When is hurricane season in Key West? It’s the question that may be on your mind if you’re trying to figure out the best time to visit Key West. The truth about any tropical destination is that tropical weather can turn a bit wild during certain parts of the year. That’s why you’re smartly wondering about how hurricane season could affect your trip to Key West.
Storms don’t have to ruin the fun if you’re headed to Key West during the summer months. However, tourists do need to be smart about the realities of Mother Nature during hurricane season. If you’re not familiar with Key West weather patterns, here’s your quick course on what to expect during each season in Key West, how to plan a trip for pleasant weather, and how to make the most of a vacation when you visit Key West any time of year. Follow these tips for how to prepare and stay safe when visiting Key West.
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1) Learn About Seasons In Key West
While people often put things in black-and-white terms of their being a “best and worst time” to visit Key West, the truth is that people come to this popular Florida destination all year long in search of warm weather and fun excursions. That doesn’t mean that you should stick your head in the sand about Key West hurricane season.
When is hurricane season in Key West? Hurricane Season in Key West and the rest of the Florida Keys lasts from Jun 1 through Nov. 30. Hurricane Season in the Florida Keys simply mirrors Atlantic hurricane season. However, the most intense period of hurricane season is the stretch from August through October. Key West doesn’t have hurricane activity every year. Hotels, tour operators, and attractions continue to cater to tourists all year long.
Key West has its own unique seasons that are determined by weather and travel activity. Here’s your crash course:
High Season
Also known as peak tourist season in Key West, the high season lasts from January through April. This is when people from colder climates seek sunshine and warm weather in the Florida Keys. The high season also picks up in July, August, and December. Key West March trips can also increase a bit during the weeks that traditionally cover spring break.
Low Season
The low season in Key West lasts from September through November. This time of year generally has fewer crowds because kids are back in school. People who come to Key West for a fall visit can avoid the crowds of peak tourist season while still enjoying pleasant weather.
Spring Shoulder Season
Shoulder season in Key West generally lasts from May through August. While rainfall levels are higher than average during the springtime shoulder season, they do not reach the peak levels seen during September.
Rainy Season
Key West’s rainy season runs from May through September. Considered the height of Florida’s storm season, this period is when you’re most likely to encounter a tropical storm or hurricane warning.
2) Only Book Excursions With Experienced Local Agencies During Key West Hurricane Season
If you’ll be visiting Key West during a month when tropical storms could happen, it’s so important to plan wisely. That doesn’t mean you have to forgo special excursions and experiences. However, you will want to stick with well-established tour operators who understand how to prepare for everything from a significant storm threat to a little rain. You’ll also want to avoid companies that won’t refund you when Key West’s weather causes your excursion to be canceled.
Key West Paddle is the #1 night kayaking company in Key West! As experienced locals, we know how to react to the weather in all seasons. We take every precaution when bringing our guests out on the water for once-in-a-lifetime after-dark experiences in glass-bottom kayaks. You can rest assured that we’ll never take risks with weather that puts you in danger. If we need to cancel your tour because of weather or safety concerns, you’ll receive a full refund.
What you can expect is a one-of-a-kind experience that has you on a glowing kayak as you move through mangrove tunnels to spot abundant marine life just inches away! Since 2012, families, couples, and groups of friends have booked tours with us that showcase the underwater life of the Florida Keys like nothing else you can experience!
Book a tour with confidence in any season in Key West! Experience an unforgettable after-dark adventure on the water by booking a tour with Key West Paddle. Join our skilled guides on a glass-bottom, LED-illuminated kayak for a memorable experience!
3) Follow The National Hurricane Center
Here’s the easiest tip to follow when visiting Key West during storm season. Follow the National Hurricane Center’s website to stay ahead of any sudden weather changes that could put you in the path of danger.
Pro tip: If you use social media, you can also follow the NHC on Facebook, Instagram, or X to get constant updates.
4) Consider Booking Travel Insurance When Traveling During Hurricane Season
If you’re going to be visiting Key West during hurricane season, it’s strongly advised that you consider purchasing travel insurance. Spend a little time researching coverage options to ensure that the policy you’re purchasing covers hurricanes and tropical storms.
In general, coverage will only be applicable if you’re able to cancel your trip before a storm is named. However, coverage can vary by company.
5) Avoid The Water During High Winds
Dreams of fishing, snorkeling, or boarding are probably on your mind if you’re planning a visit to Key West. You can still do all of these things during hurricane season.
However, it’s important to know that high winds on the coast can equal rough, choppy waves that may not be safe. Winds above 10 miles per hour could make the beach inhospitable for visitors.
6) Have An Evacuation Plan
If you’re staying at a hotel, be sure to inquire about the evacuation plan that’s in place. The hotel may be able to provide you with a map with an evacuation route based on your location. If you’re staying at a rental home, be sure to ask the person or company you are renting from about evacuation plans.
If you need to leave suddenly, ensure that you have your identification, money, and credit cards with you. Leave behind all luggage or other heavy items that will slow you down if you’re ordered to perform an emergency evacuation.
7) Have Some Plans In Place For Rainy Days
If the weather isn’t on your side during some of the days that you spend in Key West, you can still find plenty of fun things to do. Put together a hurricane season Key West to-do list full of indoor activities you can enjoy if your outdoor plans need to be put on hold.
When you’re in Key West, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Key West Aquarium. It’s one of the top attractions in the area and a must-visit, especially during the summer season. The aquarium offers a combination of fun and educational experiences, allowing guests to interact with wildlife and marine life.
Here are some of the highlights you can look forward to:
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The 50,000-gallon Atlantic Shores exhibit showcases native nurse sharks, tarpon, grouper, and jacks. You can peek in as these creatures feast!
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A touch tank
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Rays and sharks
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Rescued sea turtles
It won’t matter if you come during tourist season, shoulder season, low season, or any other time of year! The truth is that you’re going to love getting to know the local marine life at the aquarium when you visit Key West!
Booking some time at the aquarium isn’t the only way to make the most of Key West’s potentially rainy weather if you’re coming during peak season for storms. Even Key West’s rainiest days can feel sweet when you hit up the island’s world-class bakeries and coffee shops for some locally made Key Lime Pie. A dessert day may be just what you need to feel better if hurricane season forces you to alter some of your plans.
Plan Your Visit To Key West With Confidence In Any Season
Yes, hurricane season is technically considered the worst time to visit Key West if you’re worried about the potential for some wet days. However, the countless travelers who shun the tourist season love feeling like they have more of Key West to themselves. The absence of crowds during the tourist season allows them to experience Key West more intimately and exclusively.
As a long-standing Key West excursion company, we know how to react responsibly to Key West weather during hurricane season. We offer year-round after-dark tours in illuminated kayaks. Our tours bring you to the places where Key West’s marine creatures are active and abundant in the moonlight. This is an experience you will truly never forget!
However, you need to know that our tours can fill up quickly during any time of year. Book your night kayak tour with us today!
