Florida Winter: Temps, Tips, Activities, & More
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Winter in Florida is a whole new ball game—no frigid temperatures, no snow shovels, and certainly no need to layer up like an onion! Instead, winter here is all about mild temps, sunny skies, and enjoying the outdoors without freezing your toes off (most of the time). Okay, as I’m writing this we are experiencing a weird phenomenon of snow in the panhandle?! But it’s something so rare that the locals are totally having a blast with it.
As someone who used to know the bone-chilling winters of Ohio all too well, I can’t help but be in awe of how a change of scenery can completely shift your perspective on this time of year. Moving from those icy Ohio winters to the warmth of Tampa, I quickly realized that Florida winters were my dream come true!
No more frostbite warnings or snowed-in days! Instead, it’s all about sunny days, gentle breezes, and endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Trust me, once you experience winter in Florida, you’ll never want to leave!
Does it Snow in Florida?
While Florida’s reputation is often associated with endless sunshine and swaying palm trees, the notion of snow in this tropical paradise feels almost like a fantasy. The Sunshine State’s winters are more about mild breezes and temperate temperatures than snowy landscapes. Snowfall here is a rare spectacle.
That being said, it has snowed in Florida a handful of times throughout the years. The most recent snowfall was in the Florida Panhandle in January 2025!
Winter Months in Florida
When it comes to Florida’s winter wonderland, timing is everything. While the rest of the country is bundled up against the cold, Florida is soaking up its mild temps. The sweet spot of this season falls between December and February, making it the perfect escape for anyone looking to ditch the chill of winter elsewhere. Keep in mind the temps will vary a good amount depending on which area you visit! The further south, the better.
January is usually the coldest month in Florida. And by “cold,” I mean it’s relative—average highs hover between the low-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (18-23°C).
When I first moved here from Ohio, it was obvious I wasn’t from around here. I barely bundled up during Florida’s winter, and it felt like a treat compared to the brutal winters I was used to back north. Now, as a Floridian since 2017, anything below 65 degrees has me layering up like I’m prepping for a snowstorm!
Florida Winter Temperatures
Here is an idea of the winter temperatures in some of Florida’s major cities and regions, giving you a quick glimpse of what to expect during your winter escape:
Key West
- December
- Lows: Mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Low to mid-70s Fahrenheit
- January
- Lows: Mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Low to mid-70s Fahrenheit
- February
- Lows: Mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Low to mid-70s Fahrenheit
Miami
- December
- Lows: Mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit
- January
- Lows: Mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit
- February
- Lows: Mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit
Orlando
- December
- Lows: Low to mid-50s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Low to mid-70s Fahrenheit
- January
- Lows: Low to mid-50s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Low to mid-70s Fahrenheit
- February
- Lows: Low to mid-50s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Low to mid-70s Fahrenheit
Tampa Bay
- December
- Lows: Low to mid-50s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit
- January
- Lows: Low to mid-50s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit
- February
- Lows: Low to mid-50s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit
Panhandle
- December
- Lows: Low to mid-40s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Low to mid-60s Fahrenheit
- January
- Lows: Low to mid-40s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Low to mid-60s Fahrenheit
- February
- Lows: Low to mid-40s Fahrenheit
- Highs: Low to mid-60s Fahrenheit
These temperature ranges offer a glimpse into what you can generally expect across different parts of Florida during the winter months.
Things to Do in Florida in the Winter
Florida’s winter is a season of vibrant events, festive celebrations, and opportunities for exploration. Here are some highlights of what to do in Florida during the winter:
- Experience the magic of Disney World: Witness Disney World as it transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. From dazzling lights to themed parades and character meet-and-greets, it’s a magical time to visit this iconic destination.
- Festive atmosphere in the Florida Keys: The Florida Keys light up with holiday cheer, hosting a variety of events such as boat parades, light displays, and seasonal markets. Embrace the island spirit as you revel in the festivities.
- St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights: Step into a fairy tale as the historic streets of St. Augustine are illuminated by millions of twinkling lights. This annual event turns the city into a sparkling spectacle, perfect for a romantic stroll or family adventure.
- Witness the manatees: Head to places like Crystal River and Weeki Wachee (my favorite day trip from Tampa) to witness the magical sight of manatees seeking warmth in the state’s natural springs.
Tips for Visiting Florida in the Winter
- Pack light layers: While Florida’s winter is mild, temperatures can vary throughout the day. Pack a mix of light layers that you can easily put on or take off as needed.
- Sun protection: Even in the winter, Florida’s sun can be strong. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and sunglasses!
- Check event calendars: Research the local events and festivals happening during your visit. Whether it’s holiday celebrations, cultural happenings, or outdoor markets, you won’t want to miss out on the festivities.
- Make reservations: Popular attractions and restaurants can get busy during the winter months. Consider making reservations in advance to ensure you get to experience everything on your list.
- Embrace outdoor activities: Florida’s mild winters are perfect for outdoor adventures. Explore nature trails, enjoy water sports, or simply relax on the beach without the intense heat of summer!
- Be mindful of peak travel: Keep in mind that winter is a popular time for tourists in Florida. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during weekdays or slightly off-peak times.
- Stay hydrated: Even in cooler temperatures, staying hydrated is important. Carry a water bottle with you to ensure you’re drinking enough fluids throughout the day.
- Respect wildlife: Florida’s ecosystems are rich with wildlife. Whether you’re observing manatees or enjoying birdwatching, remember to maintain a respectful distance to protect both you and the animals.
Embracing the Florida Winter Experience
So, there you have it—winter in Florida is like a warm hug from the sun itself, with plenty of outdoor adventures and beach days to enjoy while everyone else is shoveling snow. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s the perfect time to soak up the sunshine, enjoy some mild temps, and say goodbye to the frigid winter blues. Here’s to living your best Florida winter life!
Be sure to check out all of my other Florida posts and follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny for more travel content 🙂
Unusual things to do in Key West
