So you're thinking about visiting Key West in December? Smart move. I did this last year and let me tell you - planning around the weather made all the difference between a good trip and a great one. If you're anything like me, you've probably already googled "Key West FL December weather" ten times today. Stop searching. I've packed everything you need into this guide.
Breaking Down Key West December Weather Day by Day
December in Key West feels like nature's apology for winter. While friends back home are shoveling snow, you'll be in shorts watching sailboats. But it's not all sunshine - there are quirks you should know.
Temperature Truths
Last December 15th, I remember stepping off the plane into 78°F air thinking "why don't I live here?" But bring a light jacket for evenings - when that ocean breeze kicks in, it gets nippy. Here's what to really expect:
| Weather Metric | Average | Record High/Low |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime High | 76°F (24°C) | 87°F (2010) / 41°F (2010) |
| Nighttime Low | 67°F (19°C) | 79°F (2016) / 47°F (1989) |
| Ocean Temp | 75°F (24°C) | Too cold for me after sunset! |
Funny story - that 41°F record low? Happened during a freak cold snap. Locals still complain about it like it was yesterday. But realistically, you'll mostly see mid-70s. Perfect for exploring.
Rain and Sun Patterns
Don't trust those "30% chance of rain" forecasts blindly. Key West December weather usually means quick showers, not all-day downpours. Last trip, I got caught without an umbrella near Mallory Square - lesson learned.
- Rainfall: About 2.5 inches spread over 6 days
- Sunshine: 7 hours daily average (bring sunscreen!)
- Humidity: Around 75% - less muggy than summer
Honestly? That humidity still gets noticeable around noon. Carry water.
Wind and Water Conditions
This surprised me most - December brings the windiest conditions of the year. Not Chicago-level winds, but enough to mess up your hair in photos. On the plus side, windsurfers love it.
Local Tip: Book water activities for mornings when winds are calmest. Afternoons get choppy.
What to Actually Wear in Key West During December
Packing wrong can ruin your trip. I saw a tourist shivering in shorts at sunset - don't be that person. Here's the real packing list:
Daytime Essentials
- Lightweight cotton shirts (3-4)
- Shorts/skirts (you'll live in these)
- Sundress (for ladies)
- Sandals AND sneakers (surprisingly useful)
- Hat with brim (non-negotiable)
- Sunglasses (polarized)
Evening/Night Additions
- Light sweater or jacket (fleece works)
- Long pants (1 pair)
- Closed-toe shoes
- Scarf (sounds silly but works miracles)
My biggest mistake? Not bringing a windbreaker. That ocean breeze cuts through cotton sweaters like butter when the sun dips.
Making the Most of Key West December Weather
December weather unlocks activities impossible in summer. Take advantage:
Must-Do Outdoor Activities
- Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square: Daily around 5:30 PM. Free! Gets crowded - arrive 90 minutes early.
- Dry Tortugas Day Trip: Ferry ($200) or seaplane ($450) to this remote national park. Book months ahead. December weather makes this actually enjoyable.
- Bike the Island: Rentals cost $15-$25/day. Flat terrain, dedicated paths. Best routes: White Street Pier to Smathers Beach.
Water Adventures Worth Booking
Water temp hovers around 75°F - refreshing but not bathwater warm.
| Activity | Cost Range | Best Operator | Why December? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snorkeling Tour | $50-$80 | Fury Water Adventures | Calmer seas, fewer jellyfish |
| Kayaking | $40-$60 | Lazy Dog Adventures | Mangroves less buggy |
| Fishing Charter | $400-$800 | All In Charters | Peak season for sailfish |
I did that Fury snorkel trip - saw a sea turtle but forgot motion sickness pills. Big regret.
December-Specific Events
Key West goes all out for holidays. Don't miss:
- Bight Before Christmas (Dec 1-24): Harbor Walk of lighted boats. Free viewing nightly.
- Holiday Parade (Dec 10): Floats, bands, Santa in shorts. Starts 7 PM on Duval Street.
- New Year's Eve: Giant conch shell drop at Sloppy Joe's ($50 cover). Insanely crowded but unique.
Key West in December: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
After three December trips, here's my brutally honest take:
Advantages You'll Love
- No suffocating heat/humidity
- Minimal rain interruptions
- Zero hurricane risk
- Perfect sightseeing temps
Disadvantages to Consider
- Prices skyrocket: My hotel was double June's rate
- Crowds everywhere: Waited 45 minutes for breakfast
- Water "cold shock": Jumping in takes courage
- Wind chaos: Ruined my parasailing plans
That hotel price hike still stings. Book by September or pay dearly.
Local Secrets for December Visitors
Tourist traps abound. Here's how to experience Key West like a pro:
Where to Stay
- Budget: NYAH Hotel ($150/night) - basic but central
- Mid-range: The Gardens Hotel ($350/night) - lush oasis
- Splurge: Ocean Key Resort ($600+/night) - sunset views
Pro Tip: Avoid properties near airport - constant seaplane noise. Ask how close rooms are to Duval Street if you're light sleeper.
Eating Like a Local
Skip those overpriced Duval Street joints. My favorites:
- Blue Heaven: Breakfast only. Get banana pancakes. No reservations - go early!
- Garbo's Grill: Food truck near Hemingway House. Best fish tacos ($14)
- DJ's Clam Shack: Tiny spot with killer lobster rolls ($28 but worth it)
Key West December Weather FAQ
Will I need a wetsuit for snorkeling in Key West during December?
Most locals snorkel without one. The water temp averages 75°F - chilly when you first jump in but manageable. If you get cold easily, operators rent shorty wetsuits ($10). I didn't use one but saw blue lips on some kids.
How crowded does Key West get in December?
Very. Christmas through New Year's is peak insanity. Early December is manageable. Last year on December 28th, I couldn't move on Duval Street. Book everything - restaurants, tours, even bike rentals - weeks ahead.
Does it ever freeze in Key West in December?
Practically never. The record low is 41°F and that happened once in 2010. You'll likely see 60s-70s. That said, when it's 65°F with wind and humidity, Floridians break out parkas. Don't laugh - you might want layers too.
Are mosquitoes bad in Key West during December?
Thankfully no! The combo of cooler temps and lower humidity knocks them way down. I used repellent once at sunset near mangroves but otherwise wasn't bothered. Huge advantage over summer visits.
Can I swim at the beaches in December?
Absolutely - but with caveats. The water won't be bathwater warm like August. Takes about 90 seconds to adjust. Locals swim year-round. Best beaches: Fort Zachary Taylor ($7 entry) or Higgs Beach (free). Smathers gets windy.
Final Thoughts on December in Key West
After experiencing Key West FL December weather multiple times, here's my take: it's the Goldilocks season. Not too hot, not too cold - just right for exploring. But pack smarter than I did that first year.
One Last Tip: If traveling between Christmas and New Year's, double your patience budget. The crowds are unreal. Personally? I now go the first week of December - better prices, thinner crowds, same great weather.
Still have questions about Key West Florida December weather? Drop them in comments below - I check regularly after living through both perfect days and that one freezing cold snap!
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