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Florida’s Gulf Coast

Florida’s Gulf Coast is a paradise for those seeking the perfect Florida beach holiday. St. Pete-Clearwater offers sparkling white sand beaches and a laid-back atmosphere, while nearby Tampa boasts vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions. Sarasota dazzles with its arts scene and beautiful coastline, and Fort Myers invites visitors to explore its historic charm and stunning natural parks. With its inviting climate and range of activities, the Gulf Coast is ideal for relaxation and adventure alike. For a complete Florida experience, consider combining your stay with a visit to the excitement of Orlando’s theme parks.

What you’ll love most about Florida’s Gulf Coast

Lounge on the soft, white sand beaches of Clearwater, Siesta Key, and Naples, where warm Gulf waters and stunning sunsets create the perfect coastal getaway
Explore the natural beauty of the Everglades, where airboat tours offer close-up views of alligators, manatees, and diverse bird species in this unique ecosystem
Discover the charm of Sanibel Island, famous for its shell-covered shores, wildlife refuges, and peaceful, laid-back atmosphere
Visit the vibrant city of Tampa, where Busch Gardens offers thrilling rides, while the Riverwalk, museums, and historic Ybor City showcase the area’s culture
Go on a dolphin-watching tour in Sarasota, where playful dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees thrive in crystal-clear waters
Experience the art scene in St. Petersburg, from the Salvador Dalí Museum’s surrealist masterpieces to the colourful murals that line the city’s streets

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Clearwater’s weather patterns

Holiday Highlights

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

21℃J
23℃F
25℃M
28℃A
31℃M
32℃J
33℃J
33℃A
32℃S
29℃O
26℃N
23℃D

5J
4F
4M
3A
4M
11J
14J
14A
10S
4O
3N
4D

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

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F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

January

The Gulf Coast enjoys mild winter weather, with temperatures averaging 10°C to 21°C. Snowbirds flock to the region, enjoying quiet beaches like Sanibel Island and Clearwater Beach. It’s a great time for spotting manatees at Crystal River, where they gather in the warm springs.

February

Temperatures remain comfortable at 12°C to 23°C, making it a great month for outdoor festivals like the Florida State Fair in Tampa. Dolphin-watching tours are popular in Sarasota, while Siesta Key Beach offers stunning white sands without the peak-season crowds.

March

Spring break kicks off, bringing more visitors to the beaches, with temperatures rising to 15°C to 25°C. The Strawberry Festival in Plant City is a seasonal highlight, while baseball fans can catch MLB Spring Training in cities like Dunedin, Sarasota, and Fort Myers.

April

With temperatures climbing to 18°C to 28°C, this is one of the best months for beach lovers before summer humidity arrives. Naples and Marco Island are perfect for a luxury getaway, while Tarpon Springs offers a taste of Greek culture along the waterfront.

May

The Gulf Coast shifts toward summer, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 31°C. It’s a fantastic month for shelling on Sanibel and Captiva Islands, or exploring the mangrove tunnels of Everglades National Park by kayak before the wet season begins.

June

Hot and humid weather sets in, with temperatures often reaching 32°C, and afternoon thunderstorms becoming more frequent. The Gulf waters are warm for swimming, and Destin is a popular spot for snorkelling and deep-sea fishing. Sarasota’s Sizzle Dining Month showcases local cuisine.

July

Temperatures peak around 33°C, and the 4th of July celebrations light up coastal cities like Fort Myers Beach and Clearwater. It’s a great time for exploring Florida’s state parks, such as Honeymoon Island, in the mornings before the heat of the day.

August

With temperatures staying high at 24°C to 33°C, August is the heart of hurricane season, though many visitors still enjoy the beaches. The St. Petersburg Craft Beer Fest is a highlight, and indoor attractions like the Dali Museum in St. Pete offer a cool escape from the heat.

September

Still warm at 23°C to 32°C, but with fewer crowds, this is a great time to visit before the peak holiday season returns. The Taste of Gulfport Festival showcases local flavours, while nature lovers can explore the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

October

Autumn arrives with temperatures around 20°C to 29°C, and the humidity starts to ease. The Stone Crab Season opens, making it a prime time to sample fresh seafood in Naples and Fort Myers. The Sarasota Chalk Festival adds colour to the streets.

November

With temperatures at a pleasant 15°C to 26°C, outdoor activities are at their best. The Sandestin Wine Festival is a must for wine lovers, while shelling enthusiasts can head to Anna Maria Island for some of the best finds before the winter crowds return.

December

Mild winter temperatures of 12°C to 23°C make this a perfect month for holiday getaways. The Christmas Boat Parades in Tampa Bay, Naples, and Sarasota bring festive cheer, while Siesta Key’s sand sculpting festival showcases incredible beachside art.

Our Ratings

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Where to book

American Sky offers luxury tailor-made tours and holidays specialising in providing expert travel advice and exceptional unhurried customer service. With a wealth of experience we will find the perfect trip for you.

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eShores specialises in tailor-made multi-centre holidays, seamlessly blending multiple destinations into one trip. Explore the beauty of Thailand, island-hop the Greek islands, or embark on an epic American road trip – anything is possible. With consultants averaging 15 years’ experience, your dream holiday is in expert hands, so you can relax and enjoy the adventure!

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At Freedom Destinations, we take the trouble out of travel. We offer everything you need in one place; a great range of hotels, tours and activities, coupled with first-class service from dedicated specialists who work with you to create your perfect itinerary. With FREEDOM you can….

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