Change My Mind: Oct, Nov, Dec Are the Best Boating Months in Florida
Fact: People have been picking up and relocating to Florida since 1957. Especially those that have a passion for the boating life. We’re not surprised. Florida has something to offer explorers that the West, Northeast, Southwest, and even its neighbors in the Southeast can’t: Sunshine year-round and 1,200 miles of gorgeous coastline.
During the fall and early winter months, people from all over the U.S. travel down here to embrace the sunshine state of mind whether that’s sandbar hopping, relaxing at the beach, or enjoying a nice sunset cruise. Locals, too, make in-state trips to enjoy the myriad of on-water experiences the Sunshine State has in store.
October, November, and December offer the perfect conditions for a memorable boating experience in the Sunshine State. Here are 7 reasons why these months are the best for boating in Florida:
- Not-too-cool climate & lukewarm waters
- The best beach days
- An introverts’ paradise: Fewer crowds!
- Manatees, sea turtles, & dolphins, oh my!
- Prime-time for anglers
- Flip-flop apparel
- Instagram-worthy sunsets
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1. Not-too-cool climate & lukewarm waters
Florida’s scorching summer heat begins to wane in September, by October you will be enjoying a light crisp breeze when you go outside. The weather in November and December is even milder, but the best part is Florida’s climate around this time of year is that anything below 60 degrees is a rarity.
It would be very remiss of us to not let you in on the water temperatures in Florida during October, November, and December. While the temperatures on land take a slight dip, waters remain lukewarm, perfect for a gentle swim, or for a deep plunge into the water.
Check out these the top Florida destinations for boating in October, November, and December:
Find boating guides to all your favorite destinations here.
2. The best beach days
One of the standout features of boating in Florida during October, November, and December is the stretches of azure skies and calm waters, AKA the perfect atmosphere for a great beach day.
By October chances of stormy weather, like hurricanes, are reduced significantly, which means beach season is back and better than ever before. While summers in Florida are a time where people take to the outdoors, it gets hot (especially in July) making it quite hard to enjoy more than a few hours out.
So while it does get sunny in October, November, and December, it doesn’t get too hot. The temperature outside is just right. If you’re in need of some R&R, take a couple of hours out on the water, taking in the views, maybe even reading a good book, are all things you will enjoy doing here.
3. An introverts’ paradise: Fewer crowds!
Yes, while we did say that people from around the U.S. travel to Florida this time of year, this great state is so big that it has space to give to introverts as well as the peopled atmosphere extroverts crave. But generally speaking with the summer vacation rush behind us, October, November, and December offer quieter and less crowded boating destinations. You’ll have more space to explore and enjoy your surroundings without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season.
4. Manatees, sea turtles, & dolphins, oh my!
Fall and early winter are great times for wildlife enthusiasts. Manatees migrate to warmer waters, and dolphins become more active, like they actually swim right up to you to give you a quick “heeyy.” If you’re on a boat your chances are higher at spotting these majestic creatures!
Pro tip: Looking to catch the sights of sea turtles? Well, you’re in luck if you’re planning your boat trip in October as it is the last month of Florida’s sea turtle season.
5. Prime-time for anglers
Fall is prime-time for anglers in Florida, with many species becoming more active. Whether you’re into offshore fishing, freshwater angling, or casting a line from the shore, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to reel in a big catch.
6. Flip-flop apparel
If being able to wear shorts, flip-flops, linen button down shirts year-round, sounds like heaven to you, then c’mon down to Florida. You won’t need to bundle up in heavy layers during these months. While it usually gets chilly out on the water in other places, here you will enjoy the levity in apparel.
7. Instagram worthy sunsets
Picture yourself on a tranquil boat ride during the golden hour of a Florida evening. The clear skies are painted on with brilliant hues of crimson, tangerine, and lavender. Sunsets in Florida are like no other, where the sun’s farewell kiss to the day transforms the world into a living masterpiece.
Around this time of year, you can enjoy the sunset with more comfort as you won’t have to deal with the summer’s terrible humidity. You’ll just be able to sit in pure awe, enveloped in the radiant beauty of a Florida sunset.
Sorry not sorry to the other 49 states; the best boating days in Florida happen during October, November, and December. The combination of mild weather, reduced crowds, abundant wildlife, and amazing sunsets make these months the perfect time to get on the water. So, rent a boat and take advantage of the best boating months Florida has to offer!
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