat. And, of course, there's the dreaded hurricane season from June through November.

Each season has its merits. Here's what you need to know to pick the best time to go to Florida.

For delicious weather, visit between December to May

For maximum comfort, aim for December through May. Plenty of snowbirds dot Florida's beaches until March or April, and they're here for smart reasons. The sun is shining, the weather is dry and (tolerably) hot, there's minimal rain (December is Florida's driest month), and the hurricane gods are fast asleep! However, unless you enjoy cooler temperatures, avoid the Panhandle at this time of year.

There are some big events on the calendar, too, from college football to Miami's Art Deco Weekend , the Florida State Fair , the Edison Festival of Light in  Fort Myers and Mardi Gras in Pensacola.

Head to Florida's beaches in March and April if you want to celebrate

Hordes of party-seeking spring breakers descend on Florida beaches during the March break (which runs into April for some colleges and campuses). Many bars and nightclubs eagerly await this pilgrimage, knowing weeks of raucous, endless partying are on visitors' energy-packed agendas. Daytona Beach , Miami , Panama City Beach and Jacksonville are the big hotspots these days.

Beach bound?  Get in some towel time at  our favorite beaches in Florida

Swimming with manatees? It's best between November and March

Among the Sunshine State's most anticipated visitors, manatees return to Florida's many warm springs each winter, fleeing cooling ocean waters. The highest numbers gather from December to February; great spots to encounter them include Manatee Lagoon at West Palm Beach (they cluster around warm-water outflows from a nearby generating station) and Blue Spring State Park . Alternatively, you can take the plunge and swim respectfully with these "gentle giants" in their natural habitat at Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge (named for its glass-clear waters). Dubbed "the manatee capital of the world," it's the only place in Florida where human interaction with manatees is legal, and training and guidance are provided.

For all the water sports: go between June and August

Pack your waterproof sunblock! Summer brings sweltering heat, encouraging many to desert the beach and keep cool in the water.

Swimming, snorkeling, diving, surfing, paddle-boarding, kitesurfing and kayaking are all popular activities at this time of year, with a motherlode of water sports rental shacks available at popular seaside spots. Different beaches appeal for different activities, so be sure to research ahead of time.

Love LGBTIQ+ events? Book for June or October 

Despite political tugs of war, Florida remains a favorite destination for LGBTIQ+ vacations. June is, of course, Pride Month, with countless rainbow-themed celebrations. Parades and festivities happen throughout the state, including Key West Pride , Miami Beach Pride , Stonewall Pride in Wilton Manors, and Wynwood Pride in Miami.

Orlando attracts tens of thousands to its annual "Gay Days" event, where participants don red shirts to identify themselves during theme park visits, drag bingo sessions, hotel takeovers and pool parties.

Crowds converge again in October for Orlando's Come Out With Pride , featuring colorful parades, cheeky stage entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display.

For South Florida vacations, the best time is May or October

In May and October, the gorgeous southern beaches are blissfully uncrowded, the sun's shining, there's little rain, and the ocean feels like bath water (though hurricanes can occasionally activate in October). You can also find plenty of off-season bargains. Diehard sun worshippers, however, should wait until June to August for the ultimate sizzle!

Bargains are found in September and January

The Florida experience is all about supply and demand. Kids are back in school by September, and the snowbirds are yet to arrive, so deals can be found everywhere. Likewise, a slump in tourism follows the indulgence of the Christmas holiday season, with hotel prices plunging as much as 50% before climbing again for spring break.

Theme parks and tourist attractions, restaurants and hotels have to compete harder for your vacation dollars so this is a good time to pick some low-hanging fruit – the best discounts are usually early offered from September, and can continue until Thanksgiving.

December and January are best for exploring the Everglades

You've watched them being wrangled on reality shows – now's your chance to encounter gators, crocs and Burmese pythons in the wild in Florida's famed Everglades. Adventurers can pitch a tent at serviced campgrounds or canoe into the untamed and unforgiving wildlands at Everglades National Park .

If you're pressed for time – or courage – we'd recommend an exhilarating airboat ride at Sawgrass Recreation Park . You may not encounter pythons, but you'll definitely see plenty of gators and turtles. December and January provide drier conditions and lower water levels, making it easier to spot an assortment of wildlife. You'll also avoid high temperatures and mugginess… and those pesky bugs!

Add  these Everglades experiences  to your itinerary

The best time to see dolphins is late May to August

Although they're seen year-round in Florida, dolphin sightings are more common during the summer mating season (late May to August). A great place to view frisky dolphins in the early morning or mid-afternoon is on the Gulf Coast near the town of Destin. Popular viewing spots also include Henderson State Beach Park, Okaloosa Island Pier, Miramar Beach and Crystal Beach. Guided dolphin excursions are an excellent opportunity to get close to these playful, rambunctious creatures.

October and February are best for avoiding crowds

These are typically the slowest months for tourism in Florida. There's more room to spread your beach towel and shorter queues at attractions, and you'll avoid the summer crowds invading the theme parks, and Spring Break, when hordes of college students pack beaches and bars. Late October brings Halloween fun at theme parks and FantastFest in Key West .

Golfers, tee off from late September to May 

With 230 days of glorious sunshine each year and more than 1000 manicured courses to choose from, Florida is heaven for golfers. Florida's luscious landscape was built for golf, with its sandy greens, gently rolling hills and plentiful pockets of water. You might even catch a wayward gator waddling across the green. Diehards prefer to tee off from late September to May, when drier conditions prevail and there's a lower risk of heavy rainfall or storms.

Planning a trip to Florida? Here's more of our expert advice:

These places  should be on your itinerary From beaches to theme parks, don't miss Florida's  top experiences Check out these  budget-friendly tips  before you book This is  what you should know  before any Florida trip

This article was first published Jul 1, 2021 and updated Apr 6, 2024.

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The Best Time to Visit Florida for Fewer Crowds, Better Weather, and Travel Deals

Whether you want to lounge on the beach, hit the theme parks, or explore the Sunshine State's cities and small towns, these are the best times to visit Florida.

Aside from beaches, theme parks, and nonstop sunshine, one of Florida's biggest draws is that there's never a bad time to visit. The weather is warm all year round, so you'll never have your plans dashed by a snowstorm or need to pack a winter coat.

Florida does, however, have weather concerns of other types, from blazingly hot summers to the dreaded hurricane season. There are also crowds to account for, as well as fluctuating prices on travel essentials like hotels and flights. The tourist seasons in Florida vary by destination, but in general, North Florida's popularity peaks in summer and tapers off in winter, while South Florida hits its peak in winter and is less popular during the summer months. Throughout the state, the fall and late spring (once spring break ends) are typically known as shoulder seasons.

The best time to visit Florida depends on your specific needs — the purpose of your trip, plus your itinerary, budget, and more — but the bottom line is that the Florida vacation of your dreams is within reach, as long as you plan accordingly.

Best Times to Visit Florida for Smaller Crowds

Avoiding the crowds in Florida is a tall order. It's a desirable place to be, and visitors flock to the state all year round. However, some months are quieter than others. In South Florida, for example, high temperatures and storm risk make the summer months the least busy. At Orlando's theme parks and many of the state's best beaches , though, you'll find thousands of families out and about in the summer. For these family-friendly destinations, a visit when school is in session will likely offer the smallest crowds.

You may not be able to avoid all other tourists on your visit to Florida, but you can do yourself a favor by traveling outside the peak periods. Panama City Beach at spring break, the Florida Keys during lobster-hunting "mini season," and St. Augustine around Christmastime are all hyper-popular itineraries that the crowd-averse may want to skip.

Visitors can also find thinner crowds at any time by visiting under-the-radar destinations instead of the state's well-known spots. Swapping the Everglades for a state park or South Beach for Santa Rosa Island can help you enjoy Florida's famous sun and sights with plenty of elbow room.

Best Times to Visit Florida for Good Weather

Sunny skies and warm weather are two of the main factors that draw tourists to Florida, and no matter when you visit, you're likely to find at least a bit of each. Conditions do vary, though, depending on the time of year and the destination. In Florida's subtropical south, winter — roughly November to April — offers the best weather, with temperatures generally topping out at around 80 degrees. Further north, spring and fall can be the nicest seasons. (In the Panhandle's Walton County , for instance, temperatures in these months tend to hover in the 70s, making for pleasant conditions on land and in the water.)

Florida's summers, on the other hand, are notoriously hot — especially inland, where there's no sea breeze to keep things cool(ish). Most of the state sees both high temperatures and high humidity at this time of year, and with even ocean temperatures passing 90 degrees in recent summers, there's no guarantee that a swim will cool you down. Summer also overlaps with Atlantic hurricane season, which stretches from June to November, and it's known for near-daily pop-up storms, too. If you do choose to visit Florida in the summer, be sure to pack both an umbrella and plenty of sunscreen and drinking water.

Best Times to Visit Florida for Lower Prices

The best time to visit Florida for travel deals and lower prices depends on your destination. If you're heading to the beaches or theme parks, summer is a peak season and you might be hard-pressed to find available rooms, much less a good deal.

But some places in Florida simmer down during the summer months. Take Palm Beach , for example: The island is booming from November through April, but during the off-season (May through October, when the snowbirds head home and the social set jets to the Hamptons), you'll find a glimmer of the quiet town it once was. This is also when nightly hotel rates are usually slashed to a fraction of their extravagant high-season prices. Overall, off-season is the best time to score great deals at Florida's best resorts no matter the destination.

The cheapest months to fly to Florida are typically May (except for Memorial Day weekend) and September. You can score great deals if you plan ahead and aim for just outside your destination's peak season.

Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Miami

What fun-loving person can resist a visit to Miami ? The Magic City is buzzy, sultry, and unapologetically vibrant. Go in the spring to find fewer crowds, more pleasant temperatures, and plenty of events (like Ultra Music Festival and Formula 1's Miami Grand Prix ), or plan a summer trip if you want to experience Miami at its least crowded — and, yes, sizzle on South Beach like a fresh-cooked tostón.

Winter is a fabulous time to visit Miami — temperatures are mild and humidity is lower — but lots of other people think so, too, so you'll have crowds and peak hotel pricing to contend with. Still, it's arguably worth it to attend Art Basel or a Miami Heat game.

If you like living the high life, we'll let you in on an insider secret: Despite its sweltering weather, August is arguably the best month to visit Miami. August is the only time when Miami's Spa Months , Restaurant Months , and Hotel Months all overlap, so you can treat yourself to the city's best dining, lodging, and pampering at a fraction of the usual cost.

Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are one of the best places to visit in Florida, a subtropical delight with nice weather year round. But beware of peak tourist season, which begins right after Christmas and lasts until about May. It's beautiful this time of year — there's very little rain, and temperatures are usually in the 70s — but that pleasant environment comes with high prices and large crowds.

Those crowds and prices taper off from May through September, and temperatures typically remain manageable, with summer highs of around 90 degrees. Hurricane season, though, can put a damper on an off-season visit — storms are most common in the Keys in August, September, and October. That said, if you're willing to accept some storm risk and humidity, summer can yield excellent deals.

For extra fun in the Keys, plan your visit to coincide with a festival like the Original Marathon Seafood Festival (March), the 7 Mile Bridge Run (April), the Key Lime Festival (June/July), Hemingway Days (July), the Key West Brewfest (September), or Fantasy Fest (October).

Best Times to Visit Florida's Theme Parks

Summer is the off-season for most of Florida, due to the extra-hot weather and potential for storms, but beach towns and theme parks are the exception to the rule.

Disney World is a popular destination year round; there's nary a day when you won't encounter crowds and long lines at this beloved resort. But if you want a month that's slightly less crowded than the others, try January (after the holiday rush), February, or September (when kids are back in school and Halloween festivities haven't quite kicked off).

It may be convenient for families, but visiting the theme parks during summer break guarantees super-long lines in super-hot weather. Visiting around any holiday is fun thanks to seasonal park decor, but it also means dense crowds — you're not the only one who'll be clamoring for a taste of the holiday spirit. Once Christmas and New Year crowds dissipate, though, a Goldilocks window begins, since winter is the best time to visit Disney World for good weather.

Worst Times to Visit Florida

The Sunshine State contains such a wide variety of destinations that it's almost impossible to declare one season as Florida's worst. But, unless you're a party-hopping college student, there is one time that you'll likely want to avoid: spring break.

A whopping 7.3 million travelers passed through the Orlando airport during the 2023 spring break season — that's early March through the middle of April — and countless more arrive in the state each spring through other airports and by car. Florida boasts beautiful weather in the springtime, and many families, of course, have no option but to travel when their school schedules allow. If you are flexible, though, choosing a different window will likely help you save money and avoid wall-to-wall crowds.

Summer is a risky time to visit, since the weather tends to be muggy at best. Traveling during this off-season can net you good deals, but you'll want to come prepared for the heat and the storms that a Florida summer can bring.

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The Family Vacation Guide

Is October a Good Time to go to Florida?

posted by James Brockbank on July 13, 2022 // last updated on July 13, 2022

Florida is a top tourist destination . Millions of tourists head to the Sunshine State to sit under the sun and enjoy its tropical climate. Florida offers tourists everything from attractions, special events, adventurous outings, beautiful beaches, and much more.

The summer season sees the most visitors. School is out, and it is a prime location for vacation. Florida offers many summer attractions such as theme parks, water parks, beaches, and much more. 

The adventures of the sunny state are not limited to the summer. Florida has a lot to offer all year-round. 

Each month has its perks. October is filled with cooler weather, fall festivities, and Halloween-themed events. Florida takes advantage to celebrate as big as they can when it comes to festivities and holidays.  

If you are considering visiting Florida in October, it may be the best time to go. Here are a few reasons why October is a great time to go to Florida.

Weather 

Halloween attractions , haunted houses & attractions, fall harvest festivals, other things to do in florida in october, final thoughts.

The Florida heat is known to be brutal at times. October is the perfect month to visit Florida weather-wise. During this month, the end of hurricane season begins, and daily rain and storms lessen.

The weather is far more pleasant as temperatures begin to drop. It changes from humid and hot to crisp and cool. The weather change is convenient and far more comfortable to enjoy the outdoors. You can spend more time outside relaxed without the urge to run into an air-conditioned location.

The weather is typically warm but breezy, while some days can hotter than others. The average high is about 80 degrees, and the average low is 67 degrees during the night.

Many people do not travel during the cooler months of the year. Tourism during October is one of the slowest and sees smaller crowds – this is an advantage for anyone who wishes to avoid large crowds. Smaller crowds set the tone for a much more relaxed vacation.

During the slower season, the cost of hotels and tourist attractions is cheaper than during the busier months. Tourists and visitors can benefit from lower hotel and flight rates. 

October includes the universally loved holiday, Halloween. Theme parks and attractions celebrate big in Florida. If thrills and scares are your favorite thing to do in October, there is plenty for you to explore and experience. 

You can check out the following best Halloween Attractions in Florida.

Disney World Theme Parks 

Celebrate Halloween at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Party with the family. Disney World is the perfect theme park to visit during the holiday season with little ones. It is a holiday experience for everyone of all ages.

You can load up on sweets and snacks as you trick or treat throughout the park and meet your favorite character dressed in a costume of their own. There will be Halloween-inspired food and drinks you can nibble and sip on. 

While you snack on Halloween treats, you can wave to Disney villains and ghouls as they float by a “Boo-to-You” Halloween parade or catch the Sanderson Sisters at their Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular. With the help of other Disney villains, Winifred, Mary, and Sarah return to conjure the ultimate party potion to cast a spell on everyone in Magic Kingdom.

End the night watching the Not-So-Spooky Spectacular. The fireworks show is hosted by Jack Skellington and is inspired by Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. The dazzling display will feature Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Disney villains.

Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights

Universal Studios is a popular theme park for adult Halloween fun. It has been named the Best Halloween Event by Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards for 12 years.

The Halloween event features ten haunted houses with The Horrors of Blumhouse, Mike Myers’ Halloween film, and other scary themes. There will also be five scare zones, two live shows, and many more thrilling adventures throughout the park.

The horror has been said to be too intense and terrifying for youngsters and is not recommended for anyone under the age of 13.

SeaWorld Spooktacular

Have a kid-friendly spooktacular time at SeaWorld. You and your family can trick-or-treat during the weekends of September 10 to October 31 st at the marine-life theme park. Along the path of treats, you can meet unique characters dressed as mermaids and sea life characters. Sea World allows all guests to dress up in costumes, with some restrictions for guests 13 and older.

Bring the kids home and head back for a mature Halloween experience at Sea World’s Howl-O-Scream event. The haunting thrills feature scare zones, houses of horrors, nighttime coaster rides, and a live show. This is a separately ticketed night event intended for a mature audience, and costumes are not allowed during this time.

Sea World is the perfect place for family fun by day and terror by night.

Brick or treat with the little ones at Legoland.

Legoland is the perfect theme park for families with children between the ages of 2 and 12. The Halloween celebration will feature never-before-seen exclusive Lego characters, new shows, and of course, candy.

ICON Park is the perfect place to go to appease a large group of people who want different things. The 20-acre park offers Halloween fun for everyone of all ages and scares tolerance.

During October, you can purchase the Spooktacular Florida Fun Pack to celebrate Halloween. 

At night, you can enjoy a free light show on The Lawn at 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and shows at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The Wheel’s lights dance to a Halloween soundtrack for a 10-minute spooky production.

Bring your little ones in costume, and you can hop on The Wheel for a discount. ICON Park offers complimentary tickets for children 12 and under in costume, and family members can ride along with tickets for a discounted half-off price.

ICON Park is located on International Drive at the center of tourist attractions and has free parking.

Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream

Busch Gardens is bringing terror at night in Tampa, Florida. Like many haunted theme parks, it is a frightful adventure with haunted houses and terrifying scare zones. You also get the experience of thrilling rides on roller coasters in the dark.

Old Town Thriller Nights

Old Town is a recreation of a classic Florida town that is transformed into the spooky theme of Halloween during October. The iconic town full of shops, rides, and entertainment is dressed with festive decorations and offers trick-or-treating. There are multiple performances of the classic song, “Thriller.”

For a scarier thrill, you can visit Mortem Manor. The Manor is unlike any other. It is a haunted house open year-round. 

Old Town is in Kissimmee, FL.

For a true horror experience, skip the theme parks and head over to a haunted house where taunting terrors are the main event. 

A Petrified Forest

The three trails at A Petrified Forest are a unique Halloween experience. Dare to walk through the haunted scare trails where lurking creatures and haunters hide.

For the terrifying walk through the trail, you are given one glow stick, but you must be careful. If the glow stick is stolen by a ghoul, you won’t get another. Prepare to scream and run until you’ve made it through with or without light. 

This high-rated event is located in Altamonte Springs and hosts some daytime fun for the younger crew. Kids can trick-or-treat, do arts and crafts and jump around in a bounce house.

Scream-A-Geddon Horror Park

Scream-A-Geddon is for true Halloween lovers. The horror park has been named one of the scariest haunted houses in Florida.

The horror park is home to six attractions: Ravenhill Asylum, Blackpool Prison, Rage 3D, Bloodwater Bayou, Zombie Paintball Assault, and Demon’s Revenge. Each attraction is a uniquely terrifying experience where you will face criminals, rely on your instincts to make crucial decisions, and escape haunting magic. 

You can loosen the tension from fear while you enjoy a beer at Bonzo’s Beer Garden or the new food court, Monster Midway, where you can eat, play games, and drink.

Morterm Manor Haunted Attraction

Morterm Manor at Old Town is a haunted house open year-round. Travel Channel has labeled the haunted attraction as Scariest Haunted Houses in America.

If you dare, you will take a walk through two floors of an Old Victorian setting where there will be frights, thrills, and fun. For more of a daunting thrill and an additional cost, you can hop on “The Last Ride,” a coffin burial simulator of being burned alive. 

Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail

Another top-rated haunted attraction in Florida is Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail .

At the high-ranking scary attraction, you will experience several Halloween thrills. There are three haunted trails, two escape games, and laser tag. After you survive the trek through the woods, you can enjoy live entertainment and food.

Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail is an outdoor event located in Plant City, FL. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. 

The fall season brings the traditional celebration of harvesting crops. People gather at farms and orchards to pick their favorite produce and pose for festive family photos on hay.

Florida brings many harvest festivals and fall adventures during October to keep your days full of entertaining activities.

Carve a pumpkin, go apple picking, sip on cider, and feast on good food and drinks at these fall harvest festivals.

Harvest Festival at Flamingo Gardens

Throughout October, Flamingo Gardens hosts a family-friendly Harvest event. You can enjoy hayrides, and a pumpkin patch, enter a costume contest, and the kids can have fun in a bounce house. 

There will also be live character interactions, arts and crafts, and a Great Scarecrow competition. Each weekend is themed differently. You can have your pick your day to celebrate with pirates & princesses, superheroes & villains, or creatures & critters.  

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival at Walt Disney World Resort

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival makes its way to Walt Disney World beginning in July. You can get a savory taste of food and beverages from around the world. The festival features over 30 global marketplaces throughout the park. Anyone of age can sip on wine, beer, and spirits as you experience exotic dishes.

The event is fun for everyone of all ages with activities for the whole family. There will be culinary demonstrations, seminars, celebrity chefs, and live music concerts. The Food & Wine Festival runs from July 14 to November 19, 2022, at Epcot Center in Lake Buena Vista.

Chalk Festival

Head to the Chalk Festival in Venice, FL and see the stunning artwork by renowned artists from all over the world create 3D illusions and fine art on the pavement of Venice Airport Festival Grounds. 

The “Spirited” cultural art experience will also feature an interactive zone where anyone can get creative with chalk. Art enthusiasts will especially love a behind-the-scenes view of the artist’s process before the final day. 

You can spend the day viewing breathtaking art, shopping and eating from the arts and craft vendors, and getting in touch with your artistic side at the Chalk Festival. 

The festival does not last long. It is a short four-day event that runs from October 28-31. 

Oktoberfest of the Palm Beaches

Oktoberfest of the Palm Beaches brings German culture to Florida. You can get a taste of bratwurst and schnitzel while you sip on imported beers at this festival. 

You don’t have to leave the kids with a sitter. The festival includes family-friendly activities such as carnival games, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and folk dancing. 

Coconut Grove Pumpkin Patch Festival

The Coconut Grove Pumpkin Patch Festival, located in Regatta Park, features everything you might want during your fall adventures.

You can decorate your pumpkin after picking the perfect one from thousands of choices. Children can get lost in a kid-friendly corn stalk maze or hop on a carnival ride. There will also be live shows and pumpkin beers for the adults. 

Icon Park once again is the place to go for some October fun. The massive park is celebrating Oktoberfest at The Wheelhouse. The Sausage Shack will be serving Oktoberfest meals and drinks. You can enjoy Oktoberfest beer brat topped with kraut and mustard or a Bavarian pretzel with beer cheese.

The Wheelhouse Bar will also be celebrating Oktoberfest, serving specialty Oktoberfest beer.

Florida has plenty of festivals and theme parks to fill your day in October. Still, every day does not need to be an adventure. If you are looking for something casual and unrelated to the spooky season, check out these year-round activities Florida has to offer.

Winter Park Autumn Art Festival

Support local artists of Winter Park at the Autumn Art Festival . Artists present their artwork at the community-tailored sidewalk show. You can find unique pieces of ceramics, jewelry, and art to purchase as a souvenir.

You can also experience live entertainment while your children dive into art activities. The price of admission is free.

Hike the Florida National Scenic Trail

The weather in October is perfect for a hike. Explore the wildlife and enjoy the calming nature as you walk along the 300 miles of planned trails of the Florida National Scenic Trail. Nature lovers can find peace among the trail, and experience swamps, lakes, rivers, and pine forests.

With fewer pesky bugs and a cooler climate, October is considered the perfect month to enjoy a hike.

Visit a Water Park

Although October weather is known to be cooler, some days can still get hot. Keep your cool at any of Orlando’s most popular water parks.

Universal’s Volcano Bay, Aquatica Orlando, Discovery Cove, and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park are among the top parks that will keep you cool and entertained with their heated water slides, lagoons, and lazy river pools. 

Universal CityWalk  

If daring rides and haunted houses are not your thing, you can skip the theme park and take a walk through CityWalk to find your kind of fun. The entertainment complex is a trendy hotspot for nightlife. It is filled with trendy restaurants, clubs, and shops, and hosts special events. 

Orlando Science Center

Visit the Orlando Science Center for some educational fun. The science center encourages exploration, curiosity, and fun learning, and features exhibits, a giant screen, and 3D films. 

The Orlando Science Center makes science and learning exciting.

Go Shopping

Head to the Mall of Millennia to snag some souvenirs and a new wardrobe. You can spend an entire day exploring the massive and beautiful mall featuring over 150 retailers. 

You can also visit the Orlando International Premium Outlets to bring home discounted goodies. The outdoor shopping facility has over 180 outlet designer and name-brand stores that offer amazing deals on designer products.

Visit a Beach

You can’t visit Florida without stopping by a beach. Although the temperatures are dropping, you can catch a perfect beach day at a beach on the Florida Suncoast. Beaches on the Suncoast such as Clearwater Beach and St. Petersburg Beach are the perfect spot to take in the last bit of summer-weather beach fun.

October is the perfect month for a leisure getaway to Florida. The crowds are smaller, it is less expensive, and the weather is more enjoyable. 

Florida offers festive events and activities for everyone to enjoy. From theme parks to haunted houses, harvest festivals and art shows, and nature and beaches, there is no reason to hesitate to go to Florida in October.  

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

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The Best Times to Visit Florida (Month-by-Month Travel Tips)

Wondering what month or season is the best time to travel to Florida? Our team of Florida locals have you covered!

Florida is the only peninsula in the country and the only state that maintains a true subtropical climate year-round, meaning that there’s never a bad month to visit. That said, some months can definitely be better than others, depending on your preferences.

If you’re booking a trip to Florida this year and wondering when to go and what to do, we’ve covered every single detail to consider before planning your trip.

Everyone visits for different reasons, so we’ve broken down the best times to visit for every possible type of vacation and preference.

Best Times to Visit Florida: Quick Summary

• Best Time for a Beach Vacation in Florida: April, May and November (great weather, lower crowds)
• Best Time for Going to Theme Parks in Florida: January, February, September and October (lower crowds and cost)
• Best Time to Visit National Parks in Florida: Spring and Fall
• Best Time for Fishing in Florida: Summertime; June, July, August and September
• Best Time for Golfing in Florida: almost all year with Winter months having the best weather
• Best Time to Visit Miami & the Keys in Florida: January, February, March, April and May
• Best Time for Lower Crowds in Florida: July, August and September
• Best Time for Lower Prices in Florida: January & September

We’ll explain each of these times of year in greater depth later in this post, as each topic deserves a more detailed description of why it’s best to select specific months for certain purposes.

Florida Seasons At a Glance

Peak Beach Season in Florida: We realize many visitors will be coming to Florida with one thing in mind: getting to the beach! It’s nearly impossible to come to Florida without considering where you’ll be beaching on vacay, especially if you’re coming from a landlocked area. And because Florida is literally the warmest state in the country, there’s almost no bad time to go to the beach. However, March seems to be peak season for the beaches will everyone coming down here for Spring Break.

If we had to choose, we’d suggest going when there are fewer people and optimal temperatures. The best months for going to the beach in Florida are April, May and November. At this point in the year, there may be a moderate crowd, but you’ll be getting some of the best wind and water temperatures. In the Winter, the ocean breeze and waters can be quite cold for swimming and in the Summer months you have very high chances of hurricanes, tropical storms and daily rain showers that could ruin your plans.

Peak Theme Park Crowds in Florida: It’s shocking that theme park high seasons don’t necessarily follow the peak and slow seasons of Florida’s tourist crowds. We base our theme park volume on Walt Disney World, which is the vacation capital of the world and the place that most vacationers will be headed upon arrival in Orlando. However, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens, Sea World and Legoland are all in close proximity and will fluctuate similarly.

Despite rainy weather being at it’s worst, most crowds will be at the theme parks in June, July and August. Not only will you be competing with other tourists at this time, but locals are also coming to have fun in droves. Amusement parks will also see an uptick in March for Spring Break and December for Christmas. This leaves the great weather months ripe for the picking with lower ticket and accommodation prices. To take advantage of this, plan to visit Florida’s theme parks during the months of January, February, September or October (can still be hot).

Slow Season in Florida: Florida is a “snowbird” haven, harboring Winter visitors and retirees who either come for extended vacations or who will be here for a full six months before heading back North for the hot months. They often arrive in October and go North in or before May. When they’re here, the state will be noticeably fuller, especially around the holidays and in the Spring when more tourists are here.

The slow season is inevitably the time when few people, even Florida residents, want to be here: Hurricane Season. Hurricane season lasts June through November, but the worst weather tends to be in July, August and September. Not only are these months riddled with daily thunder storms (and the somewhat rare potential hurricane or tornado), but the air is at it’s hottest and muggiest. Most people try to avoid this when vacationing in Florida.

Florida Month-by-Month

This breakdown for each month will help you determine which time of year is the best fit for your preferred activities. Even though Florida weather is pleasant year-round, each month has small changes from the other. We’ve covered these in detail from month to month.

Florida in January

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in January

January weather in Florida is usually the coldest month of the year. In the Northern part of the state (Central Florida to the Panhandle) average daily highs will be around 65°F (18.3°C) and lows will be about 36°F (2.2°C). In the Southern part (Central Florida to the Keys) average highs will be closer to 72°F (22.2°C). You’ll almost never see snow, even in the Northern part of the state and rain is fairly scarce this month. When packing, it’s best to bring a variety of layers as the mornings will start cold and get warm throughout the day.

January crowds in Florida tend to be some of the slowest of the year. The places where you’ll experience the biggest influx of visitors will be in towns that are popular with snowbirds. Most travelers will be pleasantly surprised with the cheaper accommodations in Florida this time of year.

Best Beaches in January: Gold Coast, the Florida Keys, Treasure Coast

Best Things to Do in January: Everglades National Park, Mount Dora, Diving in the Keys, Golfing, Amusement Parks, Hog Hunting

Events in January: South Florida Fair, Florida Manatee Festival, Saint Augustine Film Festival, Homestead Championship Rodeo, Art Fort Lauderdale, Mecum Auto Auction, Key West Food & Wine Festival, Gasparilla Pirate Festival

Florida in February

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in February

February in Florida can vary each year, but it’s usually cooler. The Northern half of the state will average highs around 68°F (20°C) and lows at 45°F (7.2°C), while the Southern half will average highs closer to 74°F (23.3°C). Very often the cold air collides with humidity at this time, creating fog on the roadways for a few hours every morning until about 10am.

February crowds in Florida will vary depending on which region you visit this month. However, February tends to be a little slower month for vacationing. Most parts of Florida will experience a lull, even on the beaches, as most families will not be traveling this month in general, but snowbirds will keep the state busier this month.

Best Beaches in February: Gold Coast, Treasure Coast, the Florida Keys

Best Things to Do in February: South Florida, Ocala, Mount Dora, Swimming Crystal River, Diving in the Keys, Everglades National Park, Golfing, Amusement Parks, Spring Training

Events in February: Valentine’s Day, Spring Training Games, Florida State Fair, Florida Strawberry Festival

Florida in March

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in March

March weather in Florida can be cool, with warmer days sprinkled throughout averaging lows of 50°F (10°C) to highs of 75°F (23.9°C). Spring in Florida tends to have drastic changes in temperature each day, so expect to pack light layers you can put on and strip off when necessary. March is also a windy month for Florida with fogginess of the morning hours.

March crowds in Florida see a bit of uptick with most residents around the country vacationing for Spring Break. Florida is a popular Spring Break destination for it’s abundance of beaches and warm weather so most of the beach towns and big cities will be pretty busy.

Best Beaches in March: Gold Coast, Space Coast, Emerald Coast

Best Things to Do in March: Orlando, Jacksonville, South Florida, Space Coast, Snorkel Devil’s Den, Explore Florida Caverns, Golfing, Spring Training

Events in March: Spring Training Games, Florida Strawberry Festival, Sarasota Jazz Festival, Florida Renaissance Festival

Florida in April

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in April

April weather in Florida is starting to feel warmer, with less fog and less wind and more sunshine and breezy afternoons. April is also considered the last month of the dry season; rains will start to pick up in late May through the summer. Most of Florida will average 55°F (12.8°C) to 85°F (29.4°C) in the month of April. Humidity levels are always fairly high, with April seeing approximately 70% humidity.

April crowds in Florida die down just a little after the surge of Spring Break visitors in March. April is an excellent time to take advantage of lower hotel rates, while experiencing the oceans, beaches and inland areas before the heat becomes unbearable in the summer months. Snowbirds are still in town this month, so their most popular cities will still be fairly busy.

Best Beaches in April: Treasure Coast, the Florida Keys, Gold Coast

Best Things to Do in April: Orlando, West Palm, Apalachicola, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Explore Florida Caverns, Snorkel Devil’s Den, Hike National & State Parks, Dive in the Keys

Events in April: Florida Keys Island Festival, Pioneer Days Festival

Florida in May

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in May

May weather in Florida is definitely warmer than the start of the year with temperatures rising throughout the month. May tends to have the nicest weather out of the Spring months, with significantly less fog and more sunshine throughout the day. May is the start of the wet season in Florida, so expect random rainfall during your trip. Most of Florida will average 65°F (18.3°C) to 85°F (30°C).

May crowds in Florida are moderate. It’s usually the point in time when the snowbirds will begin to head back North with the increasing rise in temperature this month. It’s an excellent time to take advantage of lower hotel rates, while experiencing the oceans, beaches and inland areas of the state before the heat rises. The beaches should be fairly busy, but not full like they were in Spring Break.

Best Beaches in May: the Florida Keys, Treasure Coast, Gold Coast

Best Things to Do in May: Key West, Sarasota, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Bahia Honda State Park, Big Cypress State Park, Tube the Itchetucknee, Offshore Fishing

Events in May: Cinco de Mayo, Suwannee River Jam, Oceanfront Bandshell Concert Series, Orlando International Fringe Festival, Megacon, Jacksonville Jazz Fest

Florida in June

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in June

June weather in Florida will feel noticeably hotter and more humid than the other Spring months. June is in the wet season, so expect random showers and thunderstorms to occur at any point during your trip this month. Typically, rainfall in the Summer months in Florida will happen in the afternoons for about an hour or so and then taper off in the evening. But some days will have thunderstorms lasting all day through the night.

Even though the weather can be overcast and rainy, the sun still shine brightly and often in the month of June. The sun will be out most of the day this month, so come prepared with plenty of protection and sunblock because sunburn and heat rashes can happen quickly with limited sun exposure in Florida. It’s extremely important to stay hydrated, too. Most of the state will average 70°F (21.1°C) to 90°F (32.2°C) with high humidity.

June crowds in Florida are busy. Many tourists like to travel to Florida at the beginning of the summer when the weather isn’t unbearable and the kids are out of school. There are plenty of beautiful white, sandy beaches around the state, so most visitors will spread out, but the popular public beaches like Miami, Cocoa and Clearwater will remain highly populated.

Best Beaches in June: Emerald Coast, First Coast, Treasure Coast

Best Things to Do in June: Tallahassee, Central Florida, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Tube the Itchetucknee, Boating, Offshore Fishing

Events in June: Savor Sarasota, Sarasota Music Festival, Summer Sizzle Restaurant Week Naples, Bands on the Beach Pensacola, Rock the Docks Destin

Florida in July

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in July

July weather in Florida is very hot and muggy and even considered the hottest month of the year. This is the official start of summer, and summer in Florida is always pretty warm, sunny and rainy. Daily showers and thunderstorms are typical of July with higher chances of hurricanes. Average temperatures stay around 90°F (32.2°C) with high humidity.

July crowds in Florida start to taper off. Being the hottest and most times wettest month of the year, most families aren’t crowding the beaches, but will still fill up the inland tourist spots and theme parks. Again, the sun is powerful even when it’s cloudy, so sun protection is always a must.

Best Beaches in July: First Coast, Treasure Coast, Cultural Coast

Best Things to Do in July: Panama City, Anna Maria Island, Central Florida, Fishing, Boating, Water Parks

Events in July: Independence Day, Fireworks at the Fountain Orlando, Star Spangled Spectacular Celebration, America’s Birthday Bash Miami, Celebrate America Tallahassee, Key Lime Festival Key West

Florida in August

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in August

August weather in Florida is very hot and muggy, usually the second hottest month of the year. We’re well into hurricane season at this point, so tropical storms and hurricanes are always likely this month. Aside from the major storms, expect random showers and thunderstorms to occur daily. It’s extremely important to have plenty of sun protection and hydration no matter the weather. Average temperatures will still be around 90°F (32.2°C) with high humidity.

August crowds in Florida are fairly low. Even though August is ghastly hot and rainy and most families are heading back to school, the theme parks can still have decent crowds this month. Most beach goers will favor the Northern part of Florida up through the panhandle. The Southern beaches, especially those on the Atlantic side can be dangerously hot and more susceptible to bad storms.

If you’re looking for lower crowds when visiting Florida, definitely don’t miss our list of the 12 Quietest Beaches in Florida .

Best Beaches in August: Emerald Coast, First Coast, Sun Coast

Best Things to Do in August: Panama City Beach, Anna Maria Island, Tallahassee, Gainesville, Fishing, Boating, Water Parks

Events in August: Miami Spice, Key West Lobster Fest

Florida in September

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in September

September weather in Florida is still hot and muggy and it’s the main month that is heavily affected by hurricane watches and warnings. Also, Florida is often called the lightning capital of the world and while most visitors aren’t in danger, boaters should use caution. When it’s not overcast and rainy, the sun will shine brightly, so it’s important to prepare yourself with sun protection and hydration.

September crowds in Florida are low with most children back in school. Plus, hurricane season keeps tourists at bay. This makes it a nice month to visit the beaches and theme parks, but the weather can turn on you in an instant. Most of the state will average about 85°F (29.4°C) in the month of September, reaching over 75% humidity.

Best Beaches in September: Emerald Coast, First Coast, Sun Coast

Best Things to Do in September: Tampa Bay, Jacksonville, Sarasota, Venice, Florida National Scenic Trail, Fishing, Boating, Amusement Parks, Water Parks

Events in September: Key West Sunset Celebration, Miami Spice, Orlando’s Magical Dining Month, Flavor Palm Beach

Florida in October

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in October

October weather in Florida is cooling off and getting drier. Hurricane season is nearly over and October typically won’t have too many hurricane watches or warnings. Daily rain showers and thunder storms begin to slow down this month. October is one of the first months that you begin to see cooler temperatures, as well, though hot days will still occur. Temperature averages a high of about 80°F (26.7°C) and a low of 67.5°F (19.7°C) occurring at nighttime.

October crowds in Florida are low. Most people aren’t traveling much this month anyway, but with the hurricane season unpredictability, it tends to keep visitors away. This is one of the last best times to get in a good beach day or go to a theme park with lower crowds.

Best Beaches in October: Sun Coast, Cultural Coast, Emerald Coast

Best Things to Do in October: Palm Beach, Amelia Island, Gainesville, Weeki Wachee, Florida National Scenic Trail, Amusement Parks

Events in October: Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, Howl-O-Scream, Halloween Horror Nights, Sea World Spooktacular, Brick or Treat Legoland, Halloween Zoo Bashes, Fantasy Fest Key West, Pensacola Interstate Fair, Ghost Tours, Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes

Florida in November

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in November

November weather in Florida is usually cool and dry. Hurricane season is over by the end of the month, but that doesn’t mean chances are eradicated completely. November temperatures may not be cold, but they’ll usually be comfortable with less humidity, making it easier to be outdoors for longer periods of time. The average a high is 77°F (25°C) and low is 62°F (16.6°C).

November crowds in Florida are beginning to grow again with the increasing number of snowbirds coming back to the state for the Winter. This is one of the last times you can get to the beach without it being overly crowded with winter guests. The Southern beaches, especially those on the Atlantic side, can still be very warm and more susceptible to bad storms, but these are infrequent.

Best Beaches in November: Gold Coast, the Florida Keys, Treasure Coast

Best Things to Do in November: Melbourne, Venice, Weeki Wachee, Big Cypress National Park, Swimming in Crystal River, Hiking National & State Parks, Golfing

Events in November: Ice! at the Gaylord Orlando, Nights of Lights St. Augustine, Merry and Bright Orlando, Thanksgiving Day

Florida in December

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in December

December weather in Florida will be cooler, but usually never truly cold. The humidity is typically waning at this point, with very low chance of showers and almost never a chance of snow. The wind will pick up on occasion, but for the most part expect cool and dry days and nights.

It’s best to pack a variety of layers as the mornings will start cold around 43°F (6.1°C) and get warm throughout the day around 63°F (17.7°C), then turn back to cold in the evenings. Except for South Florida, which remains an even 76°F (24.4°C) on average.

December crowds in Florida will vary depending on which region you visit this month. However, December tends to be a bit busier across the board since the holidays are underway. Most parts of Florida will experience the hype of the season, especially in medium to large cities. It should also come as no surprise that Florida travel rates will be a little pricier this time of year, though you can still find cheaper options available.

Best Beaches in December: Gold Coast, the Florida Keys, Treasure Coast

Best Things to Do in December: St. Augustine, Tampa Bay, Celebration, Ocala, Hiking National & State Parks, Golfing, Holiday Events, New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Events in December: Santa’s Enchanted Forest Miami, Pensacola Winterfest, Ice! at the Gaylord Orlando, Key West Holiday Fest, Sandi Land West Palm, Nights of Lights St. Augustine, Merry and Bright Orlando, New Year’s Eve

Final Recommendation

There are many great things to do in Florida at every season throughout the year. It’s one of the best states to visit year-round for it’s warm climate and it’s vast number of things to occupy your time all over the state, so it’s very difficult to objectively rank one season ahead of the others.

If you plan to only go to the beach or even explore the National and State Parks, you may want to consider coming in the Spring or Fall for great weather and water temperatures. If you want to visit Walt Disney World, you’d best come early Fall or late Winter for the best prices. If saving money is your goal, you can’t beat the great rates in the cold month of January or the hot month of September for a Florida vacation.

Our personal favorite things to do in our home state of Florida are going to the beach and heading to the theme parks. With that in mind, we suggest coming for a beach trip in May when the weather is warm and less rainy with fewer people crowding the beach at this time. For a week-long trip to Walt Disney World, we suggest coming in late September for lower crowds and better experiences in the parks.

Ultimately, you as the visitor determine what the best time of year is for going to Florida. The Sunshine State has so many different opportunities available all throughout the year, giving you a huge range of choices for your own vacation.

Whether you’re coming to experience the hot, lively beaches of Miami, hitting up the amusement parks in Central Florida, taking an historical trip through St. Augustine or exploring the Everglades, each trip has something special to offer.

Florida in December: Everything You Need to Know

Why Yosemite is Worth Visiting (Full Travel Guide)

© 2024 by Roundtript

Best Times to Visit Destin, Florida: A Month-by Month Guide

When is the best time to visit Destin, Florida?

Most people would say the best time to visit Destin is October or May if you want the perfect combination of beautiful beach weather, fun events and amazing sunsets without the higher crowds of summer.

The actual answer of the best times to visit Destin will be different for everyone. It depends mostly on your overall vacation priorities. Crowd levels, events, weather, and beach conditions are also considerations.

The best time to visit Destin also depends on when you can travel, whether you are traveling with kids, and what activities you want to experience.

Every month and season is covered in detail here so you can pick the best time for you to visit Destin, Florida ( updated for 2023 ).

The Best Times to Visit Destin, Florida

Things have changed a lot in the last 3-5 years regarding the best time to visit Destin. Off season used to be more noticeable, but every year the difference gets less and less since more people work from home now. This gives them greater flexibility for travel and vacation times.

Most schools are back to normal now, so we should see a return to the more traditional family vacation travel times. This seems to be the trend of last summer and fall. Destin becomes more popular every year though, so there will probably be plenty of couples, snowbirds and solo travelers to fill in the void.

The Seasons of Destin, Florida

An overview of the seasons of Destin is provided in this post first followed by every month of the year ranked in order taking into consideration all the variables that are typically important to the Destin visitors.

I have made some minor adjustments for the expected fall increase in crowds. Fall used to be considered off season and sort of a local’s secret.

The secret is out now about what a great time fall is in Destin (other than the hurricane risk) so we see an increase in crowds every year in those months.

These rankings should help you decide when is the best time to visit Destin based on your preferences and your vacation priorities.

It’s impossible to rank the months in the best way for everyone, since we all have different vacation priorities. I’ve done my best based on my own preferences and those of the many visitors I have spoken with and mixed that with what I think people expect and enjoy in a Destin vacation.

Every possible factor was been considered including the weather, crowds, events and beach conditions to decide when I think is the best time to visit Destin.

We don’t have the typical four climate seasons here in Destin, but we do have four distinct tourism seasons.

Below I will start with an overview of those and follow with my rankings and a month-to-month guide in order of what I would consider the best and worst months to visit Destin.

Summer in Destin: Mid-May through Mid-August

• Weather = Hot • Crowds = Busy • Tourist demographic = Mostly Families • Prices = Peak

Summer is the best time to visit Destin if you love hot sunny beach weather, comfortable swimming temperatures, and a packed schedule of events and things to do, especially aimed at families.

Summer Crowds in Destin

Destin will see the highest crowds during the summer and traffic is heavy, especially in the evenings and all day on the weekends.

As far as the summer tourists go, the crowd will consist of mostly families with children and there will be no shortage of activities and events aimed towards them. There are pirate shows, movies on the lawn, pirate ship excursions, fireworks, and all sorts of other events to entertain and delight families who visit Destin.

Destin Summer Traffic

Traffic in Destin gets worse every year due to the increase of visitors so be sure to leave plenty of time to get everywhere.

There is constant road construction on highway 98 in the last few years to widen the roads and bridges to accommodate more people and this only added to the traffic congestion problems.

There has been a huge uptick in the number of golf carts being used for travel, especially along the 5 miles of Scenic 98 so that can slow things down a bit too in those areas. Scenic 98 is the popular beach road that stretches from Henderson Park Inn all the way to the east end of the road past Surf Hut restaurant.

Street Legal golf carts are allowed on all roads where the speed limit is 35mph or less but most of them only go 15-25mph so that can definitely slow traffic down too in the summer.

There are also people walking and riding bikes and scooters everywhere, especially on Scenic Highway 98 and Holiday Isle, so just leave yourself a lot of extra time to get anywhere in the summer months if you are driving.

Summer is the ideal time to consider large resort accommodations where you have the beach, activities, restaurants and excursions all in one place.

It might seem appealing to save some money and stay off the beach or down the road from everything, but your time also needs to be factored in on your Destin vacation.

Spending precious vacation time in the car frustrated with traffic and parking will lead most people to spend extra for more convenient accommodations on their next visit.

Summer Prices in Destin

Prices in Destin will be at their highest in summer as far as lodging, activities and everything else goes. A few days in July will be similar priced to a week in winter season. Be prepared for this spike in rates from Memorial Day through mid-August.

It will be harder to find discounts or deals in summer because Destin will max out on occupancy even at peak rates during this time. Many vacation rental owners are even reporting that they are selling out for summer in the spring so be sure to book ahead if you are planning a Destin visit during this time. It’s not the time to wait for last minute deals.

Summer Activities in Destin

Besides events and excursions, there are also tons of activities and water sports adventures to enjoy in summer with new stuff added every year.

You can try everything from parasailing, bungee jumping, zip-lining, free fall jumping, fishing, boating, fly-boarding, jet-skiing, stand up paddle boarding, banana boat rides and so many others. Here are some guides I wrote to these activities if you need more details:

• Parasailing in Destin: 6 Tips for a Great Flight
• My Jump off the Harborwalk Village Free Fall Tower
• My Fishing Trip on the Vera Marie Party Boat
• Stand up Paddle Boarding on Destin Harbor Complete Guide

Summer is also the best time to visit Crab Island in Destin. Crab Island will have the most clear water days and comfortable swimming/wading temperatures than any other season. Summer is also when Crab Island will have vendors and tours operating daily.

For more information about Crab Island in Destin, including how to get the clearest water and everything else you need to know, check out my guide here: Crab Island in Destin, Florida: Complete Visitors Guide

Summer Fireworks in Destin

Summer is also the season for weekly fireworks in Destin. The only place I know of in Florida with more fireworks than Destin is Disney World.

The summer fireworks shows in Destin take place from Memorial Day through mid-August on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights. These are my guides to the different shows if you need more details:

• When and Where to Watch Fireworks at Baytowne Wharf
• When and Where to Watch Fireworks at the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk
• When and Where to Watch Fireworks at Harborwalk Village

I want to be clear that these are not some tiny fireworks shows. I have traveled to other places and gone to the fireworks shows and been unimpressed compared to the size and intensity of the fireworks shows here in Destin.

The three weekly fireworks shows here range from 6-10 minutes long and there are also holiday shows on 4th of July that are even bigger and better, so don’t miss the fireworks if you visit Destin in the summer.

Summer Weather in Destin

As far as the weather, it is hot but the humidity is not as uncomfortable as it can get in August and September here.

Summer will see the most rainfall of the year but most of the time it will be just short afternoon showers that wouldn’t normally be too disruptive to a vacation.

For this reason, it is usually not advisable to cancel plans based on the weather forecast since even a high rain prediction percentage is often just a brief shower.

Most of the 10-day Destin weather forecasts in summer will show a 40-50% chance of rain almost every day and this causes a lot of people to postpone their trip when often it doesn’t rain at all or it’s brief.

Sometimes it’s so hot in summer that the rain is a welcome way to cool off in the afternoon after a long day at the beach. Also summer beach storms are one of the most beautiful sights, especially if you are staying somewhere with a beach view.

In summary, summer is the best time to visit Destin if you love great beach weather for swimming, family activities, excursions, events, fireworks and watersports activities.

Fall in Destin: Mid-August through Mid-November

• Weather = Hot and Humid in early fall but less humidity and cooler evenings in later months • Crowds =  Moderate • Tourist Demographic = Adults, Couples and Families during Fall Break • Prices =  Moderate

Fall is an amazing time of year to visit Destin and the Emerald Coast. This is when locals come out of hiding after the crazy summer to enjoy all the festivals and fishing events the season has to offer.

Fall Crowds in Destin

The greatness of fall in Destin used to be a bit of a locals secret but the word has gotten out in the last few years. More and more visitors are taking advantage of the slightly lower prices and less crowds by choosing this time of year for a getaway instead of the crazy summer.

Traditionally fall has always seen more adult visitors then families since the kids would have just recently gone back to school after being out all summer. However, more and more schools have added a fall break now so there will be an increase in families visiting in mid-October.

Fall Beach Landscape in Destin

The beaches in Destin and the Gulf Coast are absolutely beautiful during the fall months. The water is still warm enough to swim and the heaviest summer crowds have left.

The beach landscape is particularly stunning in early fall with the sea oats in full bloom adding so much beauty to the landscape.

The sea oats start blooming in June and they are hitting their peak of fullness between July-September before they start to fade in late fall and winter.

Fall Sunsets in Destin

One of the most exciting things about the fall season in Destin is the beautiful sunsets. Fall is when the sun begins to rise and set over the water at the beach again.

It is unfortunate that summer holds some of our best cloudy and colorful sunsets but the sun rises and sets from the northeast or northwest that time of year so it falls over land and behind the buildings if you watch from the beach.

It is only in the panhandle of Florida where sunset and sunrise happen this way. The east coast of Florida gets sunrise over the water all year but the sunset is always over the land. The west coast of Florida has sunset over the water all year but the sunrise is always over land.

Here on the south-facing beaches of the Emerald Coast, we get to see both the sunrise and the sunset over the water but only during half the year.

Sunrise and Sunset can be seen over the Gulf of Mexico on the beach from approximately late September through mid-March in Destin. The rest of the year they both will fall over land.

I explained this in more detail and gave some ideas for the best summer sunset spots in this post: Best spots for a summer sunset in Destin

Fall Prices in Destin

In early to mid-August, most hotels will start to drop into their fall season pricing which will generally be somewhere between the high rates of summer and the lower rates of winter.

Fall pricing is higher than it used to be given the increase in demand for travel during these months but it is still going to be lower than summer in most cases. You can expect another drop into even lower winter rates to start in early November.

It will still be more crowded then you would expect in “off-season” thanks to the great events and amazing weather during this time, but the crowds, much like the prices, will still be nothing even close to that of summer.

Many people are surprised to find that October especially has become a pretty popular time here if they arrive with expectations of a quiet and uncrowded vacation.

Fall Activities in Destin

Another thing that makes fall so popular is it’s the season with the most events and festivals that are more aimed at adults, unlike the summer events tend to be.

Fall in Destin holds beer festivals, art festivals, fishing tournaments, and so many others this time of year to enjoy along with the cooler temperatures. These events are discussed in more detail below in the month-to-month guide further down in this post.

Hurricane Season in Destin

There are still downsides to fall, the biggest of which is it being the height of hurricane season.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June through November but the highest hurricane and tropical storm activity is in the fall months when the gulf water temperatures are at their peak warmth in temperature.

We don’t get many hurricanes here that would completely ruin a whole vacation but they definitely do happen. Many people, myself included, enjoy riding out a tropical storm or a category 1 or 2 hurricane and would consider this more of a vacation adventure.

Tropical storms and small hurricanes can be fun if you are somewhere safe with a beach view. You won’t get to enjoy the typical beach vacation activities during this time but it’s still an amazing force of Mother Nature to witness.

Being in Destin during a storm is a personal decision so I can’t advise on whether you should keep your vacation plans in place or not in the event of a storm in our path, but I usually ride out all storms unless it’s a mandatory evacuation.

I don’t always insist on advising people to get hurricane insurance like some people do. I have found them to have so many stipulations that they can be tough to collect on for the most common hurricane scenarios.

If you do get insurance, make sure you are clear on what it covers. If they say you are covered in the event of a “hurricane warning” that doesn’t necessarily mean you are covered in the event of a hurricane watch, which can be just as problematic for travel plans.

Also sometimes they will only cover it if your accommodations are inside the predicted track but that doesn’t help if the track is nearby and you would have to drive or fly through it to get here. Basically just know exactly what you are covered for when purchasing hurricane insurance otherwise it’s a waste of money.

If you can figure all that out and feel safer spending the money then go for it. Otherwise just make sure to at least discuss the cancellation policies directly with your condo or resort when making the reservation.

Ask them what options you will have as far as refunds or rescheduling in the event of a tropical storm or hurricane. Also ask what the policy is if a storm affects your ability to travel to Destin by car or plane. Book with people who have a policy you feel comfortable with.

Fall Stingrays and Jellyfish

Another slight downfall of fall is that there are more critters in the water since the Gulf of Mexico will reach its peak water temperatures during this time.

Always be on the lookout for stingrays at the beach, especially in August and September. They are usually harmless and even exciting to swim with but they can sting you when startled.

It is recommended in these hot fall months to do the “Stingray Shuffle” when walking into the water where you drag your feet in the sand to alert them of your presence. This way they can swim off before you accidentally step on them since they like to hide out camouflaged in the sand and shallow water.

Jellyfish are another common concern in the fall in Destin. They aren’t usually a huge issue but there can be a few weeks in fall, especially in August and September, where there is a particularly bad outbreak and they are all over the beach, Destin Harbor and Crab Island.

In summery, fall is the best time to visit Destin if you love beer festivals, art festivals, fishing events, warm humid beach weather, and possibly some storms.

Winter in Destin: Mid-November through Mid-February

• Weather = Unpredictable. Some days are chilly but they are mixed with nice sunny days • Crowds = Lower • Tourist Demographic = Mostly Snowbirds • Prices = Lower

Winter in Destin is a great time for quiet walks on the beach and the most amazing sunrises and sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.

Winter Crowds in Destin

Winter is the slowest time of year in Destin as far as beach crowds are concerned. Many of our winter tourists are retired people from northern states (aka “snowbirds”) who take advantage of the lower cost of accommodations to stay for several months and escape the harsh winters back home.

The exception to the low crowds is during Christmas break (mid-December through the first week of January) when there will be a spike in families visiting while kids are out of school.

There will also be several events during December themed around Christmas, Santa visits, and New Year’s Eve. Here is my guide to Christmas here in Destin if you want to know more: Christmas in Destin: Ultimate Guide to the Holiday Season

Winter Activities in Destin

Most tourist activities, watersports companies, boat tours, beach services and even a few restaurants will close for some or all of this time.

Some fishing, parasailing and dolphin cruises in Destin will operate all year, even if it’s on limited schedules. Many fishing charters will still be running on the weekends or available for private charters too.

Winter is also a great time for beach bonfires which are allowed in the neighboring town of Miramar Beach and all along 30a in Santa Rosa Beach.

You can do your own bonfire or hire a company to do it. I wrote an article about the requirements and everything you need to know to have an amazing beach bonfire here: How to Have a Beach Bonfire in Destin, Miramar Beach and 30a

Winter Weather in Destin

Even though the weather is nicer than most of the country is experiencing, it is still far colder at times than you would ever expect to feel in Florida. Sometimes the temps will get below freezing at night but for the most part, winter is pretty mild here.

Winter is the best time for sunrises and sunsets over the water when the sun is all the way out over the Gulf of Mexico.

In summery, winter is the best time to visit Destin if you love quiet walks on the beach, beach bonfires, holiday events, and beach sunsets over the water.

Spring in Destin: Mid-February through Mid-May

• Weather =  Nice but still chilly at times • Crowds = Mixture of busy and slow • Tourist demographic = Mostly Families and College Spring Breakers • Prices = Moderate to Peak

I have always had a love/hate relationship with spring in Destin. It’s exciting to welcome the warmer weather and fun spring events that it brings but I have mixed feelings about it overall and would personally place it last on my favorite times to visit.

My mixed feelings about spring in Destin is mostly because it will have crowds that rival summer at times but without the warm water, consistently warm weather, to accompany it. Spring is also missing the beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the water that we get in fall and winter.

Spring Weather in Destin

It can be unexpectedly cold in March and April depending on whether the sun is out or not. There will be some nice beach days if the sun is shining but if it’s overcast, most will find it too cold to enjoy.

It does warm up significantly in April and early May and it starts to become more comfortable to swim in the Gulf of Mexico.

I usually wait until Memorial Day to get in the water unless it’s a really hot day but everyone has different levels of cold tolerance. You will mostly see people in the water starting in early May although some people will swim all year in Destin.

You will definitely see plenty of spring breakers out swimming and unaffected by the cold temperatures. I guess it depends where you are from and how much alcohol you drink. Children will also be out enjoying the water unbothered by the cold if it’s a hot day.

Early May is the exception to my reluctance to love Spring in Destin. The first 2 weeks of May (the final days of spring season here) have a winning combination of lower crowds, beautiful beach weather, and water that starts to feel comfortable for swimming on a sunny day.

Spring Crowds in Destin

College age spring breakers will start to arrive in late February continuing through early April. Most hotels and condos in the Destin area will impose a minimum age of 21 or 25 in order to attract more families and cut back on some of the issues that come with a younger college crowd.

Panama City Beach has been cracking down on alcohol laws on the beach in the past few years so that has undoubtedly contributed to the upswing in spring breakers that Destin has now.

The Destin law enforcement is usually prepared for spring break and does a great job keeping the order in town. You will see more police presence in Destin during spring break than any other time of the year, mostly looking for incidents of underage drinking.

Even though we do get our share of spring breakers, it is nowhere close to the levels that other Florida cities will see. This is because Destin is generally less tolerant of the college spring breaker shenanigans than other places.

Still, there will be more trash left on the beach than usual during the height of college spring break time and many locals will organize clean-up groups to help with it.

Spring Sunsets in Destin

Spring is when the sunsets will start to move from being over the water to setting over land again. So if you are here in March, enjoy them while you can!

Spring Activities in Destin

Spring will have a decent amount of activities for families to enjoy and there will even be some fireworks at Baytowne Wharf for the busiest weeks. Spring is also when the fishing charters, parasailing, tour boats, and all the activities will start to operate on normal schedules.

In summary, Spring is the best time to visit Destin if you are trying to escape the cold in other places or to enjoy a family spring break with activities for the kids.

The Best Time to Visit Destin Ranked by Month

All things considered, here is how I would rank the months in order of best to worst times to visit Destin:

1. October in Destin

Average High = 80 degrees Average Low = 55 degrees Average Gulf Water Temperature = 77 degrees Average Rainfall = 5.3 inches

I doubt there would be much argument that October is probably the best time to visit Destin rivaled only by May. The weather has cooled off enough to not be miserably hot but the water at the beach is still plenty warm enough for swimming.

Popular events in October include the Destin Seafood Festival, Fireworks at Harborwalk Village, the Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival, and the Destin Fishing Rodeo which takes place for the entire month of October on Destin Harbor.

Be sure to visit the Destin History and Fishing museum while you are in town to learn more about the rich history of the Destin Fishing Rodeo and how Destin became known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village”. Check out my post here for more about the museum : Things to Do: The Destin History and Fishing Museum

If there were a downside to October, it would be that it’s prime time for hurricanes and tropical storms. The changes are not high that you will be affected by one but some of the largest storms I can recall happened in October.

Here is my most recent October information and events article if you want more details about October in Destin. This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: October in Destin: Best Things to Do

2. May in Destin

Average High = 83 degrees Average Low = 61 degrees Average Gulf Water Temperature = 77 degrees Average Rainfall = 4.3 inches (lowest of the year)

May is the best time to visit Destin to enjoy both moderate temperatures and moderate crowds. It is sort of the Spring version of October. The locals like to say that October and May are why we live here.

The spring break crowds have left town by May and the summer crowds have yet to fully arrive. The weather is warming up, although it can sometimes still be a little chilly in the evening during the first part of the month.

May is when the Gulf has usually finally warmed up enough to be a comfortable swimming temperature (although some people do swim all year).

Memorial Day weekend at the end of May is considered the official start of summer season and Destin will be non-stop busy from that point until the kids go back to school in August.

Harborwalk Village and The Village of Baytowne Wharf will both host Memorial Day weekend kick-off parties complete with live music, kids activities, and fireworks on the Sunday night of the holiday weekend.

May holds the popular annual Taco and Tequila festival at Baytowne Wharf which is a really fun event if you love tacos, and who doesn’t? Also in May will be one of my favorite events and one of the oldest traditions in Destin, the annual Blessing of the Fleet event on Destin Harbor.

Here is my most recent May information and events article if you want more details about May in Destin. This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: May in Destin: Weather, Events, Activities, and Crowds

3. September in Destin

Average High = 87 degrees Average Low = 67 degrees Average Gulf Water Temperature = 82 degrees Average Rainfall = 6.2 inches 

Even though September is hot and there is less to do in terms of festivities, I’m still giving it the number 3 spot if we are assuming you are here mainly for the beach.

September is usually amazing beach weather minus all the crowds of summer. If people complain about anything in September, it’s that the humidity is particularly high and sometimes the biting flies are out at the beach. Bring bug spray in September just in case and they won’t bother you.

September feels quiet following the chaos of the summer when the kids go back to school and we all breathe a collective sigh of relief as things start to settle down. The exception to the September Crowds will be Labor Day weekend when they will spike.

One of the most popular events in September is the the Baytowne Wharf Art Walk. Harborwalk Village, Baytowne Wharf, and the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk will also have have fireworks shows on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend even though the regular weekly summer fireworks shows will have ended a few weeks prior.

Here is my most recent September information and events article if you want more details about September in Destin. This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: September in Destin: Weather, Events, Activities, and Crowds

Average High = 76 degrees Average Low = 52 degrees Average Gulf Water Temperature = 66 degrees Average Rainfall = 5.0 inches

The first few weeks of April will typically see the last of the spring break crowds so the second half of April will quiet down a bit.

Late April is a nice time to visit for moderate temperatures and lower crowds. The water in the Gulf of Mexico is still a bit chilly but many people will find it comfortable for swimming on a hot sunny day.

The reason I didn’t rank April higher is because the weather can be unpredictable (similar to November in many ways) and there will still be spring break crowds in early April. It’s also the time between spring break and summer when there aren’t as many events or fun things happening.

The most popular event in April is the annual Sandestin Wine Festival –a weekend of wine and food that takes place annually in The Village of Baytowne Wharf.

Here is my most recent April information and events article if you want more details about April in Destin. This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: April in Destin: Weather, Events, Activities, and Crowds

5. June in Destin

Average High = 88 degrees Average Low = 69 degrees Average Gulf Water Temperature = 82 degrees Average Rainfall = 6.7 inches 

Summer will be in full swing all of June as schools are out and families will be vacationing in Destin. The weather is warm, the water temps are warm and there will be no shortage of summer festivities and events.

Even though June in Destin is a busy time, I still ranked it high if we are assuming that most people come to Destin to enjoy the beach and activities that the busy season has to offer.

The weekly summer events at Harborwalk Village, Baytowne Wharf, and the Boardwalk will also be taking place during all of June.

One of the most popular events in June is the Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic Fishing Tournament at the Sandestin Baytowne Marina.

These events are mostly aimed at families including weekly fireworks shows, pirate shows, concerts on the lawn, hydroflight shows, movies on the beach and much more.

The downside to June besides the crowds, is that sometimes we get June Grass seaweed on the beaches that can last a few days or sometimes a few weeks. It’s impossible to predict when and where it will come, but check out my post here to keep an eye on beach conditions as your visit approaches : The 5 Best Beach Web Cams from Okaloosa Island to Destin to Miramar Beach

June Grass does not only arrive in June, despite the name. It can show up during any of the warm summer months from May to October, however June and July are the most common time when you might see it.

Here’s my most recent June information and events article if you want more details about June in Destin. This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: June in Destin: Weather, Events, Activities, and Crowds

6. July in Destin

Average High = 88 degrees Average Low = 69 degrees Average Gulf Water Temperature = 84 degrees Average Rainfall = 9.1 inches (highest of the year)

July used to be further down on my list because it’s such a crowded time to be here but I moved it up this year after going to the beach for sunrise almost every day last summer and observing that the water clarity was more consistent than I saw for any other month in Destin.

The water was crystal clear almost all of July, even on overcast stormy days. For this reason I moved it up because if you can deal with the intense crowds, you will be rewarded with some of the most reliable beach conditions of the year.

The exception to this water clarity is if any June Grass or seaweed arrives. See the June section above for more information.

July is the most crowded and high-traffic month of the year paired with the highest amount of rainfall. If you decide to visit in July, make sure to leave plenty of time to get anywhere and always be prepared for an afternoon rain shower.

The beaches will be very crowded in Destin in July so if you aren’t staying beachfront, be sure to arrive early to find parking and claim your patch of public beach. I would highly recommend staying somewhere with private beach access if you come to Destin is July.

The public beach situation in Destin gets worse every year but you can still find a good spot if you know where to go and arrive early. My guide to all 13 public beach accesses in Destin is here if you need more information: Find your Perfect Beach: A Guide to all 13 Public Beach Accesses in Destin, Florida

On the upside, July is actually pretty good weather, thanks to the afternoon showers often taking the edge off the humidity.

July will also have the best fireworks shows of the year for the 4th of July Holiday with special holiday shows at both Harborwalk Village and The Village of Baytowne Wharf.

July is also when the Smoke on the Coast BBQ & Fireworks Festival at Destin Commons takes place. I don’t eat BBQ but I still go because it is one of the most stunning fireworks shows around here rivaled only by the midnight New Years Eve show at Baytowne Wharf.

Details about the July 4th fireworks shows are here: July 4th in Destin, Miramar Beach, Sandestin, Navarre and 30a .

7. August in Destin

Average High = 89 degrees Average Low = 71 degrees Average Gulf Water Temperature = 84 degrees Average Rainfall = 7.6 inches

The first few weeks of August feel a lot like July as far as heat and crowds go, with a bit more humidity in August but less crowds than July.

Weekly summer fireworks and events will continue for the first 2 weeks of August but then everything will start to drop off as kids go back to school and occupancy rates decrease dramatically starting the 3rd week of August.

August is a hot and humid month in Destin but prices start to fall mid-August so you can often get some good deals on accommodations while still enjoying the beautiful beach weather.

Popular events in August include Shark Movie Night at Crab Island and the Emerald Coast Poker Run. Shark Movie Night at Crab Island is a really unique event that I wrote about in more detail here: Shark Movie Night at Crab Island

Here is my most recent August information and events article if you want more details about August in Destin. This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: August in Destin: Weather, Events, Activities, and Crowds

8. November in Destin

Average High = 71 degrees Average Low = 46 degrees Average Gulf Water Temperature = 72 degrees Average Rainfall = 4.8 inches 

November in Destin can be full of some surprisingly warm days. While the water temperature isn’t exactly ideal for swimming, it’s still warmer than most of the spring months. I think November is one of the best times to visit Destin.

Most hotels will go into their winter pricing November 1st so it’s a great time to overlap beautiful weather with a great deal. Snowbirds from the northern states will also begin to arrive in November.

One of the best events in November is the Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights Festival at Baytowne Wharf where they light up the trees in the village for the first time of the season.

Participants enjoy the festive atmosphere while sampling various bites and sparkling wine. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit. I wrote more about this event here: Sparkling Wine and Holiday Lights Festival

The other best event is Half Shells on the Harbor at Harborwalk Village. This event allows you to sample oysters and creative cocktails prepared by local and regional restaurants.

I wrote more details about that event and others in this post: 11 Amazing Destin Food and Drink Festivals not to Miss

Harborwalk Village and Baytowne Wharf will also have events celebrating Santa’s arrival. Thanksgiving is also a pretty popular week here, with many families choosing to gather at the beach instead of home for the holiday. There will be plenty of restaurant choices in Destin for Thanksgiving Day meals.

9. March in Destin

Average High = 70 degrees Average Low = 46 degrees Average Gulf Water Temperature = 66 degrees Average Rainfall = 5.8 inches 

March will see the bulk of our spring break crowds in Destin and surrounding areas. It can be surprisingly cold in March and most people would consider the water too chilly for swimming.

March does have a really good vibe around town though as the locals and tourists get excited about the nice weather and the excursions starting back up. Even if we enjoy the quiet of off season, it’s still fun to see it all come alive again.

March will be the start of the popular Wednesday night concert series at Baytowne Wharf which will continue through the summer. Baytowne Wharf will also have some spring break events toward the end of the month including Hydroflight Mondays, Boomin’ Tuesdays and Magical Thursdays.

Harborwalk has spring break events as well including a sunset celebration, a pirate and mermaids event, and a silent disco.

Here is my most recent March information and events article if you want more details about March in Destin. This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: March in Destin: Weather, Events, Activities, and Crowds

10. December in Destin

Average High = 62 degrees Average Low = 40 degrees Average Gulf Water Temperature = 68 degrees Average Rainfall = 5.4 inches

December is the best time to visit Destin if you want a warmer climate for the holidays. The weather is unpredictable but it’s similar to March with a mixture of warm sunny days and some chilly nights at times.

Destin is really pretty magical in December with the Christmas events and lower overall crowds. Holiday festivities are combined with much nicer weather than most of the country is experiencing making it a great time to be in Florida.

There are chilly days in December but more often the temperatures are quite comfortable. There are moderate crowd levels in December with the highest levels at Christmas and New Years weeks when a lot of families visit for the school break.

There are lots of wonderful holiday events in December including weekly Christmas concerts and the 12 nights of Christmas at Baytowne Wharf where for several nights a week the holiday lights around the village are synchronized with Christmas music.

Harborwalk Village will also hold some fun holiday events including the Destin Lighted Boat Parade , weekly Santa visits, and Olde Holiday Market.

I love December in Destin because there are all these fun holiday events to enjoy and more. Here is my article outlining everything you need to know about the Christmas season in Destin: Christmas in Destin: Ultimate Guide to the Holiday Season

New Year’s Eve in Destin is celebrated with several festivities around town. A ball drop at Harborwalk Village, kids activities at Baytowne Wharf, and also plenty to do at the Okaloosa Island Boardwalk.

There are special extended fireworks shows for New Years Eve so they will be some of the best displays of the year that night outside of July 4th. I wrote more details about those here: New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Destin

The midnight show at Baytowne Wharf is one of the best fireworks shows I have seen around here. The bursts are synched to a soundtrack of popular songs from that year and the addition of extra launch spots really take it to the next level.

11. February in Destin

Average High = 64 degrees Average Low = 40 degrees Average Gulf Water Temperature = 64 degrees Average Rainfall = 5.7 inches

Mid-February will start to see some spring break crowds towards the end of the month which will liven things up around town after the quiet of slow season. Snowbirds usually stay in town until about March 1st when most accommodations go into their higher season pricing.

There’s not much else to say about February except it’s mostly pretty chilly and uneventful. It’s the last month of winter here so most people are ready to see spring arrive after it ends.

Events in February include the Mardi Gras parades and festivities all over town later in the month (although Mardi Gras sometimes falls in early March) and Baytowne Wharf will also have their popular Sandestin Gumbo and Bloody Mary Festival in mid-February.

Here is my most recent February information and events article if you want more details about February in Destin. This article will be updated to the current year as the month draws closer so you can bookmark it and keep refreshing periodically for updates: February in Destin: Weather, Events, Activities, and Crowds

12. January in Destin

Average High = 60 degrees Average Low = 37 degrees Average Gulf Water Temperature = 64 degrees Average Rainfall = 5.4 inches

January is typically the coldest month of the year in Destin. The activities and tourist offerings in January are at an all-time low making this the worst time of year if you are here for those things.

January is the best time to visit Destin if you enjoy peaceful walks on the beach and amazing sunsets over the water.

The empty beaches and low prices on accommodations are certainly the upside of January and often there are some really beautiful warm days mixed with the chilly ones.

The sunsets and sunrises over the gulf are at their best this month with the sun reaching the furthest spot it will get to over the water. I wrote more about that here: Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Destin

I hope this post helps you find the perfect time to visit Destin! What is your favorite month in Destin?

Be sure to comment below if you have any questions or feedback. I love hearing from you and prefer to answer questions on here so my answers can help others as well. Don’t forget to subscribe to my email list so you don’t miss any posts!

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22 comments

Good article Sarah!

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!

You do an excellent job of portraying Destin as it is, however having lived here for 9 years these are my two greatest concerns:

Littering and a serious lack of enforcement of Speed limits by Sheriff Deputies. Why?

Thanks! I’m not current on those two issues so I can’t comment on that!

Aw, this was an extremely nice post. Spending some time and actual effort to generate a superb article… but what can I say… I procrastinate a lot and never seem to get nearly anything done.

Thank you! I spend a lot of time on these post and glad you enjoyed it. I procrastinate awhile before they get going though–it’s hard not to !

Hello Sarah, I enjoyed your article on Destin. My wife and I would love to relocate our business (craft distillery) to Destin. Do you feel it would be a good place to relocate a business? I would totally love to hear your advice. Thank you, Joe

Hi Joseph, I am honestly not really sure because it’s a business I don’t know much about. I tend to think any business can do well here if you are passionate about offering a great product and creating a loyal following. That being said, there is no doubt Destin is a tourist destination so anything that would appeal to tourists is an easier road then something for locals. Of course, there are businesses who have a local customer base but I think that takes a bit longer here with the majority of people in Destin being tourists. I wish I could be more helpful but I am not totally sure on that one because I’m simply unfamiliar with that particular market. Good luck to you guys and I wish you much success!

We are from Hattiesburg Ms and we love Destin. We come so much the locals call us locals. Lol. We are here now and never come in September the water doesn’t seem near as clear as the prior summer months. Very disappointed. We were just here the end of August and it was unbelievably beautiful. Been to Hawaii and by far Destin has it all! The white sands and the clearest water we have ever seen!!! Destin is definitely the place to be year round!!

Unfortunately the water color is the hardest thing to predict about Destin. This year it was perfect all of July and most of August but we’ve had more storms in September that have churned things up. It’s also chillier this year then it normally would be in September. I hope you still enjoyed your trip!

Hello , I just planned a family trip to Destin for October 24th. Is the water to cold for 6-8 year olds to swim in ?

It’s starting to get a little chilly around that time but if it’s a warm sunny day they should still find it enjoyable!

Hi my husband and I have rented a house from Dec-Feb curious as to how COVID-19 has affected the area, are the mask requirements in force in the area?

Our area is currently open and operating as usual with restaurants and retail at 100% and no restrictions on events. Some stores ask that you wear masks and most people comply. Other than stores, I do not see a lot of people wearing masks. We don’t seem to have a major covid issue here like other places do as of now. Hospitals are not full or overwhelmed or anything like that. It may change when the cold weather comes though. Hard to say. I hope you enjoy your trip 🙂

Absolutely amazing article. Very informative. Just out of curiosity. We came in July and were unable to get in the water for 3 days due to “red flags” high waves day’s. Is there a month where there are less red flag days and the water is more calm?

Thanks for any feedback!

Unfortunately there is no way to predict but fall definitely has more red flag days due to the tropical storm and hurricane activity in the gulf

Wow! This article is exactly what I was looking for and includes so much valuable information! I have only ever been during July woth my grandparents and now I’d like togo every month! Destin and the area really is a unique and beautiful place! Thankyou for all your hard work in compiling this fantastic article! 🥰

Thank you for the comment, I’m so glad you found it helpful!

Great article, I lived there in 2017 and I love coming back to visit. I haven’t been to every beach in the world, but I’m betting it would be difficult to find a more beautiful beach than the one in Destin.

The beach in Destin is amazing yes! I’m glad you enjoy it!

Great article Sarah 😊 My husband and I always visit the first two weeks of September. We LOVE it. Less crowded, shorter waits for restaurants, such a difference compared to vacationing in the summer months. I look SOOO forward to vacation that I have a countdown beginning in May. 🌴

I’ve love September too. Such a beautiful time to visit. I just finished my September article if you need it! https://thegoodlifedestin.com/september-in-destin/

Hi, I'm Sarah and this is my website and blog about Destin and the Emerald Coast. Subscribe by email to receive occasional updates from me about things happening in Destin and new articles I write. You can always reply and ask me questions and I personally answer every message. I will never spam you or use your email for any other reason. You can unsubscribe at any time. Thank you for joining! 

BOOK YOUR STAY ON 30A!

When To Visit 30A: A Month-by-Month Guide

Anytime is a great time to visit the beautiful, pristine beaches and unique seaside communities of Scenic 30A, but certain months have their own set of benefits and reasons to plan your stay.

Check out our handy month-by-month guide to the pros and cons of each time of year on 30A:

PHOTO: TIM KRAMER PHOTOGRAPHY

In January, you have the beach pretty much to yourself. With long stretches of white, undisturbed sand as far as the eye can see, it’s a perfect time for reflection on the beautiful, natural wonders of the Gulf Coast.

Because of fewer crowds, there are no long waits anywhere.

–The 30A Songwriters Festival ! This incredible three-day event over Martin Luther King Jr. weekend draws world-class performers from across the country to intimate venues all along Scenic Highway 30A. It’s a unique concert-going experience and shouldn’t be missed.

–Rental rates are low and many places offer deep discounts this time of year.

–The weather can be hard to count on. Temperatures can vary from the blissful 70s down to bitter cold.

–Some restaurants, but not many, close up for the winter season. Others keep shorter or unpredictable hours.

PHOTO: Shelly Swanger

You have the beach pretty much to yourself, still, for brisk, secluded walks in the sand.

–Rental rates are are still low, and it’s easy to find deals.

–30A is a romantic spot for a Valentine’s Day getaway, with perfect cuddling weather and plenty of restaurants offering special dinners just for two.

–The popular Sandestin Gumbo Festival is held on Presidents’ Day weekend.

–While it’s perfect for cuddling, February is usually the coldest month on 30A. Swimming is pretty much out of the question during this month, unless you have a wet suit.

–Some businesses keep irregular hours in the off-season, and a few even close for the month.

Scenic Highway 30A roars back to life with the beginning of the Spring Break season.

While nearby Destin and Panama City Beach tend to draw crazier college crowds, South Walton is a decidedly family affair. The area hosts an abundance of activities this month, many of them free.

–The month kicks off with the Seaside Half Marathon and 5K , which draws thousands of runners from across the country. Even if you’re not athletically inclined, the weekend includes plenty of special events, and cheering the racers across the finish line is always fun.

–The 30A Wine Festival , an intimate affair held at beautiful Alys Beach, is a perfect event to plan a weekend around.

Spring Break is fun, but it also brings big crowds. So, expect more traffic and longer waits at some of your favorite restaurants.

Consistent warm weather is finally here!

In early April, some Spring Breakers are still in town, but the end of the month is an ideal time to visit.

The Sandestin Wine Festival  is a great excuse for a weekend getaway.

Ummm…. frankly, we were hard pressed to come up with one. If you can get away, April really is one of the most perfect times of year to visit 30A.

May is the calm before the summer storm. School hasn’t let out yet so the area is not crowded, and the weather is truly fantastic this month.

— Digital Graffiti is an amazing experience to plan a summer getaway around. There is nothing else like it in the world. Alys Beach comes alive at night with dozens of digital artists projecting original pieces on the unique architecture of this Gulf-side town.

–ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival is held this month at Grand Boulevard . This two-and-a-half day free festival features more than 130 hand-selected artists, live music, public art demonstrations and tons of activities for adults and families.

–At the end of the month, Memorial Day officially kicks off the summer season with barbecues, beach parties and tons of free events all along 30A.

The weather is beautiful this month, but sometimes those pesky yellow flies show up this time of year.

Summer is officially here. This is what the beach is all about. Sunshine and sand. Cool, clear water. The good stuff.

30A is at its high season. With school out, the area has tons of free, family-friendly events every day of the week, all summer long.

The Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic at Sandestin draws teams from around the globe for a mad dash into the Gulf of Mexico for a few days of serious sport fishing. If you’re not a fisherman, line up at the Baytowne marina to ooh and ahh as the fleet returns, one-by-one, with their impressive trophies.

Sometimes the infamous “June Grass” shows up this time of year. While some find this green algae unpleasant — it can show up in the most remote parts of one’s swimsuit — this organism is an important part of our beach ecosystem and keeps the water and wildlife healthy and happy.

The Fourth of July is one of the biggest — if not the biggest — day of the year on 30A. Seaside and Grayton Beach come alive with festive parades and fireworks shows and the beach is one big party all day long.

The peak season along 30A continues throughout July with free, fun, family-friendly events every day and night of the week.

–July is the busiest month of the summer, which means rental rates are highest this time of year, certain areas are crowded and traffic is often congested. Park your car and walk or ride a bike. It’s not only fun, but it’s also a whole lot easier to get around.

–July is a hot one. And humid. It can be tough for people who are particularly sensitive to the heat. Sunscreen is always a must.

With school starting back, the crowds begin to thin and the beach calms down. A visit this time of year is a perfect end cap to the summer.

–The Sandestin Triathlon is held in August. Hundreds of athletes compete from across the country, and it’s fun to cheer them along the route.

–The Gulf of Mexico is like bathwater. Hop in and stay in — all day long.

–The Gulf of Mexico is like bathwater. You’re not likely to find a cool respite here.

–August is the hottest month of the year, and it’s humid to boot.

PHOTO: BRANDAN BABINEAUX

September is a fantastic month to visit 30A. Labor Day marks the end of the high season, the crowds have gone home.

–Rental rates start to drop this month.

–The weather is still warm.

–The weather can still be hot.

–Often this time of year, the black flies come down from the north and can be a pesky, though not unmanageable, nuisance on the beach. Many locals swear that cactus juice keeps these pests at bay.

–Red tide and hurricane season begins to peak in September, so there’s an off-chance that your vacation plans will be disrupted by red tide respiratory issues or threat of weather. But, with that comes another PRO: hurricane parties! That includes the Children’s Volunteer Health Network ‘s party, which has become one of the best on 30A and the non-profit’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

Locally, October is considered the best month here on 30A. The crowds are gone, the weather is amazing and the Gulf is still warm enough from the summer heat for swimming.

October sunsets over the Gulf are truly a 30A treasure, offering spectacular vistas almost every evening.

–The 30A Half Marathon & 5K weekend begins with a Barbecue Festival!

–The Noche de los Muertos party at Caliza Pool at Alys Beach is one of the best adult costume parties in the region. Attendees go all out with their costumes and the dancing goes on until the wee hours.

Red tide can still be bad during parts of October. Hurricane season wraps up this month, but there’s not really a bad thing to say about October on 30A. It’s often regarded as the “locals secret.”

The beloved MountainFilm Festival at WaterColor Inn and Resort at the beginning of the month generally signals the start of cooler, jacket weather and is a great excuse for a weekend getaway.

Dozens of South Walton restaurants offer special and delicious holiday dinners for those visiting at Thanksgiving .

–Speaking of restaurants, this is the time of year many of them roll out special fall and winter seasonal menus, giving local chefs a chance to flex their culinary muscle and experiment with unique farm-to-table offerings.

–Black Friday at Silver Sands Premium Outlets! The outdoor mall stays open for more than 24 hours with retailers offering special deals starting Thanksgiving Day and through the night.

–Black Friday at Silver Sands Premium Outlets. While the sales are amazing, with it comes a boatload of traffic congestion.

–Gulf temps drop dramatically this month and water activities decline a bit. Swimming tends to drop off, though plenty of people still head out for stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and surfing.

South Walton comes alive in the holiday season with beautiful decorations and thousands of lights. It’s easy to get in the holiday spirit here, and it’s a magical place to spend Christmas with loved ones.

–Tons of events are planned for New Year’s Eve on 30A , including spectacular fireworks shows, outdoor concerts, fancy dinners and all-night parties.

–At the beginning of the month, you have the beach all to yourself.

–The weather can still be quite warm in December, while the rest of the country is well into a deep freeze.

–It’s usually too cold to swim or to enjoy some traditional water activities.

–Christmas can get busy along 30A with some traffic congestion and waits at your favorite restaurants. But those waits are always worth it!

So, there you have it… Now, what are you waiting for? Get busy planning your next trip to the beach!

Did we miss your favorite pro or con  let us know at [email protected] ..

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30 fun things to do in florida (beyond the theme parks).

There's much to discover other than amusement parks in the Sunshine State.

Top Things to Do in Florida

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When planning a Florida vacation, Walt Disney World and beautiful beaches may be the first things that come to mind. But there's so much more to see and do in the Sunshine State. You'll find beautiful natural wonders with crystal-clear waters fed by springs, culturally rich cities, historical attractions reminiscent of Old Florida, exciting festivals and events, impressive museums, and more.

If you're looking for new places to visit and fun things to do for adults – or the entire family – check out these top things to do across the state for your next Florida vacation.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Merritt Island

Courtesy of Kennedy Space Center

The Kennedy Space Center features five Mission Zones across 144,000 acres with attractions, interactive exhibits and 3D simulators related to space exploration and the history of humanity's journey into space. One of the best ways to explore this expansive complex is with an 11-hour small-group VIP experience. Guided by a space expert, you'll be treated to a behind-the-scenes tour by bus highlighting the iconic attractions, transportation to and from your hotel, and other perks.

Travelers rave about their visit to the Kennedy Space Center , saying you don't have to be a space enthusiast to enjoy the visit. For the thrill of a lifetime, plan your trip around one of the scheduled launches to see space exploration come to life before your eyes.

Address: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953

Visit the sponge docks at Tarpon Springs

Known as the "Sponge Capital of the World," Tarpon Springs has a rich Greek heritage and a unique history. The saltwater fishing village is best known for its natural sea sponges, which were harvested by divers from the Gulf of Mexico beginning in the late 1880s. More than 500 Greek divers with 50 boats worked in the industry by 1905.

While in town, visit the original sponge docks along the Anclote River and grab a traditional Greek lunch at one of the restaurants on the docks, such as Mykonos. For dessert, Hellas Bakery & Restaurant offers a tempting selection of Greek pastries like baklava, kataifi and kourabiedes. Don't forget to take home a local sponge as a souvenir from your visit, as the industry still exists today in Tarpon Springs.

Address: 735 Dodecanese Blvd., Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

Hop on a glass-bottom boat in Silver Springs State Park

The historic glass-bottom boat tours on the Silver River in central Florida have attracted travelers since the 1870s. Visitors come to see the crystal-clear waters fed by springs and local marine life, as well as Spanish and Native American artifacts. You'll even catch a glimpse of old Hollywood underwater movie props at the park. There are two tour options that are offered throughout the day, year-round: a 30-minute boat ride or a 90-minute extended excursion.

Recent tourgoers enjoyed the boat ride and Silver Springs State Park, calling it a great choice for a local Florida experience. They also mention that the tours sell out, so it's advisable to purchase tickets in advance. Viator offers glass-bottom kayak tours at Silver Springs for the more adventurous explorer.

Wynwood Walls Museum: Miami

Patrick Farrell | Courtesy of Visit Florida

Wynwood Walls is an acclaimed street art museum and urban revitalization project located in the Wynwood neighborhood of Miami . The installation opened in 2009 and is continually evolving, with 35,000 square feet of walls and more than 100 featured artists from 21 countries. Explore the open-air museum's murals, street art galleries, sculptures and retail shops on your own with a general admission ticket. You can also opt for a small-group guided golf cart tour that's highly rated on Viator.

Visitors enjoy the art displays and are impressed by the quality of the exhibits, with some saying they make return trips every time they're in Miami. After spending time at the Wynwood Walls and nearby Museum of Graffiti – two of the top museums in Miami – check out some of the local eateries, bars, boutiques and events in the neighborhood.

Address: 2516 NW Second Ave., Miami, FL 33127

Explore Winter Park

Situated a few miles north of Orlando, Winter Park feels worlds away from the bustling city. Take a walk along the tree-lined Park Avenue district with its popular restaurants and boutiques. You'll also find two impressive museums in town: the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art and the Rollins Museum of Art.

There are abundant parks and green spaces for outdoor adventure – and be sure not to miss the Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour. The hourlong narrated excursion traverses three lakes in Winter Park's chain of lakes, offering opportunities to see local wildlife – including alligators basking in the sunshine – plus views of the impressive estates built along the shoreline.

The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art: Sarasota

Courtesy of The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art

The Ringling museum complex in Sarasota showcases the legacy of circus owner and art collector John Ringling and his wife, Mable. The Ringling was named the official State Art Museum of Florida in 1980 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982. Plan an entire day to see the extensive collection of art at the museum and to visit Ca' d'Zan , the Mediterranean Revival mansion that was the winter residence of the Ringlings.

Children of all ages will delight in the interactive exhibits at the Circus Museum – and don't miss The Greatest Show on Earth Gallery. The new exhibit explores the history of the museum and circus through multisensory experiences, costumes, artifacts and media coverage. You can also stroll the beautiful Bayfront Gardens and visit the Historic Asolo Theater, the Education Center, the Kotler-Coville Glass Pavilion and more. Travelers call The Ringling a must-see when visiting Sarasota ; they praise the museum, artwork, grounds and overall experience.

Address: 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34243

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Tampa

Courtesy of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

If you're a thrill-seeker looking for heart-pumping rides and nonstop entertainment outside of Orlando, then plan a trip to Busch Gardens . Roller coaster fans will have plenty of exciting twists, drops and high-speed turns at the park, especially on the new Serengeti Flyer. The 135-foot-tall coaster is billed as the tallest and fastest ride of its kind in the world, reaching speeds of up to 68 mph and boasting multiple negative-G moments during the hair-raising ride.

For the less adventurous, head to the 65-acre Serengeti Plain for an open-air off-road tour. The 30-minute excursion offers up-close safari encounters with African wildlife , including zebras, giraffes, rhinos and antelopes. There are also plenty of activities at this Tampa attraction to keep children busy with rides, tours and activities designed for younger kids. Recent travelers like the theme park concept with the safari tours and comment that the grounds are well maintained.

Address: 10165 McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612

Hit the beach at Siesta Key

The 8-mile-long barrier island of Siesta Key is famous for its powdery white sand beaches and sparkling turquoise waters along the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors to the beach call it one of the prettiest beaches in the U.S., saying they also enjoy the incredibly soft quartz sand that doesn't get too hot – even in the Florida sun. While on the island, take a ride on the complimentary Siesta Key Breeze Trolley for an overview of the area. Then, head over to Ocean Boulevard in Siesta Key Village to check out the local shopping, dining and entertainment scene.

Meet a manatee in Crystal River Preserve State Park

Located in what's known as the "Manatee Capital of the World," Crystal River sits on Kings Bay. The bay's crystal-clear waters, the second largest springs group in Florida, are a first-magnitude spring system fed by more than 70 springs. If you visit in the winter, you can see as many as 500 to 1,000 manatees enjoying the spring-fed waters (averaging 72 to 74 degrees Fahrenheit year-round), whereas about 100 manatees reside there in the summer.

For a one-of-a-kind experience, book a manatee tour with Crystal River Watersports to swim and snorkel with one of these gentle giants. They also offer half-day excursions where you'll swim with the manatees and then take a course to transform into a mermaid. But if you don't want to get wet, opt for a two-hour, clear bottom kayak ecotour to view the gentle giants from above.

Address: 3266 N. Sailboat Ave., Crystal River, FL 34428

Ichetucknee Springs State Park: Fort White

Situated about 80 miles southwest of Jacksonville in Fort White, this nearly 2,700-acre state park is a haven for wildlife, including beavers, softshell turtles, wood ducks, limpkins and other species. You'll also find eight major springs that form the 6-mile-long Ichetucknee River, including one that's designated a National Natural Landmark. Travelers rave about the natural beauty and their experiences at the park. Aside from walks along the three nature trails and geo-seeking, activities here include canoeing, kayaking, scuba diving, swimming or tubing on the pristine river. The state park is also part of the Great Florida Birding Trail.

Gatorland: Orlando

Alligators are one of Florida's most notorious residents, and this educational park is one of the top things to do in Orlando with kids . Whether you're fascinated by or terrified of these predators, you can see more than 2,000 American alligators of all ages and sizes – at a distance – at "The Alligator Capital of the World," Gatorland. The park even has rare leucistic white alligators.

There are plenty of other thrilling things to do at the 110-acre wildlife preserve and theme park, including the 1,200-foot-high Screamin' Gator Zip Line and the Stompin' Gator Off-Road Adventure in the swamp on a monster vehicle. If you dare, reserve a spot for the behind-the-scenes tour during Adventure Hour, where you'll be up close and personal with (and even able to feed) hundreds of hungry alligators. Reviewers say they enjoyed the shows, activities and seeing all the gators, and some even wished they had planned to spend more time at the preserve and park.

Address: 14501 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32837

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument: St. Augustine

Castillo de San Marcos was built by Spanish colonists in the late 1600s to defend their settlement of Florida and the Atlantic trade route. The well-preserved structure is the oldest masonry fortification in the continental U.S., and it was designated as a national monument in 1924 by President Calvin Coolidge. You'll find park rangers and volunteers in period dress stationed throughout Castillo de San Marcos to answer questions while you explore on your own. They'll also elaborate on the experiences of colonists who lived at the fort hundreds of years ago. Musket and cannon demonstrations take place at scheduled times on most weekends.

Be sure to download the official Castillo park app for a self-guided tour and other information to help you make the most of your visit. Recent travelers find the fort to be well preserved and say they enjoy the exhibits, presentations and beautiful views of Matanzas Bay.

Address: 11 S. Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084

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Vizcaya Museum & Gardens: Miami

Robin Hill | Courtesy of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

This 45,225-square-foot Mediterranean-style mansion – situated on Biscayne Bay in the Coconut Grove area of Miami – is home to an impressive collection of artwork, sculptures and priceless antiques. Retired millionaire and bachelor James Deering began building the property in 1914 but died in 1925. His family members looked after the home and property and worked to make it accessible to the public; Vizcaya opened as a museum in 1953.

Today, visitors can tour 34 decorated rooms (out of 54 rooms total) of the Main House, covering approximately 38,000 square feet. You can also stroll through the European-inspired gardens that are regarded as some of the most elaborately designed gardens in the U.S. Travelers say the home and gardens are stunning and advise visitors to plan to stay at least a few hours at the property. You can do a guided tour for a small fee or download the complimentary audio tour on their app, which is included with admission and covers a lot of interesting information about the estate and the family.

Address: 3251 S. Miami Ave., Miami, FL 33129

Visit South Walton's unique neighborhoods

South Walton's 26 miles of white sand beaches and 16 neighborhoods are nestled along the Gulf of Mexico in the Florida Panhandle. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area is also home to four state parks, 200 miles of hiking and biking trails, and an astounding 15 coastal dune lakes – a rare geographical feature only found in a few places in the world. Divers will want to explore Morrison Springs, one of the most popular diving spots in the region. These natural springs produce about 48 million gallons of cool water every day from cavities located 300 feet below the surface.

South Walton Beaches also hosts several annual events, including wine, food and fine arts festivals in the spring. While there, be sure to check out Santa Rosa Beach and one of the oldest South Walton neighborhoods, Grayton Beach. Spend an afternoon strolling the colorful streets of the Seaside neighborhood, where you can peruse the boutiques, art galleries and a local bookstore. At the end of the day, you can catch the sunset over the Gulf from the rooftop deck at the beachfront restaurant Bud & Alley's.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. and is considered an international treasure. The park has the distinction of being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve and a Wetland of International Importance – and it's protected under the Cartagena Treaty. The National Park Service recommends visiting in the dry season, between November and April. The winter months in Everglades National Park also afford optimal opportunities to see wildlife, including endangered and rare species like Florida panthers, manatees and American crocodiles.

For the best experience, take a tour of the Everglades . Options include ranger-guided tours, airboat excursions, narrated tram or boat tours by one of the approved operators, and guided tours by kayak or canoe. There are also tours for anglers and photographers, as well as ecotours.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium: Clearwater

Courtesy of Clearwater Marine Aquarium

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a unique nonprofit marine rescue center and one of the top aquariums in the U.S. The facility engages in research, education, rehabilitation and release programs. Two beloved dolphins at Clearwater even garnered the attention of filmmakers: "Dolphin Tale" and "Dolphin Tale 2" share the emotional stories of Winter and Hope.

Other than dolphins, visitors to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium will find rescued sea turtles, stingrays, river otters, nurse sharks, octopuses and other marine life here. You'll learn more about ongoing rescue and rehabilitation efforts and even meet some of the rescued animals through the aquarium's animal care experiences. Reviewers say the facility is beautiful, offers a unique experience, and has a dedicated and knowledgeable staff. To see the local marine life in their natural habitat, book one of the aquarium's guided eco-boat tours on Clearwater Bay.

Address: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767

Daytona International Speedway: Daytona Beach

A trip to Daytona International Speedway is a must-do for NASCAR enthusiasts when visiting Florida. This speedway in Daytona Beach offers an hourlong speedway tour and a 2.5-hour VIP tour. The VIP experience is available once a day on most weekdays and includes an exclusive visit to the NASCAR Archives & Research Center and the Press Box. You can also plan to attend one of the races at Daytona International Speedway , including the best-known event: the Daytona 500. Visitors say it's an incredible experience to go out on the track, and many rave about the quality of the tours and the museum.

Address: 1801 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach, FL 32114

McKee Botanical Garden: Vero Beach

The history of this property dates back to 1922, when two land developers purchased an 80-acre tract to grow citrus. However, after some consideration, they decided not to disturb the land's natural beauty and instead hired a landscape architect from the celebrated firm of Frederick Law Olmsted to design the gardens. By the 1940s, more than 100,000 tourists were visiting McKee Jungle Gardens each year to see the impressive collection of water lilies, orchids, and other ornamental and exotic plants from around the world.

Today, guests can wander through the now 18-acre jungle in Vero Beach that's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The gardens are also regarded as a preservation project of national significance by the Garden Conservancy. If you have kids in tow on your visit, don't miss the Children's Garden at the property. Travelers enjoy the serenity of the gardens and comment that it's a beautiful place for photography.

Address: 350 U.S. Route 1, Vero Beach, FL 32962

World Equestrian Center: Ocala

Courtesy of MAVEN photo + film for the World Equestrian Center

The World Equestrian Center is the largest equestrian complex in the U.S., with state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor facilities that host many equestrian events and other recreational activities throughout the year. Dog lovers can attend canine events and trials here, such as the national specialty or rally and agility dog shows. You'll also find live music at the Yellow Pony Pub & Garden, Stirrups Wine Series evenings and Kentucky Derby hat parties on the calendar.

If you're looking for a wedding venue, you can get married in the on-site chapel and then have the reception in a beautiful setting under the majestic oak trees in the garden. For an extended visit to experience all this impressive facility has to offer, plan to stay a few days at The Equestrian Hotel, a luxury resort on the grounds. If you're traveling with your best furry friend, reserve a room at the newest upscale (and pet-friendly) property at the equestrian center: The Riding Academy Hotel.

Address: 1750 NW 80th Ave., Ocala, FL 34482

Gulf Islands National Seashore

Situated along the sparkling emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Gulf Islands National Seashore includes coastal regions in both Florida and Mississippi. There are six areas in Florida to explore: Fort Barrancas, Fort Pickens, Naval Live Oaks, Okaloosa, Perdido Key and Santa Rosa. History buffs will appreciate the fortifications, exhibits and visitor centers at the two fort areas.

At Naval Live Oaks Area, you can hike 7-plus miles of trails and then have a picnic along the bay. Beach lovers will enjoy spending the day at Perdido Key Area , considered one of the most beautiful beach destinations in the U.S. You can even go backcountry camping by boat at Perdido Key. After the sun goes down, be sure to look up at the sky, as this national seashore is an excellent place for stargazing.

The Hemingway Home and Museum: Key West

Rob-O'Neal | Courtesy of Hemingway Home and Museum

The legendary author Ernest M. Hemingway first visited Key West in April 1928. During this trip to the Florida Keys, he finished his novel "A Farewell to Arms." He and his second wife, Pauline, fell in love with the island, and after two seasons Pauline's uncle bought a home for them on Whitehead Street. The Spanish Colonial home, built in 1851, was in disrepair when it was purchased and went through a significant restoration project in the 1930s.

Today, Hemingway's home is a National Historic Landmark. Many of Hemingway's personal artifacts remain in the house. According to tourgoers, you can even see quite a few six-toed cats wandering the property, just like the six-toed tomcat that belonged to Hemingway. Guided 20- to 30-minute tours are available daily.

Address: 907 Whitehead St., Key West, FL 33040

South Beach: Miami Beach

South Beach is one of three neighborhoods located on the 9-mile-long barrier island of Miami Beach . The area runs from South Pointe Park up to 23rd Street along the Atlantic Ocean and is best known for its colorful art deco buildings lining famed Ocean Drive. You won't want to miss Lincoln Road, a popular mile-long pedestrian area with boutiques, restaurants and street performers.

South Beach is also home to The Wolfsonian: This museum houses one of the most extensive American university art collections of decorative arts, design and propaganda pieces from 1850 to 1950. Before leaving town, head to Lummus Park, a beachfront park where you'll have some of the best people-watching in South Beach.

Great Wolf Lodge South Florida: Naples

Courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge

This Southern Florida resort town, situated on the Gulf of Mexico, is now home to the newest Great Wolf Lodge, set to open in September 2024. This location will become the 21st resort for the brand in North America. The expansive property in Naples features 500 family-friendly suite accommodations and 100,000 square feet of indoor water fun where kids of all ages can play come rain or shine. The property's themed suites are fun for kids, offering cabin or cave themes with bunk beds. For larger and multigenerational families, there are also themed premium suites that sleep up to 14 people.

After spending the day zipping down waterslides, catching the waves at Slap Tail Pond or floating down the Crooked Creek lazy river, check out the on-site dining options at this indoor water park resort . Families can choose between outdoor-themed meals at Fireside, pizza and pasta at Hungry as a Wolf, or casual family-style dining at Timbers Table & Kitchen. There's also adult-focused fun, too, with signature cocktails and craft beer at The Outpost.

Address: 3900 City Gate Blvd. N., Naples, FL 34117

Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park

Located approximately 15 miles south of Tallahassee , Wakulla Springs takes guests back to Old Florida and affords opportunities to see deer, alligators, manatees and turtles in the wild. The 6,000-acre wildlife sanctuary has thousands of years of history; it boasts one of the world's deepest and largest freshwater springs as well as an ancient cypress swamp. This setting was the perfect backdrop for filming "Tarzan's Secret Treasure" (1941) and "Creature From the Black Lagoon" (1954).

Take the 45- to 55-minute ranger-led glass-bottom boat tour on the Wakulla River for incredible wildlife-viewing opportunities. The spring-fed water is remarkably clear, which helped a mastodon skeleton be discovered within its depths. The ancient fossil is now on display at the Museum of Florida History in Tallahassee.

Address: 465 Wakulla Park Drive, Wakulla Springs, FL 32327

Palace Saloon: Amelia Island

Dawna Moore | Courtesy of AmeliaIsland.com

Grab a seat and tip back a cold one at the oldest continuously operating bar in the state: the Palace Saloon. Located on Centre Street in downtown Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island , the historic building was originally designed as a haberdashery in 1878. When it was purchased in 1903, the new owner enlisted the assistance of his friend – the founder of Anheuser-Busch, Adolphus Bush – to create an upscale "gentleman's establishment." The bar was so exclusive that it even attracted the wealthy Carnegie and Rockefeller families who vacationed on Georgia's nearby Cumberland Island during that time.

Local lore claims the Palace Saloon was the last bar to close in Florida during Prohibition; it survived by selling special wines, ice cream, Texaco gasoline, 3% near-beer and cigars. Today, the interior retains much of its original charm, although the clientele has changed. When in town, stop by the saloon's new outdoor space, The Shipyard, and order a famous Pirates Punch.

Address: 117 Centre St., Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

The Dalí Museum: St. Petersburg

Courtesy of 2023 – Salvador Dalí Museum, Inc., St. Petersburg, FL

The Dalí Museum highlights the life and work of the innovative artist Salvador Dalí. The design of the building, by architect Yann Weymouth of HOK, is the perfect introduction to the eccentric pieces of art inside. Hurricane-proof glass sections that are 18 inches thick create a 75-foot-tall geodesic bubble known as the Enigma in the center of the building, resembling the one at Dalí’s museum in Spain.

Visitors can view the permanent collections at The Dalí , which include prints, paintings, objects, photographs and works on paper. You'll also find rotating exhibits from other artists, special events and classes. Reviewers comment that the exterior is as much a work of art as the collections inside and call the experience informative. After your visit, have dinner and watch the sunset at one of the restaurants on nearby St. Pete Pier.

Address: 1 Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg, FL 33701

John Pennecamp Coral Reef State Park: Key Largo

John Pennecamp Coral Reef State Park encompasses 70 nautical square miles, and it was the first undersea park in the U.S. You can take a glass-bottom boat tour to view the coral reefs and marine life from above, though scuba divers and snorkelers may want a closer look at the underwater habitats that are part of the Florida Keys ecosystem. In addition to colorful sponges and different species of fish, you may also see crabs, lobsters, dolphins, sea turtles and manatees.

If you want to visit the famous 9-foot-tall bronze statue known as Christ of the Abyss located off the coast, you'll need to take a dive or snorkel tour with a company like Silent World Dive Center in Key Largo . If seeing the statue is not on your underwater bucket list, book a 3.5-hour snorkeling tour on Viator that includes two different reefs in the Florida Keys, such as Grecian Rocks or John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park . Plan to camp overnight in the park for an extended stay to enjoy more water-based activities like kayaking and canoeing.

Go scalloping in Pasco County

There are several places to snorkel or dive for scallops in the Sunshine State, including on Florida's Sports Coast in Pasco County, situated along the Gulf of Mexico. The bay scallops found in these shallow waters are smaller than sea scallops. Their shells have 20 pairs of bright blue eyes that alert them to light and the presence of predators, including scallop hunters. You may even see them "swim" backward to escape by quickly opening and closing their shells.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee has recently approved an extension of scalloping season in the county, which will now run from July 10 through Aug. 18. For the best scalloping experience, book a trip with a local guide or charter company that will know the top places to harvest the bivalve mollusks.

If you're going to explore more of the area during your visit, reserve a room at The Hacienda in New Port Richey for a step back into Old Florida. The historic property opened in 1927 as one of Florida's famed pink hotels, attracting celebrities and dignitaries in the town that was known back then as "Hollywood East."

Come for Gasparilla Season in Tampa Bay

Courtesy of Visit Tampa Bay

This two-month event features a massive pirate festival, named for the (likely fictitious) pirate José Gaspar of local legend. The Gasparilla Pirate Fest has been thrilling attendees since its inception in 1904. The swashbuckling fun and plundering kicks off at the end of January with what's billed as the third-largest parade in the country. The 4.5-mile route features hundreds of elaborate floats with treasures to pillage, all led by the captain of Ye Mystic Krewe and his pirates.

Gasparilla Season also features an outdoor music festival, a children's parade followed by a fireworks display, a film fest, an arts fest and much more. Even college football teams and their fans get in on the fun during the Gasparilla Bowl in December. If you're ready for a yo-ho-ho good time, bring your hearties and scallywags to Tampa Bay during Gasparilla Season.

Lion Country Safari: Loxahatchee

Courtesy of Lion Country Safari

Lion Country Safari is a 320-acre family-friendly attraction in a rural part of Palm Beach County less than 20 miles from West Palm Beach . The drive-thru concept opened in 1967 as one of the first cageless zoos in the U.S., with free-roaming lions and other animals offering a big game experience close to home. The year-round tropical climate in Florida is ideal for the large herds of animals originating from six continents, including lions, giraffes, wildebeests, zebras, rhinos and chimpanzees. The safari is also involved in conservation efforts and breeding programs for threatened species.

You'll find seven main habitats across 4 miles of Lion Country Safari . There's also a 55-acre adventure park with rides, a petting zoo, animal encounters, a water park, paddleboats and other attractions. You can even take an escorted VIP tour with an expert guide that includes two up-close experiences with some of the animals. Travelers say they enjoy getting close to the animals and that it's a great way to spend a day. Take your safari adventure up a notch by spending the night listening to the sounds of wildlife with an overnight stay at the on-site campground.

Address: 2003 Lion Country Safari Road, Loxahatchee, FL 33470

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is an avid traveler who lives in Florida. She has traveled throughout the state in search of the best vacation experiences, from romantic beach getaways to exciting outdoor adventures for families. She used extensive research and her personal experience to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Romantic Getaways in Florida
• The Best Places to Visit in Florida
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• The Top Things to Do in Georgia
• The Top Things to Do in South Carolina

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5 Reasons to Plan an October in Destin

If you’re looking for a place to take your October vacation, look no further than Destin, Florida! The weather is perfect in October – not too hot and not too cold. And the water temperature is still nice and warm so that you can enjoy all kinds of water activities. Plus, there are lots of fun events happening in October in Destin. The Destin Seafood Festival is always a blast, and plenty of other events keep you busy during your stay.

Excited to visit Destin, but not sure where the best restaurants, shopping centers, and beaches are located. Read our vacation guide for all the great picks we have planned for your next visit!

Request Your Own Vacation Guide

The weather in October is Perfect

October is the perfect time to enjoy all Destin offers without summer’s oppressive heat and humidity. The average high temperature in October is a comfortable 82 degrees, with lows dipping down into the 60s at night. And since Destin is located on the Gulf of Mexico, you can enjoy cool breezes coming off the water throughout the day.

Water Temperature is Great for Exploring

October is still a great time to enjoy all the water activities that Destin is known for. The average water temperature in October is 78 degrees, so you can still enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and more. And October is also a great time to enjoy some of the less crowded beaches in Destin.

The Destin Seafood Festival

One of the best things about October in Destin is the annual Destin Seafood Festival. This event celebrates everything that makes Destin such a great place for seafood lovers. You’ll find tons of delicious seafood to eat, as well as live music and entertainment. The festival takes place on October 7-9th this year, so be sure to mark your calendar!

Other Fun October Events

In addition to the Destin Seafood Festival, many other events are happening in October in Destin. The Harvest Wine & Food Festival is a must-see event for anyone who loves wine tastings, fine food, and live music. And if you’re looking for a fun Halloween event, be sure to check out the Destin Harbor Boardwalk’s Halloween on the Harbor celebration.

October is a Great Time to Save on a Vacation Rental

October is considered shoulder season in Destin, which means you can find great deals on hotels and vacation rentals. So if you’re looking to save money on your October vacation, Destin is the place to be!

Discover your dream fall getaway with Harmony Beach Vacations rentals! Our rentals are perfect year-round and can provide a great home base for you to experience Destin in June. Our selection  of homes and  condos  in Destin and 30A offer fantastic  locations  and  amenities  at rates that  won’t  burn a hole in your wallet.   

Start planning your Destin vacation today by  booking one of our properties ! We look forward to welcoming you to the Emerald Coast. Book our pet friendly vacation rentals on the Emerald Coast here!

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Most frequently asked questions about florida beaches, wondering which beaches are the best for you what the water temperatures will be like when you visit looking for the best places to snorkel in florida visit florida answers your most frequently asked florida beach questions here., by lauren tjaden, how do i choose the right beach for me.

Here’s a quick primer on Florida beaches to help you choose. Start by choosing your general location and the time of year you want to visit.

Our page, The Beaches of Florida , can also be helpful.

Gulf of Mexico beaches will tend to have white sand and calm waters that are great for young children or for those timid about the water.

Atlantic beaches tend to have golden brown sand and waves for surfing and other fun.

The Florida Keys offer superb scuba diving, snorkeling and fishing, but are not renowned for their beaches, with the exception of beautiful  Bahia Honda . Many of the Florida Keys ’ beaches are man-made, or are just a layer of sand over a sliver of limestone.

The north is almost always cooler than south, something to remember in both summer and winter. 

Next, you should figure out the general vibe you’re looking for. Do you want a big city like  Miami Beach ?

Do you want a charming little town with shopping and cafes? A beach where you see almost nobody else, like on  Cape San Blas ?

Someplace upscale? Someplace old-fashioned? Do you like miniature golf and T-shirt shops, or do you hate them? Florida features beaches on both coasts in all these varieties.

To further research any destination that you find interesting, find its name on the  VISIT FLORIDA cities page , and it will give you lots more information, as well as articles and videos, to help you decide which one is the best fit for you.

 Cocoa Beach is home to beautiful Lori Wilson Park.

- Lauren Tjaden

Fish or grab a grouper sandwich on the Daytona Beach Pier.

Which are the closest, best beaches near Orlando, Disney and other Central Florida attractions?

If you're traveling to Walt Disney World or  Orlando , you’re only about an hour from a sandy paradise of beaches. These  beaches close to Orlando  possess distinctly different personalities, so whatever your mood, you’re sure to find one that’s a perfect fit for you. 

Beaches are listed from north to south; the estimated driving times and distances are according to Mapquest.

Daytona Beach

The spirited city of Daytona Beach is famed for cars, racing, arts, culture and heritage. Tradition demands you roll down your car windows and cruise the hard-packed sands of its beach. But you can do it all in Daytona: enjoy watersports, motorcycle racing, kart racing, deep sea fishing and golfing, plus world class dining and shopping. Make sure to investigate its legendary Pier , and don’t forget to zoom over to Daytona International Speedway . If you want to spend a night or two at the beach, this destination is ideal since it offers an abundance of accommodations right on the Atlantic.  (58 minutes / 53.81 miles from Orlando)

Ponce Inlet

Ponce Inlet features a wide beach, thick with sand you can drive on, watersports that include parasailing, jet skiing, fishing and renting a speedboat, and even a handsome lighthouse—Florida’s tallest— that challenges you to climb it. If you have an aversion to high rises and crowds, but love adventure, nature and awe-inspiring beauty, this getaway has your flip-flops written all over it.  (1 hour 8 minutes / 61.60 miles from Orlando)

New Smyrna Beach

New Smyrna Beach is the very definition of a perfect day trip. This charming enclave is renowned for its surfing, but that’s just the tip of the sandbar. You can cruise its hard-packed sand in your car until you find the perfect spot for your beach towel. Enjoy an array of watersports or fabulous fishing, or just kick-back by the waves. Same some energy to discover its quirky shops and vibrant arts community. And don’t miss digging into a generous burger or fresh seafood at Breakers, an open-air restaurant located smack-dab on the beach.  (1 hour 3 minutes / 55.66 miles from Orlando)

Canaveral National Seashore , Apollo Beach, northern entrance

Picture impressive dunes giving way to vast sweeps of empty sand, the music of the surf and wind and nothing more, and you’ll have Canaveral National Seashore about right. This utterly tranquil escape boasts the longest expanse of pristine shore in Florida. Fish, swim, go hiking, or just unwind on the beach. Make sure to bring snacks, bottled water, sunscreen and insect repellent since you won’t find them in the Park.  (1 hour 15 minutes / 64.55 miles to north entrance from Orlando)

Cocoa Beach

For the quintessential Florida beach experience, escape to popular Cocoa Beach. Make sure to explore its 800 foot Pier , a historical landmark boasting five restaurants, four bars, gift shops, fishing, and free live musical entertainment.  Indulge in parasailing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, or learn to surf on its gentle waves. Save time to discover the  Ron Jon Surf Shop . It’s the world's largest surf shop, encompassing 52,000 square feet chock-full of beach gear.  (1 hour 9 minutes / 59.57 miles from Orlando)

Satellite Beach , Melbourne Beach and Indialantic

The small towns of Satellite Beach, Melbourne Beach and Indialantic feel like old-time Florida, void of crowds, T-shirt shops and pretension. Nestled between the Banana River, the Indian River Lagoon and the Atlantic, these Space Coast destinations are brimming with nature, water sports and outdoor recreation of all kinds, never mind generous, mostly-empty beaches rich with cinnamon-hued sand. A turtle-walk with the Sea Turtle Preservation Society is a not-to-be-missed treat.  (1 hour 13 minutes / 67.35 miles; 1 hour 21 minutes / 74.11 miles; and 1 hour 25 minutes / 75.96 miles from Orlando, respectively)

Clearwater Beach

If you prefer a Gulf coast beach, Clearwater Beach is the closest, less than two hours from Orlando. You’ll find the Pier 60 public beach access at the west end of Highway 60, just over the bridge from downtown Clearwater. If you park near Pier 60, everything you'll need is within walking distance.

The waters of Siesta Key, pictured here, are famed for being clear.

If you're looking for clear water, Siesta Key, pictured here, is bound to please

Which beaches have the clearest water in Florida?

One of the biggest reasons for murky water is suspended or stirred-up sediments, which are caused by water action due to storm swells or waves, or from sediments carried into the ocean from rivers.

Even on Florida beaches where the water tends to be very clear, it varies from week to week, and even from day to day depending on the amount of sunlight, the temperature, the amount of rainfall, the wind speed and direction, water currents and surf.

Florida boasts beaches with crystal clear water, both on the Gulf of Mexico and on the Atlantic Ocean. Water clarity varies from week to week, and even from day to day depending on the amount of sunlight, the temperature, the amount of rainfall, the wind speed and direction, water currents and surf.

The following areas are more likely to have clear water on any given day:  northwest Florida beaches  in and around Panama City Beach , Destin , Fort Walton Beach , and Pensacola ; southwest Florida beaches on Anna Maria Island , Longboat Key and Siesta Key .

Southeast Florida beaches around Fort Lauderdale and Miami ; and Florida Keys beaches also tend to have clear water.

This doesn’t mean these are the only beaches that have clear water, just that they are the ones where you are most likely to most often find it.

What about water temperatures? Will it be warm enough to swim?

What’s warm enough for you and what’s warm enough for me may not be the same thing. But generally people will start going in for a swim when the water temperature warms up to around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. At 75 degrees, most people will venture in and at 80, anyone will swim comfortably.

To view a chart of average water temperatures at beaches near where you are going, visit the  National Oceanographic Data Center website  for Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean temperatures. 

As a general rule, the water anywhere in Florida will be warm enough to swim between April and October. During the cooler months, the farther south you go, the warmer it will be. Fort Lauderdale, Miami, the Keys, Marco Island and Naples will have the warmest water during the winter.

During the summer months, the Gulf of Mexico will be five or more degrees warmer than the Atlantic Ocean. The Gulf may reach 92 degrees or more. In fact, on a July, August or September evening, the Gulf water is warmer than the air. The Atlantic is more likely to top out at 82 to 86 degrees, which makes for a refreshing dip in the summer.

Water temperatures don’t vary as drastically as air temperatures. No matter the conditions, water temperatures usually don’t vary by more than three or four degrees in one day, and the temperatures in nearby locations also usually don’t vary much. For instance, if the Atlantic Ocean is 72 degrees in Cocoa Beach, in Fort Lauderdale it might be 75 degrees.

Which beaches offer the best snorkeling?

A good place to snorkel has the following characteristics: clear water; something interesting to look at like coral, rocks or fish; easy access from the beach; no strong currents or surf; and no boat traffic or fishermen nearby. Here are my best picks.

Snorkeling the Gulf Coast:

• St. Andrews State Park (4607 State Park Lane, Panama City, FL 32408, phone: 850- 233-5140) is home to an extensive shoreline and rock jetties teaming with marine life. Equipment is available for rent at any of its concession stores, or you can bring your own.  
• Egmont Key State Park (4905 34th Street South #5000, St. Petersburg FL 33711, GPS coordinates, Ranger Station: N 27 36. 032 W 82 45. 623, Lighthouse: N 27 36. 047 W 82 45. 634, phone: 727- 893-2627), accessible by private boat or public ferry, boasts a submerged fort for you to explore. The shuttle ferry departs from Fort DeSoto Park.  
• Point-of-Rocks (Point of Rocks Rd,, Siesta Key, FL 34242) features limestone ledges extending more than 100 yards north and south. Its calm waters make it perfect for beginners.

Snorkeling the Atlantic Coast:

On the Atlantic side, submerged rock ledges run parallel to the beaches along the lower southeast coast. These ledges create excellent snorkeling and diving. Most of the rocks are farther offshore than the average snorkeler can comfortably reach from the beach. However, there are a number of places where the rocks are within a few feet of the beach and in relatively shallow waters. All of the spots close to the beach are much easier to snorkel when there is no surf breaking. Here are a few places to try:

• John D. MacArthur Beach State Park  (10900 Jack Nicklaus Drive, North Palm Beach, FL 33408, phone: 561- 624-6952)
• Coral Cove Park (1600 Beach Road, Tequesta, FL 33469, phone: 561- 966-6600)
• Red Reef Park (1400 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33483, phone: 561-393-7815)

Snorkeling the Keys:

• Bahia Honda State Park (36850 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043, phone: 305- 872-2353) offers snorkeling in the shallow water near shore as well as snorkeling tours 9.5 miles out to Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary. It takes about 45 minutes on the boat to get to the reef.
• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (102601 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037, phone: 305- 451-6300) offers a two-and-a-half hour snorkeling tour of the offshore reef.

The best practice is to use a diver's flag and don't snorkel alone. Check with the lifeguards or park personnel for current conditions and local advice before entering the water. Don’t forget to put sunscreen on your back, and remember your waterproof camera.

Sombrero Beach, located in Marathon in the Florida Keys, is man made but quite lovely.

Bahia Honda State Park offers the best beaches in the Florida Keys.

-Lauren Tjaden

What are the best beaches in the Florida Keys?

Though the Keys are surrounded by water, they are not renowned for their beaches. Don't expect a typical wide, soft sandy beach like the typical Florida offering. Do expect narrow beaches with shallow—and often very clear—water.  These beaches typically boast a lot of live shells, fish and marine animals, so remember your mask and snorkel! There's a lot to see underwater.

Bahia Honda State Park   (36850 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043, phone: 305- 872-2353) is home to the finest beach in the Keys, Sandspur Beach, renowned by Br. Beach as the best beach in the nation in 1991, after which it was no longer eligible for the award.

The Park also is home to the stunningly beautiful Calusa Beach.

The Park doesn’t offer accommodations other than campsites and cabins. So if you aren't roughing it, you'll have to find accommodations on another island that isn't too far away, perhaps in Key West.

One approach you can take to enjoying beaches in the Keys is to stay at a resort with its own private beach. Casa Del Sol Beach Resort near Marathon, Cocoplum Beach & Tennis Club in Marathon and Days Inn Oceanfront Resort on Islamorada are several resorts with their own small private beaches. Another option is to stay at a resort without its own beach—which is usually less expensive—and drive to a beach for the day or a few hours. A few other good beaches in the Keys are:

• Sombrero Beach (Sombrero Beach Rd., Marathon, FL 33050, phone: 305- 743-0033)
• Smathers Beach (South Roosevelt Blvd., Key West, FL 33040)
• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Beach (601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040, phone: 305-295-0037)

What about beaches for people with disabilities?

Check out these resources: 

• Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality , or SATH (561-451-0052), provides recommendations for travel agents and other resources to help travelers with disabilities plan their vacations.
• Able Trust  (850-224-4493) offers helpful links to disability resources throughout the state from Florida’s Governor’s Alliance for the Employment of Citizens with Disabilities.
• Florida Disabled Outdoors Association  provides resources on disabled outdoor travel in Florida.

You probably know regular wheelchairs are hopeless on the beach. However, many Florida beaches offer complimentary use of beach wheelchairs (wheelchairs with the big balloon tires that actually roll through the sand). You can look at the visitors’ services website of whatever destination you choose to find out what they offer. If you call the visitor’s services, they're usually a great help in knowing what exactly is available.

Can you help me find dog-friendly hotels and beaches?

Check out  places to stay with your dog  here. 

Find out more about  dog friendly Florida beaches  here.

PLACES TO REMEMBER

Florida keys, related content, bahia honda state park.

• 36850 Overseas Hwy. (U.S. 1), MM 37
• (305) 872-2353

Pier 60 at Clearwater Beach

• 7 Causeway Blvd.
• (727) 462-6466

Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce

• 5223 Avenida Navarra
• (941) 349-3800

Amelia Adventures

• 432 S 8th St
• (904) 500-8687

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Discover the best of Asian American and Pacific Islander history and culture in Orlando, including events, attractions, dining, businesses and more (FusionFest pictured).

Orlando’s wonders don’t just attract visitors from all over the world. We also boast a global mix of citizens, including vibrant Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities that are as richly diverse as the countries they represent. In addition to headlining one of Orlando’s most popular dining and nightlife districts, Mills 50 , AAPI influence on local culture and history can be found throughout the destination, including unique restaurants, shops and annual celebrations that you’ll want to experience. Start here to discover it all.

Orlando vacation planning made easy — and free. Make a complimentary appointment with Visit Orlando’s Vacation Planners at a time and date of your choosing for the latest insider advice, special offers and more ahead of your next visit.

Asian American and Pacific Islander History in Orlando

In the 1970s, refugees fleeing the Vietnam War became a key part of the Orlando community, starting businesses, building homes and churches — and growing families. Today, second-, third- and fourth-generation Vietnamese Americans help shape our social, economic and political landscape without losing sight of their ancestors’ traditions.

Vietnamese influence is particularly evident in downtown Orlando’s multicultural Mills 50 dining and entertainment district, which features numerous Vietnamese restaurants, retailers and service-providers. And every winter, this district celebrates Vietnamese history and culture during Orlando’s Tet (aka Vietnamese Lunar New Year) Festival.

Discover: Things to Do in Orlando’s Mills 50 District

While people of Vietnamese descent make up the largest portion of Orlando’s AAPI population, many other cultures and countries are represented. We’re home to sizable Chinese, Asian-Indian, Filipino and Korean communities, plus smaller groups representing Thailand, Laos, Japan, Indonesia and Pakistan, among others.

Accordingly, Orlando is home to a wide range of authentic Asian-owned eateries and other businesses, not just in the Mills 50 district but all over town. (However, it is worth noting that Mills 50 is home to more MICHELIN Guide restaurants than any other district in Orlando.)

Discover: Orlando’s MICHELIN Guide Restaurants

Take Orlando’s Chinatown. Located about 15 minutes west of downtown, it features a collection of authentic Chinese restaurants and shops. It’s also extremely easy to find: Just look for the traditional Chinese arch known as a paifang or pailou , which serves as the historic area’s eye-catching centerpiece.

Authentic Asian architecture awaits at Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando’s Thornton Park District, too. It’s home to a ting , or one-story structure similar to a pagoda, that was built in Shanghai and signifies Orlando’s sister-city relationship with Guilin, China. Lake Eola Park also has a Japanese-style rock garden adorned with a massive piece of black marble that was gifted to Orlando by Taipei, Taiwan. You’ll find additional examples of AAPI influence throughout the Central Florida area.

Discover: Things to Do in Thornton Park

Asian American and Pacific Islander Cultural Events in Orlando

Orlando hosts a wealth of AAPI festivals and special events every year, including these popular options. Check Visit Orlando’s Events Calendar to see what’s happening during your next visit.

Central Florida Dragon Parade Lunar New Year Festival (February)

The vibrant Central Florida Dragon Parade Lunar New Year Festival brings East Asia to Central Florida with martial artists, taiko drummers and ample food vendors, as well as the signature parade. It’s held in downtown Orlando’s Mills 50 district.

Tet Festival (January / February)

Celebrating the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, Florida’s largest Tet Festival is produced by St. Philip Minh Catholic Church at the Central Florida Fairgrounds.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (May)

Every May, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month comes to life in Orlando with insightful events, delicious dining, notable landmarks and other reasons to visit during the month-long celebration.

Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival and Asian Cultural Expo (October)

Produced in tandem, these free, one-day events showcase the wonders of Asian culture through exhibitions, performances and crafts. Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival and Asian Cultural Expo is held in Bill Frederick Park, just north of Universal Orlando Resort.

Orlando Japan Festival (November)

Experience authentic Japanese music, dance and other entertainments at Orlando Japan Festival, presented by Japan Association of Orlando at Kissimmee Lakefront Park near Walt Disney World ® Resort.

Orlando Korea Festival (November)

Hosted by the Orlando Korea Culture Center close to The Florida Mall ®, Orlando Korea Festival features plenty of delicious Korean food, energetic K-Pop musicians, and other authentic Korean surprises and delicacies.

FusionFest (November)

Downtown Orlando’s annual celebration of the people and many cultures that make Central Florida awesome, FusionFest features food, dance, art and more from numerous AAPI communities and other global groups. It takes place during Thanksgiving weekend at the open-air Seneff Arts Plaza, part of downtown Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts .

Asian American and Pacific Islander-Owned Restaurants in Orlando

If you’re hungry for authentic Asian flavors, take a bite out of these AAPI-owned and operated eateries the next time you’re in Orlando — including several MICHELIN Guide restaurants.

Main Tourism Districts

Aashirwad Indian Food : Just off International Drive, aka I-Drive, this restaurant offers a diverse mixture of flavors and tastes that reflect a variety of cultures, geography and climate.

Bawarchi Biryanis : A wide range of aromatic spices are used to create beautiful pots of biryani, this I-Drive eatery’s namesake mixed-rice dish.

B&B Express : Close to Walt Disney World ® Resort, this fusion restaurant’s “B&B” stands for burgers and biryani.

BBQ Tonight Indian Restaurant and Caterings : Enjoy Indian staples such as tandoori chicken and biryani at this casual option near Walt Disney World ®.

Chaat House : This Pakistani restaurant serves gyros, kebabs, pizza, burgers, seafood and more.

Charcoal Zyka : Dig into a mixed variety of American, Portuguese and Indian dishes at this casual grill close to SeaWorld® Orlando.

Dragonfly Robata Grill & Sushi : Part of Restaurant Row, Dragonfly Robata Grill & Sushi is a hip, modern, Japanese cafe serving tapas-style sushi and robatayaki.

Isan Zaap : Founded by three friends born and raised in Thailand’s Isan region, this MICHELIN Recommended eatery presents authentic Isan food with a unique touch of love and care.

Morimoto Asia : Head to Disney Springs ® at Walt Disney World for Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s MICHELIN Recommended Morimoto Asia and its late-night hotspot, The Forbidden Lounge.

Discover: Things to Do at DISNEY SPRINGS

Qi Dragon Bakery : Close to The Florida Mall, this bakery offers a big selection of Asian cakes, cookies and breads.

Saffron Indian Cuisine : This stylish Restaurant Row eatery serves an extensive selection of traditional and inventive Indian dishes.

Sizler Tandoori Restaurant : Staples like biryani and samosas are served at this Indian and Pakistani restaurant.

Sushi Katana : This casual Japanese eatery near The Mall at Millenia pairs innovative specialties with a variety of sushi rolls.

Thai Thani : Carved wood decor and traditional artwork perfectly complement this International Drive restaurant’s authentic Thai cuisine.

Woodlands : Minutes from The Florida Mall, this casual vegetarian Indian venue features dosas, curries, a lunch buffet and more.

Stay Connected to Orlando You never know what we’ll dream up next. Connect with Visit Orlando’s Vacation Planning Services for free, personalized assistance, and follow us on Facebook , X , Instagram , TikTok , Pinterest , Threads and YouTube for valuable offers, exclusive tips, fresh attractions and the latest events. You can also subscribe to our eNewsletter for more information from Orlando: Theme Park Capital of the World.

Have feedback about this blog? Let us know .

Nate Shelton is a native Floridian and longtime Orlandoan who enjoys good food and drink, live entertainment, music, theme parks, comic books, video games, movies, cats, and all the other things that make life worth living. He’s a content senior manager at Visit Orlando.

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Clemson vs. Florida State on Joel Klatt's list of most important 2024 college football games

T he Clemson Tigers' visit to Florida State on October 5 will be one of the most anticipated matchups of the 2024 college football season.

Clemson and Florida State are widely considered the two best teams in the ACC heading into 2024. And unlike years past, the conference is guaranteed to have one of the top four seeds with the debut of the 12-team College Football Playoff by season's end.

On Tuesday, Fox Sports broadcaster and college football analyst Joel Klatt put the Tigers-Seminoles showdown at Doak Campbell Stadium on his list of the top 10 games that will shape the 2024 season.

There's always a bit of spice when Clemson and Florida State take the field, and this year's matchup figures to have no shortage of storylines.

The 'Noles snapped a seven-game losing streak in the rivalry last season with a 31-24 overtime victory in Death Valley as coach Dabo Swinney's team struggled to a 4-4 start and were eliminated from playoff contention before the end of September.

Add in the fact that former Tigers quarterback DJ Uiagalelei is back in the ACC after a year at Oregon State, and the Clemson-FSU rivalry is poised to be as strong as ever.

Follow us @Clemson_Wire on X and on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Clemson Tigers news, notes and commentary. 

This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson vs. Florida State on Joel Klatt's list of most important 2024 college football games

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How Trump’s Conviction Could Reshape the Election

The guilty verdict in his manhattan criminal trial is set to become a key piece in the 2024 campaign..

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Featuring Maggie Haberman and Reid J. Epstein

Produced by Rachel Quester ,  Asthaa Chaturvedi ,  Mooj Zadie and Diana Nguyen

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Original music by Marion Lozano ,  Elisheba Ittoop and Pat McCusker

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Last week, Donald J. Trump became the first U.S. former president to be convicted of a crime when a jury found that he had falsified business records to conceal a sex scandal.

Nate Cohn, who is the chief political analyst at The Times, Maggie Haberman, a senior political correspondent, and Reid J. Epstein, who also covers politics, discuss how the conviction might shape the remaining months of the presidential race.

On today’s episode

Nate Cohn , who is the chief political analyst for The New York Times.

Maggie Haberman , a senior political correspondent for The New York Times.

Reid J. Epstein , who covers politics for The New York Times.

Background reading

The political fallout is far from certain, but the verdict will test America’s traditions and legal institutions .

Watch a video analysis of whether this newfound moment sticks politically.

Democrats are pushing President Biden to make Mr. Trump’s felonies a top 2024 issue .

There are a lot of ways to listen to The Daily. Here’s how.

We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Renan Borelli, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson, Nina Lassam and Nick Pitman.

Maggie Haberman is a senior political correspondent reporting on the 2024 presidential campaign, down ballot races across the country and the investigations into former President Donald J. Trump. More about Maggie Haberman

Reid J. Epstein covers campaigns and elections from Washington. Before joining The Times in 2019, he worked at The Wall Street Journal, Politico, Newsday and The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. More about Reid J. Epstein

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