The island of Key West is found off the southern coast of the Florida mainland. It takes around 8 square miles to cover Key West, which is a tiny island that is just 4 miles long and 2 miles wide. Several tourists go to Key West every year to experience its famed subtropical paradise culture, literary history, and nightlife.
While the city is a fantastic travel destination during some seasons of the year, there are times you should avoid visiting Key West and also the worst times to visit Key West!
The Worst Time to Visit Key West
The worst time to Key West is between August and September as these are historically the most active months of the hurricane season.
A number of big storms have slammed Key West in recent years, highlighting the city’s susceptibility to hurricanes and tropical storms. You should check the weather forecast before visiting Key West during hurricane season to be sure that there is no chance of a storm occurring during your stay.
What Makes Key West So Hazardous During Hurricane Season?
The weather is often fickle and unpredictable throughout the storm season. The Florida Keys is placed under a hurricane watch or warning if a storm is threatening Key West. You should be aware of the hazards involved if you want to go to Key West during the hurricane season.
In the event of a hurricane or tropical storm approaching the region, you should keep an eye on the forecast and be flexible with your preparations. Key West is vulnerable to significant destruction in the event of a hurricane or tropical storm. Strong winds can cause problems for electrical lines, trees, and structures. Flooding might occur due to the storm surge. Flooding is possible after heavy rainfall. It may take considerable time for the region to fully recover after a hurricane or tropical storm. It is possible that this may mess up your vacation plans.
Safety Measures For Key West During Hurricane Season
During hurricane season, there are several precautions you should take if you intend on visiting Key West:
- You should have a plan in place in case a storm warning is issued for Key West. Inquire about the hotel’s storm preparedness before booking a stay there. If you are renting a home or apartment, find out the location of the closest emergency shelter.
- Having a storm survival pack on hand is crucial. Things like food, water, a flashlight, batteries, and medical supplies should be included.
- Maintaining a level of knowledge is important. The National Weather Service issues regular predictions and advisories, which you should read. If a storm is approaching the Key West, everyone should leave immediately.
- If you follow these guidelines, you should be able to visit Key West during hurricane season without worrying about your safety.
Be sure to read: Top 9 Key West Beaches That Feel Like Paradise
What is the Most Crowded Time in Key West?
The peak tourist season in Key West coincides with the winter months from November to January. After that, the month of April is also quite crowded. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant, and many people flock to the island for its warm temperatures, sunny skies, and vibrant atmosphere.
The three most popular events this season include
- Key West Fantasy Fest (October/November): While not technically during the peak season, the Key West Fantasy Fest is a highly anticipated event that occurs in late October or early November. It’s a 10-day celebration featuring costume competitions, parades, parties, and various artistic and cultural events.
- Key West Holiday Fest (December): The Key West Holiday Fest is a month-long celebration of the holiday season. It includes festive activities such as the lighting of the Key West “Harbor Walk of Lights,” a lighted boat parade, holiday concerts, and visits from Santa Claus.
- Conch Republic Independence Celebration (April): This lively festival commemorates the “secession” of Key West from the United States in a lighthearted and humorous manner. The celebration includes parades, parties, live music, and various entertaining activities.
However, this popularity can result in higher prices for accommodations, crowded attractions, and difficulty securing reservations. Flight prices to Key West can fluctuate significantly based on your departure location, the time of year, and how far in advance you book.
On average, round-trip flights to Key West can range from $200 to $800 per person. However, during the peak tourist season (December to April), prices tend to be higher compared to the off-season months. If you are hunting for cheap flights, check out our guide on finding cheap flights using Google Flights.
Moreover, a 4-star hotel in Key West can cost anywhere between $200 and $600 per night. During the peak tourist season, prices tend to be on the higher end, while off-season rates may be more affordable.
Worst Time to Visit Key West: Opinion by Hopdes Team
Our travel specialist, Sara Anwar, said the following about her trip to Key West, “We have missed the hurricane season by a week. I realized that tourists in hurricane-prone locations are removed from the region as soon as a warning is issued. There wouldn’t be somewhere for you to stay, and whatever money you’d already paid on lodging would be wasted.”
Zonash Arshad also visited Key West during the month of August. She said, ”I shouldn’t have been to Key West at the height of hurricane season. Some of the excursions couldn’t go forward because of the possibility of severe waves. During our vacation, we had heavy rains that prevented us from engaging in any outside activity.”
Month-by-Month Analysis: When to Go to Key West?
We prepared the following analysis to help you figure out the most appropriate time to visit Key West.
January
- Average temperature: 69°F (21°C)
- Weather: Mild and pleasant, with occasional cooler days.
- Activities: Snorkeling, fishing, and exploring the historic Old Town.
- Special events: Key West Literary Seminar, Conch Republic Independence Celebration.
- Crowd level: Moderate, with fewer tourists compared to peak season.
February
- Average temperature: 70°F (21°C)
- Weather: Similar to January, with mild temperatures and occasional cool days.
- Activities: Enjoying water sports, visiting museums, and taking sunset cruises.
- Special events: Key West Food & Wine Festival, Old Island Days Art Festival.
- Crowd level: Moderate, with an increase in visitors around the holidays.
March
- Average temperature: 73°F (23°C)
- Weather: Warmer temperatures, sunny days, and a low chance of rain.
- Activities: Snorkeling, diving, and exploring Dry Tortugas National Park.
- Special events: Key West Conch Shell Blowing Contest, Key West Songwriters Festival.
- Crowd level: High, as it’s a popular time for spring break and the weather is excellent.
April
- Average temperature: 77°F (25°C)
- Weather: Warm and sunny, with occasional brief showers.
- Activities: Beach activities, kayaking, and visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.
- Special events: Key West Paddle Classic, Taste of Key West.
- Crowd level: High, as it’s peak season with many tourists and families.
Suggested Reading: Enchanting Waterfalls In Florida To Treat The Naturalist In You
May
- Average temperature: 81°F (27°C)
- Weather: Hotter temperatures, increased humidity, and occasional showers.
- Activities: Exploring Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, visiting art galleries.
- Special events: Key West Songwriters Festival, Key West Songwriters Festival.
- Crowd level: Moderate, with fewer tourists compared to peak season.
June
- Average temperature: 85°F (29°C)
- Weather: Hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms.
- Activities: Water sports, visiting the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.
- Special events: Key West Pride Week, Hemingway Days.
- Crowd level: Moderate to high, with families and LGBTQ+ visitors for Pride Week.
July
- Average temperature: 86°F (30°C)
- Weather: Hot and humid, occasional thunderstorms, and high humidity.
- Activities: Snorkeling, boating, and enjoying water-based activities.
- Special events: Key Lime Festival, Mel Fisher Days.
- Crowd level: High, as it’s summer vacation season with many tourists.
August
- Average temperature: 87°F (31°C)
- Weather: Hot and humid, occasional showers and thunderstorms.
- Activities: Exploring the Key West Shipwreck Museum, visiting local art galleries.
- Special events: Lobsterfest, Tropical Heat (LGBTQ+ event).
- Crowd level: Moderate, with a decrease in families as school starts.
Related: Worst Time To Visit Costa Rica – Strictly Avoid
September
- Average temperature: 86°F (30°C)\
- Weather: Hot and humid, occasional rain showers.
- Activities: Fishing, kayaking, and visiting the Key West Aquarium.
- Special events: Womenfest, Brewfest.
- Crowd level: Moderate to low, as it’s a quieter month after the summer rush.
October
- Average temperature: 82°F (28°C)
- Weather: Mild temperatures, lower humidity, and occasional rain.
- Activities: Enjoying water sports, exploring the Key West Wildlife Center.
- Special events: Fantasy Fest, Goombay Festival.
- Crowd level: High, especially during Fantasy Fest, a lively and popular event.
November
- Average temperature: 76°F (24°C)
- Weather: Mild temperatures, lower humidity, and occasional cool days.
- Activities: Visiting museums, exploring the Key West Garden Club.
- Special events: Key West Film Festival, Key West World Championship Powerboat Races.
- Crowd level: Moderate, with a decrease in tourists compared to peak season.
December
- Average temperature: 72°F (22°C)
- Weather: Mild temperatures, occasional cooler days, and low humidity.
- Activities: Enjoying holiday decorations, visiting the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.
- Special events: Key West Lighted Boat Parade, Key West House and Garden Tours.
- Crowd level: Moderate, with an increase in visitors around the holidays.
Conclusion
Key West is susceptible to hurricanes, which occur from August to November, increasing the risk of encountering severe weather conditions. Apart from the potential danger, the peak season months of November to January and April bring crowded attractions, inflated prices for accommodations, and difficulties in securing reservations. For a relaxed experience, the Hopdes team recommends you plan your visit during the off-season months.
Editor’s Pick: Worst Time to Visit Bali – Which Months to Avoid
Worst Time to go to Key West - FAQs
The peak tourist season in Key West, which falls between November and April, can have a few drawbacks. It is a popular time for visitors due to pleasant weather but this popularity leads to crowded attractions, higher prices for accommodations, and difficulties securing reservations.
Yes, there are alternative times to visit Key West that can provide a more enjoyable experience. The off-season months, excluding the peak hurricane season, from May to November, offer a quieter atmosphere, more affordable prices for accommodations, and reduced crowds at attractions.
While the offseason in Key West is generally quieter in terms of events and festivals, there are still some notable occasions to look forward to. For example, in October, Key West hosts the Fantasy Fest, a vibrant and flamboyant 10-day celebration featuring parades, parties, and artistic performances.
