What to Wear in Key West According to the Weather: A Packing Guide for Each Season

Deciding which clothes deserve valuable suitcase space based on the weather can be a daunting task, no matter the vacation destination. Luckily, packing for a trip to Key West is fairly easy, as temperatures typically vary from 65°F to 89°F over the course of the entire year. That said, if you want to look like a cool and casual local, there are still a few tried-and-true standards you’ll want to follow while packing. Here’s what to wear in Key West according to the weather: a packing guide for each season.

Spring

Spring mornings and evenings in Key West are pleasant, while the days can get quite hot. Shorts and T-shirts or tank tops are a necessity to stay comfortable during the day. Stick to breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, chambray, or rayon. Sandals are also a staple for Key West living. They are perfect for beach days, while keeping your feet cool for a long stroll down Duval Street. Spring in Key West is the perfect beach weather! Pack a colorful bathing suit or boardshorts, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a coverup to stay protected on your beach adventures. Trendy tops or button downs are great for a night out at a restaurant, bar, or club and a light cardigan or jacket may come in handy for late walks or cruises on the water.

Summer

Summer in Key West is hot and wet, with rain and thunderstorms being commonplace. Although rain showers are typically short lived, pack an umbrella or lightweight raincoat. Lightweight is important, as you can easily tuck the coat into your bag while always being prepared for the spectrum of hot, rainy, sunny, and cloudy summer weather the Keys throw at you. With the addition of rain protection, we recommend sticking with the light and breathable wardrobe packing list mentioned above.

Fall

One of the positives of the weather in Key West is that you have a chance to recycle your spring wardrobe come fall by simply adding a few layers. Layers are essential! Fall weather can fluctuate throughout the day, with crisp mornings, hot days, and cool evenings. Locals live in shorts. Unless, of course, there’s a cold snap which typically happens in the fall months. Add a pair of jeans, sweater, and tennis shoes to your stacks of shorts and T-shirts to be safe.

Winter

Winter in Key West is comfortable, with an average high of 75°F and average low of 65°F. Leave your black and gray garb at home and keep your attire light and colorful. Add even more layers to your suitcase to compensate for the cooler seabreeze and shifting humidity indicative to winter. Ladies may try a maxi dress, which keeps the air flowing while also providing warmth for those nights on the town. They also make the perfect beach coverup and transition piece from day to evening. Pack a light fleece jacket, hoodie, or comfy cardigan for evening dockside drinking. Jeans, leggings, joggers, or lightweight active pants are also practical. They can be easily cuffed during the day and let down when the night chills begin.

Has the weather got you down? Take a summer break from your winter. Check out our special deals at 24 North Hotel, which has the best value on the island. Enjoy clean, comfortable rooms, an excellent swimming pool, onsite food & bars, Starbucks, and hourly shuttle service to downtown Key West.