People pack for Key West like it's a beach resort. It's mostly a small, walkable town, and the real problems are the sun, the summer downpours and the boat trips out to the reef or the Dry Tortugas. Bring fewer clothes, better sun cover and something for a choppy ride.
Key West weather by month
Daily high and low (°F), and days with rainSee the numbers
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | 73°F23°C | 73°F23°C | 77°F25°C | 79°F26°C | 82°F28°C | 84°F29°C | 86°F30°C | 86°F30°C | 86°F30°C | 82°F28°C | 79°F26°C | 75°F24°C |
| Low | 68°F20°C | 72°F22°C | 73°F23°C | 75°F24°C | 79°F26°C | 81°F27°C | 82°F28°C | 82°F28°C | 81°F27°C | 79°F26°C | 75°F24°C | 72°F22°C |
| Rain days | 6 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 17 | 16 | 20 | 19 | 16 | 4 | 7 |
Season by season
Winter
December–FebruaryWinter is peak season for a reason. Highs run 73–75°F (23–24°C), nights stay mild, and you'll get 5 to 7 rain days a month. Long sleeves or a light sweater cover breezy nights at Mallory Square. The water feels cooler for snorkeling, so some people bring a rash guard.
Spring
March–MaySpring is the sweet spot. Highs climb from 77°F (25°C) in March to 82°F (28°C) in May, and rain stays at 5 to 6 days a month. It's prime time for snorkel trips and biking around Old Town. Pack swimwear, a hat and a couple of quick-dry shirts.
Summer
June–AugustSummer is hot, wet and sticky. Highs hit 84–86°F (29–30°C), nights stay warm, and there are 16 to 20 rain days a month, usually short, heavy storms. June also starts hurricane season. Pack a light rain shell, keep your phone in something waterproof and do the beach in the morning.
Fall
September–NovemberSeptember and October still feel like summer, with highs of 82–86°F (28–30°C) and 16 to 19 rain days, and hurricane season runs to the end of November. November turns drier, with 4 rain days and a 79°F (26°C) high. If you book early fall, get travel insurance and pack for rain.
What to bring to Key West
0 of 24 packed- Dramamine Less Drowsy ChewablesHealth & Safety
Chew one 30 to 60 minutes before the Dry Tortugas ferry or a reef trip, no water needed, and it lasts up to 24 hours.
- Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof Packing CubeBags & Luggage
The wet swimsuit from your morning snorkel goes in here, not on top of dry clothes.
Summer brings 16 to 20 rain days a month, and this folds into its own pocket between storms.
A light waterproof that packs small, so it rides in your day bag for the afternoon downpour.
- Sawyer 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent Lotion, 4 ozHealth & Safety
Bugs come out at dusk near the mangroves, and 20% picaridin lasts up to 8 hours against gnats and up to 12 against mosquitoes.
- Hydro Flask 32 oz Travel Bottle with Flex Straw CapWater Bottles & Hydration
A full day of cold water for biking Old Town at 86°F (30°C), and the tapered base fits the rental car cupholder for the drive down the Keys.
- Crocs Classic ClogFootwear & Shoe Care
One easy shoe for wet boat decks, the beach and the walk back to your room.
Clothing
- Swimwear · 2
- Breathable shirts and shorts · 4Jul–Sep highs of 30°C
- Sundress or linen pants · 1
- Light long-sleeve layerJan lows of 20°C on the water
- Sun-protective rash guardFor snorkeling trips
Footwear
- Flip-flops
- Walking sandalsFor biking and walking Old Town
Gear
- Wide-brim sun hat
- Polarized sunglasses
- Snorkel maskFor reef trips
- Compact umbrellaAugust has 20 rain days
Health and toiletries
- Reef-safe mineral sunscreen
- After-sun lotion
Documents and money
- Photo ID
- Travel insuranceHurricane season runs June to November
Tech
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Power bank
What shoes should you pack for Key West?
Key West is flat and small, so you'll walk or bike almost everywhere, from Duval Street to the Southernmost Point. Bring comfortable sandals with a back strap for biking. Add water shoes or slides for boats and rocky beaches. One pair of light sneakers is plenty.
What do people wear in Key West?
Key West dresses down. Shorts, linen shirts, sundresses and flip-flops work almost everywhere, including most dinner spots on Duval Street. A hat and sunglasses matter more than any outfit. Bring one slightly nicer look for a sunset sail or a fancier restaurant.
What plugs does Key West use?
Key West uses Type A and B sockets at 120V, like the rest of the United States. Visitors from the UK, Europe and Australia need an adapter, and our universal adapter covers US sockets. Check that hair dryers and straighteners handle 120V before you plug them in.
Tours and things to do in Key West
Packed and ready? Browse guided tours, day trips and tickets for Key West.
What should you leave at home for Key West?
Leave the heels, the dress shoes and the heavy jacket. Brick sidewalks and bike rides don't suit them, and winter highs still sit at 73–75°F (23–24°C). Don't pack a pile of outfits either. Most people end up living in the same three.
Packing for Key West: questions people ask
What should I wear in Key West in December?
Shorts and T-shirts by day, with long sleeves or a light sweater for evenings. December highs are around 75°F (24°C), and the evening breeze can feel cool.
Does it rain a lot in Key West in summer?
Yes. June to August has 16 to 20 rain days a month, mostly short, heavy storms. A packable rain shell and a waterproof pouch handle it.
Do I need dressy clothes for Key West?
Not really. Casual clothes work almost everywhere, and one nicer outfit covers a sunset sail or an upscale dinner.
What should I bring on a Dry Tortugas day trip?
Swimwear, sun protection, plenty of water and something for seasickness, since the ferry crosses open water. Bring a waterproof bag for wet gear on the ride back.
When is hurricane season in Key West?
June through November. If you travel then, watch the forecast and get travel insurance.
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