Is March A Good Time To Go To Key West?
Let’s just say that March is a time when dreams of carefree, sun-filled spring breaks are written in the sand here at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. While it’s true that spring breakers from around the country do flock to the Conch Republic in March while school is out, this spot doesn’t necessarily see the flood of college students that you get in spots like Fort Lauderdale, Miami Beach, South Beach, or other “party” towns in South Florida.
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What Goes On In Key West In March?
The period from December through March is actually the semi-peak travel season around here. It’s preferred by many over the shoulder season from May through July when school is also out because of its warm, mild, and low-humidity conditions. Everything is open for business! That includes things like museums, historic estates, beaches, sunset cruises, and more.
Why March Is An Ideal Time To Visit Key West?
March in Key West is flawless because it’s generally warm and pleasant without the threat of tropical storms that come later in the summer. You’re also getting to see the island at a lively time that still has fewer crowds compared to November and December.
Can You Swim In Key West In March?
Absolutely! Ocean temperatures in Key West are notably pleasant and mild in the spring. Expect water temperatures around 75 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit—making conditions perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking over spring break.
Are You Wondering What To Do In Key West In March?
Look no further for a rundown of all the sights, sounds, and things to do in Key West in March for all ages.
Key West Weather In March – What to Expect
Let’s paint a picture of what weather in a tropical paradise looks like in March. With average temperatures in March in Key West hovering near 76 degrees Fahrenheit, you can expect daily highs around 79 to 80 degrees before enjoying a refreshing night with light breezes around 60. By comparison, temperatures regularly hit or exceed 90 in Key West in August. You’re also still many weeks away from hurricane season when you come in March.
With March falling within Key West’s dry season, you can also look forward to low to moderate humidity levels. However, ocean breezes still keep things feeling much more tropical compared to northern climates. Like most spring travelers, you probably have Key West’s beaches on your radar. Let’s get into it.
Key West visitors can prepare for a mix of mild, warm days and slightly chillier nights by layering. A light windbreaker is perfect for transitioning from day to night.
Pro Tip: The sun is still strong in March in Key West. Be sure to pack reef-safe sunscreen to responsibly enjoy ocean swims!
Top Activities To Enjoy In Key West This March
A Key West must-visit list offers the perfect mix of hidden gems and world-famous attractions. Here’s a look at the very best sights Key West has to offer for your itinerary:
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Key West Lighthouse – Climb 88 steps for surreal views over the island and surrounding crystal clear waters in a lighthouse dating back to 1847.
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Hemingway Home and Museum – Nestled in the heart of Old Town Key West, the estate served as Hemingway’s residence in the 1930s. Titles like ‘To Have and Have Not’ were written here, along with portions of other works. The home is open daily for walk-in visits. Expect to see descendants of the polydactyl cats owned by Hemingway!
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Night Kayaking – There’s nothing like night kayaking over crystal clear waters in Key West. Key West Paddle offers glass-bottom, LED-lit kayaks that make spotting nocturnal wonders so easy! It’s like a private boat excursion where you can actually become one with the rhythm of the water while colorful creatures flitter around you in the moonlit tides.
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Duval Street Key West – The epicenter of Key West’s nightlife scene, the Duval Street area is full of amazing bars and clubs hosting live music and fun events for spring break—and every other season. Add Sloppy Joe’s Bar (Duval Street), Green Parrot (Duval Street), and Blue Heaven (Thomas Street) to the list.
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Key West Aquarium – Opened in 1935, this beloved open-air aquarium is home to more than 250 fish, sharks, and other creatures. Guests can also see four of the five sea turtle species inhabiting the waters of the Florida Keys!
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Smathers Beach – As Key West’s largest public beach, Smathers Beach is a magnet for spring breakers. Enjoy a shoreline dotted with coconut trees that runs along the Atlantic Ocean and State Road A1A.
Pro Tip: Try the Key Lime Pie at Blue Heaven for the ultimate Key West vibe! This iconic dessert perfectly captures the island’s sweet and tangy flavors, making it a must-try for any visitor. Pair it with a refreshing Cuban coffee from the nearby Cuban Coffee Queen to complete your authentic Key West culinary experience.
March Events And Festivals In Key West
The Conch Shell Horn Blowing Contest takes place the first weekend in March every year. A tradition that’s been happening for 62 years and counting, this fun contest highlights the importance of conch shells in Key West.
March also happens to be when Taste of Key West rolls in! Typically taking place the last weekend in March at Truman Waterfront Park, the island’s premier food and wine festival showcases local seafood, Key Lime Pie, conch fritters, Cuban-inspired fare, and much more!
Good To Know: Many Key West bars host fun events or pub crawls for St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th that dovetail with spring break nicely.
Key West Sunsets In March – Where And When To Watch
Clear skies and comfortable weather make March the ideal time to catch a Key West sunset. The subtropical air and atmospheric conditions produce brilliant golden, red, and purple sunsets that are legendary. As the southernmost point of the continental United States, Key West offers uninterrupted views of the horizon over the Gulf of Mexico that create a prolonged and inspiring “disappearing act” for the sun over the water.
Wondering where to see a sunset? Step into a Key West tradition at Mallory Square as you join an outdoor celebration full of street performers and vendors that’s been happening for decades. Another fun way to see a sunset is with a sunset cruise that brings you out on the open water or between sandbars for one-of-a-kind views.
Pro Tip: Show up about an hour before sunset at your viewing destination to ensure you don’t miss a minute of the slow transition from full sun to purple-orange streaks in the sky!
Navigating Key West In March
Getting around Key West for spring break is usually relatively easy because manageable crowds save the island from getting congested. With the island measuring in at 4 miles long and 1 mile wide, it often takes just a few minutes to hop between attractions. Here are some tips:
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People booked at hotels and rentals around Old Town Key West can generally walk to most major attractions with ease. Bicycle and scooter rentals are also popular.
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The Duval Loop is a hop-on, hop-off shuttle service that lets you avoid traffic and parking when exploring attractions within Old Town’s core. Just park once at the city’s “park and ride” on Grinnell Street. This route will get you to spots like Duval Street, Mallory Square, Bahama Village, and the seaport.
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There’s also a private hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour called Old Town Trolley Tours offering narrated tours with historical information covering 100 points of interest around the island. Highlights include Mallory Square, the Hemingway Home and Museum, Key West Butterfly Conservatory, and much more.
Good To Know: Bookmark the City of Key West official transit schedule to plan how you’ll get around.
Best Beaches And Water Activities For March Visitors
The water is just fine in March for water activities! If you’re all about snorkeling in wilder tides, pick Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park for its fun rock formations and abundant marine life.
Higgs Beach is another great snorkeling spot that’s home to an artificial reef and iconic wooden pier.
Smathers Beach is perfect for water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing due to its wide shore and easy access to gear rentals.
Pro Tip: With March water temperatures feeling cooler in the morning and early afternoon, consider a bodysuit for watersports.
Day Trips And Extended Adventures From Key West
Key West can be a great launching point for nearby attractions within the Florida Keys. Whether you plan to take the Overseas Highway by car or set sail from the seaport, here’s a look at daytrip ideas and special adventures you’ll love:
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Dry Tortugas National Park – This remote national park positioned roughly 70 miles west of Key West Florida is famed for its abundant coral reefs, sea turtles, and shipwrecks that make for dreamy snorkeling conditions. It’s also home to a large 19th-century military landmark called Fort Jefferson (Garden Key). Plan in advance because Dry Tortugas is only accessible via ferry or seaplane.
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Nearby Reefs – Did you know that Florida Keys reefs are the only living coral reefs in the continental United States? Plan for an excursion to go diving or snorkeling to learn about this fragile and spectacular ecosystem. Top picks include Molasses Reef, Sombrero Reef, Dry Rocks, Grecian Rocks, and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
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Sandbar Hopping – Key West’s stunning sandbars let you wade in warm tides and soak up the sun on golden masses that make you feel like you’re suspended in the middle of the ocean on floating sandy beaches. Consider spots like Boca Grande, Jewish Basin, Woman Key, and Mud Keys Sanctuary.
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Night Kayaking – Nature puts on quite a show after dark in Key West! Glide on the water among fish, nurse sharks, jellyfish, and stingrays. Even the occasional sea turtle is seen after dark!
Good To Know: When coming during spring break, be sure to book any guided tours or transportation to and from remote locations as far in advance as possible to secure a spot.
Discover The Magic Of Night Kayaking In Key West
Key West Paddle is proud to be home of a one-of-a-kind night kayaking experience in Key West Florida. Come along through the mangrove tunnels to see nocturnal marine life buzzing around you.
Our friendly, experienced guides know all the best places to find magic! Our tours are personalized, peaceful, and perfect for making memories you’ll never forget.
