Updated: April 19th 2016 @ 6:06pm
Wherever you are right now, chances are the weather is better in the Florida Keys. That’s true even on a summer day. The hottest it’s ever been in Key West is 97° F (36° C), and that was in 1880. At the peak of summer, the average high air temperature is about 89° F (32° C). The subtropical islands are cooled by gentle sea breezes. In the winter, the Keys are typically the warmest region in the continental U.S. And what's more, there has never been a frost in Key West, according to the U.S. Weather Service.
This is a subtropical island, so you're wise to protect your skin: The sun's rays are strong in the subtropics, reflecting off sand, water, and even the clouds during an overcast afternoon. Locals recommend wide brimmed hats, UV sun protection clothing such as UPF 50-rated shirts, rash guards, or Neck Gaiters, and, of course, the sunscreen of your choice.
Traveling the 125-mile-long Florida Keys island chain by car makes for one of the best road trips in America. Drive along the only All-American Road in Florida, U.S. Highway 1, a beautiful, scenic route featuring 42 bridges. As the only road in and out of the Keys, at peak travel times traffic can become congested. Plan ahead and travel during off-peak hours and allow enough time to reach your destination.
Visitors can fly into Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and from there can reach the Keys by airport shuttle bus or rental car. Travelers can reach Key Largo, the gateway to the Keys, in about an hour from Miami or an hour and 45 minutes from Fort Lauderdale. Islamorada is the next small chain of islands as you head south.
Directions:
Feel free to bring coolers and refreshments to Florida public beaches and parks facilities, but alcohol is prohibited. The Florida Keys & Key West do enforce open container laws that prohibit open containers of alcohol on most public beaches, parks and streets. Be mindful of signs that indicate where alcohol containers are prohibited.
Resources:
The Florida Keys - Come As You Are
Related:
25 Reasons to Hire a Fishing Guide
Islamorada, the Sportsfishing Capital of the World