travel florida december

Exploring the Gulf

15 Best Places to Visit in Florida in December in 2023 

Most people across the United States would likely agree that December is one of the busiest and most stressful months of the year. In the thick of the holiday season, facing freezing temperatures each day, you might be aching for a sunny getaway.

There are so many great places to visit in Florida in December, perfect for enjoying that Florida sunshine.

We love visiting Florida during the colder months to escape the freezing cold temperatures at home. It is nice to have a change of scenery and some extra sunshine. Come along with us as we break down the best places to visit in Florida in December. 

Best Places to Visit in Florida in December

1. orlando .

Orlando is one of the most popular family vacation destinations on the East Coast, and with good reason. Theme parks and day trips to the beach make this city a family fun spot for sure. 

Visiting Orlando, Florida, in December isn’t necessarily the best time to visit this part of the state because of holiday crowds. If you’re seeking a Vitamin D recharge, there’s no worry to fret; sunshine will be in abundance. And so will the crowds. 

Disney World and Downtown Disney will be decked out in holiday garb, so you’ll be sure to catch the Florida Christmas spirit if you spend some time there. Also, just because Florida doesn’t have snow doesn’t mean you have to abstain from some fun winter recreation. Check out the indoor tubing adventure at Orlando Gaylord Palms.

Plus, the drive out to Clearwater is short enough that you can have a beach day if you’d like.

Where to Stay in Orlando

Residence inn by marriott orlando.

⭐️ Rating 9.6/10 |📍 Location : 2111 Flagler Ave in Winter Garden  | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

Residence Inn by Marriott is a wonderful place to set up your home away from home while visiting Orlando. Guests can choose from either a spacious studio or a one-bedroom suite, depending on their specific party needs. Both styles of room feature a fully-equipped kitchen and extra seating.

This is an excellent choice for families spending Christmas in Florida, as the property has swimming pools and a complimentary breakfast. It’s also just a short walk away from many of the best Orlando attractions. 

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Residence Inn by Marriott Orlando  

2. Destin 

Destin, Florida, and the surrounding area have some of the best beaches in December. Destin beaches are stunning, and they provide a great and relaxing way to experience winter in Florida. 

Whether you decide to jump aboard a fishing charter, fly a beach kite , or go on a dolphin cruise, there are so many things to do in Florida in December. We always have such a great time when we visit Destin.

The water and beaches, especially those in Henderson Beach State Park , are beautiful. We camped in this state park during our last visit to Destin and had an amazing time. The beaches were not crowded, and my kids had fun completing the junior ranger program there.

Being in the northern part of the state, the weather here will be a bit cooler compared to some beaches further down the gulf and on the Atlantic Ocean Coast. But it’s still a wonderful warm beach escape and one of the best Florida Gulf Coast family vacation spots !

You can unwind and enjoy the sunshine while also keeping the family busy with so many things to do in Destin with kids !

Where to Stay in Destin

Courtyard fort walton beach – west destin.

⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍 Location : 414 Santa Rosa Blvd in Fort Walton Beach | 🏩 View on  Expedia.com

The Courtyard by Marriott has two really great things going on. Firstly, it’s affordable. And even more important, it’s on the beach! This price and location cannot be beat. 

Get ready to wake up to Gulf of Mexico views, with white sand and emerald waters! The hotel rooms are clean, modern, and comfortable. And they also have an on-site restaurant that is known to serve some amazing entrees. 

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Courtyard by Marriott  

3. Clearwater

Clearwater is lovely any time of the year and would make an excellent stop on a Florida road trip in December . Home to more than just amazing Gulf Coast views and stunning Clearwater Beach, your family will love all the kid-friendly activities this city offers. 

Clearwater is one of the best places in Florida to visit in December and a personal favorite of our family, thanks to the beautiful weather. With highs around 70°F, it’s warm but comfortable. This is the perfect type of weather to enjoy a kayak tour or sunset cruise , which are some of the best things to do in Clearwater.

All the foodies out there should be sure to check out Clearwater’s epic food scene. From trendy downtown restaurants to memorable breakfast spots , there’s no shortage of food choices in Clearwater! 

Where to Stay in Clearwater 

Sandpearl resort clearwater beach.

⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍 Location : 500 Mandalay Ave. in Clearwater Beach | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

Clearwater is known for its impressive family resorts , and Sandpearl Resort Clearwater Beach fits the bill for a good time. The spacious rooms have everything you look for in a comfortable living space. 

But the recreation deck really seals the deal for family fun. This space features grills and picnic areas where families can enjoy a meal together. 

If you’re traveling on a budget, there are many affordable Clearwater motels that offer amazing accommodations in great parts of town. Some of them are even pet-friendly motels , which come in handy for families who like to travel with pets. 

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Sandpearl Resort Clearwater Beach

4. Marco Island

We visited Marco Island in the winter and had a great time. My kids loved the beautiful, calm water and had a great time playing at the beach. With daily temperatures in the mid-70s, everyone was comfortable. It really is one of the best places to visit in Florida in December.  

Tigertail Beach is a wonderful place to spend a beach day while visiting Marco Island. The white sandy shores are perfect for shell hunting and beachcombing. We also love exploring the lagoon and mangrove trails. It’s a unique and fun adventure for our family, plus you can often spot some beautiful wildlife along the way.

After a fun day at the beach, grab some fresh seafood at one of the local Marco Island restaurants .

Where to Stay in Marco Island

Hilton marco island beach resort and spa.

⭐️ Rating 8.2/10 |📍 Location : 560 S Collier Blvd in Marco Island | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa is a lovely resort on Marco Island. It’s a 4-star hotel, so you can be sure to count on great accommodations. Some of the highlights of this place include the resort restaurant, impressive pool, kids club, and full-service spa.

This property really has all of the makings of a relaxing getaway. 

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa  

5. Miami 

Miami isn’t exactly a Christmas town in Florida, but the city would make for a perfect cultured winter getaway. It is not a beach town in the same way many others on this list are, but can still provide a fun family experience. Miami is a lively city brimming with art and food influenced by cultures around the world.

If you’re traveling with kiddos eager for beach time, A 20-minute drive outside of the city will get you to Miami Beach,  one of the warmest Florida beaches in December. You will have an amazing time playing with your kids and their beach toys in the sand at a variety of different beaches in the area.

With water temperatures in the mid to high 70s, it’s one of the best places to play in the water in Florida in winter. 

Where to Stay in Miami

The standard spa miami beach.

 ⭐️ Rating 8.4/10 | 📍 Location : 40 Island Ave. in Miami Beach | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

The Standard Spa Miami Beach is one of the most luxurious hotel options in the Miami area. The property is stunning and has amazing accommodations. Keep in mind this is an adults-only hotel, so it’s not a viable choice for family vacations with children.

That said, the beautiful pool, relaxing spa, and top-notch restaurant make for a very relaxing stay.

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at The Standard Spa Miami Beach  

6. Panama City 

Panama City is home to some of Florida’s best Gulf Coast beaches . Known for being a spring break party city, there are still many family-friendly ways to enjoy this city apart from the rowdy beach scene. 

St. Andrew’s State Park  is a great beach alternative if you’re looking to escape the crowds at Panama City Beach. Jetty Beach is an amazing spot to spend the day with your family.

Expect slightly cooler temperatures here because it’s in the Florida panhandle, as opposed to warmer cities in the southern portion of the state. 

If you’re brave enough to venture into the water, you can enjoy the sand and surf, snorkel in the lagoon, or maybe even ride a  boogie board. You can still enjoy the beach from the shore if you’d rather not get wet, shell hunting, or fishing. There’s so much to enjoy at this beautiful park, so grab your beach bag and enjoy! 

Panama City happens to be one of the best places in Florida to see dolphins. There are multiple dolphin tours available to book here, offering your family the chance to get out on the water and see these delightful and playful sea creatures. 

Where to Stay in Panama City 

Holiday inn resort panama city beach.

⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍 Location : 11127 Front Beach Rd. in Panama City |  🏩 View on Expedia.com

The Holiday Inn Resort is a nice hotel to consider if you’re planning to visit St Andrews State Park; it’s right down the road!  This location is well-reviewed and has all of the amenities you could need.

From beach access to a super convenient pool complex complete with a splash pad, you can’t find a better option for families traveling in this area. 

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach  

7. Everglades National Park 

Everglades National Park is an enormous park full of so much wildlife and wonder. It would be an amazing place to spend time together, exploring with your family in Florida in December. You can bike, hike, or take a waterway tour, the possibilities are endless in this Florida national park . 

The park offers three different convenient entrances, depending on where you are in the state: Homestead, Shark Valley (in Miami), and Gulf Coast (in Everglades City).

This park is one of the best places in Florida for viewing endangered species. You never know what you might see here, including the likes of Manatees, American crocodiles, and Florida panthers. Have fun exploring! 

Where to Stay near Everglades National Park 

Everglades adventures hotel suites by ivey house.

⭐️ Rating 9.2/10 | 📍 Location : 107 Camellia St E, Everglades City, FL | 🏩 View on Expedia

If you’re considering a visit to Everglade’s Gulf Coast entrance, Everglades Adventures Hotel Suites by Ivey House is a fantastic place to stay.  The rooms are perfect for traveling families. They include a full kitchen with a full-size refrigerator and microwave. Guest services are also super helpful with arranging tours to help you best enjoy your time in this area! 

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Everglades Adventures Hotel Suites

8. Key West 

Key West is beautiful, and it just so happens to be the warmest place in Florida in December as well. In short, you can’t lose with a stop here. If you’re chasing after the winter heat, this is definitely the place for you.

Smathers Beach is the perfect place to spend a lazy day on the beach in Key West. It’s the largest beach in this area, offering your family plenty of space to enjoy the beach however you’d like. 

If you want to make your time in Key West memorable, buckle up for an adventure to Dry Tortugas National Park. It’s one of the most unique national parks in Florida, requiring a 70-mile water journey on a ferry or with a tour to make your way to the secluded islands. 

Also, stop by the Key West Holiday Fest if you’re looking to take part in a little holiday cheer during your visit. The path around the harbor will be adorned with Christmas lights for all to enjoy. 

The drive through the Keys is absolutely amazing. The water is the most amazing color of blue.

Where to Stay in Key West

The palms hotel.

 ⭐️ Rating 8.2/10 | 📍 Location : 820 White St. in Key West | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

The Palms Hotel is a charming place to stay in Key West. If you’re someone who enjoys history, you’ll love this older property. The wrap-around porches are gorgeous, and the overall atmosphere of the space takes visitors back to old-time Key West. 

We also appreciate that this hotel offers a continental breakfast. It’s delicious and served under a cabana alongside the pool. You can’t beat starting a day in paradise that way!  

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at The Palms Hotel  

9. Seaside 

Seaside is an affluent resort community and one of the best places to visit the 30A beaches . It would make for a wonderful place to visit in Florida in December. We didn’t stay here but spent a good amount of time exploring this beautiful place and its beaches. This area is exceptionally beautiful. 

We were also very impressed by its urbanist design. All of the houses are soft pastel colored, with most being white. There are many access points to the beach throughout town, and we also loved the pavilions along the shoreline as well.

Be sure to check out Airstream Row, an Airstream food truck park, for some amazing food while you’re there! The snowcones alone make a visit worth it!

Where to Stay in Seaside 

There aren’t many hotels or resorts in Seaside. A vacation rental is your best option when traveling here, and VRBO has lots of rentals in the area. 

▶️ BROWSE VRBO Rentals  

Tampa is a buzzing metropolis, so if you’re looking for the fast-paced energy of the city with lots to do, see, and eat, this could be the best option for you. It is also just a short drive away from the beaches in Clearwater.

Busch Gardens and Zoo Tampa are your best bets for amusement-park-type fun with kids in this city. We have been to zoos all over the country, and Zoo Tampa is one of my absolute favorites. There are free rides for the kids, great animals, and an underwater exhibit for the manatees.

Tampa isn’t known for its beaches, especially due to bacteria in the water, but Ben T. Davis Beach makes for a fun place to have a picnic or play in the sand. Kids will certainly love exploring the Tampa Riverwalk, especially during this time of year when it will be decked out with Christmas lights. 

Where to Stay in Tampa

Grand hyatt tampa bay.

⭐️ Rating 8.4/10 | 📍 Location : 2900 Bayport Dr. in Tampa  | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay boasts clean rooms with top-of-the-line comforts. The large bay windows and terrace offer some of the best views of Tampa Bay. You can also grab a bite to eat at the convenient hotel restaurant and lounge in a hammock by the pool. Florida in December doesn’t get more relaxing than this! 

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay

11. Naples 

If you’re looking for a glamorous Floridian getaway in the middle of winter, then Naples might be for you. This city is very ritzy, known for its art galleries, fancy boutiques, and golf courses, but it’s not necessarily for everyone. 

Families will be able to find some serenity outside the glimmering city at Naples Pier or Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Celebration Park is a fun spot to enjoy the comfortable temperatures with a dinner outside from the local and varied food trucks. 

Where to Stay in Naples

Staybridge suites naples.

⭐️ Rating 9.2/10 |📍 Location : 9401 Triangle Blvd in Naples | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

Staybridge Suites Naples is a 3-star hotel that offers a free buffet breakfast. There are several room configurations (Studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom suites) available here, making it all the more convenient to find the perfect setup for your family’s winter getaway.

We love that the suites at this property include full kitchens. This makes all the difference when traveling with a family, especially over an extended period of time. We love being able to have the tools and space to prepare our own food when staying at a hotel. 

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Staybridge Suites Naples

12. St. Petersburg 

St. Petersburg is a charming Florida destination. It’s a good place to visit in December for families looking to enjoy the warm weather in a laid-back and relaxed fashion. St. Pete is not demanding or flashy, making it a great place to pause, reconnect with those you love, and take in some amazing scenery. 

St. Pete Pier is a fun place to explore the city and enjoy the sunshine. They even feature a fun Winter Beach set up during this time of year where families can go ice skating while taking in views of the ocean. Be sure to check out some of the amazing St. Pete downtown restaurants afterward! 

We often see dolphins right off the shore near the park and the pier, so make sure to visit that area leading up to sunset!

Where to Stay in St. Petersburg

Avalon hotel downtown st. petersburg.

⭐️ Rating 9.2/10 | 📍Location : 443 4th Avenue North in St. Petersburg | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

Avalon Hotel Downtown St. Petersburg is a simple yet nice place to stay when spending some time in St. Petersburg. The hotel rooms feature comfortable beds, free wifi, and flatscreen TVs. The property also has an outdoor pool for families to enjoy and a restaurant.

There’s also a beautiful garden that offers some stunning views of the bay, where your kids might enjoy playing. 

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Avalon Hotel Downtown St. Petersburg

13. Sarasota 

Sarasota combines natural beauty with a thriving arts and cultural scene. Siesta Key Beach, a beach we absolutely love, is renowned for its soft, powdery white sands and turquoise waters. Sarasota offers nature lovers opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife spotting at places like the Celery Fields and Myakka River State Park.

Sarasota is also a hub for the arts, with a vibrant downtown area filled with art galleries, boutiques, and gourmet restaurants. The Ringling Museum of Art, The Sarasota Opera House, and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall are all fascinating places to visit in town.

Sarasota is a beach town that offers a perfect blend of relaxation, inspiration, and cultural immersion. Making it a great place to recharge on a visit to Florida in December. 

Where to Stay in Sarasota 

Lido beach resort.

⭐️ Rating 8.4/10 | 📍 Location : 700 Benjamin Franklin Dr in Sarasota | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

Lido Beach Resort is a fun place to stay when exploring Sarasota with your family. This hotel has all the amenities parents want when traveling with their kids. First of all, there are two outdoor pools where the family can unwind anytime they see fit. 

Secondly, the rooms are soundproofed, so you’re better able to stick to a normal sleeping schedule. And they include a microwave and refrigerator, making keeping food on hand much easier. Top it all off with private beach access and on-site laundry facilities, and it’s a match made in heaven! 

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Lido Beach Resort

14. Sanibel Island 

It’s no secret that many people flock to Florida in December for the comforts of the beach in January , during the thick of winter. Sanibel Island has six public beaches, so there’s plenty to choose from here. Relax and rejuvenate on the sand or take to the island’s 25 miles of bike paths for some active fun. 

If you’ve got any shell collectors in your family, check out Bowman’s Beach and Blind Pass Beach for some real gems. And keep your eyes on the sky throughout the day too, as this is one of the best spots in Florida for birding! Every time we visit Sanibel, we can’t get over the amount of seashells everywhere.

Where to Stay near Sanibel Island 

Tween waters island resort & spa.

⭐️ Rating 8.6/10 | 📍 Location : 15951 Captiva Drive in Captiva | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa is almost like a mini-city. The plush rooms are spacious and comfortable. When you get hungry, your family can choose from three separate on-site restaurants. Not to mention the spa and hair salon where you can get prepped for your evening at the nightclub, all located right at the resort. 

The property also grants guests access to their own private beach, with picnic areas and grills nearby. There are also outdoor pools to enjoy for those moments when you decide to forgo the beach. Tween Waters is a winter wonderland of relaxation and enjoyment. 

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa

15. St. Augustine 

Given St. Augustine’s storied past, this is a great Florida destination to visit in December for history lovers. You can walk back to the 17th century with a visit to Castillo de San Marcos or climb to the top of Augustine’s Lighthouse to take in the city from above. 

Kids and holiday lovers, in general, will really enjoy a visit to St . Augustine in December. The city goes all out when it comes to decorating. Be sure to catch the Night of Lights display to really get into the Christmas cheer. 

We love the amazing architecture and history of St. Augustine, coupled with their beautiful beaches. Anastasia State Park is one of our favorite beaches to visit in the area.

Where to Stay in St. Augustine 

Southern oaks inn.

⭐️ Rating 8.8/10  |📍 Location : 2800 N. Ponce de Leon Blvd in St. Augustine | 🏩 View on Expedia.com

Southern Oaks Inn is a simple and cozy place to stay in St. Augustine. It has a great location near Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. The rooms and overall property are not flashy, but they are clean and comfortable. Families can enjoy the outdoor pool and free continental breakfast each morning. 

▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Southern Oaks Inn

Best Beaches in Florida in December 

Florida is a wonderful place to escape to during the cold winter months, thanks to the countless miles of coastline that stay warm and beautiful all year long.  Not all Florida beaches are created equal, though. It’s important to know that water temperatures will vary based on which area of the state you are visiting. 

Beaches in South Florida tend to be the warmest. Key West, Miami Beach, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale Beach are some of the warmest beaches in Florida in December. You can count on them having warm enough temperatures to enjoy the water in December. 

Pros of Visiting Florida in December 

There are some major advantages to visiting Florida in December. Many of them are weather-related. Florida is naturally very humid, and with high temperatures throughout most of the year, the climate can be too much for some travelers to handle. Temperatures in December are still warm but cool enough that they offer a reprieve for those who don’t handle high temperatures well. 

Florida is also known for some amazing holiday celebrations in Orlando and other parts of the state. The lights and festivities are reason enough to visit Florida in December. 

Cons of Visiting Florida in December 

Visiting Florida in December also has its downsides. Because so many are desperate for a sunny escape in the best places to visit in Florida in December, this is a very busy tourist month for Florida. With the influx of visitors comes the rise in travel and hotel expenses, making it one of the most expensive times to visit the Sunshine State. 

And though the beaches are beautiful year-round, the lower temperatures do impact the level of enjoyment you can experience in the water. Many of the Gulf Coast and Atlantic beaches will have a comfortable water temperature, but others may be too cold to swim, surf and or snorkel in. 

Florida in December Weather 

When it comes to Florida temperatures in December, it all depends on which part of the state you are visiting. While still warm, the panhandle and overall northern portion of the state usually has an average temperature of 63°F for the high. Not the most enjoyable beach day temperature. 

You can expect the more southern portion of the state to have a warmer average at 76°F, which makes all the difference when looking to enjoy water sports and other outdoor activities. 

FAQ: Best Places to Visit in Florida in December 

What Part of Florida is Best to Visit in December? 

Key West is the warmest spot to visit in December. The Florida Keys offer beautiful weather and awesome family activities, making it one of the best places to visit in Florida in December. 

Is December a Good Month to Go to Florida?

December is a good month to visit Florida if you’re looking for a sunny escape. It’s also a busy and expensive time to vacation there. 

What Part of Florida is Warmest in December? 

The southern part of the state is the warmest region to visit in December. 

Are Any Beaches in Florida Warm in December?

There are many warm beaches in Florida in December and January . Key West and Miami Beach in South Beach are some of the warmest and most enjoyable. 

Conclusion: Best Places to Visit in Florida in December 

We hope this guide will help you as you make plans for a getaway in Florida in December. We love visiting Florida and exploring all it has to offer as a family. Have fun making family memories wherever you decide to visit out of the best places to visit in Florida in December.

Candice Steele is the owner of Exploring the Gulf, a blog that helps travelers explore the Gulf Coast Region in the United States. Since 2015, she and her family have been providing valuable insider tips about travel experiences suitable for families traveling to the Gulf Coast. They love exploring the beaches and small coastal towns in this area.

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Florida in December: Everything You Need to Know

Taking a trip to Florida in December and need some help with weather, things to do, events, beaches, and more? Our staff of Florida locals has created the perfect guide for you!

If you’re visiting this month, chances are high that you’re here for the holidays. And while Florida doesn’t offer the snowy Christmas atmosphere that you’d find in states further north, it’s got lots of unique things to entertain you this season.

We created this big guide to Sunshine State in December so you can get the most out of your trip.

If you’re used to white Christmases, this time of the year in Florida will be one of the most interesting holiday experiences you’ve ever had.

This article is part of Roundtript’s series of expert Florida travel guides for every month of the year.

For a summary of each Florida month & season all in one place, check out our big guide to the Best Times of the Year to Visit Florida .

Florida in December Pros

• Weather is more favorable
• Golf is excellent, though busy
• Lots of holiday festivities all over the state

Florida in December Cons

• This month is more crowded
• Traveling prices are higher
• Beaches and oceans are colder

Florida Weather in December

In December, Florida temperatures are likely to vary. In the Northern part of the state (Central Florida to the Panhandle) average daily highs in December will be around 63°F (17.7°C) and lows will be about 43°F (6.1°C). In the Southern part (Central Florida to the Keys) average highs will be closer to 76°F (24.4°C).

December weather in Florida will be cooler, but usually never truly cold. The humidity is typically waning at this point, with very low chance of showers and almost never a chance of snow. The wind will pick up on occasion, but for the most part expect cool and dry days and nights.

Florida is the only place in the United States that maintains a subtropical to tropical climate all year round.

When packing, it’s best to bring a variety of layers as the mornings will start cold and get warm throughout the day, then turn back to cold in the evenings.

December Florida Weather Cheat Sheet

Florida affordability & crowds in december.

December crowds in Florida will vary depending on which region you visit this month. However, December tends to be a bit busier across the board since the holidays are underway. Most parts of Florida will experience the hype of the season, especially in medium to large cities.

The places where you’ll experience the biggest influx of visitors will be in towns that are popular with “snowbirds” who usually arrive in October and stay through May. Places like St. Petersburg and Clearwater, Naples, Fort Myers and Hollywood, FL, will see some of the largest amounts of winter visitors, while the big cities like Orlando, Jacksonville and Miami will just be busy in general.

It should come as no surprise that Florida travel rates will be a little pricier this time of year, though you can still find cheaper options available. Decent hotels in Orlando will range from $175 – $300 per night, hotels in Tampa will range from $150 – $250 per night, and the more populous city of Miami will see rates from $250 – $450 per night.

Best Things to Do in Florida in December

Visit st. augustine.

St. Augustine is considered to be the oldest city in the United States, first founded by the Spanish in 1565. To this day, it remains marked by Spanish architecture and history in it’s beautifully preserved buildings and homes, The Castillo de San Marcos fortress and Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth.

The city is a truly remarkable place to vacation at all times of the year, with lovely beachfront lodging on St. Augustine, Flagler and Crescent beaches, historical tours, delicious restaurants, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum and Colonial Quarter in Historic Downtown .

At Christmas, this old city will dazzle with Nights of Lights all season long. Residents and visitors walk or drive over 20 blocks through the Historic District to see the gorgeous lights draped over buildings from rooftop to foundation. There’s also the Holiday Regatta of Lights ; a sensational lighted boat parade on Matanzas Bay. The St. Augustine Ballet also performs the Nutcracker and the Lighthouse hosts families for arts & crafts and a chance to meet Santa.

Visit Tampa Bay

The Tampa Bay region of Florida is comprised of Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater. As the cities have grown, visitors from outside the area still view this region as an easily accessible cluster of cities. However, each lays about 30-45 minutes from each other and is vastly different. On New Year’s Eve, parties are being hosted at restaurants and big attractions in each city and firework displays can be viewed on the water all along the Bay.

Tampa is the largest city in Tampa Bay and is most well-known for it’s historic Cuban culture in Ybor City, for the annual Gasparilla flotilla and as the home of the Tampa Bay Lightning. The food scene serves all tastes from upscale to downhome and the fun nightlife takes places at the walkable restaurants on Howard Avenue. During the holidays, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park transforms into Winter Village, the Tampa Riverwalk hosts a lighted boat parade, The Nutcracker is performed at the Straz Center and you can meet Santa at the Florida Aquarium.

St. Petersburg is the second largest and has a completely different atmosphere. The city is known for it’s award-winning beaches, historic places and overall casual vibes. St. Pete has an extremely relaxed approach to life and fun, which is best witnessed in their many eclectic shops and restaurants in the downtown area. In December, the Sundial hosts free photos with Santa and snow falls every night, Snowfest is at North Straub Park , The Florida Orchestra performs at the Mahaffey Theatre and the Dali Museum will have special holiday displays.

Clearwater is the beachiest of the three cities, well-known among tourists as a beach vacation destination. In some areas, Clearwater has similar vibes to the Key West beach style, with more shopping, dining and live entertainment. In addition to the white sandy beaches, consider seeing the Holidays at Clearwater Marine Aquarium and Downtown hosts a Holiday Extravaganza .

Stay in Celebration

Celebration is Walt Disney Resort’s very own city, located only a couples miles from the theme parks and built with traditional American architecture. Residents have built a solid neighborhood tradition of Christmas festivities throughout the entire month of December. Celebration is a small 10 mile stretch of land, but there are plenty cute AirBnB rentals and hotels to stay in with access to Walt Disney World.

The town’s biggest draw during the holidays is Celebration’s Winter Wonderland , taking place at Town Center. Snow falls every single night, carriages pull festive riders along the streets, light shows take place on the buildings and ice skating is open to the public. Lakeside Park also puts on a Holiday Fest, where makeshift snow hills allow kids and adults to sled and tube to their heart’s content.

In addition to the fun in this small community, you have access to all that Walt Disney World has to offer. During December, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is going on in Magic Kingdom, Festival of the Holidays is taking place in Epcot and Disney Springs (formerly Downtown Disney), which is free to the public, has a Christmas Tree Trail , live entertainment and holiday magic around the shopping center.

Golfing is a popular past time all across the state of Florida and there are many resorts and cities with great courses. Some of the best you’ll find in December are down in South Florida where the weather remains temperate through the Winter, though there are some excellent courses in Central and North Florida that are hard to pass up.

One of the best under-the-radar recommendations is Streamsong Resort & Spa in Central Florida. It’s a little out of the way located on old phosphate property, so prepare to make this a vacation in and of itself. Streamsong is the perfect golf retreat featuring several high-class courses, with the Red course being it’s most popular and favorable. The resort is built for ultimate relaxation whether you play golf or prefer the spa treatments.

Another great choice is the Tournament Players Club at Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach toward the Northwestern part of Florida. It’s a 400-acre property beloved by some of golf’s most well-known pros who use it for the Tournament Players Championship each year. It’s self-described as the world headquarters of professional golf, which makes it an excellent place for a golf trip.

Visit Ocala

Ocala is a lowkey destination in the Northern Central part of Florida, known for it’s abundance of horse farms, expert equestrian trainers and race tracks. It’s humbly renowned as the Horse Capital of the World. December marks the start of the Ocala Winter Circuit , a competition that lasts through March. Every week hosts a different equestrian competition with prizes ranging from $50k to $1mil.

Many of the over 1,200 horse farms located in Ocala will offer tours and horseback rides for families and groups. They also offer feeding and carriage rides for special occasions. But horse farms aren’t the only entertainment around this vast area; Ocala is also home to some of the most beautiful natural habitats in inland Florida.

Tourists will revel in the landscapes of both Silver Springs State Park and Ocala National Forest , featuring natural springs, waterways and tree-lined wetlands. Ocala also has Juniper Springs , Rainbow Springs State Park and KP Hole Park . At Christmas, Circle Square Commons will have a radiant light display, the Ocala Christmas Parade will march through downtown and guests can cut down their own Christmas tree at Ocala National Forest.

Best Florida Beaches in December

Beaches in Florida are always a good time, no matter the season, but December will tend to be a bit colder and windier than other times of the year. We’ve ranked the best beaches by weather in December for you to consider on your vacation around Christmastime.

Treasure Coast: Best All-Around

The Treasure Coast is located just above Miami’s beaches and has some of the warmer temperatures – about 75.9°F (24.4°C) – you can experience in Florida in December. The cities that make up this area include West Palm and Palm Beach, popular beach towns known for glamorous residences on pristine white sands. There are many things to do in this area, making it a nice place to vacation.

Our top beach recommendations in this area are West Palm, Delray, Pompano, Palm Beach, and Boca Raton. All feature slightly different styles. Delray Beach not only has excellent beaches, but has a booming arts district. Pompano Beach has multiple diving sights to explore coral reefs and shipwrecks. Boca Raton is great for recreational activities like golf and shopping.

Gold Coast: Bustling Beaches

The Gold Coast is located in the southwest side of Florida, comprised of the Miami and Fort Lauderdale areas. Miami has the highest temperatures in Florida all year round, making it the top destination for December visitors who are looking to avoid the cold. The beaches in this area are very popular with tourists, so expect them to be fairly crowded, with water temps at 74.7°F (23.7°C).

Our top recommendations for Gold Coast beaches include Las Olas Beach, Miami Beach and South Beach. The best part about visiting this area is cruising down Ocean Drive, choosing from a wide variety of dining and hotel options and enjoying the night life in the city. Not to mention the vast number of holiday events going on in this busy metropolis.

The Florida Keys: Best Weather

The Keys are an extremely popular destination all year round, and January is no exception. January offers a winter reprieve for snowbirds and tourists alike, so the Keys will also be packed with visitors this time of year. The water averages 74.5°F (23.6°C). Our favorite spots include beaches on Key West, Key Largo and Marathon, as well as Bahia Honda State Park and the Dry Tortugas National Park.

Some fun and unique things to do in this area include exploring historical places like the Hemingway House, the old civil war base at Fort Zachary Taylor and getting a picture at the Southernmost Point. We highly recommend flying in for those looking to do an extended weekend in the Keys, but driving from Miami will give you some of the most scenic ocean views you’ve ever witnessed.

Space Coast

The Space Coast is located slightly north of Orlando on the Atlantic side of the state. Known as the home of Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral and the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop in Cocoa Beach, this area has been a popular Spring Break destination for decades. While the beaches don’t rock as much as they did in the early 2000’s, tourists still enjoy what the Space Coast has to offer.

December will be cooler on the Space Coast, with the water temperatures averaging 73.4°F (23°C) which is cold to Floridians, but vacationers may not mind. The best beaches on the Space Coast are Melbourne, Cocoa Beach and Daytona Beach. All have a very similar structure and atmosphere, so choosing your location may be based on their proximity to Orlando – in which case Cocoa will be your best option.

Paradise Coast

The Paradise Coast is opposite of the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area, featuring a more natural habitat and relaxing environment for winter visitors and older audiences. The area tends to be a most appealing setting for snowbirds, with lots of events and activities within a serene atmosphere. It’s also the closest coast to the Everglades, giving visitors a range of options and adventures for their Winter vacation.

The popular spots will be busy this time of year, but might not be hopping with people like you’d see in those previously mentioned. The waters are cool and clear, averaging 71.2°F (21.8°C). The top destinations on this coast are Marco Island, Naples, and Fort Myers.

Cultural Coast

We are most partial to the Cultural Coast as it’s been the favorite summer destination for our families since before we were born. In December, the water and weather will be slightly cooler than you’d experience farther South. The beaches are beautiful here, but the water will average 68.5°F (20.3°C).

Our best suggestions for visiting the Cultural Coast are Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key, Siesta Key and Sanibel Island. Anna Maria Island is the picturesque beach town with a very relaxed atmosphere that encourages walking and biking around the island. Longboat Key on the other hand puts on more of the ritz. Siesta Key has recreational accommodations for the whole family and Sanibel has a great natural habitat in the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Preserve.

The Sun Coast is north of the Cultural Coast on the Gulf side of the state, with similar weather to the Cultural Coast with water temps at 68.5°F (20.3°C). The Sun Coast boasts Tampa Bay’s best beaches, including Dunedin, Clearwater and St. Pete Beach. While these beaches are heavily marketed and popular with tourists, the coasts mentioned above will have more pristine offerings and lodging.

Our best recommendations for this area are to visit Caladesi Island State Park or Honeymoon Island State Park. Both require ferry trips from the mainland in Dunedin. These well-preserved state parks have designated dog-friendly areas, picnic tables and walking paths to take in the natural island habitats. You’re guaranteed to see gopher tortoises, sea turtles and ocean birds with every visit to these islands.

First Coast

The First Coast is Florida’s coldest coast on the Atlantic side, featuring the historical cities and beaches of St. Augustine, Jacksonville and the Sea Islands. The water temperatures in the month of December will be about 66.4°F (19.1°C). Visitors to this area will love the historical aspects of this region even more so than the beaches themselves this time of year.

St. Augustine is known as Florida’s oldest city and has many landmarks to explore, including the Castillo de San Marcos fort. Jacksonville is Florida’s most populous city with many parks, gardens and museums to experience. Amelia Island is the perfect escape for a luxury resort stay with upscale golf courses and shopping districts.

Emerald Coast

The Emerald Coast makes up Florida’s panhandle from Pensacola to Tallahassee. This coast will experience the coldest temperatures in Florida during the Winter, so expect December water temperatures to be around 64.4°F (18°C). Despite the colder weather, the Emerald Coast has a lot to offer in the month of December.

Our top beach recommendations in this area are Pensacola, South Walton Island, Destin and Panama City. Swimming may not be your top option this month, but beach walks and inland activities will make a great vacation. Pensacola has many museums to visit, while Panama City has several state parks to experience. South Walton has a great art scene and Destin has excellent golf courses and other recreational activities.

Top Florida Attractions in December

Walt disney world.

Walt Disney World is the vacation capital of the world, therefore it’s Florida’s biggest attraction . Walt Disney World is comprised of four different theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom) and two water parks (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon). Disney is located outside of Orlando in Lake Buena Vista. In the month of December, the weather will be cool but dry and the parks will be very crowded.

Lots of park goers, whether they be locals or tourists, are at Disney this month to see all the Christmas festivities. Disney resorts are glittering with decorations and every single park is adorned with twinkling lights and festive decor.

The top events this month will be the Festival of the Holidays in Epcot, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in Magic Kingdom and the Flurry of Fun show in Hollywood Studios. By far, the most well-attended is the Christmas Party, which is a separately ticketed nighttime event with special shows, a parade, character meet and greets, as well as a firework spectacular.

Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando is Disney’s biggest rival, featuring two different theme parks (Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure) along with one water park (Volcano Bay). It’s located on the outskirts of Orlando and has it’s own resort accommodations for guests to enjoy. The parks are known for movie-themed roller coasters, rides and attractions for all ages.

Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort are going on with the entire park decorated for Christmas. There are special shows, menu items and character meet and greets going on throughout the park for all attendees to experience.

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld is most popular for it’s aquatic animals, shows and coasters. It’s very close to Universal Orlando and makes a great full day of entertainment. SeaWorld has recently added big roller coasters like Manta and Mako to up their thrill game for older audiences. There is plenty for people of all ages to enjoy inside this ocean-themed park.

SeaWorld Christmas Celebration kicked off in November through December full of holiday traditions, special treats, live entertainment, and more for families and people of all ages.

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is the biggest theme park in the Tampa Bay area, located in north Tampa. It’s a great option for a full day to add into your weeklong vacation in Tampa, St. Petersburg or Clearwater, about 15 miles from the Tampa International Airport. Howl-O-Scream, Tampa Bay’s Bier Fest

Busch Gardens is known for it’s big coasters, like Cheetah Hunt and Kumba, along with it’s African themed animal habitats where guests can see wildlife in designated areas. Busch Gardens Christmas Celebration is going now through January, including a Winter Wonderland experience filled with Santa and friends, Christmas lights and holiday treats and entertainment.

Legoland is one of Florida’s newest theme parks located in Winter Haven, right in the middle of Central Florida. As you can imagine, Legoland is entirely themed after these popular little toy blocks which have inspired movies, roller coasters and water rides. There’s even a Lego resort where you can stay on vacation.

Holidays at Legoland is underway in December, inviting guests to join in the Lego fun with festive decor, delicious food and special friends like Lego Santa, the Tin Man and the Gingerbread Man.

Gatorland is a lesser known amusement park when compared to the likes of Walt Disney World and Universal, but a popular attraction nonetheless. Visitors love to learn more about Florida’s swamp creatures and natural habitat in this fun experience. Gatorland is south of Orlando and offers ziplining fun, off-road adventures and petting areas. It doesn’t typically do a Christmas-themed event in December, but you’ll likely find holiday specials on ticket prices.

December Events in Florida

Santa’s enchanted forest.

Touted as the “World’s Largest Holiday Theme Park” , this Miami event is filled with joy for people of all ages. For an entire month, guests can ride rollercoasters, see live entertainment, enjoy holiday treats and special foods, view twinkling lights and meet the big man himself.

Pensacola Winterfest

Pensacola’s Winterfest is a flurry of fun for families with young children to come meet Santa Claus and choose between two different experiences of entertainment. The Polar Express Tour is a fun event taking inspiration from the motion-picture’s hot chocolate scene and the brand new Cajun Christmas takes you on a tram ride to meet Papa Noel who will read a Cajun fairytale book by candlelight.

Ice! at the Gaylord Resort

This event held at the Gaylord Resort in Orlando every holiday season has been a popular experience that thousands of guests have thrilled to see. Ice! has a different theme each year, taking you on a walk through ice castles and sculptures inside the resort lobby. This huge display is kept up for over a month and visitors are given giant parkas upon entry.

Key West Holiday Fest

What Key West lacks in snow and that general White Christmas feeling, it makes up for with a spectacular display of lights around town. The Harbor Walk of Lights is aglow each evening throughout the month honoring the maritime history of the Keys. There’s an historic holiday inn tour and pets can even take pictures with Santa.

West Palm Beach lights up with the annual Sandi Land . “Sandi” is the lovingly bestowed name for the city’s Christmas tree made entirely of sand. The spectacle of this artist creation is only part of the event – the whole month is booked with light shows, meeting Santa, a Plein Air fair, pancake breakfast and a sing-along storytime for children.

Nights of Lights

St. Augustine hosts this annual holiday event showcasing this city’s beautiful holiday light display, which adorns nearly every building with Spanish architecture in the downtown area. This enormous display can be seen for free every night from mid-November through early January.

“Merry and Bright”

The Orlando Museum puts on this special showcase featuring the Festival of Trees . The trees are elegantly decorated with different themes and accompanied by various vignettes, gingerbread houses, Christmas wreaths and other accessories on display. Not only can you view these items at the museum – all of them are available for purchase so you can take the lovely decor home!

New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve events are happening in every single city across the state, some elaborate and some modest, but all fun and enjoyable for all. Depending on where you end up, check out the local events to see where the New Year will be celebrated in town with either fireworks or a big party.

We told you there’d be plenty to do on a December vacation to Florida! Whether you choose to stay in a coastal city to experience Christmas on the beach, visit the theme parks for the ultimate holiday or select a more relaxing environment for the season, you’re sure to have a Christmas to remember.

Let us know if you choose to visit Florida in December and tell us your thoughts on how the trip went!

Florida in November: Everything You Need to Know

The Best Times to Visit Florida (Month-by-Month Travel Tips)

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18 Warmest Beaches In Florida In December To Visit

Looking for the warmest beaches in Florida in December to escape the chilly winter? Then you’re in the right place as we’ll look at 18 of them in this post!

When you imagine a December getaway, freezing temperatures, and snow-covered landscapes might be the first thing that comes to mind.

But what if we told you there’s a place where you can trade your winter coat for a swimsuit and soak up the sun instead?

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That’s right! In the Sunshine State, temperatures stay comfortably between the mid-60s and the high 70s, making it the perfect beach destination for a December winter escape.

Whether you’re looking for a tranquil retreat or an action-packed holiday, Florida has something for everyone. From the lively South Beach in Miami to the peaceful Smathers Beach on Key West, you’ll find an array of warm Florida beaches to select from.

But before we look at the warmest beaches in Florida in December, you should know what the general temperature in Florida is!

Weather in Florida in December

Florida’s weather is generally mild and pleasant in December, providing an ideal escape from the winter cold in other parts of the country.

Thanks to its southern location, the weather stays warm, but keep in mind that there are variations across the state.

Major cities like Miami in South Florida, get high temperatures in the mid-70s (°F), while cities in Central Florida, such as Orlando, see temperatures in the upper 60s to low 70s.

In North Florida, cities like Destin , Jacksonville, and Tallahassee experience slightly cooler temperatures, with highs in the low to mid-60s.

Also, beach temperatures vary depending on the location but typically range from mid-60s to high 70s!

Southern Florida beaches like Miami Beach and Smather Beach on Key West enjoy the warmest temperatures, while Northern Florida beaches tend to be a bit cooler. Generally, the farther south you go, the warmer the beaches are!

However, even if the temperatures are cooler in December in Florida compared to summer months, it’s still warm enough to hit the beach and engage in various outdoor activities.

You may not find many locals swimming in December but travelers from the Northern part of the country will probably be basking in the sun because, to them, the weather is still very much “swimmable”!

Just remember to pack a jacket and an umbrella because temperatures fall considerably at night and there is a chance of rain, though it averages between 2-3 inches. You can check out our complete Florida packing list to know exactly what to pack!

Now that you know what the weather is like, let’s look at the warm beaches in December in Florida that are worth visiting.

Warmest Beaches in Florida in December

Here is a list of our favorite warm beaches in Florida in December to visit!

1. South Beach, Miami

South Beach is not only the most famous beach in Miami but also the warmest beach in Florida in December!

Located in the heart of Miami Beach, this vibrant beach sees temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s, making it the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy various outdoor activities.

On top of its white sand beach and warm waters, South Beach offers plenty of amenities, including changing rooms, restrooms, and lifeguard services. It also has a lively atmosphere with lots of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options nearby.

While here, you can participate in various water sports like jet skiing or paddleboarding, or take some cool Miami Instagram photos with its many colorful lifeguard towers.

What makes South Beach even more popular is its iconic colorful Art Deco buildings and the famous Ocean Drive which add a touch of charm and history to your visit.

2. Smathers Beach, Key West

Located on the Eastern shore of Key West, Smathers Beach is the largest public beach in the area and it boasts warm temperatures in December, ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s.

Lined with picturesque palm trees, the beach offers a serene atmosphere for sunbathing, swimming, or taking leisurely strolls along the shore.

The shallow, warm waters of Smathers Beach also provide a safe environment for water activities like kayaking, sailing, paddle boarding, and parasailing, making it an ideal spot for families.

There is also a watersport shop conveniently located nearby, offering equipment rentals and lessons for those looking to make the most of their beach day.

Other amenities at Smathers Beach include restrooms, showers, parking, volleyball courts, and food trucks.

However, it’s worth noting that the beach sometimes has a lot of seaweed which gives off an unpleasant odor.

But despite its minor drawbacks, Smathers Beach remains one of the best beaches in Florida in December for those seeking a relaxing and enjoyable day in Key West.

3. Fort Lauderdale Beach, Fort Lauderdale

One of the warm places to visit in December in Florida is Fort Lauderdale and if you’re looking to hit the beach, Fort Lauderdale Beach will not disappoint thanks to its warm temperatures that oscillate between high 60s and mid-70s.

Boasting over 7 miles of sandy oceanfront lined with picturesque palm trees, this beach provides an inviting atmosphere for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games.

The beach features crystal clear waters and pleasant waves creating an enjoyable environment for water activities. However, be aware of the occasional strong southern current, especially if you’re visiting with small children.

There is also has a scenic boardwalk brimming with numerous eateries and shops if you need to buy something.

Some of the amenities at this beach include restrooms, showers, parking, lifeguard services, and beach chair and umbrella rentals, though they can be quite pricey.

4. Tigertail Beach, Marco Island

Tigertail Beach , situated on Marco Island offers warm temperatures in December with an average of 74 °F.

This expansive beach is known for its sparkling white sand, crystal clear waters, and an abundance of seashells making it a beachcomber’s paradise.

A unique feature of Tigertail Beach is its lagoon . To reach the beach from the parking area, you can choose to wade through the shallow lagoon which is a shorter route, or take a much longer walk around it. Either way, the journey adds an element of adventure to your beach day.

We recommend bringing water shoes for the lagoon crossing and some insect repellent to keep the bugs at bay.

A haven for nature enthusiasts, the beach offers plenty of opportunities for bird and wildlife watching with species like herons, and ospreys.

Tigertail Beach is also well-equipped with amenities such as restrooms, showers, picnic areas, a playground, and a concession stand offering food and beach gear rentals.

5. Clearwater Beach, Clearwater

Besides the warm temperatures that hover around low 70s, its wide shoreline, powdery white sand, and inviting turquoise waters are what make Clearwater Beach one of the warmest beaches in Florida in December worth visiting.

While here, can indulge in a range of water activities as the beach offers excellent conditions for parasailing, jet skiing, and snorkeling.

Like most of the warm beaches in Florida in December on this list, Clearwater Beach usually gets crowded, especially on the weekends, so the best way to beat the crowds is by either visiting on a weekday or basing yourself on the north side of the beach since it’s quieter and offers a more relaxed vibe, while the south side is usually bustling with crowds.

Also, as the sun sets, the beach comes alive with street performers putting on awe-inspiring acts adding an element of entertainment to your beach day and artisans lining the pier to sell hand-made items like soap, jewelry, photos, etc, in what is known as the Sunsets at Pier 60 Festival .

However, the real spectacle happens when the sun dips below the horizon creating a truly epic sunset.

Clearwater Beach also has various amenities including restaurants nearby and the ability to rent beach chairs, cabanas, and umbrellas. However, these can be quite pricey. Additionally, parking is costly and challenging due to the beach’s popularity, so plan accordingly.

The beach also has various hotels lining the shore providing convenient accommodation options for visitors.

Despite the crowd and higher costs, the beach’s beautiful surroundings and lively atmosphere make Clearwater Beach a must-visit when looking for warm Florida beaches.

6. Crandon Beach Park, Key Biscayne

If you want to escape the bustles of Miami while still enjoying warm temperatures, then head to Crandon Beach Park in Key Biscayne.

Covering over 800 acres, this park is a haven for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike.

The non-touristy beach at Crandon Park provides a tranquil setting for visitors looking to unwind, while the warm December temperatures are perfect for beach activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, or simply lounging on the sand.

But Crandon Park is more than just a beach! Its extensive green spaces are perfect for picnics, walking, or biking.

There are even path walks meandering through the park making it an excellent spot for leisurely strolls with the backdrop of Miami’s skyline adding to the scenic charm.

You’ll also be happy to know that the park is well-equipped with public bathrooms and showers, picnic tables, grills, concession stands, and a variety of sports facilities, including a golf course, volleyball courts, and tennis courts.

7. Turner Beach, Captiva

Turner Beach on Captiva Island is a hidden gem for those seeking a more tranquil beach experience.

With December temperatures often ranging from high 60s to mid-70s, it’s an idyllic spot for a winter beach vacation.

Turner Beach is particularly loved for its wide, sandy shore and clear waters, and its uncrowded nature provides a perfect setting for those wanting to soak up the sun in a more peaceful environment.

One of the highlights of this beach is its shelling opportunities. A stroll along the beach often rewards visitors with an array of unique and colorful shells making it a beachcomber’s delight.

There is also a chance of seeing some dolphins and manatees for those looking for places to see manatees in Florida !

Besides wildlife viewing and shelling, the beach is also a popular spot for fishing. Anglers can often be seen casting their lines from the shore but swimming and sunbathing are other favorite activities at this beach.

Though Turner Beach has a more remote feel, there are still some facilities available for convenience, including restrooms and picnic tables. Parking is also available but can fill up quickly during peak times, so make sure you arrive early.

8. Bonita Beach Park, Bonita Springs

One of Florida’s warmest beaches in December is Bonita Beach Park in Bonita Springs. It’s got temperatures hovering around 65 °F and 72 °F while much of the country is freezing.

But the park is more than just a beach. It’s a place where you can do as much or as little as you want.

Feel like kicking back and soaking up the sun? There’s plenty of white sand for that though it’s mixed with broken shells, so you might want to carry beach shoes.

More in the mood for some fun and games? The beach volleyball courts have got you covered, but you can also go on a hunt for shells if you’re more into shelling!

The Gulf waters are pretty amazing too — calm, clear, and perfect for a swim. If you’ve got kids in tow, they will love the playground that’s just off the beach.

What’s more, Bonita Beach Park is super convenient. There are picnic areas for when you’re feeling peckish, restrooms nearby, and a bunch of cool shops and eateries just a short walk away.

And if you stay till evening, you’ll be treated to one of the most beautiful sunsets in Florida!

9. Blind Pass Beach, Sanibel

When it comes to escaping December’s chill, Blind Pass Beach also known as Middle Beach , is an easy choice. With temperatures usually between high 60s and mid-70s, you can trade in snow boots for flip-flops.

Blind Pass Beach is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s less crowded than some of the other warm Florida beaches which means that you can have a slice of paradise pretty much to yourself.

The beach itself is a wide stretch of soft, white sand, perfect for laying down your towel and catching some rays.

But there’s more to Blind Pass Beach than just lounging around. The waters of the Gulf of Mexico are calm and clear — great for a swim.

And if you’re into shell and shark teeth collecting, you’re in for a treat. The beach is known for its abundance of shells and shark teeth, so you can have a fun time hunting for unique finds.

It also has amenities like restrooms, showers, and even a parking lot. And while there aren’t any restaurants right on the beach, you’ll find some great options just a short drive away, or you can bring your own food!

For adventure enthusiasts, Blind Pass Beach has a bayside lagoon with a fishing dock, mangrove trails, kayak launch, and walking trails to keep you occupied all day.

10. Delray Public Beach, Delray Beach

Next on our list of the warmest beaches in Florida in December is Delray Public Beach or Delray Municipal Beach as sometimes called.

With December temperatures favorably averaging 75 °F, it’s a warm welcome for any beach enthusiast.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill beach. Delray Public Beach offers a roomy stretch of sand for sunbathers, avid readers, or anyone seeking a serene place to unwind and the gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean are ideal for a refreshing dip.

While it doesn’t have so many amenities, you’ll still find restrooms and showers, lifeguards on duty, and restaurants and shops just across the street.

So, if you’re looking for the best Florida beaches in December to escape the cold, Delray Public Beach is one of them!

11. Honeymoon Island State Park, Dunedin

At an average temperature of 72°F, Honeymoon Island State Park is one of the warmest Florida beaches in December.

The park is home to 4 miles of pristine beach with soft white sand and warm Gulf waters that are perfect for a winter sun escape.

But the fun at Honeymoon Island State Park extends beyond the beach. With a three-mile trail that meanders through one of the last remaining virgin slash pine forests in South Florida, it’s also a haven for nature lovers.

Keep your eyes peeled as you explore — you might spot osprey nests, great horned owls, armadillos, or even a rare gopher tortoise. If you’re lucky, you might even see some dolphins and manatees swimming by.

Other activities to enjoy at Honeymoon Island State Park include fishing, picnicking, paddling, shelling, and biking. You can even take the onsite ferry to venture further to Caladesi Island .

There are also plenty of amenities here from picnic pavilions, bathhouses, a park concession, a playground, to a pet beach.

One drawback about this beach, however, is that the water has a lot of rocks, so make sure you carry water shoes.

12. Hollywood Beach, Hollywood

Say hello to Hollywood! Not the one in California, but Hollywood Beach in sunny Florida with an average temperature of 76°F in December.

Hollywood Beach is famed for its stunning Broadwalk, a 2.5-mile stretch perfect for a leisurely stroll, bike ride, or rollerblading adventure.

The beach itself is a dreamy expanse of soft sand and gentle waves! It’s an ideal spot to set down your beach towel, catch some rays, or dive into a good book.

You’ll find a host of activities to engage in while here! Besides swimming and sunbathing, there are opportunities for beach volleyball, paddleboarding, and even snorkeling. You can even rent bikes, scooters, or jet skis and go for a ride or enjoy live music in the evening!

It also offers various amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds for the little ones, and convenient restroom facilities.

And when it comes to food, the Broadwalk is lined with a variety of eateries and ice-cream shops. You’ll also be able to enjoy that old Florida vibe or pick up a few souvenirs while there.

13. Hollywood North Beach Park, Hollywood

If you’ve enjoyed Hollywood Beach or you just prefer to be away from the crowds, then Hollywood North Beach Park , a 56-acre beachfront park is an unmissable spot on your December beach bucket list.

With temperatures averaging around 76°F, it’s a warm respite from the winter chill.

A little quieter and more laid-back compared to the bustling Hollywood Beach, Hollywood North Beach Park offers a serene environment where you can truly unwind.

Nestled between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, the park boasts a beautiful sandy beach that stretches invitingly under the Florida sun.

The water here is clean and warm, perfect for a relaxing swim, but if you’re more of a landlubber, there are designated areas for picnics and barbecues, a paved walkway, and sea turtle exhibits, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a get-together with friends.

In terms of amenities, Hollywood North Beach Park doesn’t disappoint. It offers clean restrooms, outdoor showers, fishing piers, and even a 60-foot observation tower that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Plus, there’s a concession stand for when you need a quick snack or drink.

So if you’re looking for one of the best beaches in Florida in December that offers a blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and convenience, Hollywood North Beach Park is one to consider.

And since it’s located just 35 minute’s drive from the Magic City, you can easily make it a weekend trip from Miami .

14. Naples Beach, Naples

Naples Beach is another gem that offers a warm embrace in December, with temperatures generally ranging between 65-77 °F.

Nestled along the Gulf of Mexico, this slice of paradise is a perfect destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation and outdoor fun.

The beach boasts miles of fine white sand that feels like powdered sugar under your feet, while the Gulf waters are typically calm and warm, perfect for a leisurely swim or a splash with the kids.

The beach is also a favorite for shell collectors with a variety of shells washing ashore.

When it comes to activities, Naples Beach has a lot to offer. Paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing are popular pastimes. There are also volleyball nets set up for those who fancy a game.

And if you want a break from the beach, the nearby downtown area offers upscale shopping and dining options.

In terms of amenities, Naples Beach is well-equipped. There are restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, and a concession stand.

Plus, the iconic Naples Pier which extends 1,000 feet into the Gulf is a must-visit for its fishing opportunities and stunning views, especially at sunset. You might even spot some dolphins while there.

15. Cocoa Beach, Cocoa Beach

This delightful Florida hotspot comes with an average December temperature of about 73°F making it a welcome retreat from the winter blues.

Known as the quintessential beach town, Cocoa Beach is a must-visit destination in Florida’s Eastern Coast.

The beach itself is an expansive stretch of soft sand that’s perfect for a day of relaxation or fun.

The Atlantic Ocean’s waves offer great opportunities for surfing (in fact, Cocoa Beach is known as the East Coast’s surfing capital), boogie boarding, or simply enjoying a refreshing swim.

One of the unique features of Cocoa Beach is its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center since it’s a mere 25 minutes drive away!

It’s not uncommon for beachgoers to catch a glimpse of a rocket launch, making for an unforgettable experience. If you fancy a bit of exploration, the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier is a local landmark with restaurants, bars, and shops.

When it comes to amenities, Cocoa Beach doesn’t disappoint either. You’ll find restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. Additionally, there are lifeguards on duty, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

16. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, Key West

Stepping into Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West is like embarking on a journey that combines history, nature, and beach fun.

With December temperatures averaging around 76°F, this unique location offers a warm escape for those winter days.

While known for its historic 19th-century Civil War-era fort , the real star here is the beautiful beach on the southern end of the park.

The beach is a mix of sand and rocks which makes it different from the usual soft sandy beaches Florida is known for, so make sure you take water shoes!

On the other hand, the water is crystal clear and is excellent for swimming, paddling, fishing, and even snorkeling.

In fact, the park’s snorkeling opportunities are some of the best in Key West with an abundance of marine life including colorful tropical fish.

When you’re not swimming or snorkeling, explore the fort, see artifacts and cannons, or simply enjoy a picnic under the park’s lush green canopy.

For those who are into bird watching, the park is a haven for a variety of bird species, especially during the migratory season.

The park’s amenities include restrooms, showers, a snack bar, and picnic tables. There’s also a rental shop where you can hire snorkeling gear and beach loungers.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a warm beach in Florida that offers more than just sunbathing.

With its blend of history, nature, and water fun, it’s one of the warmest beaches in Florida in December you won’t forget.

17. Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Key Biscayne

Located at the southern end of Key Biscayne, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is a perfect blend of natural beauty and rich history.

It’s a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle with average December temperatures around 76°F, making it a warm and welcoming place all year round.

The beach at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is a mile-long stretch of soft white sand lapped by turquoise waters that are ideal for swimming and paddleboarding.

However, the park’s standout feature is the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse which is the oldest standing structure in Miami-Dade County. You can even take a guided tour to the top for a spectacular view of the park.

Apart from enjoying the beach and the sea, the park offers fishing, biking, and hiking trails. You can explore the park’s wildlife and plant life, or even catch a glimpse of hermit crabs and sea stars at the shoreline, or raccoons, iguanas, and occasional manatees.

As for amenities, the park has picnic pavilions, restrooms, shower facilities, and two restaurants. Beach chair and umbrella rentals are available, and lifeguards are usually on duty.

The best part about this park is that it can easily be reached in 15 minutes from Downtown Miami ! And thanks to its stunning beauty and amenities, it’s one of the best family-friendly beaches in the Miami area .

Note that the park closes to visitors as soon as it reaches capacity, so make sure to arrive early, especially if you’re visiting on the weekend.

18. Fort Myers Beach, Fort Myers Beach

Fort Myers Beach is one of the best warm beaches in Florida in December to visit, and it’s easy to see why.

With an average temperature between 65-77°F, this is a great spot for those seeking a warm respite from the cold.

Fort Myers Beach is a 7-mile stretch of sugary white sand that is perfect for a nice stroll along the shoreline, and the gentle Gulf waves make it perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, or even embarking on a dolphin-watching cruise.

When it comes to amenities, Fort Myers Beach has you covered. It offers restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic areas.

Final Thoughts on The Warmest Beaches in Florida in December

Whether you’re escaping the winter chill or simply seeking a new adventure, Florida’s warm beaches in December offer an inviting retreat.

From the bustling energy of South Beach in Miami to the tranquil beauty of Hollywood North Beach Park in Hollywood, each beach offers its unique blend of sun, sand, and activities.

And the best part about winter in Florida is that it feels nothing like winter. Instead, it offers an endless summer.

Which one of these warm beaches in Florida in December will you be visiting first?

But before you go, consider sharing these warm Florida beaches   if you found the article helpful!

Sharing is caring!

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Florida in December: Best Events & More From a Local [2023]

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Table of Contents

Thinking about getting away to Florida in December? Then, you’ll be delighted to hear that the Sunshine State offers an idyllic destination for the holiday season.

You may be surprised that December is a personal favorite month of mine! As a Floridian who has spent nearly my entire life here, I can honestly say December is one of my top favorite 3 months of the year. While I tend to prefer November , since it’s the end of hurricane season, and there is a quiet period of time before the snowbirds arrive. December is right up there too!

As the chilly winter temps hit most of the country, there’s one place where you can be sure to find plenty of sunshine in December –Florida! With its clear water beaches , vibrant cities, and a variety of outdoor activities, the Sunshine State is the perfect place to escape the cold during the holiday season. If you’re dreaming of a December that’s more bathing suits and flip flops than skis and snow boots, Florida might just be the paradise you’re looking for.

From the weather you can expect to the events that take place, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about visiting Florida in the winter.

Weather in Florida in December

While the rest of the world is bundling up, Floridians and lucky visitors are basking in the mild winter weather. On average, you’ll find temperatures somewhere from 65°F to 75°F, which varies depending on where you are in the state.

If you’re visiting the southern parts of the state, such as Miami Beach or the Florida Keys, you’ll likely be met with sunny days and just a hint of breeze. Think of it as a more temperate version of Florida’s summers–without the intense humidity.

In the northern parts of the state, you’re still going to experience that sunshine. It may just get a tad cooler here, with temperatures occasionally dipping into the 50s. You’ll still find this to be far more pleasant than what you’d experience in the northern part of the country

Some of the average highs and lows in December in the bigger cities include:

• Jacksonville: 52.7°F – 67.5°F
• Tallahassee: 47.8°F – 64.4°F
• Orlando: 56.5°F – 72.1°F
• Tampa : 58.1°F – 72°F
• Miami: 69.4°F – 75.7°F
• Key West:  72.5°F – 75.2°F

Although Florida has been nicknamed the Sunshine State, it experiences some serious rainfall. In fact, the average rainfall is anywhere from 40 to 60 inches per year. However, winter is one of the driest seasons for the state, averaging about two to three inches. What does that mean for you? Chances are you won’t experience a rainstorm. But, if you do, it should be brief.

If there’s one thing living in Florida has taught me, it’s that the weather can be unpredictable. So, if you’re gearing up for your vacation, it’s best to pack a rain jacket just in case. It’s better to be cautious than under-prepared.

Rain isn’t the only thing that eases up in Florida in December. The humidity does, too. However, you’re never going to experience a Florida vacation without at least some moisture in the air. The humidity in December is still typically around 80% during the middle of the day, which is still relatively high. But with the cooler temperatures comes a breeze, which makes it usually idyllic weather in December. However, to stay comfortable, wear breathable clothing that you can layer.

I wouldn’t be able to talk about Florida weather without mentioning hurricanes. Winter in Florida gives you a welcome break from the hurricane season that typically hits the state in the late summer and fall. Hurricane season runs from June through November, and December provides calmer waters and clearer skies, which means the odds of encountering a hurricane in Florida during December are extremely low, so you can feel confident while you lay on the beach and work on your tan.

What to Pack for a Florida Vacation

Because the weather is hard to predict in Florida, you’re better off packing layers that you can mix and match as needed. Think long-sleeved shirts and jackets for the mornings and evenings, with t-shirts, tank tops, and shorts packed just in case the weather is warm. Depending on where in the state you’re visiting, you may also want a swimsuit and flip flops.

If you plan on visiting a theme park or spending any time outdoors, you’ll want comfortable walking shoes that won’t leave you with blisters after long days. Lastly, if you plan on spending any time in one of Florida’s many bodies of water, it may be wise to bring a pair of water shoes.

I’ve been a Floridian most of my life, and while I love Florida weather in December, I usually am not swimming. However, as a young child from Michigan, I recall jumping in the cold Florida water and considering it warm! So, keeping this in mind, here are some essentials to pack with you.

Other miscellaneous items to consider for your Florida trip:

• Hat for sun protection
• Portable phone charger (so you can take lots of pictures!)
• Waterproof phone case (when boating or swimming)

Not to worry, all of these items you can buy if you forget them at home. Most importantly, make sure you pack your essentials – Driver’s License or Passport and required paperwork!

Crowds in Florida in December

Because Florida has a tropical climate, it’s a vacation hot spot in December as snowbirds come rushing in to avoid the harsh winters. If you plan to vacation in areas like Tampa, Miami, or Orlando , expect crowds starting roughly around Thanksgiving time. They don’t seem to lighten up until the late spring.

These larger crowds will naturally increase rates as well. If you give yourself ample time to book your lodging and flights, you should be able to snag a good deal and still enjoy a vacation in Florida without breaking the bank.

Things to Do in Florida in December

Visit the Theme Parks

Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Walt Disney World and the other Orlando theme parks. Whether you’re an amusement park fan or just need some magic in your life, visiting the Most Magical Place on Earth is a fun way to entertain the whole family. Disney World has EPCOT , Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios , and Animal Kingdom–each has something unique to offer, giving everyone something to enjoy. Disney also has great free attractions as well at Disney Springs and Disney’s Boardwalk .

In addition, I also enjoy visiting Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld in Orlando. There are plenty of attractions for a broader audience, making it worth visiting, especially if you’re traveling as a family or group.

If you’re looking to stay near the parks (without paying a boatload), consider finding accommodations in Celebration, a city made by Disney that sits only a few miles outside of the parks. A stay here–especially in December when it’s decked out in holiday decorations–is a surefire way to get into the holiday spirit and you can save a little money. However, if you’re not a tight budget, my favorite place to stay is Disney’s Beach Club Resort .

Snorkel With Manatees

How many people can say they’ve snorkeled with manatees? I’d guess not many, but I see them all the time.

In the winter, the beautiful sea cows make their way to Crystal River to find relatively warm water (72°F year round), allowing you to get up close and personal.

Take a memorable Crystal River manatee tour with an expert guide leading the way and providing all the snorkel gear, which includes a mask, snorkel, and wet suit. Plus, you’ll get an opportunity to get some fantastic photos!

Visit Historic St. Augustine

Considered to be the oldest city in the country, St. Augustine is a must-do at any time of the year. But it’s especially enchanting around Christmas time, when the Nights of Lights Festival is in full swing. From November to January, visitors will be able to admire the beauty of more than 3 million tiny white lights that decorate the city’s downtown historic district. Years ago, I had my honeymoon in St. Augustine. I still think this historic city is the perfect place for couples to enjoy a romantic getaway!

While in St. Augustine, visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument , a Spanish fort built between 1672 and 1695. Afterward, eat at the Columbia Restaurant, a traditional Spanish restaurant that serves the most wonderful 1905 salad and red sangria!

No matter what you do in St. Augustine, it’s a perfect day trip from Jacksonville or Orlando .

Soak Up Some Sun in The Florida Keys

If you’re truly looking to get some time in the sun, head down south to The Florida Keys. Snorkel or dive through coral reefs in Key Largo, catch the sunset celebration at Mallory Square , visit Dry Tortugas National Park , or simply savor the taste of fresh seafood and fresh key lime pie at local eateries. And no trip to Key West is complete without a visit to the Hemingway Home , where you can see a piece of history, along with many six-toed cats.

Explore Biscayne National Park

With over 95% of its area submerged, Biscayne National Park is often overlooked, yet it’s one of the most interesting national parks. Here, you can snorkel or dive through turquoise waters to encounter colorful coral reefs, shipwrecks, and an abundance of marine life, explore Boca Chita Key’s iconic lighthouse, or kayak through mangrove trails. It’s just an hour outside of Miami, providing the perfect opportunity to get out of the hustle-and-bustle of the city and enjoy the great outdoors.

Watch a Live Professional Sports Team

I love watching professional sports, especially in October ! However, December is also a great month to see two of my favorite teams play, the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Beyond Tampa teams, Florida has a whole list of world-class teams including the Orlando Magic, Miami Heat, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Tampa Bay Rays.

Events in Florida in December

Key West Holiday Fest

Where: key west.

For the past 29 years, Key West has hosted its annual Key West Holiday Fest to get the locals feeling festive. With themed boats floating down onto the Key West Bight and Harbor, a trolley that takes you around to look at Christmas lights, a Christmas-themed market, musical performances, and more, this one is worth attending.

The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade

Where: fort lauderdale.

Key West isn’t the only place you can see floating decorated boats.The Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade, hailed as the “Best Show on H2O” in South Florida. This spectacular event, unites both the local community and international visitors, showcasing dazzling boats with Christmas holiday decorations.

Winterfest boat parade is unique because it’s held over multiple dates in December. With over 3,000 boats participating, it’s no surprise that the event garnishes over one million viewers. Who wouldn’t want to watch megayachts and showboats decked out in Christmas lights?

Enchant! A Christmas Extravaganza

Where: st. petersburg, fl.

Enchant is the Tropicana Field Christmas lights display and is the world’s largest Christmas Light Maze and Village.

Explore a whimsical village full of ice skating, live entertainment, interactive experiences, dining, and Christmas shopping. The Mischievous Elf takes you through the sparkling twinkle lights, searching for Santa’s missing gifts. As you marvel at incredible animated light creations, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand. 

Enter the extraordinary Christmas maze and discover the towering 100-foot-tall Christmas tree. Tour with your friends and family through illuminated passageways and enormous displays. If you love Christmas lights, this is the top place to visit for a whole night of fun!

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Where: orlando.

Disney is known for its countless events–from marathons to food and wine festivals–so it’s only fitting to include Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas on this list. Typically taking place on specific weekends from the beginning of November through Christmas, this ticketed event gives you access to Magic Kingdom with far fewer crowds. Not only is it a great way to ride some of your favorite rides without the long lines, but you also get to experience special fireworks shows, parades, dance parties, and specialty food that you can only get at the event. Oh, can’t forget to mention that the characters put on their best festive wear for meet-and-greets.

Disney World also offers the International Festival of the Holidays at EPCOT . This lively seasonal event is inspired by cultures all over the world. You can sample international cuisine and unique events, including a candlelight processional. EPCOT has always been my long-time favorite Disney park. So, I usually book a hotel for a couple days and explore Disney’s free entertainment areas when I’m not at the theme parks.

Surfing Santas

Where: cocoa beach.

Santa may be busy prepping for the holidays all year round, but he always has enough time to catch some waves at Cocoa Beach. The Surfing Santas Event , which takes place on Christmas Eve every year, has turned into a global phenomenon, with hundreds of surfing Santas coming from around the country to hit the water. And the best part? Proceeds are donated to the Florida Surf Museum and Grind for Life charities.

Winter Wonderland

Where: celebration, fl.

Want to feel like you’re living in a Hallmark movie? Visit Winter Wonderland in Celebration. It may not snow in Central Florida, but it’s the closest thing to it. The cherished Holiday Home Tour in Celebration makes its grand return.

Embark on a self-guided journey, marveling at the beautifully adorned homes selected for this year’s showcase. Your ticket not only grants you this visual delight but also invites you into the enchanting Winter Wonderland. You’ll also see meticulously decorated trees, artfully themed table settings, and captivating vignettes. As you ponder additions to your holiday decor, don’t miss The Market Place, full of unique gifts perfect for ticking off those names on your holiday list.

Armory Holiday Arts Festival

Where: west palm beach, fl.

Celebrate local talent with performances and entertainers at the Armory Holiday Arts Festival. Located in the historic grounds of the Armory Art Center in West Palm Beach, this family-friendly event is for everyone to enjoy. Explore artisan booths to find paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and more. You’ll hear live music with a fresh lineup daily.

West Palm Beach is also just a short drive from nearby cities of Delray Beach and Fort Lauderdale for day trips.

🌴 Pro Tip: I spent several years living in the West Palm Beach area. I highly recommend making time to see the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum. And, if you don’t mind a splurge, stay at the Breakers R e s o r t .

Outdoor Activities in Florida in December

Beyond the December festivals and standard theme park experiences, Florida offers a lot for outdoor lovers. From beautiful pristine white sand beaches to turquoise-colored springs, you’ll find a lot that’s genuinely worth your time. Here are a few of my favorites to visit in the winter months.

Kayak in the Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

Florida is known for its beautiful springs, and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is by far one of the best places to go kayaking or paddleboarding. For just $35-$51, you can take self-guided tours around the spring-fed river for up to an hour and a half. But if you’re not in the mood but still want to get outside, you can swim at Buccaneer Bay, watch a mermaid show (yes, you read that right), or enjoy a picnic with a view.

Snorkel at Wes Skiles Peacock Springs

With over 33,000 feet of underwater passages, Wes Skiles Peacock Springs is beloved by professional divers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Though you must have scuba certification to deep dive, you can still snorkel in Orange Grove Sink and Peacock Springs for only $4 per vehicle.

The park also has excellent hiking trails if you’re looking for nature walks. December can get cooler temperatures, so hiking trails are a safe bet!

Explore Everglades National Park

My husband grew up in rural South Florida amongst the sugar cane fields not too far from Everglades National Park. While he is used to seeing alligators in his backyard, not many of us are!

So, if you like unique ecosystems–including marshes, forests, and wetlands, Everglades National Park is a truly unique experience. Acting as a sanctuary for wildlife like alligators, manatees, and rare bird species, it’s unlike any other national park in the country. Take an airboat ride, kayak through its waterways, or walk the scenic trails. December is a great time to visit before the heat of the summer months.

Zipline in Ocala

One of the best ways to see the beautiful live oak trees of Central Florida is from above. So, what better way to do so than zip-lining? Zip the Canyons offers five different zip-lining adventures, including a world-famous 1,100-foot zip across the entire length of Lost Spring Lake. They even offer full moon zip line adventures for those who aren’t afraid of the dark. Once you’re done, you can also go on a horseback tour or kayak the lake to see it from an entirely new angle.

Beyond zip lining, I recommend checking out the other fun things to do in Ocala, like the World Equestrian Center , Silver Springs State Park, and scenic farm tours ! It’s an ideal trip for horse lovers or those who like to spend time outdoors.

Golfing Season

December in Florida offers an exceptional golfing experience characterized by mild weather and impeccably maintained courses. Having played extensively throughout the state, I can vouch for the quality and diversity of the golf courses, especially in Pinellas County (St. Petersburg).

If you’re looking to splurge on a remarkable golf outing, you’ll want to check out TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach. The experience is both challenging and exhilarating, and perhaps a tad bit frustrating as well for high handicappers! The 17th island hole is one dreams are made of (or nightmares), but it’s certainly spectacular!

Beyond TPC Sawgrass, the state boasts thousands of golf courses that cater to all skill levels. So you won’t have to look hard to find a place to play golf.

Best Florida Beaches & Outdoor Activities in December

As a mom, I’m always looking for beaches ideal for family gatherings. One of the best Florida beaches is  Siesta Key  for vacation. Known for its white sandy shores and warm Gulf Coast waters you can’t go wrong! It also has variety of pristine amenities such as restaurants in  Siesta Key Village , on-site playgrounds and concessions, lifeguards, various water sports, and plenty of free parking. It’s great for group gatherings to create lasting memories together in a laid-back environment. There is also an ADA accessible beach ramp to make it easy for everyone to have a beach vacation.

Tampa Bay is another ideal area for a beach vacation. I highly recommend,  Clearwater Beach  ranked as the #1 beach in the US by USA Today in 2023! And, nearby are couple of other noteworthy beaches, Caladesi Island State Park and St. Pete Beach .

When traveling solo or as a couple, I prefer  Rosemary Beach  on the Emerald Coast, for more of a lively experience, Miami Beach or Fort Lauderdale. You may want to read my full list of  best beaches in Florida !

🌴 Read Next: Siesta Key vs Anna Maria Island vs Long Boat Key

Final Thoughts on Florida in December

Wrapping up, there’s something undeniably magical about Florida in December. It’s not just the mild weather or the twinkling holiday lights.

Whether you’re rooting for the professional sports teams, admiring manatees in Crystal River, or getting lost in the Winterfest Boat Parade’s shimmering spectacle, Florida’s December charm is unique and unforgettable.

The Sunshine State, true to its name, is the perfect place to escape the winter chill.

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1 thought on “Florida in December: Best Events & More From a Local [2023]”

I love the way you have listed all the activities to look forward to while holidaying in Florida. Who else can be better guide than a Floridian 🙂

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Florida in December: Weather, Warmest Beaches, Things to Do

If you plan to visit Florida in December for the winter holidays and seek reliable information, you’ve come to the right place.

Florida, known for its distinct holiday charm, offers an array of festive experiences to enhance your Christmas celebrations.

For those who prefer a tropical backdrop for their holiday festivities, December in Florida brims with captivating events, festivals , and distinctive activities tailored for visitors.

Whether you aspire to admire the architectural splendor of historic St. Augustine or explore the shores of Tampa Bay, we have compiled all the essential information to guide you throughout your stay in Florida.

Table of Contents

Weather in Florida in December

The average temperature in December ranges from 64°F to 76°F (18-24°C) , marking it as a relatively dry season with occurrences of fog, increased winds, and cooler weather.

A notable weather variation exists between southern and northern Florida. In the northern region—extending from Jacksonville to the Panhandle —December brings average daily highs of 68°F (20°C) and nightly lows around 48°F (9°C) .

From central Florida down to the Keys , the southern area maintains an average temperature of 75°F (24°C) .

Cities such as Destin , Tallahassee , and Pensacola can expect highs around 70°F (21°C) in the month of December.

When packing for Florida, consider bringing a variety of layers to accommodate the cool mornings and evenings, contrasted with the warmer daytime temperatures.

Rainfall in Florida in December

December and January in Florida are part of the dry season , typically marked by fewer rainy days compared to other months. When showers occur, they are generally brief, lasting from 15 minutes to an hour. On average, rainfall in December amounts to about 2 inches , with precipitation usually occurring on 6-7 days of the month.

It’s important to note that, despite the dry season, Florida’s weather can be unpredictable . Occasional thunderstorms, although not the norm, can indeed arise during December.

Wind in December

In December, Florida experiences common gusty winds , particularly in the morning or after sunset. While rain is infrequent during this time, the presence of these brisk winds suggests the advisability of bringing along a jacket or sweatshirt to stay comfortable in the breezy conditions.

Humidity in December

The humidity in Florida during December can vary, but generally, it tends to be lower compared to the warmer months . In the morning, humidity levels are around 80-90%, while in the afternoon, they drop to around 50-60% . Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific location in Florida and daily weather conditions

The average humidity is about 86% in the morning and drops to 55% in the afternoon.

Daily Weather Cycles in Florida

The December weather in Florida is similar to early fall in most places. It goes in daily cycles:

• The Morning weather is foggy but with cooler temperatures and high humidity until around 9 am.
• During the day it gets warmer and dryer.
• In the evenings, the temperature drops, and winds spike after sunset.

Water Temperature in Florida in December

The ocean waters in Florida are typically calm during this month of the year. Concerning ocean temperature, it’s noteworthy that the water becomes warmer as you head further south .

Areas such as Key West and Miami boast the warmest water in December , with an average temperature of 74°F (24°C) .

Conversely, the coldest water is found in Northern Florida . Cities like Jacksonville and St. Augustine on the Atlantic side report an average ocean temperature of 65°F (18°C) . Moving to the Northern Gulf Coast regions, destinations like Destin and Pensacola record a water temperature of 66°F (19°C) .

Warmest Beaches in Florida in December

Florida’s beaches offer delightful experiences year-round. However, in December, they are subject to windier and cooler conditions. To assist your beach selection, we have identified beaches with the warmest and coldest temperatures during this time.

The warmest beaches are typically found in the South Florida region .

As a general rule, the further south you go, the warmer the ocean temperatures become . This trend ensures that visitors can enjoy warmer waters and pleasant conditions even during the cooler winter months. t southern beaches provide a cozy retreat from December’s chill.

Key West Beaches

Key West, distinguished as the southernmost point in South Florida, maintains the warmest ocean temperatures year-round , which is particularly appealing during December. With inviting waters averaging 77°F (25°C) , visitors can bask in a near-tropical environment even amid winter.

The region features a plethora of welcoming beaches, including Higgs Beach , Sombrero Beach , Simonton Street Beach , and Bahia Honda State Park Beaches . With such an assortment of beautiful spots, choosing the perfect location for sun and relaxation is a pleasure in itself. A standout among these is Smathers Beach , located on the island’s south side along the Atlantic Ocean, embodying Key West’s idyllic coastal charm.

While all the beaches in Key West boast warm waters and inviting atmospheres, Smathers Beach stands out for its accessibility, amenities, and sheer size, making it a top choice for those seeking the warmest beach experience in Florida during December.

Gold Coast Beaches

The Gold Coast, located in the southeastern part of Florida , encompasses the Fort Lauderdale and Miami areas . Known for being one of the warmest regions in the state, these areas also boast a reputation for their bustling tourist attractions, so you may want to prepare for some crowds.

Here, the average high ocean temperature hovers around  74.7°F (23.7°C) . Miami, in particular, consistently records some of the highest temperatures in Florida throughout the year, positioning itself as an ideal vacation spot for travelers looking to escape the chill.

We highly recommend South Beach , Miami Beach , and Las Olas Beach along the Gold Coast for their vibrant atmospheres and scenic shores. Visitors can indulge in ocean drive cruises, benefit from a wide selection of hotels and dining experiences, and immerse themselves in the dynamic nightlife.

Additionally, the area is rich in a variety of holiday festivals , making it a lively and culturally rich metropolis to explore.

Treasure Coast Beaches

The Treasure Coast, positioned in South Florida along the Atlantic shoreline, boasts some of the warmest water temperatures in December, averaging 75°F (24°C) . This makes it an exceptional destination for those looking to enjoy beach activities even during the winter months.

Nestled between the Space Coast to the north and the Gold Coast to the south, the Treasure Coast stretches from the city of Sebastian down to Hobe Sound , just north of West Palm Beach . This picturesque region offers a blend of serene beauty and warm ocean waters, making it a much-coveted hotspot for winter beachgoers.

Among the best and warmest beaches to explore on the Treasure Coast are Vero Beach , with its refined charm; Jensen Beach , known for its laid-back atmosphere; Hobe Sound Beach , offering natural seclusion; Stuart Beach , characterized by its family-friendly vibe; and Fort Pierce Beach , which provides a mix of history and recreation opportunities.

These beaches not only provide an escape from cooler temperatures but also offer a range of activities and experiences.

They all have a similar atmosphere and structure, so you should consider your proximity to Orlando when making your choice – which makes cocoa beach your ideal option.  

Space Coast Beaches

Located north of the Treasure Coast, the Space Coast in South Florida graces the Atlantic side with water temperatures in December averaging 73°F (23°C) . While slightly cooler compared to Key West and the Treasure Coast , these temperatures remain very comfortable for a range of beach activities.

Stretching over 72 miles , the Space Coast boasts expansive sandy shorelines that beckon visitors looking for a sunny respite during the winter months. The region not only claims fame for its pivotal role in space exploration with the Kennedy Space Center and historic shuttle launches but also as the location of Port Canaveral .

Among the top beach destinations on the Space Coast is Cocoa Beach , renowned as one of the best beaches in the USA for its vibrant surf scene and approachable charm for families. Playalinda Beach offers a more secluded experience with its undisturbed scenery, perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

For a beach visit coupled with ample amenities, Cherie Down Park Beach is an excellent choice, providing a peaceful atmosphere convenient to local comforts. Meanwhile, Jetty Park Beach attracts camping and fishing aficionados , complete with a picturesque pier and well-maintained facilities.

Paradise Coast Beaches

December water temperatures on Florida’s Paradise Coast average a pleasant 71°F (21.8°C) . It’s important to note that Gulf Coast beaches generally have lower water temperatures than those on the Atlantic South Florida coast; however, the Paradise Coast boasts the warmest options on the Gulf side .

Located in South Florida along the Gulf of Mexico, the Paradise Coast is just north of the Everglades National Park. This region, known for its scenic beauty, primarily includes the Naples area along with the cities of Naples , Marco Island , Everglades City , and Immokalee .

The Paradise Coast is celebrated for its soft, sandy beaches and clear, aqua-colored Gulf waters, offering a quintessential Florida beach experience with a touch of tranquility.

Among the best and warmest beaches to visit is Clam Pass Park Beach , with its verdant natural areas and a boardwalk journey to the coastline. Lowdermilk Beach provides a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere equipped with excellent amenities and panoramic views of the Gulf.

Keewaydin Island Beach offers an escape into seclusion, commonly reached by boat, which adds to its untouched allure. For those looking for a pristine and natural setting, Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is an exceptional choice, ideal for spotting local wildlife and enjoying picnics by the sea.

Coldest Beaches in Florida in December

In December, Florida’s chilliest shores reside in two distinct areas: the North Region and the Panhandle Region . The beaches here may not be warm enough for swimming, but they are ideal for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities like camping, fishing, picnics, and hiking . With fewer visitors traveling to these northern shores during December , the reduced crowds make for a peaceful coastal experience.

First Coast Beaches

The First Coast stretches along Florida’s northeastern shore. Renowned for historic St. Augustine and its myriad of beautiful beaches such

• St. Augustine Beach is a lively beach known for its beautiful, wide sandy shores and nearby historic attractions.
• Anastasia State Park Beach offers a more natural and less developed beach experience within a state park.
• Crescent Beach is renowned for its tranquil, unspoiled sands, perfect for long, peaceful walks by the sea.
• Vilano Beach features a small-town feel with stunning views, especially appealing at sunrise.

Activities like historic city tours, beachcombing, birdwatching, and participating in holiday festivities make this coast a winter destination of choice for those embracing the cooler air.

Emerald Coast

The cooler-than-average December waters can also be found along the Emerald Coast in the Panhandle. Known for its crystal-clear, emerald waters, the region’s beaches, including:

• Jetty East Beach is a well-equipped destination with jetties that are great for fishing.
• Okaloosa Island Beach is known for its lengthy boardwalk and range of family-friendly activities.
• James Lee Beach boasts crystal-clear waters and ample amenities within a park-like setting.
• Grayton Beach is part of a state park known for its eclectic vibe and natural coastlines.

Visitors can take advantage of this quieter season to explore nature trails, bask in the beautiful Gulf sunsets, and join in the local holiday celebrations.

Forgotten Coast Beaches

The Forgotten Coast, positioned between the more traveled Emerald Coast and Apalachicola Bay, is often overlooked and therefore less crowded. Its remote beaches, like

• St. Joseph Peninsula State Park Beach features miles of white sand and is an excellent location for birdwatching.
• Carrabelle Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere with shallow, calm waters perfect for paddle-boarding.
• Dog Island Beach is accessible only by boat, providing a secluded getaway experience.
• St. George Island State Park is a pristine barrier island ideal for fishing, shelling, and observing wildlife.

The calmness of December is an excellent time for kayaking, scenic coastal drives, observing diverse wildlife , and discovering the unique maritime culture of this region.

Despite their cooler temperatures, these Florida beaches in December offer the allure of tranquility and a plethora of activities for visitors who prefer a less bustling beach environment.

What to Wear in Florida in December

Layered clothing is essential for Florida’s variable December weather . Start the day with pants and long sleeves for the cooler mornings and evenings, and keep a light jacket handy. As midday approaches and temperatures rise, shorts and a T-shirt often suffice. Comfortable footwear is crucial, especially when visiting theme parks where extensive walking is typical.

As you travel further south in Florida, temperatures become warmer . You might still need a sweater or jacket by mid-afternoon, particularly in central regions of the state.

Comfortable shoes are a must , as the amount of walking can be significant—especially in sprawling theme parks like Disney, where you may walk over 10 miles in a single day . Opting for well-fitting sneakers over flip-flops can prevent sore feet after long hours of enjoyment.

Additionally, always keep your light jacket or sweater within reach for evening outings. Many restaurants and indoor spaces keep the air conditioning on high due to the daytime heat, so a light layer can be comforting, particularly if you are sensitive to cooler temperatures.

Crowds in Florida in December

Florida stands out as a delightful escape from the chilly winter temperatures, offering a tropical ambiance for the holiday season.

The month of December sees a significant influx of tourists to Florida. Cities like Orlando, Miami, Tampa, and Sarasota become hotspots for visitors , especially snowbirds seeking warmer climes.

Christmas Crowds

The holiday season, particularly around Christmas, typically attracts larger crowds than at other times. It is advisable to plan for this by scheduling events in the last week of December when visitor numbers peak.

Beach Crowds

Given its reputation for beautiful beaches, Florida’s coastline is predictably busier in December , though not as congested as during spring break. If a beach vacation is what you’re after and you prefer quieter times, consider planning your beach visits for May when the crowds tend to be thinner.

Most locations in Florida experience sustained high rates throughout the winter season due to the arrival of seasonal residents and “snowbirds” looking to enjoy the milder climate. In December, this trend intensifies as prices are further driven up by a multitude of holiday festivities and celebratory events.

Typically, December is recognized as one of the costliest months in Florida concerning accommodations and entry fees for various attractions and activities. It’s a season marked by a high demand for travel and tourism amenities .

Due to the expected surge in visitors, we recommend making accommodation reservations well in advance—several months ahead, if possible, to avoid the disappointment of sold-out venues.

Budget and preferences will dictate your accommodation choices, with options ranging across the spectrum.

For budget travelers, hostels may offer rooms starting at $60-70 per night . For those looking for more private accommodations,

Airbnb listings generally begin around $150-200 per night .

Hotels provide a range of pricing from $70 to $300 per night based on location and quality.

For larger groups or those seeking a home-like experience, vacation home rentals average about $500-600 per night , though premium properties in prime locations can command higher rates.

Planning not only secures your stay but can also potentially lock in more favorable rates before the seasonal hikes take effect.

Camping in Florida in December

December is a popular time for camping in Florida due to its favorable weather conditions . The winter season in Florida is typically mild and dry, ideal for outdoor camping adventures. With infrequent rainfall and moderate temperatures, it’s a great time to enjoy the natural beauty of the state.

Florida boasts a wide variety of camping locations, including forests, national parks, recreational areas, state parks, city parks, and private campgrounds .

The ideal campsite serves as a perfect home base for camping enthusiasts, offering a range of leisurely activities such as boating and fishing, alongside more active pursuits like biking and hiking . When selecting a campground, it’s important to research the activities and amenities available to enhance your outdoor experience.

However, when packing for your trip, remember to include warm clothing and a blanket, as temperatures can reach up to 80°F (27°C) during the day but may drop to around 50°F (10°C) or lower at night . A range of clothing is advisable to ensure comfort throughout your camping stay.

Fishing in Florida in December

Florida offers a variety of excellent fishing destinations in December, catering to both freshwater and saltwater anglers. Here are some popular fishing spots:

Saltwater Fishing:

• Florida Keys: The Keys are known for their fantastic saltwater fishing. You can target species like bonefish, tarpon, permit, snapper, and grouper.
• Everglades National Park: This vast wilderness area provides opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Explore the backcountry for snook, redfish, and tarpon.
• Tampa Bay: Known for its diverse fishery, Tampa Bay offers opportunities to catch snook, redfish, trout, and sheepshead.
• Fort Myers/Sanibel Island: These areas offer great inshore and offshore fishing opportunities. You can target snook, redfish, and seatrout inshore, or head offshore for grouper and snapper.

Freshwater Fishing:

• Lake Okeechobee: Known as Florida’s largest lake, Lake Okeechobee is famous for its bass fishing. December can be a productive time for largemouth bass.
• St. Johns River: This river system is known for its largemouth bass and crappie fishing. The slower flow during the winter months can concentrate fish in certain areas.
• Rodman Reservoir: Located on the Ocklawaha River, Rodman Reservoir is renowned for trophy bass fishing.
• Lake Kissimmee: This lake is part of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes and offers excellent bass fishing opportunities.

Remember to check fishing regulations and obtain the necessary licenses before heading out. Additionally, consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or fishing techniques specific to the region.

Things to Do in Florida in December

December in Florida offers an array of activities suited to its temperate climate and festive atmosphere. Here are some of the best things to do in the Sunshine State during this month:

Visit Theme Parks : Florida’s famous theme parks, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, are bedecked in holiday decorations with special Christmas events, parades, and shows.

Explore The Florida Keys : Enjoy the warmer weather in the Keys with activities like snorkeling, fishing, and boating, or simply relax on the beach.

Attend Holiday Festivals : Cities across Florida host holiday festivals and events such as Nights of Lights in St. Augustine, where millions of holiday lights adorn the historic district.

Take a Cruise : Depart from ports like Miami or Fort Lauderdale for Caribbean cruises, perfect for escaping to even warmer destinations.

Watch Wildlife : Go bird watching or take an eco-tour in the Everglades National Park to see Florida’s unique wildlife, including alligators and a range of bird species.

Enjoy Outdoor Sports : With cooler temperatures, December is a great time for outdoor sports such as golf, tennis, and hiking.

Savor Stone Crab Season : Stone crab season runs from October to May, so try some fresh stone crab at one of Florida’s seafood restaurants.

Relax on the Beach : Head to South Florida’s beaches, like those in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or the Gulf Coast for sunbathing and beachside activities.

Visit Gardens and Zoos : Check out the holiday-themed nights at the best places like the Naples Botanical Garden or visit the zoo for a more laid-back experience.

Historic Tours : Take a historic home tour, such as the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, decorated for the holidays.

New Year’s Celebrations : Join in on the festivities with fireworks, parties, and celebrations at various locations across the state to ring in the New Year.

Camping : Take advantage of the milder weather for camping, whether in a tent, cabin, or an RV at Florida’s state parks or campgrounds.

Shopping : Visit the numerous outdoor shopping districts or malls for end-of-year deals, perfect for holiday shopping.

Keep in mind, no matter what activities you choose, December is a busy time of year in Florida, and it’s wise to plan and make necessary reservations well in advance.

Florida in December: FAQ

What is the best time to visit florida.

The best time to visit Florida is typically from November through December due to the milder temperatures and lower humidity. During these months, the weather is more comfortable for outdoor activities, and you can enjoy the state’s attractions without the extreme heat that can be present at other times of the year.

For a more comprehensive guide on when to plan your trip, including considerations like crowds, pricing, and seasonal events, refer to our dedicated article titled “Best Time to Visit Florida.”

Can you Swim in Florida in December?

Yes, you can swim in Florida in December , but whether it’s comfortable or not largely depends on the specific region of the state you are visiting. Florida’s geography extends from north to south, resulting in a range of climates.

In Southern Florida , including locales like Miami, the Florida Keys, and the southern Gulf Coast, ocean temperatures remain warm enough for swimming , often making it a pleasant experience even in December.

Contrastingly, in Northern Florida and the Panhandle regions, the water temperatures are cooler, and many might find them too chilly for swimming . If you’re considering a beach vacation in these northern areas, it’s wise to be prepared for cooler water that may not be conducive to swimming.

What Are Average Temperatures in Florida in December?

What are the warmest places in florida in december.

In December, some of the warmest places in Florida, where temperatures tend to be the most agreeable for visitors looking to escape colder climates, include:

Miami : Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, Miami typically has some of the warmest winter temperatures in the state.

The Florida Keys : This string of tropical islands includes Key West, which is the southernmost point in the continental United States and often the warmest.

Fort Myers/Naples : Located on the Gulf Coast, these areas offer mild temperatures and gentle waters.

Tampa : This city and its surrounding areas, such as St. Petersburg and Clearwater, also benefit from the moderating effect of the Gulf of Mexico.

Orlando : While slightly cooler than coastal cities, Orlando has a temperate climate that is conducive to visiting the numerous theme parks and attractions.

These regions experience warm temperatures conducive to outdoor activities, although evenings can be cooler, and the occasional cold front may pass through. It’s always a good idea to check the forecast and come prepared with layers of clothing.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Disney World?

December is a prime month to visit Disney World , thanks to Florida’s mild temperatures and lower humidity rates, providing a comfortable climate for exploring the parks.

However, it’s important to note that it’s also one of the busiest times at the resort due to the holiday season. Visitors should plan for larger crowds and potentially longer wait times for attractions.

Despite this, many find the unique seasonal entertainment and joyful atmosphere during this month make it well worth the visit.

Florida in December | Final Thoughts

Spending the winter holiday in Florida can leave you with the most memorable experience. It is one of the best times to visit Florida . The sight of a palm tree in Christmas light is fantastic, especially after experiencing the cold winter. More than everything we listed, there are many amazing things you can do in Florida in December , and we hope you’ll enjoy your stay.

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Discover the Best Places to Visit in Florida in December

UPDATED: November 2023. One of the best things about Florida boasts is the beautiful beaches. I may be biased, but I believe they are the best beaches in the United States. Truly the perfect place for a winter getaway when you have cabin fever and are craving warm weather.

Not much into beaches? We have you covered with exciting theme parks, and vibrant cities in the country, making it the perfect winter getaway destination. But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to decide which places to visit. 

That’s where we come in to help you with this guide. Below we highlight the best places to visit in Florida in December, so you can leave the winter blues behind.

From the vibrant nightlife of Miami in South Florida to the laid-back charm of Key West and the Florida Keys to the history of St. Augustine, we’ve got you covered.

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And you really don’t need to worry about the weather as hurricane season ended November 30th and will not be in force again until June 1st 

So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and let’s dive into the top destinations to escape the winter chill in Florida.

Why & Where Are The Best Places to Visit in Florida in December

Florida is a popular tourist destination throughout the year, but the state really shines in December. The weather is fantastic during this time of year with the average high temperature ranging from 64 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

The more north you are in the state, the average highs will be lower than in southern Florida. The average temperature of the water in the Atlantic Ocean in Fort Lauderdale is generally around 75 degrees making it one of the warmest beaches during winter.

Florida’s warm climate means you can enjoy the beach, outdoor activities and water sports, and also you can really enjoy the sunshine without the heat and humidity of the summer months. 

There are fewer crowds during December, which means shorter lines, better hotel rates, and more availability at top attractions such as Disney World, Universal Studios, and Busch Gardens. Keep in mind though that during the Christmas holidays, these places will be quite busy.

Nature lovers too find this the perfect time to snorkel the beautiful coral reefs as the water has warm temperatures all year long, kayak the many rivers, and hike in Florida State Parks and Forests. 

And we can’t forget the holidays! December is a festive time in Florida, with many holiday-themed events, Christmas lights and parades plus decorations in most cities that ramp up even the Grinch’s holiday spirit. 

Whether you are thinking about a romantic getaway, a girl’s trip, or a family vacation, Florida has what you are looking for.

Best Places to Visit in Florida in December

Orlando: the theme park capital of the world.

Starting with the center of the state, Orlando is a city that needs no introduction. Known as the theme park capital of the world, it is a popular destination not only for families but thrill-seekers alike. 

Visiting Orlando in December is a great time because the theme parks are less crowded, and the holiday season makes for a magical experience.

Walt Disney World Resort and Magic Kingdom are must-visit destinations, with their iconic attractions, holiday-themed parades, and fireworks shows. 

Universal Studios Orlando Resort is another great option, with its thrilling rides, Harry Potter-themed attractions, and festive decor.  Also, nearby is Sea World with attractions and rides to keep the whole family happy.

Visitors can also indulge in Orlando’s excellent dining scene, shopping, and entertainment options all within the city and a short drive from the theme parks or airports.

Best Places To Stay In Orlando: Top 10 Orlando Hotels

​Key Largo: Top of the Florida Keys Chain of Islands

Key Largo is such a cool little small town and one you must make time to visit if you are heading all the way down to Key West. The warm waters of the Florida Keys average 75 – 80 degrees. The daily high temperatures range from 75 to 80 degrees. 

Palm trees wave and sea turtles swim offshore in this beautiful chain of islands. Before heading south, be sure to get yourself a slice of Key Lime Pie! 

Tip: Before you head toward the Florida Keys, make time to visit Everglades National Park. There is an entrance located in Homestead, just south of Miami.

The List Of The Best Places to Visit in Florida in December absolutely must include the Everglades. The beginning of the dry season for the Everglades is in December.

The natural habitat of the swamps teaming with wildlife including alligators, and the elusive Florida Panther as well as migratory birds is truly some to experience.

Best places to stay Key Largo: Top 10 Key Largo Hotels

Key West: The Southernmost Point of the Continental US

Key West is a laid-back island paradise located at the southernmost point of the continental US.

Known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning sunsets, and charming architecture, Key West is a great place if not the BEST place to escape the winter chill.

How can you not be in a good mood as you walk around this fun town with its many restaurants and bars just begging you to have a good time?

In December, Key West hosts several events, such as the Key West Lighted Boat Parade, a festive parade of decorated boats, and the Conch Republic Independence Celebration, a fun-filled event celebrating Key West’s unique culture and history. 

Be sure to also explore the island’s many attractions, such as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum with the 6-toed cats, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.

Snorkel the crystal clear waters around the Dry Tortugas National Park. You will need to take a ferry or fly over to the National Park, but it’s a great spot for water activities.

Best places to stay Key West: Top 10 Key West Hotels

Best places To Visit In Florida Miami: The Ultimate Winter Destination

Miami is a city that needs no introduction. Known for its beautiful beaches, trendy nightlife, and luxurious hotels, Miami is the ultimate winter destination.

In December, Miami is a great place to escape the cold and enjoy some fun in the sun. South Beach is a must-visit destination, with its iconic Art Deco architecture, white-sand beaches, and turquoise waters. 

Visitors can also explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, such as Little Havana and Wynwood, and indulge in Miami’s famous food scene.

In addition to that, Miami hosts several events in December, such as Art Basel, a world-renowned art fair, and the Miami Beach Polo World Cup, an equestrian event.

Definitely the perfect destination for those that like city life and enjoy the fun nightlife.

Best Miami Places To Stay: Top 10 Miami Hotels

Fort Lauderdale: Shopping, beaches, and foodie heaven.

Fort Lauderdale is one of the best places to take a vacation during a cold winter month like December. It’s also a favorite spot of mine and nearby Hollywood Beach which is also a beautiful beach but more low-key than Fort Lauderdale.

Shopping? Yes! Explore Las Olas Boulevard or nearby Sawgrass Mills Shopping Center. 

Venice Capital of the United States! Fort Lauderdale with its many canals hosts a holiday boat parade of boats lit up for the holidays you can see from Las Olas Boulevard and many other spots along the Intracoastal Waterway. 

Best places to stay Fort Lauderdale: Top 10 Fort Lauderdale Hotels

Best places To Visit In Florida InDecember West Palm Beach: Golf, shopping &  more

While much of the country is experiencing cold temperatures and snow in December, West Palm Beach invites you to visit with warm temps and plenty of things to do. If you are in the city during the holidays, you are in luck.

West Palm Beach is known for its holiday events, including the annual Holiday Boat Parade, the Sandi Tree lighting ceremony, and the Winter in Paradise celebration.

And of course the beaches! WPB has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Even better? They’re warm in December. Finally, all the fun things to do outside including water sports, golf courses, tennis, and more. And don’t forget shopping!

Want to hit the beach? I recommend nearby Delray Beach. Average water temps and daily highs are around 75. Sunny days are the rule and there is plenty to do and see in this area of the state.

Best places to stay: Top 10 Hotels West Palm Beach

St. Augustine: A City Rich in History and Culture

St. Augustine is a charming historical city located on the northeast coast of Florida south of Jacksonville . It is also the oldest city in the country.

This beautiful town is known not only for its rich history and culture, but it is also a great place to explore the state’s roots.

In December, the city hosts the Nights of Lights, a magical event where millions of lights shine brightly throughout the city’s historic district. It is truly a wonderful experience. 

Explore the city’s many attractions, such as the Castillo de San Marcos, a historic fort, and the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum.

Tip: The St. Augustine Lighthouse is said to be haunted. You can also visit several other haunted houses and hotels that dot the historical city streets. One of the best ways to really see everything this city offers is to take a guided tour.

Finally, St. Augustine’s dining scene is not to be missed. Enjoy fresh seafood, farm-to-table restaurants, and craft breweries.

You can also hop on I-95 North to visit Jacksonville and nearby Amelia Island. Or hop on I-95 and head south to Daytona Beach and Cocoa Beach for surfing and other water sports.

This area is not as warm as southeast or southwest Florida, but the day temps are comfortable and there is plenty to do at this time of the year.

Where to stay: Top 10 Hotels St. Augustine

Vero Beach, Fort Pierce, Jensen Beach, and Blowing Rocks Preserve. A Few Of The Best Places To Visit in Florida In December On The Treasure Coast

Farther south brings us to the Treasure Coast. This area enjoys its name from the many treasures recovered from ships that sank off the Atlantic Coastline. And the beaches are spectacular!

One you really need to be sure to visit is Blowing Rocks Preserve. As the waves smash into the rocks, it creates geysers and more that you have to see for yourself. There are no lifeguards on this beach and the surf in this area can be quite strong.

If you are a nature lover like me, you will also want to visit Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge. 3.5 miles of beach in a 967 acre park known for sea turtle nests. On the mainland, there are nature trails to explore as well. 

Where to stay: Top 10 Treasure Coast Hotels

Fort Myers, Marco Island, Sanibel Island, Captiva Island

This brings us over to the Gulf side of the state. I have put these four beautiful Florida destinations together as not only are they near each other, you really cannot go wrong if you pick any of these for your winter getaway.

Sanibel and Captiva Island are known for the many seashells you will be able to find on the beautiful beaches. Also keep an eye outs for sand dollars. 

Where to stay: Best Hotels Fort Myers Area

Sarasota: A Paradise for Beach Lovers And One Of The Best places To Visit In Florida In December

Sarasota is a beautiful city located on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Known for its pristine white sand beaches, emerald-green waters, and vibrant arts scene, Sarasota is a great place to relax and soak up the sun during a fun beach vacation.

In December, visitors can enjoy the city’s many outdoor activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and beachcombing.

Sarasota is also home to several cultural attractions, such as the Ringling Museum of Art, a world-renowned museum with an impressive art collection, and the Sarasota Opera, a vibrant cultural institution.

Visitors can also indulge in the city’s dining scene, which features fresh seafood, farm-to-table restaurants, and trendy cafés.

Before we leave Sarasota, be sure to make time to visit the barrier island Siesta Key. Roughly a 15-minute drive to one of the most highly recommended beaches in the world.

Here you will find white sandy beaches and water temperature warm enough to swim in the Gulf of Mexico.

To the north of Sarasota, be sure to visit Anna Maria Island. It is not as warm as its southern counterparts, but it is very beautiful. 

Where to stay: Top 10 Hotels Sarasota Area

Clearwater Beach, Tampa, and St. Petersburg

Moving toward the west-central part of the Sunshine State brings us to Clearwater Beach, Tampa, St, Petersburg, and Treasure Island. There are so many fun things to do in this part of Florida.

In Tampa, you have not only Tampa Bay and several sports teams, but you also have the amusement park Busch Gardens.

Tampa is roughly an hour west of Orlando on I-4 making it an easy hop to take in a few more amusement parks if that is what you want to do.

Clearwater Beach is absolutely gorgeous. When visiting this area, be sure to visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. You may be familiar with the Clearwater Marine Aquarium as it was the center that rescued and rehabbed Winter the dolphin with a prosthetic tail.

The downtown area of both Tampa and St. Petersburg offers outstanding restaurants, craft breweries, and more for foodies to live their best lives on vacation.

Nearby in Dunedin is another one of the most beautiful state parks in Florida. Be sure to make time to visit Caladesi Island State Park if you can.

It is important to note that the only way to get to this island is by boat, but it is one of the few remaining untouched islands in the country. 

To the west, you will find Crystal River as well as Three Sisters Springs Refuge for manatees. This is one of the few places you can swim with manatees.

I am not a fan as I have watched over and over people not listening to the guides and harassing the manatees. 

These animals are endangered and should be protected and not subject to the whim of a tourist trying to hug or touch them. Please be respectful. 

Where to go: Manatee Tours

Where to stay: Top Hotels Clearwater Beach

​Best Places to Visit in Florida in December: Florida Panhandle

As we round the bend up through the Florida Panhandle, we have many more fabulous places for a December getaway. This area is cooler than the rest of the state but if you ask me, there is never a bad time for a beach vacation.

Enjoy walking the sandy beaches and the pier of Panama City Beach. Enjoy shopping or golfing in Destin . Or head farther west toward the Alabama border and check out Fort Walton Beach and Pensacola Beach. 

Where to stay: Top 10 Hotels Panama City Beach

Activities to Do in Florida in December

In addition to the top destinations mentioned above, there are many other activities to do in Florida in December. And most you cannot do elsewhere in the country during winter.

Outdoor enthusiast? You will want to definitely explore Florida’s many state parks that offer hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities. 

Fishing and boating are also popular activities, with many charter companies offering guided tours.

Kayaking the many rivers including camping along the banks of the Suwannee River which begins in Georgia before dumping into the Gulf of Mexico or the Peace River with its many artifacts you can search for are also great activities for those that love to be on the water.

Where to go: Top Florida Kayak Trips

For those interested in culture and history, Florida is home to many museums, art galleries, and historic sites.

And of course, no trip to Florida is complete without indulging in the state’s fantastic food and bar scene. Enjoy fresh seafood, world-class cuisine, gastropubs, craft breweries, wineries and trendy cafés.

How to Plan Your Trip to Florida in December

To make the most of your trip to Florida in December, plan ahead. I really recommend getting my travel planner to help you. You can get it here:  Ultimate Travel Planner

First research the top destinations you are considering to make sure they have the activities that interest you. Book your accommodations and activities in advance. 

Consider renting a car to explore the state at your leisure. Finally, check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly.

Get information: Car Rental Deals Florida

Florida is an excellent destination for those looking to escape the winter blues and enjoy some fun in the sun. It is why I now call the Sunshine State home after living in Ohio until my 30s. I live my life outdoors for 12 months of the year.

With its beautiful beaches, exciting theme parks, and vibrant cities, Florida has something for everyone in December. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the state’s culture and history, or indulge in its fantastic dining scene, Florida is sure to delight. 

Top Things To Do In Florida In December

Quick recap, here are ten enjoyable activities you can do in Florida during December:

• Visit Theme Parks: Experience the magic of the holiday season with festive decorations and special events at places like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
• Enjoy Beach Days: While it might be cooler, Florida’s beaches are still inviting, offering a quieter atmosphere for walks, shell collecting, or relaxing by the shore.
• Holiday Light Displays: Explore the dazzling light displays across the state, such as the Nights of Lights in St. Augustine or the Christmas Tree Trail at Disney Springs.
• Go Kayaking or Canoeing: Explore Florida’s waterways and enjoy nature by paddling through rivers, springs, or mangroves.
• Attend Festivals: Participate in various festivals and events, from art and music festivals to food and cultural celebrations happening throughout the state.
• Wildlife Watching: Visit wildlife refuges or national parks to observe manatees, dolphins, birds, and other wildlife that thrive in Florida’s mild winter.
• Shopping: Take advantage of the holiday sales at outlets, malls, and local markets, where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs.
• Outdoor Dining: Enjoy al fresco dining at the numerous restaurants with outdoor seating, taking advantage of Florida’s pleasant December weather.
• Explore State Parks: Hike, bike, or camp in Florida’s state parks, enjoying the cooler temperatures and diverse landscapes.
• Holiday Boat Parades: Witness the spectacle of holiday boat parades along Florida’s waterways, where festively decorated boats cruise by with dazzling lights and decorations.

Pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and head to Florida to discover the best places to visit in December. The links below will help you plan the perfect December getaway vacation!

Below are additional articles to help you plan your Florida December Getaway:

Best Florida Beaches To Visit In December

Best Florida Vacation Rental Homes For December

Pink sand Beaches Florida

Disclosure: I earn a commission if you make a purchase through my links at no additional cost to you! I would never recommend anything I don’t personally use, and the income goes to keeping this site updated and free for everyone!

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About Denise

Denise Sanger lives a life split between her love for fitness and her passion for travel particularly to the BEACH.  Denise also has a love of marketing and lives in beautiful Suwannee County, Florida. You can find out more about Denise here:  About Denise

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December in Florida: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

joe daniel price/ Getty

If you're planning a trip to Florida for the month of December, there's plenty of nice weather to enjoy all of the events, activities, and attractions available for tourists and residents alike during this holiday season . 

Explore the following guide to find out more about December weather in Florida, what to pack for your trip, and the plethora of events happening during this festive month in the Sunshine State.

Seasonal Information

Keep in mind that It does get pretty crowded in Florida around the holiday time, so make sure to plan activities ahead and have your meal reservations set.  Christmas through New Year's Day at  Disney World  is the most crowded, while the week after Thanksgiving through the week before Christmas is the least crowded, and this generally holds true for most other attractions like  Universal Orlando  as well.

December Weather in Florida

Florida's mild climate extends into the winter, but there is more of a chance for cold temperatures toward the middle to end of the month in Northern and Central Florida. Average temperatures are listed below, and if you're looking for more specific information on these popular Florida destinations, check these links to see what's in store  throughout the year  and  more specifics on what to pack .

• Daytona Beach : High 70 degrees F, Low 50 degrees F
• Fort Myers : High 76 degrees F, Low 55 degrees F
• Jacksonville : High 67 degrees F, Low 43 degrees F
• Key West : High 77 degrees F, Low 67 degrees F
• Miami : High 77 degrees F, Low 62 degrees F
• Orlando : High 73 degrees F, Low 51 degrees F
• Panama City : High 64 degrees F, Low 40 degrees F
• Pensacola : High 63 degrees F, Low 45 degrees F
• Tallahassee : High 66 degrees F, Low 40 degrees F
• Tampa : High 72 degrees F, Low 52 degrees F
• West Palm Beach : High 76 degrees F, Low 59 degrees F

The water temperature for the Gulf of Mexico (West Coast) ranges from the mid- to high 60s, and the Atlantic Ocean (East Coast) waters are several degrees cooler; additionally, the beaches to the south are always several degrees warmer than those in North Florida.

What to Pack

You may want to opt for long sleeves, pants, and a light to heavy jacket for evenings, but otherwise usual resort casual wear is appropriate, which includes shorts if you tolerate cooler temperatures well. Don't forget those comfortable shoes for the miles you'll be walking if visiting the theme parks.

You may not be aware that sunscreen is a year-round necessity in Florida. The sun can be intense enough to burn even in December, and you should also bring a bathing suit because, even if the water is too cold, sunbathing isn't necessarily out of the question.

December Events in Florida

December in Florida is full of fun family-friendly activities and lots of holiday cheer. If you're planning to stay in the Orlando area, you will find that all the theme parks have special holiday parties and activities available. Each part of Florida has its own holiday flavor, too. 

• Busch Gardens Christmas Town:  On selected dates from mid-November through the end of December, celebrate the spirit of the season with  Busch Gardens Christmas Town , an annual celebration of the holidays featuring thousands of lights, Yuletide shows, and even a special performance of "Sam the Snowman," a new production featuring the characters of "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer."
• Christmas at Disney World Resorts:   Christmas at Disney World Resorts  is one of the most magical ways to spend your Florida holiday vacations. Walt Disney World Resort is aglow in decorations, millions of lights, parades, celebrity appearances, and more. The holidays are a joyous time at Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando. For more details and photos, visit our  guide . 
• Gaylord Palms Resort's ICE!:  Gaylord Palms Resort is slightly south of Orlando in Kissimmee and runs annually from mid-November through early January, turning into a winter wonderland for " ICE! featuring Christmas Around the World ." This popular family experience gives guests a chance to visit a whimsical interactive environment with larger-than-life, three-dimensional ice monuments and sculptures. The enormous structure used to house ICE!—dubbed "The Florida Fridge"—is cooled to a chilly 9 degrees making it necessary for the resort to provide over-sized winter coats for visitors to wear.
• Universal Studios Orlando's Holiday Parade and Grinchmas:  Universal Studios Orlando's Holiday Parade and Grinchmas are great ways to spend the holidays at Universal Studios Orlando. Macy's will bring the magic and excitement of its world-famous parade daily to Universal Studios Orlando with a brand new parade experience, and the popular Dr. Seuss book "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" is brought to life in "Grinchmas," a live stage show. Enjoy nightly holiday music, and don't miss concerts by top-selling holiday musicians Mannheim Steamroller.
• Epcot's Candlelight Processional:   Epcot's Candlelight Processional  runs nightly from November 24 through December 30 each year. One of Disney's most beloved holiday traditions, Epcot's Candlelight Processional is a joyous retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir.
• Nights of Lights:   Nights of Lights  transform Florida's oldest city, St. Augustine , into a grand celebration of lights and holiday cheer, featuring over two million lights that illuminate the colonial buildings, downtown parks, and historic bay front. The event has grown to include activities that keep visitors busy well into the new year with events running nightly from mid-November through the end of January.
• New Year's Eve Events and Celebrations:   Florida celebrates the New Year in style , so don't miss out on ringing in the new year with Florida's best celebrations and fireworks displays, including "New Year at the World," Disney World's premier fireworks display featuring live entertainment and new attraction thrills.

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15 Best Beaches in Florida in December

December is an ideal time to visit Florida, especially if you’re looking to escape the cold weather and enjoy some sunshine. Florida boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and in this blog post, we’ll take a look at the 15 best beaches in Florida in December to visit.

It’s important to remember that even Florida can get chilly in certain areas during December – so I’ve focused this list on beaches in the southern half of the state. From the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic, I’ll share the best beaches for soaking up some sun in December.

As a Florida resident for many years, I have personally visited almost every beach on this list . From the powdery white sand of Siesta Key to the crystal-clear waters of Clearwater Beach, I can confidently say that these are some of the best beaches in Florida. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing but they are also incredibly peaceful and relaxing.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or just a place to escape the cold weather, these are all fantastic options. I highly recommend visiting one of these beaches as possible during your December trip to Florida!

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Best Beaches in Florida in December

This list of the 15 best beaches in Florida in December to visit is full of stunning and peaceful locations, perfect for a romantic getaway or simply escaping the cold winter snow weather. From the powdery white sand of Siesta Key to the crystal-clear waters of Clearwater Beach, each beach offers its own unique experience that will be sure to satisfy even the pickiest beach-goer.

1. South Beach, Miami 🏖️🏊‍♀️🌴🍹🌅

South Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Florida, and it’s known for its white sand, crystal clear water, and lively atmosphere. The beach is home to a variety of restaurants, boutiques, and bars – making it the perfect spot for visitors who are looking for an energetic atmosphere.

South Beach also has an amazing boardwalk about the stretch of the beach which is perfect for running, biking, or just taking a leisurely stroll. You’ll definitely want to take a walk down it and pass by “Muscle Beach” which is a great spot for people-watching !

When in South Beach, I love to grab lunch at one of the authentic Cuban restaurants for an unforgettable experience. South Beach is very walkable and it’s easy to get around without a car – so I definitely recommend making the trek out here during your December Florida trip.

💡A local tip is to visit the nearby Art Deco Historic District to see the iconic architecture and colorful buildings or better yet, take a private helicopter tour of Miami for a truly one-of-a-kind experience. The average temperature in December is around 76°F (24°C).

2. Clearwater Beach, Clearwater 🏖️🌊🌴🐬🚣‍♀️

Clearwater Beach is famous for its crystal clear water, soft white sand , and friendly dolphin pods that can often be seen from shore.

The beach is also home to some of the best fishing spots in Florida and there are always people out kayaking, sailing, or just relaxing on the sand. And there are a ton of charter fishing boats available nearby.

My favorite restaurants in Clearwater Beach are Frenchy’s and Island Way Grill . Make sure to stop by for a bite when you are there!

Or if you’re looking to stay for the weekend, make sure to check out my favorite hotels: The SandPearl, Wyndman, or The Opal!

💡A local tip is to take a sunset sail on a catamaran to see the breathtaking views of the beach and the Gulf of Mexico or book a ticket for the infamous pirate ship sailing if you have little ones. The average temperature in December is around 71°F (22°C).

3. Siesta Key Beach, Sarasota 🏖️🌴🏊‍♂️🏖️🌅

Siesta Key Beach is a picturesque beach that features unique quartz sand , making it one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The powdery white sand is incredibly soft and cool to the touch, and it’s a great spot for sunbathing or swimming.

There are also plenty of restaurants and activities nearby – including parasailing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and more.

💡A local tip is to visit the nearby Marie Selby Botanical Gardens to see the exotic plants and flowers or book a fun tour of Siesta Key on an electric bike at Sunset . The average temperature in December is around 73°F (23°C).

4. Naples Beach, Naples 🏖️🏊‍♀️🌅🍹🌴

Naples Beach is a stunning stretch of sand that offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. Naples Beach is known for its luxurious resorts and high-end shopping , but also offers miles of white sand and crystal clear water.

💡A local tip is to visit the nearby Naples Pier to see the sunset and try your hand at fishing. You can also take a scenic sunset boat tour of the area or try some of the fresh seafood at the many restaurants in the area. The average temperature in December is around 75°F (24°C).

5. Delray Beach, Delray Beach 🏖️🌊🍹🏖️🌅

Delray Beach is a gorgeous stretch of white sand with clear waters and abundant sea life.

💡A local tip is to visit the nearby Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens to experience the serenity and beauty of the gardens. The average temperature in December is around 75°F (24°C).

6. Fort Lauderdale Beach, Fort Lauderdale 🏖️🏊‍♀️🌴🌅🍹

Fort Lauderdale Beach is a favorite destination for both locals and tourists. It offers miles of white sand and crystal-clear water, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun.

If you’re looking for the ultimate adventure, Fort Lauderdale Beach is your go-to destination! With its wide range of restaurants, bars, hotels, and boutique shops along with incredible snorkeling and kayaking opportunities – boredom will never be a factor.

💡A local tip is to take a water taxi to see the beautiful canals and mansions . The average temperature in December is around 75°F (24°C).

7. St. Pete Beach, St. Pete Beach 🏖️🌅🌊🌴🏊‍♂️

St. Pete Beach is a scenic stretch of white sand that offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s famous for its amazing sunsets, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby to explore.

You can stop by the famous Don Cesar hotel for an appetizer or a drink, and be sure to keep an eye out for the local dolphins that often pass by. Or better yet, stay at the Don Cesar for a weekend getaway !

💡A local tip is to visit the nearby Salvador Dali Museum to see the incredible art collection. Or take an evening yacht cruise with dining for an extra special time. The average temperature in December is around 72°F (22°C).

8. Key West Beach, Key West 🏖️🌅🏄‍♂️🍹🌴

Key West Beach is a popular destination for its crystal clear water and miles of white sand. There aren’t actually that many beaches in the Florida Keys, but Key West Beach is one of the best. The beach offers plenty of activities such as renting a scooter, kayaking, fishing, and more.

Key West has an eccentric nightlife full of bars and restaurants. A local tip is to visit Mallory Square for the daily sunset celebration which happens every day when the sun goes down.

Stop by the Southernmost Beach Cafe or Alonzo’s Oyster bar for a bite to eat or a refreshing beverage.

💡A local tip is to visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum to learn about the history of the famous author and see the six-toed cats that roam the property. You can also take a sunset sail on a catamaran or visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory to see exotic butterflies and birds. The average temperature in December is around 74°F (23°C).

9. Cocoa Beach, Cocoa Beach 🏖️🏄‍♀️🌅🌊🍹

Cocoa Beach is known as the “ Surfing Capital of the East Coast ” and offers miles of white sand and perfect waves for surfing.

While the waves don’t get as big here as they do in Hawaii, it’s a great spot for beginners and experienced surfers alike. There are also plenty of nearby bars and restaurants to explore, as well as the iconic Cocoa Beach Pier.

💡A local tip is to visit the nearby Kennedy Space Center to learn about space exploration and see rockets and shuttles up close. The average temperature in December is around 71°F (22°C).

10. Hollywood Beach, Hollywood 🏖️🌴🍹🌅🏊‍♀️

Hollywood Beach is a family-friendly beach that offers a wide variety of activities and attractions. Nearby you’ll find the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, a two-and-a-half-mile-long promenade that winds along the beach and is lined with shops, restaurants, and more.

For those looking for nightlife, head over to Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort for live music, tropical drinks, and food. There’s also Gulfstream Park, a racetrack-casino that offers horse racing and other entertainment.

💡A local tip is to visit the nearby Anne Kolb Nature Center to see the wildlife and take a guided kayak tour. You can also take a stroll on the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk and enjoy the many shops and restaurants. Or you could book a private beach photo session and capture all the memories of your trip. The average temperature in December is around 75°F (24°C).

11. Sanibel Island, Sanibel 🏖️🌅🌴🦀🐚

Sanibel Island is known for its unique shell beaches and breathtaking sunsets. It’s a picture-perfect spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

You can go shelling, kayaking, or fishing in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. For a bite to eat, be sure to check out The Island Cow for some freshly caught seafood and tropical drinks.

Sanibel Island isn’t too far from Sarasota either, so you can take a day trip to explore the city and its attractions.

💡A local tip is to visit the nearby J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge to see the wildlife and take a guided kayak tour. You can also try some of the fresh seafood at the many restaurants on the island. The average temperature in December is around 73°F (23°C).

12. Anna Maria Island, Anna Maria 🏖️🌴🌅🏄‍♀️🍹

Anna Maria Island is a charming beach town that offers a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches.

What I admire most about Anna Maria Island is its rustic beach cottage atmosphere, without many large resorts. If you’re in the mood to walk or bike around and visit quaint shops and restaurants, Anna Maria Island is the perfect spot .

I also love the architecture and gorgeous new homes here – definitely worth a look.

For those looking for nightlife, head over to The Sandbar Restaurant for live music and great drinks. Be sure to take a stroll along the historic Bridge Street pier or enjoy some of the local seafood at one of the island’s many restaurants.

💡 A local tip is to visit the nearby Robinson Preserve to see the wildlife and take a guided kayak tour. You can also try some of the fresh seafood at the many restaurants on the island or rent a bike and explore the island on two wheels. If you’re feeling adventurous, then make sure to check out this highly-rated parasailing adventure while you are there! The average temperature in December is around 73°F (23°C).

13. Fort Myers Beach, Fort Myers 🏖️🌅🌊🌴🍹

Fort Myers Beach is a laid-back beach town that offers a variety of activities and attractions. It was recently hit by a hurricane, but it still offers plenty of things to do.

You can spend your days relaxing on the beach or strolling around Times Square , a lively entertainment district with shops, restaurants, and street performers. For some adventure, head over to Bowditch Point Park to kayak in the calm waters of Estero Bay.

💡A local tip is to visit the nearby Lovers Key State Park to see the wildlife and take a guided kayak tour. You can also take a sunset sail on a catamaran or try some of the fresh seafood at the many restaurants in the area. The average temperature in December is around 74°F (23°C).

14. Indian Rocks Beach, Indian Rocks Beach Florida

Indian Rocks Beach is a small, but vibrant beach town located on Florida’s Gulf Coast. It’s known for its beautiful shorelines and abundance of seafood restaurants.

The town of Indian Rocks Beach is short-term rental friendly, so if you’re looking for a place to stay other than a hotel, you’ll have plenty of options. Or if you’d rather explore the town, there are plenty of little shops and restaurants along Gulf Boulevard.

Nestled between St Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach, this location allows you to experience the best of both locations without straying too far from all the action.

A local tip is to have dinner at the Salt Rock Grill for some fantastic seafood dishes with a view of the sunset. If you’re feeling adventurous, try kiteboarding or stand-up paddle boarding in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The average temperature in December is around 73°F (23°C).

15. Honeymoon Island, Dunedin FL

Honeymoon Island is a gorgeous state park located in Dunedin Florida. It’s known for its beautiful shorelines, wildlife, and abundance of outdoor activities.

The island boasts 4 miles of white sandy beaches and plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty like kayaking, bird watching, and hiking.

Honeymoon Island is home to a variety of wildlife including ospreys, bald eagles, manatees, and dolphins. You can also take a ferry over to Caladesi Island State Park located just across the bay.

There is also a portion of Honeymoon Island State Park that is dog friendly , so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure! But remember, you’ll be limited to the areas where dogs are allowed.

💡A local tip is to visit the nearby Historic Downtown Dunedin for some shopping, art galleries, and great restaurants. You could also book a half day private boat charter right out of Dunedin! The average temperature in December is around 72°F (22°C) so make sure to pack plenty of sunscreens.

Wrapping It Up: Best Beaches in Florida in December

Florida has some of the best beaches in the world, and December is the perfect time to visit. With mild temperatures and fewer crowds, you can enjoy all that these beaches have to offer. Whether you’re looking for surfing, wildlife, or just a relaxing day on the beach, Florida has something for everyone. So pack your sunscreen, grab your flip-flops, and head to one of these 15 Best Beaches in Florida in December to visit.

FAQ’s

What is the warmest beach in florida in december.

The warmest beach in Florida in December is Miami Beach, South Beach or Key West Beach. The average temperature in December is around 76°F

What are the best beaches to visit in winter in Florida?

Some of the best beaches to visit in winter in Florida are Clearwater Beach, Daytona Beach, Miami Beach, Sanibel Island, Anna Maria Island, and Fort Myers Beach. All these beaches offer a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

What are the best activities to do at the beach in Florida in December?

Some of the best activities to do at the beach in Florida in December include swimming, surfing, kayaking, fishing, biking, and strolling around entertainment districts. You can also take a sunset sail on a catamaran or visit nearby wildlife reserves for guided kayak tours. There are endless possibilities to explore!

What is the warmest place in Florida in December?

The warmest place in Florida in December is Miami, with an average temperature of 78°F (26°C). It’s the perfect destination if you’re looking for a warm beach getaway.

What part of Florida is best to visit in December?

The best part of Florida to visit in December is the southwestern region, which includes Clearwater Beach, Daytona Beach, Miami Beach, Sanibel Island, Anna Maria Island and Fort Myers Beach. This area offers mild temperatures and fewer crowds for a relaxing beach vacation.

Can you swim in Florida beaches in December?

Yes, you can swim in Florida beaches in December. However, the temperature of the ocean varies depending on where you are in Florida. In southern parts of the state, like Miami and Fort Myers Beach, it’s usually warm enough for swimming. The average temperature in December is around 73°F (23°C). However, if you are visiting the northern part of the state, like Daytona Beach, it might be too cold to swim in December.

Can you sunbathe in Florida beaches in December?

Yes, you can sunbathe in Florida beaches in December. The temperatures in the sunshine state are usually mild enough to bask under the sun without feeling too hot or too cold. Just make sure to use sunscreen and take regular breaks from the sun’s rays to prevent sunburns.

The Florida Traveler Guides Content Team is comprised of lifelong Floridians with over 20 years of in-depth experience exploring the state. We have lived in Florida for decades and traveled extensively throughout every region, from the panhandle to the Keys.

Our guides are based on personal first-hand visits to destinations and attractions, not outside research. As passionate Florida travelers ourselves, we are committed to helping others discover authentic Florida highlights, hidden gems, and special local flavors.

You can trust our recommendations come from genuine personal experience and a desire to share the true spirit of Florida. We cover the full range of Florida interests, from beach towns to theme parks to wilderness escapes. Whether you seek peaceful nature, family fun, or cultural discovery, we provide knowledgeable and honest Florida travel insights.

Our goal is to inspire your own memorable Florida adventures! As longtime residents, we feel honored to share our Florida with newcomers and help create travel memories that will last a lifetime.

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9 Best (And Warmest) Florida Beaches In December

by waynekask | Mar 31, 2024 | Blog , Travel Tips | 0 comments

Last Updated on March 31, 2024

When the holidays come around, many people desperately seek out a relaxing getaway.

Luckily, Florida is home to many of the best and warmest beaches in the country during December. 

With temperatures ranging from cool to mild during this month, you can bask in the sunshine and enjoy all that these beautiful beaches have to offer.

From Panama City Beach to Key West and beyond, each beach offers something unique.  For instance, Panama City Beach is known for its white-sand beaches and emerald waters.

With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning sunsets, it is the perfect place to get away from it all.

Key West, on the other hand, is known for its vibrant nightlife and excellent seafood restaurants.

These beaches, and the others in this post, are great spots to spend a day of relaxation or an evening of fun.

Whether you’re looking for white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, or simply a place to relax and unwind, here are some of the best and warmest beaches in Florida during December!

Table of Contents

  1. South Beach – Miami

2. Cocoa Beach Pier – Cocoa Beach

3. Anna Maria Beach – Anna Maria Island

4. Higgs Memorial Beach Park – Key West

5. Dog Beach – Panama City Beach

6. Honeymoon Island- Dunedin

7. Bahia Honda State Park – Big Pine Key

8. Fort Zachary Taylor Beach – Key West

9. Clearwater Beach

9 best (and warmest) florida beaches in december.

 1. South Beach- Miami

Miami is such a colorful city and its vibrancy is in no way dimmed by mid-winter.

The arts district is an absolute must-see, especially the Wynwood Walls, the downtown spot full of abstract murals.  Just make sure to get there early to get photos without crowds.

When in Miami, the Miami Beach is an absolute must-do, as it’s one of the best and warmest beaches in Florida.

South Beach is the most famous of them all but there are plenty of other beaches in and around Miami that are just as beautiful, all you need to do is walk or drive up or down the coast a bit.

Finally, you can’t go to Miami without experiencing the Cuban culture.

Miami is incredibly diverse but the Cuban culture is one of the biggest drawcards for visitors.

The best way is to go exploring in Little Havana, find a cafe, and order the first thing on the menu.

Similar to West Coast beach destinations like Los Angeles , winter months in Miami are mild with average temperatures around 71 degrees but the humidity levels are still very high.

There is definitely no snow in Miami and even rain is somewhat rare as it rains an average highs of 7 days.

If you’re interested in outdoor activities, December is definitely the most pleasant time of year.

Some of the top events in Miami in December include the Orange Bowl, Winterfest Boat Parade, and of course all sorts of Christmas parades and New Year’s Eve parties.

Recommended by Kate from Kate Abroad

2. Cocoa Beach Pier- Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach is one of the best beaches in Florida to visit in December thanks to the holiday events, perfect warm weather, and the best surfing of the year.

Cocoa Beach may not be what you think of when you think of a winter wonderland, but you can still get into the holiday spirit.

Over the years, there have been several unique holiday events including the skydiving Santas at Cocoa Beach Pier some years.

You can still find “snow” in Cocoa Beach at holiday events like the one hosted by the Brevard Cultural Alliance each year.

Enjoy the perfect weather for walking on the beach (or even swimming if the water isn’t too cold for you) as well as watching rocket launches. 

You can see the launches from anywhere in Cocoa Beach, but most people head to the beach near the Cocoa Beach Pier.

The Cocoa Beach Pier is also where you can find some of the best dining in Cocoa Beach, and there is a free shuttle if you are staying at Westgate Cocoa Beach for the ultimate Cocoa Beach vacation .

From more casual options including the tiki bar at the end of the pier to a nicer indoor restaurant in the middle of the pier, you can find something for everyone at the pier.

December is also the month of the year when you are less likely to get hurricanes but more likely to get clean waves to surf.

Cocoa Beach, the home of surfing legend Kelly Slater, is a great place to learn to surf with waves that are much less intimidating than in other parts of the world.

Recommended by Christine from Live Love Run Travel

3. Anna Maria Beach- Anna Maria Island

If you are looking for a perfect beach in Florida to visit in December, and have a memorable holiday vacation,  you should add Anna Maria Island to your bucket list.

Considered one of Florida’s best-kept secrets, Anna Maria Island offers a laid-back vibe, stunning pristine white beaches with crystal-clear waters, and amazing restaurants.

There are plenty of  things to do on Anna Maria Island   in December to please the whole family. 

When it comes to beautiful beaches, you’ll be spoilt for choice if visit Anna Maria Island, such as Anna Maria Beach with amazing amenities such as cafes, showers, and a volleyball area.

After enjoying a day of fun and sun at the beach, you can head on a stroll to watch the sunset at the City Pier, built in 1900 and today is one of the landmarks on this barrier island.

You can also explore Historic Bridge Street, rent bicycles for the day, or even head out on a wildlife-watching boat trip. 

One of the best things about visiting Anna Maria Island in December is besides skipping the crowds from the summer months, the temperatures are mild and very pleasant.

In December the h igh temperatures stay in the low 70s, while lows can dip into the 50s.

Among the best places to have dinner in Anna Maria, t he Beach House Restaurant is one of the best options.

Located in a beautiful location, the food is outstanding and it is a perfect place to have a happy hour with the best view.

One of the best accommodations is the Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound with outstanding views, and a restaurant and a bar at the gorgeous pool.

Anna Maria Island is located on the Central Gulf Coast, t the island is just a 15-minute drive from Bradenton as it’s connected via a bridge, so there’s no need to catch a boat there. 

Recommended by Paula from Paula Pins The Planet

4. Higgs Memorial Beach Park- Key West

Talking about   Things to do in Key West , there is every reason to believe that you can never be short of ideas in Higgs Memorial Beach Park.

This is because it remains one of the best spots for a perfect and memorable vacation in Florida.

For instance, it isn’t just meant for adults as there are lots of fun activities your kids can take part in.

It has got a playground for children to explore. Also, there are facilities for adults such as pickleball, tennis, volleyball, sunbathing, snorkeling, and many others.

That is not all as Higgs Memorial Beach Park has always been known for its crystal-clear and calm waters and gorgeous palm trees.

Its tropical vegetation and sandy beaches are just too good to be ignored.

Also, it isn’t crowded as compared to many other beaches in Florida.  Please note that this depends on the time you are visiting.

Furthermore, this is the best beach park to explore if you have a low budget.  This is because it is a free public beach.

You will have to rent umbrellas, kayaks, paddleboards, and chairs though.

This is the perfect budget-friendly beach for the ultimate experience.  Again, your safety is assured since its water is shallow.

Recommended by Phil from Journication Travel Blog

5. Dog Beach- Panama City Beach

One of the best beach destinations on the Florida Panhandle is Panama City Beach.

It is made up of 27 miles of pristine white beaches, but the main stretch opposite Pier Park is one of the best, especially the aptly named Dog Beach!

December is the best time to visit as there will be fewer crowds and average temperature at 65 degrees Fahrenheit, with only a 20% chance of rain, so you can still enjoy all the outdoor activities that this area is famous for.

Some of the   most popular things to do in Panama City Beach include dolphin watching on Shell Island, hiking in Camp Helen State Park, and kayaking in St Andrews State Park.

If the weather takes a turn, you can always head to Pier Park, located just opposite Dog beach, where you can enjoy the rides, shopping, and arcade games.

There are plenty of great places to eat in Panama City Beach, but brunch at Andy’s Flour Power, donuts at the beachfront Thomas Donut & Snack Shop, enchiladas at Diego’s Burrito Factory, and seafood at The Grand Marlin are all must do’s.

If you want a convenient place to stay, choose Calypso Resort & Towers, it is located next to Pier Park, but still has its own private beach, swimming pool, a gym and is within walking distance to plenty of bars and restaurants.

Recommended by Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

Located nearby Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach, Hog Island, aka Honeymoon Island, is one of the most   romantic beaches in Florida for couples .

More than a million people come to this place annually, most of whom are honeymoon couples. Honeymoon Island is best in December.

The morning mist makes this place green, and love is in the air. It is highly recommended to visit this beach in December to get the best of it and explore the pine forest with loved ones.

People come to this place for its pristine sea beaches, pine forests, seashells, gopher tortoises, bald eagles, tarpon, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

As the sky remains clear and sunny and the sea beaches remain clean people come here to enjoy their holidays during this time.

You can do plenty of things on this beautiful island with your friends and families.

Enjoy the shallow tides on the white sand beach and lie down when you want to absorb the sunshine with your beloved. You can even play sports like handball, volleyball, and other games.

Collecting shells is something the new couple enjoys most on beaches.  You guys can also visit the northernmost part of the beach to collect beautiful shells.

 Osprey nature trails are great for nature-loving couples.  You will find here green pine forests, mangroves, owls, and osprey.

Hiking and seeing nature up close with your partner will strengthen your relationship.

A Beach vacation is incomplete without good food.  Black Pearl Restaurant has many delicacies like American and Mexican dishes, and you will get vegetarian food too.

You can stay at Pier House 60 Clearwater Beach Marina Hotel if you want to stay near Honeymoon Island State Park.

The hotel offers all the basic amenities including a heated outdoor pool and free WiFi.

Recommended by Trijit from Budget Travel Buff

 7. Bahia Honda State Park- Big Pine Key

The funny thing about the Florida Keys is that although it is iconic for its tropical vibes, great, natural beaches are not as abundant as you may think.

However, one that the locals love to go to is Bahia Honda State Park.

Located between Big Pine Key and the far end of the 7-mile bridge, it offers visitors three most beautiful beaches as well as to enjoy.

Loggerhead Beach faces the Atlantic Ocean and has shallow warm waters, a great choice for swimming and sunbathing.

Calusa Beach faces Florida Bay and is perfect for picnicking, with covered pavilions providing relief from the sun.

Sandspur Beach is the largest and is home to the iconic railroad bridge.  All have lovely soft sand with crystal-clean water.

Aside from sunbathing, Bahia Honda offers some of the best nearshore snorkeling areas in the Florida Keys.

Just a few hundred feet from shore, you can encounter a variety of sea life with soft corals, tropical fish, queen conchs, and even the odd passing manatee.

Rental snorkeling equipment, kayaks, umbrellas, and beach chairs are available to hire, and clean bathroom facilities are always a bonus!

If you don’t fancy bringing your own picnic, there is a concessions kiosk that sells sandwiches and snacks (the frozen chocolate-covered key lime pie on a stick is a must try!).

Or if you fancy something a bit larger, there are a couple of restaurants on Big Pine Key, an area favorite being the   No Name Pub .

Places to stay nearby include camping in the state park itself or if you really want to splash out, consider the nearby Little Palm Island Resort.

Alternatively, Key West is around 30 miles up the road with a wide range of accommodations to suit most budgets and a great nightlife.

With December temperatures averaging in the mid-70s and a comfortable year-round water temperature, if you are visiting the Florida Keys in December, be sure to add Bahia Honda to your itinerary.

Recommended by Matt from The Travel Blogs

8. Fort Zachary Taylor Beach- Key West

Fort Zachary Taylor Beach is the perfect choice for a warm December day in southern Florida.

Located on the very tip of Key West, it’s one of the most beautiful in the area and there is plenty to see and do nearby.

As the name suggests it’s located next to Fort Zachary Taylor which is a historical site that is well worth visiting.

Combine your beach trip with an educational experience and dive into the history of this part of Florida.

The water at this beautiful beach is shallow and perfect for swimming.  You’ll love the warm water and sandy ocean floor which makes this great spot ideal for families.

You absolutely need to pack a picnic so you can spend the entire day here if the weather is nice.

There are some benches around and you can bring the car up to the little park area that surrounds the beach so you can even bring camping chairs and coolers.

Just make sure to arrive early as this beach can get crowded on weekends with many local families visiting.

There are restrooms, changing rooms, and even a small shop on site so you can purchase drinks and snacks if needed.

Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Clearwater Beach is one of the best beaches in Florida in the United States to visit in December!

With average temperatures ranging from 68-72 degrees, it is perfect for a beach vacation at any time of year.

The white sand and crystal clear waters on the Gulf of Mexico make Clearwater Beach an ideal spot for swimming, relaxing in the sun, fishing, and enjoying other beach activities.

Clearwater Beach also has several fun options for sunset cruises and boat tours.

One of the best parts about this beach town is that it is close to many attractions, like Fort de Soto National Park, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and Pier 60 for fishing.   

John’s Pass is just a short drive away from Madeira Beach with a boardwalk, restaurants, and water activities. 

Caladesi Island State Park is just north of Clearwater Beach and is popular for hiking and exploring, kayaking, swimming, and more. 

There are plenty of bars and restaurants in Clearwater Beach, as well.

Frenchy’s Rockaway Grill and Palm Pavillion are both located right on the beach and have great food, and there are several more nice spots for food and drinks along this famous strip.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day or an exciting night out, Clearwater Beach has plenty of options for fun!

Thanks to its warm climate, this stunning beach is the perfect place for a sunny December holiday.

Final Thoughts: Best Florida Beaches In December

Overall, whether you are looking for fun activities or just want to relax in the sun, there is no shortage of the best and warmest beaches in the sunshine state of Florida during December.

From Clearwater Beach to Key West, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

So grab your sunscreen, and a beach chair, and get ready for some fun in the sun!

Always On The Shore contains affiliate links and if you make a purchase, we make a small commission at no cost to you.

For more information, please read the disclaimer page . 

Booking a last-minute trip to Florida?  

If so, we have you covered.  Here are some top recommended tours and hotels!

Top Tours in Florida

Speedboat Sightseeing Tour –  (Miami Coastline Cruise)

Little Havana Food & Walking Tour –  (The Best Food And Walking Tour In Miami)

Key West Sunset Sail –  (Sunset Sail With Full Bar, Live Music, & Hors D’oeuvres)

Florida Everglades Airboat Tour   – (Wild Florida Admission With Optional Lunch)

Calypso Queen Tropical Party Buffet   – (Clearwater Sightseeing Cruise)

Top Hotels & Accommodations in Florida

Trump National Doral Golf Resort – (Perfect For Relaxation & Golf Lovers!)

Four Seasons Hotel Miami – (A Tropical Paradise In Miami)

Hotel Effie Sandestin   – (Top Rated Hotel In Destin)

Buenavista Suites Orlando – (High Rated Hotel Near Walt Disney Resort)

Looking To Get Around In Florida ? 

Check out rental car rates here! 🚗

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Hi, I'm Wayne! I'm an inspired traveler looking for the best beaches, attractions, restaurants, and more.

From Florida, The Caribbean, and the Atlantic Coast, my goal is to give you ideas for the best beach vacations and experiences!

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11 Best Florida Beaches in December 

Written By Travel Expert Megan Kulluk

Megan got addicted to travel at a young age and has no plan on stopping anytime soon. She love tropical warm beaches and prefers to travel slow. When she is not traveling around the world on a super yacht, she is busy sharing her travel tips and secrets with you.

Florida is one of the top vacation places in the United States. It ’ s known for its warm year-round weather, amusement parks, beautiful beaches, and wonderful parks and natural landscapes.

It ’ s an outstanding place to visit throughout the year, December included.

Actually, it is the perfect place to visit in December. As the rest of the northern hemisphere starts getting snow and subzero temperatures, Florida still boosts sunshine and warm weather.

After spending 3 years in Florida, I can attest to the fact that December is the perfect time to visit Florida. The temperatures are enjoyable and it is no longer blazing hot.

Florida in the winter is the perfect place to escape.

So if you are looking for the warmest beaches in Florida during the month of December, you are in the right place.

Top 11 Best Florida Beaches in December 

1. hutchinson island, florida.

December is a great time to visit Hutchinson Island. The temperature is very comfortable for enjoying outdoor activities, and it ’ s not too hot or too cold.

The temperature in this month ranges from the low 60s to mid-70s. Hutchinson Island is made up of two barrier islands considered North and South Hutchinson Island.

It ’ s a chill, laid-back place to vacation. It ’ s not too far from Orlando or Miami, so if you want the best of both worlds, you can keep busy and then go to Hutchinson Island for a break from all the hustle and bustle.

There are plenty of great beach condos to rent as well while you are there.

2. Tampa, Florida

Tampa is a wonderful place to visit in the month of December. It ’ s home to Busch Gardens amusement park, where you can enjoy exhilarating rides.

This is an excellent time of year for an amusement park because it won ’ t be excruciatingly hot when you ’ re waiting in lines.

Tampa is also well known for its manatee population.

The peak season for spotting these ocean cows is from November to April, so December is a great time to visit if this sea animal has always interested you.

Kayaking with Manatees is a bucket list item when you are visiting Florida.

3. Key West, Florida

The southernmost place in the United States is Key West, Florida. It ’ s also the warmest place in Florida since it ’ s closest to the equator.

Key West is a great place to visit in the month of December when you need to get out of the cold and get under the sun.

What makes Key West so interesting is that it completely feels like you ’ re on a Caribbean Island and not in your own backyard.

It doesn ’ t feel like you ’ re not in the US at all; instead, it feels like you ’ re thousands of miles away due to its tropical ambiance.

This is the perfect place to visit in December when you need a break and want to enjoy some warm weather. Key West also has some of the clearest water in Florida .

4. Jupiter, Florida

Jupiter is an all-around enjoyable city in Florida to visit, especially in the month of December. This month is a great time to take advantage of fantastic outdoor weather and enjoy all the natural scenery.

This is a good time of year for sports like surfing because the waves are larger and golf, and there are tons of festivals taking place.

It’s also a great opportunity to try exotic fruits if this is something that interests you. Head to any one of the natural and historical landmarks and have yourself a picnic.

5. Delray, Florida

Delray is a fantastic place to visit in the winter month of December. The small city has a big personality and lots of charm.

For starters, Atlantic Avenue, a pedestrian-friendly downtown area full of shops, restaurants, and bars, is the city’s heart.

Delray Municipal Beach is super popular and a great place to swim, relax, play beach volleyball, and enjoy other activities.

You can also rent snorkel gear and paddle boards, and there are a lot of nearby restaurants and places to explore.

The beach is free to visit and has a lifeguard on duty, so it ’ s a great beach for the whole family. Delray is perfect for your next winter vacation.

6. Orlando, Florida

OK, we know this one is not a beach, but if you have ever wanted to visit Disney World, December is your month. Unless you ’ re visiting during the week of Christmas.

December isn ’ t the busiest time of year in the park, so it ’ s an ideal time to visit if you want to take advantage of shorter lines at Disney, and not scorching hot weather.

The weather is warm and comfortable, making it so much easier to stand in line when it ’ s not crazy hot and humid.

December is one of the best months to visit the city of Orlando. However, why stop at just visiting Orlando, if you have the time why not jump on a bus and head to Miami another great beach in Florida to visit in December?

7. Naples, Florida

Naples is great in December because the tourist season hasn ’ t begun to pick up yet, so it ’ s easy to relax here comfortably.

You can enjoy low humidity and lots of sunshine. Barefoot Beach is a great place to lay under the sun and listen to the ocean waves.

Walk along the Naples Pier, rent kayaks on the water, stroll along the coast, and enjoy quiet days in Naples. It ’ s a great option to consider when visiting Florida in December.

8. Anna Maria Island, Florida

This barrier island has all the small-town charm you could hope for. You can expect highs in the mid-70s in December, which is the perfect temperature for enjoying the outdoors without getting too hot or cold.

It might be a bit too chilly for swimming, but you can comfortably lie on the beach.

There is a lot surrounding Bradenton Beach, so be sure to check out this strip of powdery, white coastline.

Nearby are many adorable shops and Anna Maria Island restaurants .

There is also an abundance of bars and nightlife. Golf carts and bicycles are common modes of transportation on this quaint little island.

9. Siesta Key, Florida

Siesta Key is known for its beautiful beaches and is an amazing place to visit in December. This is the best place for a quiet and relaxing vacation.

The average high temperature in December is in the mid-70s, and the average lows are in the mid-50s.

You don ’ t have to worry about rain or other bad weather, either, which is a huge advantage.

Siesta Key also has many festivals and events throughout the month, especially those related to Christmas and the holiday season.

If you ’ re looking to park on the beach, some of the best beaches include Siesta Beach, Crescent Beach, and Turtle Beach.

Be sure to watch the sunset and enjoy the gorgeous views.

10. St. Augustine, Florida

The oldest city in the United States is St. Augustine, and it was first founded in 1565. It ’ s chalked full of Spanish architecture and lots of history, so it ’ s a wonderful place to walk around and explore.

It ’ s a great location all year round, but especially in December when the weather is warm and comfortable.

So if you ’ re looking for a place to walk around, window shop, take photos, and marvel at some unique buildings, this is it.

Miami is one of the warmest places in Florida in December, other than the Florida Keys. Miami has an average low of the 60s in the month of December, so you don ’ t have to worry about it getting much cooler than that.

This city is always up for a good time. You can expect the beaches to be rowdy, so be prepared for the parties. However, there are some quiet beaches in Miami if you want to avoid crowds.

If this is the type of vacation you ’ re looking for, Miami is the right spot.

Miami tends to be busier in December than other cities, especially the closer it gets to Christmas, which is something to keep in mind.

December is a great time to visit Florida. Other than the week of Christmas and the New Year, it ’ s relatively less crowded, which is a huge plus.

The weather is also very bearable, unlike the summer months when it can be too hot and humid to get anything done or even enjoy the outdoors.

You don ’ t need to worry about that fear in December because the humidity is not a problem.

You can expect highs in the low to mid-70s, which is perfect for being outside all day.

It might not be warm enough to swim everywhere, but it will be warm enough in the afternoons to relax on the beach under the sun.

You can also enjoy lower prices in early December because it ’ s not as popular a time to visit as the summer months, which is another huge perk.

There are many great beaches in Florida worth visiting during the month of December.

What to Wear in Florida in December

The mornings can be cool, so be prepared to wear some long sleeves, light jackets, and sweaters.

By noon it warms up, and you might be able to take off your layers and have a T-shirt and shorts on. By sunset, you ’ ll probably want your second layer back on.

Hopefully, this helps you consider what to pack, but for more ideas check out this Florida vacation packing list .

Weather in Florida in December 

December is not going to be the warmest time of year in Florida, for some, this is preferred.

So you don ’ t have to worry about days that are too hot to go outside or sweating beyond repair.

Instead, you can expect cool, dry days that are comfortable and still warm enough to be in your favorite t-shirt and get some fresh, sunny air.

Especially if you ’ re coming from extremely cold temperatures, December weather will feel extra warm.

The average high in Florida during the month of December is the mid-60s to mid-70s, this is over the whole state. The further south you head the warmer temperatures you can expect.

This isn ’ t majorly warm weather, but it ’ s super comfortable weather.

You can also expect dry air and little to no rain at all.

The ocean temperature is another important consideration. Especially in Northern Florida, it might not be warm enough to swim in the ocean without a wetsuit.

However, in Southern Florida, it will be comfortable to swim and spend your days on the beach.

Why Visit Florida in December?

Florida is one of the best getaway retreats for people who live in cold climates and need to warm up their bones. It is one of the most visited places in the world, just a Florida fun fact .

Since Florida experiences warm year-round weather, it is famously known as a haven against long, cold winters.

If you ’ re from a place with constant snow on the ground, you understand the joy of good weather in December.

This is the number one reason people visit Florida in December. Not only is it much warmer than those winter locations that can be so harsh, but the weather is also very fair and comfortable for being outside for long periods of time.

Another reason to visit Florida in December is because of the large number of events, activities, and festivals that occur during December.

Most notably, Christmas-related events are in full force throughout the whole month.

Another thing to keep in mind when considering visiting Florida in December is the prices.

Since it ’ s not the warmest time of year or even the most popular, prices tend to decrease slightly.

So if you ’ re looking to save a bit of money, this can be a great time to visit.

December isn ’ t going to be as pricey as the summer, school vacation, or spring break.

Still, it will be a bit more expensive than other winter months because of holiday celebrations and people visiting during their vacations.

Keep reading for the best and warmest beaches in Florida during the month of December

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

12 Things To Do in Key West in December (Christmas and more!)

August 28, 2021 //  by  Florida Trippers

Are you searching for one of the best things to do in Key West in December? Key West is such a fun place to visit in Florida. With its gorgeous weather, family fun activities, historic elements, and access to everything on the water, this location is the best way to spend a holiday season.

Planning your trip to Key West last minute?

Make sure to book ahead! Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top picks for Key West!

Top Experiences And Tours In Key West:

• Dolphin Watching And Snorkeling Eco Tour (Top pick!)
• Schooner Sunset Sail (2 hours)
• Reef Snorkel From Key West (Includes breakfast and mimosas)
• Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour (Great way to see the city)

Top Places To Stay In Key West:

• Margaritaville Beach House Key West (Modern mid-range)
• Blue Marlin Motel (Affordable in downtown)
• Hampton Inn Key West (Waterfront with pool)
• Wicker Guesthouse (Great location!)

If you’re looking to do something different this Christmas, spend Christmas in the Key West! The light tours, museums, and just overall experience is not something you want to miss out on!

Before you plan your trip, make sure to check out The Best Times To Visit The Keys where we break down each month and talk all things weather!

Is December Good Time to Visit the Florida Keys?

Yes! The beautiful thing about Florida in the winter is that there is no snow, so Key West in December is the perfect time to visit. It isn’t too hot, or too cold. And better yet? The hot, oppressive summer months are gone, along with the chances for hurricanes! So pack your bag, travel, and go explore things to do in Key West in December. You won’t regret it!

Make sure to check out our master post on the Best Time To Visit Florida including a breakdown by month, weather, events, and more!

Key West Weather in December

Key West temperatures in December make celebrating Christmas in Key West magical! January is traditionally Key West’s coldest month, with nightly temperatures dropping to 65 degrees. But during the day, it can get as warm as 89 degrees!

With these temperatures in mind, it is easy to see how wonderful Key West in December can be. Long gone are the hot summer months, and the risk for hurricanes and rainfall. During winter, and specifically in December, you will experience clear days with slight winds that are comfortable. Only on occasion will you have a humid day!

And don’t worry, Key West temperatures in December are even comfortable enough to explore the beaches and go snorkeling and diving when the water is nice and clear! What a wonderful way to spend Christmas time!

Best Things to do in Key West in December and Christmas

1. visit the key west butterfly & nature conservatory.

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a beautiful butterfly park that houses over fifty different species of live butterflies from around the world. This little trip is one of the best things to do in Key West in December, as it takes you through a climate-controlled, glassed-enclosed habitat on Duval Street.

Serene, calming, and beautiful, this conservatory also features colorful birds and allows you to be immersed in a tropical paradise. You can also spend some time in their unique gift shop, or the learning center, where you can get a rare close-up of a variety of live caterpillars as they feed.

From the plants to the animals, to just being able to relax, this conservatory is cheap (only $12.00!), and a great family-friendly thing to do in Key West in December!

2. Explore Iconic Duval Street

The conservatory mentioned is just a 2-minute walk from Duval Street, which is definitely a must add to your list of things to do in Key West in December! This world-famous street is known as the “party epicenter” of Key West, as it is lined with a variety of cafes, shops, galleries, restaurants, and other attractions.

Make sure to check out the best bars and nightlife in Key West!

From bars to the waterfront Key West Hotel, this iconic street is a must-visit! And when you’re spending Christmas in the Florida Keys, you know the weather will be great, so what better thing to do other than take a nice stroll down a street? This is truly one of the Best Places To Stay In Key West!

When looking for what do in Key West in December, most people will recommend going to Duval Street. This is perhaps the most popular destination of Key West, as it is the main drag of downtown. The street itself runs north and south from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean.

Featuring tours and experiences, Duval Street is a perfect place to have fun! From a 2.5 hour pub crawl that takes you to all forty-three bars, or the Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl that tells you the spooky history of this famous site, you will not be disappointed on Duval!

3. Witnessing the Key West Lighthouse

If you’re a sucker for a classic lighthouse on the beach, look no further! The Key West Lighthouse is a great thing to add to your sites to see when visiting Key West in December. This lighthouse was the first lighthouse that was completed in Key West back in 1825– talk about historic! It had 15 lamps in total and a 15-inch reflector.

Although this lighthouse no longer is in use, you can still tour it and see the maritime heritage it represents while walking up the 88 steps to the top and exploring the keeper’s quarters. As a fun fact: the first keeper of this lighthouse was a woman in 1848– which was nearly unheard of during this time! So make sure to check this historic place out!

4. Stopping by the Southernmost Point of the Continental US

We’ve all seen the pictures: people in shorts and tanks or even bathing suits as they stand next to the concrete buoy in Key West that represents the southernmost point in the continental US. This is an iconic spot and something you should definitely go see when visiting Key West in December!

Located at the lowest latitude land of the contiguous 50 states, this buoy is only 18 feet above sea level, making it a breathtaking view for a clear-sky, winter day. But some of the best things about this location is not the landmark itself, but the things you can do around it!

During the winter we highly recommend doing a Southernmost Food and Cultural Walking Tour where you can discover the Cuban and Caribbean influences on Key West food and culture at 5 different locations. You can also do a History and Culture Walking Tour where you will see the southernmost area through the eyes of a local, talk about popular sites, and more!

5. Step Back in Time at the Hemingway Home and Museum

If you are a bit of a literature and history buff, make sure to add Hemingway’s home and museum to your list of things to do in Key West in December! In the 1930’s the American writer Ernest Hemingway resided at this home, which is located right across the street from the Key West Lighthouse.

There are some unique features about this location including never before seen photos of Hemingway on his fishing adventures, a shop stocked with an assortment of mementos that are linked to Hemingway’s life, and…. cats? That’s right! Cats! Hemingway was gifted a six-toed cat by a captain, and how these genetically rare cats flood his home!

But one of the coolest things you can do in Key West in December is channeling your inner psychic. There is actually a Haunted Walking Tour that features a psychic guide who will help you speak with spirits that roam this island… and even more importantly, a famous ghost that resides in Hemingway’s house! Will your EMF reader pick up communication with the author himself?

6. Shop and Stroll in Mallory Square

Mallory Square is the perfect place to visit when you are in Key West in December! This location is famous for the majesty of it’s sunset views, and thus, you can go to the Sunset Celebration when visiting the Florida Keys in December!

Here, locals and visitors applaud the sun as it sinks below sea level, but you can also experience live music, stunt performers, comedy shows, and local vendors at the square itself. And even if you arrive before the sunset, you can pass some time by shopping at the square or eating at famous restaurants! December in Key West could not be more perfect than at an iconic sunset spot.

7. Participate in a Variety of Water-sports

The best thing about visiting the Florid Keys in December is that you don’t have to worry about snow, so you can still be doing all the Florida and summer-themed things! There is no better thing to experience Key West in December than being on and in the water.

Despite Key West not having super accessible and large beaches, this island life is perfect for snorkeling, diving, and other water sports. Take a tour and double-dip at a 2 Stop Reef Snorkeling Trip or even kick it up a notch with a Breakfast Snorkeling Tour that includes mimosas!

Your exploration of Key West in December doesn’t have to be in the water, though! Instead, take a Sunset Sail with live music, or load a Glass Bottom Boat to cruise by reefs and experience the life below the sea in a different way. No matter what you decide to do on the water, you can’t go wrong: the Florida Keys in December are perfect for being one with the ocean!

8. Dry Tortugas National Park Is Something You Don’t Want to Miss In Winter or Summer!

Dry Tortugas is a National Park that is composed of seven islands plus protected coral reefs. People come from all over to dive here and explore the beaches and see animals first hand- it is truly one of the best things you can do in Key West in December!

Although these islands are slightly west of Key West, it is the place to visit when in the Florida Keys in December. The seven islands this national park is composed of includes access to Forts, Shipwrecks, lighthouses, famous reefs, and nesting sites for turtles and seabirds.

This may be one of the locations that you have to spend a lot of time at! Don’t be shy to pack a full day’s worth of adventures here, as the beaches, forts, animals, and history is ripe with opportunity. You don’t want to miss this spot when visiting Key West in December!

Don’t forget to check out our list of the Best Florida Keys Beaches for some more ideas of places to visit!

9. The Key West Aquarium is A Must See Considering the Island’s Maritime Charm.

The Key West Aquarium has been a top-rated attraction since 1946, so why wouldn’t you visit it when you are in Key West in December? Located in Mallory Square, this public attraction is family-friendly, educational, interactive, and immersive.

You can dive into fun at this attraction with touch tanks, shark exhibits, seeing jellyfish upfront, or even taking a sea turtle conservation tour. The beauty about this aquarium stems from its location: because Key West is right on the water, it only makes sense that their aquarium thrives! Don’t miss this opportunity– visit the aquarium and say hi to our fishy friends when you’re visiting Key West in December.

10. Historic Inns’ Holiday Tour are Perfect for Key West in December with all their Lights!

If you are visiting Key West in December, of course, you want to go and celebrate Christmas in Key West!! If you weren’t already away, Key West is known for its charming architecture and history, which is why so many people travel to the Southernmost City.

During Christmas in Key West, Key West takes full advantage of Christmas time and all of their grand hotels and their quaint bed-and-breakfasts go all out!

There are Christmas lights galore! Because of how popular and grand these lights have become, the hotels and historic inns now offer tours where you can walk through the festive lights and explore. Is there a better thing to do in Key West in December?

This is one of our favorite places to see Christmas Lights In Florida!

11. The Lights Tours at the Train, on the Boats, and more are a Must See!

Speaking of lights, we want to make sure that it is important to note that not just the hotels light up and decorate in Key West in December– the trains and boats do too! On select nights in December, the Conch Republic Train Station becomes part of an electric Holiday Lights Tour. Here you can indulge in cookies, cider, and caroling before boarding a train and cruising through Key West!

And if you are in Key West in December, you probably like no traditional ways to celebrate Christmas, so make Christmas in Key West special with water-sports tours and annual boat parades too! The custom designs on these boats are unique and extravagant, bringing in thousands of viewers and a panel of judges.

And when seeing these boats makes you want to get back on the water, you can join the Christmas Ultimate Adventure by relaxing on the beach, participating in fun water sports, and celebrating Christmas in Key West with a traditional holiday meal on a catamaran!

12. Participate in a Holiday Tour at the Little White House

The Little White House one housed our 33rd President Harry S. Truman. He would travel here for winters, and now the museum can be a part of your Key West in December experience too! What better way to experience Christmas in Key West?

During the winter months, the house is decorated to encompass the elegancy of the holiday season. This is a rare opportunity since most of the time we seem to step back in time at this house, but in the month of December, you can have a drink at Truman’s original bar (or a cup of hot chocolate), while chatting amongst a VIP experience and taking in all the vintage regalia.

Where to Stay in Key West In December

1. courtney’s place historic cottages & inns.

This historic Key West property is just a short walk from Duval Street, the beach, and more. Guests are welcome to a light congenital breakfast, their modern cottages that have a full kitchen and seating area, the pool, and barbecue facilities. With a great location, good price, and a truly authentic Key West feel, you won’t want to stay anywhere else in Key West in December!

Check Rates on Booking.com

2. Coco Plum Inn

Located in the heart of Key West, guests who stay at Coco Plum Inn are well taken care of! It is the perfect place to stay in Key West in December. Here you can start your day with made-to-order breakfast and then take a dip in the pool before traveling to Smathers beach. The rooms are comfortable and can offer balconies and a spa bath. Better yet? This is an adult-only bed and breakfast that features a garden, bicycles, and more!

3. Hyatt Residence Club Key West, Windward Pointe

In every apartment at this location, you will find a kitchen, private bathroom, balcony, and ironing facilities. There are even living rooms! People love this location, especially when visiting Key West in December because you are so close to having a great adventure with nearby fishing, scuba diving, and parasailing. Located close to Duval Street and the Key West Airport, this might be where you need to stay!

So there you have it! Look no further but here to find the best things you can do in Key West in December. From traditional tours and experiences on Duval Street or visiting iconic landmarks to making sure you have special Christmas in Key West things to do, Key West is always a great place to visit. Have fun and be safe!

10 Best Places To Visit In Florida In December For Couples

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Thinking of vacationing in Florida for Christmas to escape the winter chill? Florida is the perfect place to do so! Not only does it have abundant sunshine (that’s where the name “Sunshine State” comes from) and stunning landscape, it also has plenty of fun-filled festivals and winter-themed activities to entertain you and your bae!

Not sure where exactly to go for your Florida Christmas vacation? This article rounds up 10 of the best places to visit in Florida in December for couples. Whether you’re looking for thrills at one of the theme parks or just want to soak up the sunshine on a beach, these places will surely put you into holiday mode!

1| FLORIDA KEYS

South Florida is extremely popular, thanks to its warmer weather. Florida Keys in particular is a sought-after destination especially if you’re into outdoor fun . The string of islands with sandy beaches will surprise you and your loved one with wildlife and all the water adventures you can take advantage of. 

Starting in the northernmost island with Key Largo, you can dive to see “Christ of the Abyss” in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , or check out the famous Spiegel Grove shipwreck . In Islamorada, get up high in the air with parasailing. Swim with dolphins (at the Dolphin Research Centre) and watch sunset or sunrise together at the old Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon.

Just south of it is the 524-acre Bahia Honda State Park that is known to have one of the best beaches in Florida. Continue heading to the very south, you will come across more romantic things to do in Key West , including hydrobiking by the pier, kayaking in the mangroves , and taking a seaplane or boat cruise to the secluded Dry Tortugas National Park !

In December, you will find many festive events to get you into the holiday spirits. Couples can enjoy the Annual Lighted Boat Parade , a serious competition where boat owners decorate their sails, masts and hulls with Christmas Lights and festive cheer. Or hop on Old Town Trolley’s holiday Lights Tour to see all the holiday lights put on across the island while enjoying cookies and cider.

Fancy some actions on the water on Christmas Day? Sign up for Fury Water Adventure’s Christmas Ultimate Adventure – it’s a full day of fun-filling water activities with a traditional Christmas meal served on a catamaran.

How many days to spend here: If you are driving from Miami and Key West , it only takes around 4 hours. To see and enjoy the entire Florida Keys, we recommend planning to stay for at least 6 days, one night in Key Largo, 1 night in Islamorada, 1 night in Marathon and 2 nights in Key West.

How to get there: To get the most out of your Florida Keys vacation, we recommend flying into one of the closest airports – either Miami International Airport or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport – and then drive to Key West. You can also travel the other way round from Key West to Miami if that better suits you. In that case, you would fly into Key West International Airport.

Recommended accommodations: There are a ton of accommodation options in Key West, but for a luxury stay, Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa tops our list. It is right by the ocean and just a short walk from Duval Street. If you’re planning to stay in the other Keys on your Christmas getaways in Florida, we recommend Baker’s Cay Resort in Key Largo, Casa Morada in Islamorada, and Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort in Marathon.

2| BISCAYNE NATIONAL PARK

Suggested by James Ian of Parks Collecting

Biscayne National Park is one of the most unique places to visit in Florida. It consists of a few small islands or keys, and lots and lots of water. Located off the coast of southern Florida, December is the perfect time to visit. Hurricane season is over, and with it, the summer heat. Temperatures are really pleasant, and the water is warm enough for you to spend all day swimming and snorkeling.

There are plenty of things for couples to do. The most popular activity in the national park is snorkeling , and there are several snorkeling tours that leave from near the main Dante Fascell Visitor Center and take you out to the islands. 

You can see the picturesque Boca Chita Lighthouse and snorkel among coral reefs or over sunken wrecks.  For more active couples, guided kayak trips are available. Paddle through the seagrass meadows and around the mangroves that edge the islands.

Looking for something even more romantic? A sailing trip around the islands is the perfect way to spend a romantic weekend.

How many days to spend there: A weekend is perfect to see the best the park has to offer. 

How to get there: Miami International Airport services the area. To get to the park from Miami South Beach, head south down FL-874, turn off at the Ronald Reagan Turnpike, then take Exit 6 to SW137th Avenue and finally SW 328 th Street to the visitor center and port.

Recommended accommodations: Biscayne National Park is just an hour from Miami, which is the best place to stay, as there are so many wonderful romantic hotels in Miami Beach. A wonderful place is Winter Haven, Autograph Collection . Housed in an art deco building on Ocean Drive, the hotel has beautiful rooms and a rooftop terrace with incredible ocean views. Ask for a room with a view.

3| SARASOTA

Suggested by Candice of CS Ginger

Sarasota is a charming coastal town on the southwestern coast perfect for Christmas in Florida. It is about an hour south of Tampa.

A fun couples’ activity is exploring Myakka River State Park . You can go hiking, biking, or kayaking through the park. You can also go on a horseback ride through the park. If you are looking for another adventurous activity in Sarasota, you can ride bikes through the keys of Sarasota. You can either join a wildlife tour or rent bikes to explore on your own. The Legacy Trail is a popular and easy trail.

If you are interested in holiday events, be sure to check out the Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade. Since 1986, the John Ringling Causeway has been filled with boats wrapped in Christmas lights. You can park for free at Centennial Park to watch the parade.

Another fun place to visit during the holiday season is the Marie Shelby Botanical Garden for the Lights in Bloom event. There are over a million lights throughout the gardens. You can visit Santa there each night. There is also usually live music and kid’s crafts. 

How many days to spend there: Spending two to three days in Sarasota will give you enough time to explore the town but also have some time to spend relaxing at the beaches like the nearby Siesta Key beach .

How to get there: The easiest way to get to Sarasota is via Sarasota Bradenton International Airport. The airport is located just a few minutes north of the downtown area making it a quick trip into downtown. If you are looking for another option with cheaper flights, Tampa is just about an hour away and is a larger airport. 

Recommended accommodations: The Westin Sarasota is a great four-star hotel in the area if you’re looking for luxury and relaxation in Sarasota. It is pet-friendly and has a really nice pool, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. It is only a few blocks from downtown and has a short walk to the beach. 

4| THE EVERGLADES

Suggested by Victoria of Guide Your Travel

The Everglades are Florida’s most famous national park and one of the best places to go in Florida in December to escape the cold of the winter months. The Everglades are warm and dry during December with temperatures in the high 70℉ (21℃)–which is a lot more comfortable than the hot summers when it’s really humid. December is actually one of the most popular times to visit southern Florida so make sure to book your accommodation as soon as possible. 

You can reach Everglades National Park in around an hour from the city of Miami which makes this a great spot to visit for a weekend trip from the city. The park is perfect for hiking, exploring, camping and bird watching. 

The Anhinga Trail is especially beautiful with fantastic views of the mangrove forests and some of the best spots for bird watching. At just under a mile in length, the trail is perfect for beginners. Everglades National park doesn’t have much elevation, so most trails – such as the Bobcat Boardwalk – are very easily accessible and suitable for all levels of hikers. The area just north of Everglades City is best for kayaking. Most tour companies are located there.

Instead of riding airboats (which are noisy and disturb the delicate ecosystems), a relaxed kayaking tour is much more eco friendly and peaceful. You can enjoy the beautiful mangrove forests, see alligators and rare birds. Just make sure to pack mosquito spray to protect you from the bugs. 

How many days to spend there : A long weekend is the perfect amount of time to spend in the Everglades to see and do it all.

How to get there : The Shark Valley entrance and visitor center is about an hour’s drive west of Downtown Miami. You can get there by driving west on Tamiami Trail (Southwest 8th Street/US Highway 41.)

Recommended accommodations: Everglades City is a great place to stay although you can also book a place somewhere close to the city and drive to the park every day. The Everglades Adventures Hotel Suites by Ivey House is a fantastic choice.

Suggested by Disha Smith of Disha Discovers

One of the best places to visit in Florida for couples in December is Destin. Located in the panhandle of the Sunshine State, this coastal gem in the northwestern part of Florida has so much to offer. 

December is a great time to visit Destin because the weather is perfect. You’ll only need a light jacket and you’ll feel comfortable while you’re exploring. Also, there will be fewer crowds. You won’t have to worry about long lines and you’ll get the beaches to yourself. Plus, hotels will be less expensive since fewer people are vacationing here in December.

Destin is brimming with things to do for young couples. You can go on a sunset dolphin cruise or a sunset dinner cruise . If you want to get into the Christmas spirit, you can wander around the HarborWalk Village and see the lights and decorations. Another fun thing for couples to do is to take a helicopter tour . The colorful coastline is gorgeous from the air. 

Finally, for an exciting date night, you can enjoy a friendly bowling competition at Uncle Buck’s FishBowl and Grill . You’ll feel like you’re underwater because you’ll be surrounded by an aquarium. Even the bowling balls have an ocean theme.

How many days to spend there: Destin is one of the best weekend trips in the USA . But, you should spend at least four or five days to fully experience this paradise. 

How to get there: Getting to Destin is easy because you can fly in and out of Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport. From there, you can rent a car or use Uber to get around.

Recommended accommodations: The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa is a great place for couples to stay when visiting Destin. Not only will you have direct access to a private beach, but you’ll also have your choice of five world-class eateries on the property.

Suggested by Lori Sorrentino of Travlin’ Mad

Naples is one of the best places to vacation in Florida in December for couples. The tourist season is not yet in full swing so it’s easy to find relaxation, privacy, and lots of things to do for couples. 

Located on the southwest Gulf Coast of Florida, Naples is known for its white sand beaches and year round sunshine. December is the dry season so temperatures are moderate and comfortable with low humidity.

Beyond relaxing in the sun at the beach or by the pool, most activities for young couples revolve around the beach. Barefoot Beach is one of the best for tanning and enjoying the sounds of the ocean.

Before dinner, take a sunset stroll along Naples Pier for a stunning and romantic experience. Adventurous couples can rent jet skis, paddle boards, or kayaks , or hop on a sailing tour to explore the Ten Thousand Islands or the Everglades .

For a romantic evening, enjoy a private sunset dinner on the beach at Baleen at LaPlaya Resort , or dinner at Sails on Fifth Avenue South for incredible seafood. Both are two of Naples’ best restaurants and perfect for a romantic occasion. 

How many days to spend there: Plan on at least 4 days to a week for your stay.

How to get there: The easiest way to get to Naples is to fly into Southwest Florida International Airport and either rent a car or take a shuttle to your hotel. Naples is at the end of the very long Florida peninsula so it’s much quicker to fly.  Recommended accommodations: Naples has an abundance of luxury hotels with upscale spa experiences. One of the best beachfront hotels in Naples is the romantic Edgewater Beach Hotel . For a location in the heart of downtown, the luxe Inn on Fifth is also a favorite!

7| ANNA MARIA ISLAND

Suggested by Nikke Rue of She Saves She Travels 

One of the best parts of Florida for couples to visit in December is Anna Maria Island. It’s got small-town charm, beautiful white beaches and quite a bit of activities and restaurants on the island.

In December, the weather in Anna Maria Island (or AMI as the locals call it) gets to the mid-70℉ (21℃) as the high. So while it may be too cold to swim, you can still relax on the beach and enjoy watching the ocean waves crash on the shore – sounds like a perfect island vacation to me!

One of the best things to do in Anna Maria Island is visit Bean Point and the Anna Maria City Pier . Soak in the relaxing sights of the pristine white sand beaches in Florida. Just be sure to bring towels or chairs to Bean Point. Considering it’s so far off the beaten path, there aren’t any services here.

Another great spot on the island is Bradenton Beach . There are cute shops and restaurants plus nightlife. Bradenton Beach has a great sandy beach with amenities, too. Couples can find resorts and vacation rentals in Bradenton Beach to be close to the action. 

If you can get a rideshare to the island, a rental car isn’t really necessary. Getting around via golf cart or bicycle is common and convenient on AMI!

How many days to spend there: You could take a long weekend on the island or even a week enjoying the rest and relaxation that comes with a trip to Anna Maria Island.

How to get there: The closest airport is Sarasota, at about an hour’s drive. To get from the Sarasota airport to Anna Maria Island, you’ll take Florida Highways 41 and 64 diagonally until you cross over to the island.

Recommended accommodations: The Bungalow Beach Resort is perfect for couples as it has a private beach area which is quiet. Couples will also love the Bali Hai Beach Resort for the beautiful heated pool and spa services.

8| VERO BEACH

Suggested by Cortney Edwards of Tin Can Living

Vero Beach is one of the best beaches in Florida in December. Calmer and generally less crowded than West Palm Beach, it has an amazing selection of things to do for couples, including scenic walks on the beach, delicious restaurants with excellent views, and shopping in quaint boutiques. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or planning a long vacation with your significant other, Vero Beach should be at the top of your list!

A stroll on  the Vero Beach Scenic Coastal Walk is a must. You can breathe in the fresh ocean air and marvel at the incredible coastline. The Vero Beach waterfront is simply stunning, especially during sunset!

If you’re looking for things to do in Florida in December, the McKee Botanical Garden has a beautiful display of lights throughout the month. Refreshments are available for purchase to round off a lovely night. 

End your day watching the sunset at Driftwood . Enjoy a cocktail while watching an unforgettable Vero Beach sunset over the water. This restaurant has excellent drinks and appetizers, and its open-air atmosphere is perfect for enjoying Vero Beach’s beauty.

How many days to spend there: You should plan on staying at least two nights to experience Vero Beach’s best activities and take in the great weather that Vero Beach has to offer during this time of year.

How to get there: The nearest airport is Vero Beach Municipal Airport and is approximately 90 minutes from Orlando International Airport. You will need to rent a car and drive from the airport. It is best to have a sun pass for the toll roads to save time and money. You can get one from the rental car companies at the airport. 

Recommended accommodations: A great place to stay during your visit is Costa d’Este Beach Resort Vero Beach . This luxury hotel is located right on the Vero Beach shoreline, and offers luxurious amenities like a state-of-the-art spa facility with an outdoor pool, in addition to excellent dining options. This Vero Beach resort’s beachfront location ensures stunning views of both sunrise and sunset! Plus you can enjoy Vero Beach’s laid-back and relaxed atmosphere all year round.

Suggested by Lara Celvenger of LaraClevenger.com

Tampa in December is great for the sporty couple! If you’re a fan of football and hockey, then Champa Bay is about to become one of your favorite towns! Watch a Bucs game at Raymond James stadium or venture to downtown Tampa and catch the Lightning at the Amalie Arena. 

After a Lightning game take a stroll along the water to either Sparkman’s Wharf , Harbour Island or the Riverwalk . At any of these picturesque locations you’ll be able to enjoy dinner and drinks with a waterview. 

For those young athletic couples, you’ll love the plethora of walking trails and parks! Walk along the Courtney Campbell Causeway Trail where you’ll have 360 degree views of Old Tampa Bay and end your walk at any of the beach bars and have a nice refreshing drink with amazing views. I recommend Whiskey Joe’s, Bahama Breeze, or The Rusty Pelican.

Nightlife is huge in Tampa! Thursday night is college night in SoHo so crowds are out in full force. You will find cheap drinks and lots of people watching everywhere you go. Friday and Saturday nights are very popular in Ybor. There is a spot and scene for everyone in Ybor. From Nightclubs, to dive bars, to karaoke bars, to hookah, to gay bars to EDM clubs. You name it, Ybor’s got it.  

If you’re more the theme park type, Busch Gardens and Adventure Island are a short drive or uber away! Want to visit one of the most well-known theme parks in the world? Walt Disney World is just over an hour northeast of Tampa. Add a few nights at Universal Orlando Resort to your trip to get the full park experience. 

How many days to spend there: Honestly, Tampa is a dream for young couples! I would recommend 5-7 days, and even then you won’t have time to see everything you want! If you have time to see more, don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit Caladesi Island State Park, which is only 40 mins away!

How to get there: The Tampa airport is located 10 minutes from Downtown Tampa. It’s easy to get to from the toll road, but if you don’t want to pay there’s local roads you can take. You can get an uber to downtown Tampa and then you can get around downtown very easily on foot and it’s the perfect weather in December to be walking in Florida! There’s also a free trolley that you can take from downtown to Channelside and to Ybor!

Recommended accommodations: The JW by Marriott or Epicurean Hotel, Autograph Collection are both in downtown Tampa and exceptional services! It’s the perfect location whether you want a sunset stroll on the Riverwalk, want to hop on the trolley and go to Ybor, or walk to Harbour Island and get happy hour at Jackson’s or American Social.

10| SIESTA KEY

Suggested by Rebecca McKellips of Whatever Packs Your Bags

Siesta Key is the perfect place to visit in December. It has one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is the perfect romantic location for couples to visit. If you want a quiet, calm, and relaxing weekend, Siesta Key is the place to go. 

Siesta Key is located due west of Sarasota Florida on the Gulf Coast of Mexico. The average temperature in December in Siesta Key has highs of 74℉ (23℃) and lows of 55℉ (13℃) and rain on average only 3 days the whole month.

To soak yourself in the Christmas spirit, check out the annual holiday market and SantaFest Celebration . These events usually run in mid-December. If you don’t mind driving to Sarasota, the Showfolks Holiday Circus Festival presents a unique outdoor walkthrough circus experience. Talented circus artists come together to bring fun and excitement to this festive season!

Of course, you can enjoy a day on the beach, relax and watch the sunset over the water. The three major beaches that are perfect to watch sunset at are Siesta Beach, Crescent Beach, and Turtle Beach . 

For those who prefer to be in the action, consider renting jet skis and racing around. Or, on the slower end, renting canoes or kayaks to enjoy the views over the water is also a fun idea. You can also ride e-bike on sand and admire the sunset as you ride along Siesta Key!

How many days to spend there: You could easily fill a long weekend exploring all the beautiful beaches.

How to get there: The best airport to fly into to visit Siesta Key is the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ is the airport code). It is a 20-minute drive from the airport to Siesta Key, you can uber or rent a car at the airport. 

Recommended accommodations: The best place to stay is just steps from the beach, there are lots of rental properties available, but the Tropical Breeze Resort is the perfect location, just steps to the beach or to the town center.

Florida Road Trip Planning Resources

✓ Plan ahead and reserve a car in advance. Discover Cars is a helpful tool for comparing prices, searching for availabilities, and make bookings.

✓ For tours and activities in Florida, GetYourGuide provides tons of options! Check all the different deals here.

✓ For hotel bookings, we recommend comparing prices on TripAdvisor first, then book direct or on 3rd party booking sites ( Agoda usually has the best deals). 

✓ Having an action camera is a must when visiting Florida. A GoPro is small and easy to carry around, plus it is water- and weather- proof!

✓ Lose things easily? Attach a Tile to your valuables (camera, bag, water bottle) so you can track them!

✓ For travel bags and backpacks, we recommend Peak Design . They are light, practical, and stylish!

There, of all the warm places in Florida in December, we have selected a few charming ones for couples, including some of the best of the best Christmas towns in Florida!

It’s time to escape winter wonderland for a beach vacation! Even Santa needs a sunny getaway. A tropical christmas tree is just as festive as a snowy one!

Need inspiration for your next couple's escape? Then, you're at the right place. Sign up to receive the latest travel inspiration and a FREE travel bucket list with 140 ideas for your next couple's getaway!

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5 comments leave a comment ».

Florida is one of my bucket list and Thank you for sharing best thigs to do in Florida.

The whole state is great in December, right? I want to plan a winter trip and this was helpful, especially since we are riding on Red Coach buses. There are more to see than the theme parks too. Very helpful article.

Yes! There’s so much to see from the northern corner to southern tip! I’m envious and hope you have a great time!

This is awesome writing and great photos too. Thanks for writing this guide. This will surely help in planning a Florida trip.

Finally! Found a good list of best and quiet places in Florida for my next weekend getaway. Florida Keys is on top of my list too but I would love to explore more about Florida. Were you able to visit all of the places on the list Cat and Kev?

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Hi, we are Cat + Kev , an adventure-loving couple committed to help young couples find daring adventures, food encounters, and luxury escapes unique to a destination. Let us show you how to eat like a local, travel like a pro!

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The Best Time to Visit Florida for Fewer Crowds, Better Weather, and Travel Deals

Whether you want to lounge on the beach, hit the theme parks, or explore the Sunshine State's cities and small towns, these are the best times to visit Florida.

Aside from beaches, theme parks, and nonstop sunshine, one of Florida's biggest draws is that there's never a bad time to visit. The weather is warm all year round, so you'll never have your plans dashed by a snowstorm or need to pack a winter coat.

Florida does, however, have weather concerns of other types, from blazingly hot summers to the dreaded hurricane season. There are also crowds to account for, as well as fluctuating prices on travel essentials like hotels and flights. The tourist seasons in Florida vary by destination, but in general, North Florida's popularity peaks in summer and tapers off in winter, while South Florida hits its peak in winter and is less popular during the summer months. Throughout the state, the fall and late spring (once spring break ends) are typically known as shoulder seasons.

The best time to visit Florida depends on your specific needs — the purpose of your trip, plus your itinerary, budget, and more — but the bottom line is that the Florida vacation of your dreams is within reach, as long as you plan accordingly.

Best Times to Visit Florida for Smaller Crowds

Avoiding the crowds in Florida is a tall order. It's a desirable place to be, and visitors flock to the state all year round. However, some months are quieter than others. In South Florida, for example, high temperatures and storm risk make the summer months the least busy. At Orlando's theme parks and many of the state's best beaches , though, you'll find thousands of families out and about in the summer. For these family-friendly destinations, a visit when school is in session will likely offer the smallest crowds.

You may not be able to avoid all other tourists on your visit to Florida, but you can do yourself a favor by traveling outside the peak periods. Panama City Beach at spring break, the Florida Keys during lobster-hunting "mini season," and St. Augustine around Christmastime are all hyper-popular itineraries that the crowd-averse may want to skip.

Visitors can also find thinner crowds at any time by visiting under-the-radar destinations instead of the state's well-known spots. Swapping the Everglades for a state park or South Beach for Santa Rosa Island can help you enjoy Florida's famous sun and sights with plenty of elbow room.

Best Times to Visit Florida for Good Weather

Sunny skies and warm weather are two of the main factors that draw tourists to Florida, and no matter when you visit, you're likely to find at least a bit of each. Conditions do vary, though, depending on the time of year and the destination. In Florida's subtropical south, winter — roughly November to April — offers the best weather, with temperatures generally topping out at around 80 degrees. Further north, spring and fall can be the nicest seasons. (In the Panhandle's Walton County , for instance, temperatures in these months tend to hover in the 70s, making for pleasant conditions on land and in the water.)

Florida's summers, on the other hand, are notoriously hot — especially inland, where there's no sea breeze to keep things cool(ish). Most of the state sees both high temperatures and high humidity at this time of year, and with even ocean temperatures passing 90 degrees in recent summers, there's no guarantee that a swim will cool you down. Summer also overlaps with Atlantic hurricane season, which stretches from June to November, and it's known for near-daily pop-up storms, too. If you do choose to visit Florida in the summer, be sure to pack both an umbrella and plenty of sunscreen and drinking water.

Best Times to Visit Florida for Lower Prices

The best time to visit Florida for travel deals and lower prices depends on your destination. If you're heading to the beaches or theme parks, summer is a peak season and you might be hard-pressed to find available rooms, much less a good deal.

But some places in Florida simmer down during the summer months. Take Palm Beach , for example: The island is booming from November through April, but during the off-season (May through October, when the snowbirds head home and the social set jets to the Hamptons), you'll find a glimmer of the quiet town it once was. This is also when nightly hotel rates are usually slashed to a fraction of their extravagant high-season prices. Overall, off-season is the best time to score great deals at Florida's best resorts no matter the destination.

The cheapest months to fly to Florida are typically May (except for Memorial Day weekend) and September. You can score great deals if you plan ahead and aim for just outside your destination's peak season.

Jamie Ditaranto/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Miami

What fun-loving person can resist a visit to Miami ? The Magic City is buzzy, sultry, and unapologetically vibrant. Go in the spring to find fewer crowds, more pleasant temperatures, and plenty of events (like Ultra Music Festival and Formula 1's Miami Grand Prix ), or plan a summer trip if you want to experience Miami at its least crowded — and, yes, sizzle on South Beach like a fresh-cooked tostón.

Winter is a fabulous time to visit Miami — temperatures are mild and humidity is lower — but lots of other people think so, too, so you'll have crowds and peak hotel pricing to contend with. Still, it's arguably worth it to attend Art Basel or a Miami Heat game.

If you like living the high life, we'll let you in on an insider secret: Despite its sweltering weather, August is arguably the best month to visit Miami. August is the only time when Miami's Spa Months , Restaurant Months , and Hotel Months all overlap, so you can treat yourself to the city's best dining, lodging, and pampering at a fraction of the usual cost.

Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are one of the best places to visit in Florida, a subtropical delight with nice weather year round. But beware of peak tourist season, which begins right after Christmas and lasts until about May. It's beautiful this time of year — there's very little rain, and temperatures are usually in the 70s — but that pleasant environment comes with high prices and large crowds.

Those crowds and prices taper off from May through September, and temperatures typically remain manageable, with summer highs of around 90 degrees. Hurricane season, though, can put a damper on an off-season visit — storms are most common in the Keys in August, September, and October. That said, if you're willing to accept some storm risk and humidity, summer can yield excellent deals.

For extra fun in the Keys, plan your visit to coincide with a festival like the Original Marathon Seafood Festival (March), the 7 Mile Bridge Run (April), the Key Lime Festival (June/July), Hemingway Days (July), the Key West Brewfest (September), or Fantasy Fest (October).

Best Times to Visit Florida's Theme Parks

Summer is the off-season for most of Florida, due to the extra-hot weather and potential for storms, but beach towns and theme parks are the exception to the rule.

Disney World is a popular destination year round; there's nary a day when you won't encounter crowds and long lines at this beloved resort. But if you want a month that's slightly less crowded than the others, try January (after the holiday rush), February, or September (when kids are back in school and Halloween festivities haven't quite kicked off).

It may be convenient for families, but visiting the theme parks during summer break guarantees super-long lines in super-hot weather. Visiting around any holiday is fun thanks to seasonal park decor, but it also means dense crowds — you're not the only one who'll be clamoring for a taste of the holiday spirit. Once Christmas and New Year crowds dissipate, though, a Goldilocks window begins, since winter is the best time to visit Disney World for good weather.

Worst Times to Visit Florida

The Sunshine State contains such a wide variety of destinations that it's almost impossible to declare one season as Florida's worst. But, unless you're a party-hopping college student, there is one time that you'll likely want to avoid: spring break.

A whopping 7.3 million travelers passed through the Orlando airport during the 2023 spring break season — that's early March through the middle of April — and countless more arrive in the state each spring through other airports and by car. Florida boasts beautiful weather in the springtime, and many families, of course, have no option but to travel when their school schedules allow. If you are flexible, though, choosing a different window will likely help you save money and avoid wall-to-wall crowds.

Summer is a risky time to visit, since the weather tends to be muggy at best. Traveling during this off-season can net you good deals, but you'll want to come prepared for the heat and the storms that a Florida summer can bring.

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The 12 Best Places to Travel in December

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When thinking about the best places to travel in December, you may be tempted to view the month through the lens of Christmas—which is understandable, given the wealth of cities that go all out for the holidays . And while we’re always down for a European Christmas market or dazzling lights display, there are plenty of reasons to travel this month outside of the holly and the jolly.

Whether you want to get a jumpstart on ski season or escape the winter doldrums in the Caribbean, here are the 12 best places to travel in December.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Miami, Florida

Many people head to Miami in early December for Art Basel Miami Beach , a glittering, four-day confab (scheduled for December 8–10 in 2023) that lures both the fashion and art worlds. The lineup of artists includes 24 first-time participants (out of 277 total) hailing everywhere from New York to Seoul, plus several guest lectures and dining experiences.

There are plenty of reasons to visit Miami beyond the final moments of Art Basel, of course—namely a booming high-end hotel scene. The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort is an art destination in and of itself, with geometric metal walls and massive sculptures hanging from the lobby ceiling. Other luxurious amenities, like private butlers and a gourmet burger bar, make this the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. For a beachier (but just as luxurious) stay, head to The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne , located about 15 miles from South Beach. Its ocean views and tequila-stocked restaurant are great any time of year, but this December welcomes a slew of holiday-themed perks, like eggnog in the lobby and peppermint pedicures in the spa.

Yellowstone National Park

If you haven’t visited Yellowstone in the dead of winter, you are missing out on one of the most incredible travel experiences out there. Not only will you escape the typical summer hoards that make it nearly impossible to see wildlife and popular sites like Old Faithful—starting in December, the park is closed to cars and will only allow snowcoaches and snowmobiles to enter—but the relative quiet and icy chills of winter make our oldest national park feel even more like a mystical wonderland. Just imagine: sleepy bison with snow-dusted beards, bright blue pools set against a blanket of white, and boardwalks billowing with steam from the surrounding thermal features.

There are only a couple of in-park lodges open in the winter, but luckily they are incredibly cozy and convenient. Located in the heart of Yellowstone, Old Faithful Snow Lodge will get an extra dose of holiday magic this December, with trees set up throughout the hotel, in-room Christmas sweets, cookie decorating stations, and visits from Santa. Guests can also book several outdoor excursions from the lodge, ranging from guided snowshoe tours to wildlife photo safaris.

The Azores, Portugal

This once-overlooked archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic is tailor-made for adventurers—think whale watching, hiking calderas, and rappelling down waterfalls. (The island of Terceira is home to the only volcano in the world where visitors can explore a chimney and secondary magma chamber, sitting side by side.) And while tourism has caught up to the Azores within the past decade, visiting during the winter gives you a glimpse of what Eden once looked like.

December isn’t chilly here, despite the archipelago’s Atlantic location—the Gulf Stream keeps the year-round temperatures surprisingly balmy, with the mercury rarely dropping below 60 degrees or so. The island of Santa Maria generally boasts the warmest climate, though swimming may be off the table in the winter. If you’re craving water time, pay a visit to a geothermally heated hot spring instead.

Salzburg, Austria

Germany tends to get most of the attention when it comes to Christmas markets (for good reason), but neighboring Austria can be just as festive and charming—especially in the city of Salzburg. It’s not a surprise that the UNESCO World Heritage -listed Old City, which served as the backdrop for The Sound of Music, also fills its famed Christkindlmarkt with song.

With roots dating back to the 15th century, the market’s sing-alongs and traditional wind music are as much a part of the festivities as the mulled wine and stands selling ornaments and fluffy socks. We’re not mad about the bauernkrapfen (fried pastries), either. The market earns extra points for being just steps away from Hotel Goldener Hirsch , one of the world’s oldest luxury hotels and a perfect spot to warm up between outdoor shopping sprees.

Just down the Caribbean coast from the Yucatán with a fraction of the tourism, Belize has transformed from a backpacker haven into a luxury destination over the past few years. (Bonus: It’s only a five-hour flight from New York.) Along with world-class reefs for diving and Mayan ruins for exploring, the country is known for its conservation efforts, particularly when it comes to protecting ocean life. Many hotels and resorts have jumped on the eco-friendly bandwagon, including Turneffe Island Resort , which goes to great lengths to support the population of Antillean Manatees in the nearby Turneffe Atoll. Guests may get a chance to spot the gentle giants while staying on the resort’s 14-acre private island, while gift shop purchases go straight to the Belize Manatee Conservation Program.

Aside from offering an indulgent, adults-only stay on a true white-sand beach, Matachica Resort & Spa provides interactive workshops to learn about the Belize Barrier Reef, including guided scuba diving trips and helicopter tours. Given that December 4 marks World Wildlife Conservation Day, we say there’s no better time to pay these forward-thinking hotels a visit.

Switzerland

Switzerland is always one of the world’s most beautiful countries, but it becomes downright magical come winter: city squares dusted with snow and mountainsides transformed into the best ski slopes on the planet. It can be hard to pick just one Swiss destination to visit in December, which is why hopping on the Glacier Express is the perfect introduction to this wintery wonderland.

The Glacier Express is an eight-hour train ride that connects two of Switzerland’s biggest mountain resorts—Zermatt and St. Moritz—but it’s really more about the journey than the destination here. The train passes over 290 bridges, delivering panoramic views of landmarks like the Oberalp Pass and Matterhorn, and it even includes three-course meals to really help you enjoy every second of the ride.

Charleston, South Carolina

If you want an immersive Christmas experience but aren’t a fan of cold weather, Charleston is the perfect destination for you. In fact, we’d argue that winter is one of the best times to visit, when temperatures hover around the 50s and 60s. Holiday attractions this year include the 34th Annual Holiday Festival of Lights (November 10–December 31, 2023), featuring an estimated 2 million twinkling lights, and Holiday Swing (December 2, 2023), a concert of reimagined Christmas carols courtesy of the Charleston Jazz Orchestra.

The city has no shortage of fabulous hotels, but some notable properties go all out for the holidays. The French Quarter Inn , voted one of the best hotels in Charleston by our readers, will be fully decked out with a Christmas tree and free gingerbread cookies in the rotunda, while the Sleigh Bell Suite comes with even more festive amenities: an in-room eggnog bar, freshly-baked cookies served by the fireplace, holiday movie screenings, and a special reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas from Santa himself. Over at The Spectator Hotel , personal butlers assigned to each guest can transform your room with personalized Christmas decorations, plus bring you any treats and drinks you request.

Whistler, Canada

If you’re desperately seeking slopes, you can’t do much better than the largest ski area in North America. With 8,171 acres of skiable terrain and hills ranging in difficulty from green to double-black, the twin peaks of Whistler Blackcomb truly have something for every winter sports enthusiast. Both the Big Red Express lift and Creekside Gondola were reworked a couple of years ago to hold more people, meaning the mountains will feel far less congested and visitors can enjoy even more rounds of powder.

Once you pack up your poles for the day, soak up all the après glory at Whistler Village. Here you’ll find the resort area’s largest concentration of bars and restaurants, ranging from the buzzy high-end seafood restaurant Wild Blue to the upscale yet relaxed Braidwood Tavern . In terms of hotels, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler looks (and feels) like a true fairy tale castle, nestled at the base of Blackcomb.

Santiago, Chile

​​Travelers often overlook Chile’s capital city in favor of splashier South American destinations like Rio or Buenos Aires—but we encourage you not to make that same mistake. Santiago is not only a superb base for outdoor adventure, thanks to its location between the Andes and the Pacific, but it’s an excellent standalone destination for anyone who loves great food, great wine, and plenty of shopping opportunities.

After exploring the city’s coolest neighborhoods, tack on a side trip to Valparaíso—the former seaport home of Pablo Neruda and current headquarters for the Chilean Navy. It’s just a two-hour drive here from Santiago, but you’ll want to plan to stay overnight (and not just because you’ll be drinking a lot of wine). With its colorful hillside houses and abundance of museum-worthy street art, Valparaíso is not an easy place to say goodbye to.

If you’re anything like us, emerging from two years of lockdowns and closed borders has inspired you to finally book that once-in-a-lifetime trip you’ve always dreamed about—like an expedition to Antarctica , for example. The white continent is at its best from December to March, when wildlife is active and the sun shines for nearly 24 hours a day. And while trips like these typically require a lot of advance planning, there’s still time to book a spot on an expedition cruise ship before 2023 wraps up (although you may want to use this time to start researching for next year).

Ponant has about a dozen sailings available through the end of December, with trips ranging from 10 to 15 nights and including stops in South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Another great option is Quark Expedition’s “Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent” voyage, an 11-day trip with six departure dates within the month of December (plus many in 2024). Each sailing includes the typical stops, but Quark also started offering a majorly cool add-on a few years ago: alpine heli-trekking, in which guests board a helicopter (just imagine those views) and fly to typically inaccessible terrain to enjoy hiking or snowshoeing.

British Virgin Islands

Made up of more than 60 tropical isles, the British Virgin Islands are easily one of the best places to travel in December. The archipelago is the epitome of Caribbean relaxation with white-sand beaches and lush rainforests—not to mention some of the best hotels in the entire region. Richard Branson’s Necker Island is arguably the most famous resort, freshly reconstructed with an emphasis on sustainability. New wind turbines join the existing solar farm so that the resort runs on 90 percent renewable energy. Even the staff uniforms are made from recycled plastic.

Recent years saw the arrival of two new private island resorts, both of which appeared on our 2022 Hot List . Off the northern end of Virgin Gorda, Saba Rock ’s nine-bedroom boutique hotel boasts a bustling rooftop bar, spacious guest rooms, and a seemingly endless supply of water sports. Meanwhile, Branson struck gold again with Moskito Island , located just two miles away from Necker Island. Guests with deep pockets can choose from three private estate rentals, each with its own distinct style. Amenities like private chefs and house managers available to help 24/7—plus the chance of running into Branson himself on the tennis courts—offer a true taste of a billionaire’s vacation.

Paris shines extra bright during the holiday season, from the lights along the Champs-Élysées to store window displays that rival museum art installations. This year is a particularly great time to plan a trip, with inexpensive nonstop flights with French Bee (France’s first low-cost carrier ) and a crop of new hotel openings. Be one of the first to stay at Bulgari Hotel Paris or Hôtel Madame Rêve , housed in a former 24-hour post office—or choose from one of the many established hotels in the city.

For an extra-special holiday experience, book a spot on the “ Paris at the Holidays ” group trip (November 30–December 7) from specialty planning company French Affaires. Curated by France travel expert Elizabeth New Seitz, the trip includes an evening tour of the city’s Christmas lights, a private tour of the Louvre, a Buche de Noel (yule log) cooking class, and French afternoon teas at some of the city’s top palace hotels.

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South Florida museum gets refund from state after Visit Florida site dropped LGBTQ page

Christian De La Rosa , Reporter

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – A local LGBTQ organization is getting its money back from Visit Florida.

The state’s tourism website sparked controversy after it recently deleted its LGBTQ tourism page.

Since then, there have been mounting calls for Visit Florida to pay back groups like The Stonewall Museum and Archives in Fort Lauderdale , which pays the state site a membership in hopes of exposure.

A spokesperson for the museum told Local 10 News Visit Florida owes the LGBTQ community an apology and the page should go back up.

Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Christian de la rosa.

Christian De La Rosa joined Local 10 News in April 2017 after spending time as a reporter and anchor in Atlanta, San Diego, Orlando and Panama City Beach.

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'We want her back safe': Loved ones search for South Florida woman who vanished in Madrid

Sanna Rameau describes her best friend, Ana Knezevich , 40, as one of the sweetest people she’s ever met.

“She is just so caring, so sweet,” Rameau said. “She is funny. She is smart. She is adventurous.”

But now, Knezevich is missing.

“Someone has done something to her, and I’m trying to understand who it could be and why,” Rameau said.

Knezevich has been living in an apartment in Madrid, the Spanish capital, since December, but on Feb. 2, she vanished.

Neighbors said they last saw her around 10 o’clock that night.

According to Rameau, the move from Fort Lauderdale was a fresh start for her friend, who was going through a stressful time.

“She is divorcing her husband and is going through that,” Rameau said.

She said she sent Knezevich a text message the day she disappeared but didn’t hear back. The next day, however, Rameau received a message saying that Knezevich met someone and was going to his home two hours from Madrid and that cellular service would be spotty. Rameau found the message “strange” and believes someone else was texting her from Knezevich’s phone.

“I tried to respond saying I was worried about her, like ‘you don’t sound safe,’” Rameau said. “What is she talking about? This makes no sense, and my messages didn’t go through, either.”

When she hadn’t gotten a response by the next day, Rameau contacted police in Madrid.

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On Feb. 4, friends also called the local fire department to conduct a wellness check. The fire department said Knezevich wasn’t there.

“They didn’t find her,” she said. “Looks like she left the apartment locking it from the outside. That’s the last we know.”

Rameau said authorities in Madrid told her they did find something strange captured on security video about 30 minutes before Knezevich was last seen.

“A man with a helmet sprayed the surveillance cameras outside the directory of her apartment building and waited for two people to leave the building and took the opportunity to go inside and spray the surveillance camera inside by the elevator,” she said.

Rameau said that Madrid police are investigating and the family is working with the FBI but that so far, they have no leads.

“I honestly feel like I’m still living in a dream, to be honest with you,” she said. “I have never felt this pain in my entire life.”

Rameau is sending this message to her friend or to anyone who may know where she is:

“We miss and we love her,” she said. “We want her back safe.”

Kim Wynne is a reporter for NBC South Florida.