Weather in the Florida Keys in November : In Detail Guide

November marks a delightful transition in the Florida Keys, as the sweltering summer heat gives way to more pleasant temperatures and the rainy season begins to fade. This month offers a sweet spot for travelers seeking to enjoy the Keys’ outdoor attractions without the summer humidity or crowds.

Quick Answer: Florida Keys Weather in November

In November, the Florida Keys enjoy warm and pleasant weather with average daytime temperatures ranging from 78-82°F (25.5-28°C) and nighttime temperatures around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Humidity levels decrease to about 75%, making it more comfortable than summer months. Rainfall significantly drops from October, averaging only about 1.5 inches (37mm) spread across 10-14 days, with mostly brief showers. Water temperatures remain warm at approximately 78°F (25.8°C), ideal for swimming and water activities. November also marks the official end of hurricane season, though late-season storms are rare.

Temperature Patterns
Rainfall and Humidity
Sunshine and Daylight
Water Temperature
Wind Conditions
Weather Variations Throughout the Keys
Hurricane Considerations
Historical Weather Patterns
QUICK FACTS
Practical Tips
FAQs

Temperature Patterns

November brings a noticeable but pleasant cooling trend to the Florida Keys. Unlike the mainland United States, where November often means significant temperature drops, the Keys maintain their characteristically moderate climate thanks to the surrounding waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean.

Daytime Temperatures

Daily high temperatures in the Florida Keys during November typically range from 78-82°F (25.5-28°C), gradually decreasing as the month progresses. Early November tends to be slightly warmer, with daytime temperatures more likely to reach the low 80s, while late November sees more consistent high 70s.

During my visit to Key West last November, afternoons were consistently warm enough for short sleeves and lightweight clothing, making outdoor dining and activities extremely comfortable. The heat never felt oppressive, just pleasantly warm.

Nighttime Temperatures

Evening temperatures in November generally range from 70-75°F (21-24°C), creating ideal conditions for outdoor dining and nightlife. These mild evenings are a welcome change from the sometimes uncomfortably warm summer nights.

I found sleeping with just windows open (with screens for those persistent Keys mosquitoes) was perfect, though accommodations with air conditioning are still preferable for those who run hot or prefer controlled temperatures.

Temperature Fluctuations

One notable characteristic of November weather in the Keys is the increased day-to-day temperature variability compared to summer months. While summer temperatures remain remarkably stable, November can bring occasional cool fronts that temporarily drop temperatures by 5-10 degrees.

These fluctuations rarely bring truly cold weather, but packing a light jacket or sweater is advisable for evening activities, particularly in late November or when northern cold fronts push southward.

Rainfall and Humidity

November marks a significant transition in the Keys’ precipitation patterns, with a substantial decrease in rainfall compared to the wet summer and early fall months.

Rainfall Patterns

The Florida Keys receive approximately 1.5 inches (37mm) of rainfall in November, spread across 10-14 days of the month. This represents a dramatic decrease from September and October, which are typically much wetter.

When rain does occur in November, it tends to come in brief afternoon showers rather than all-day downpours. These short showers often clear quickly, leaving behind refreshed air and minimal disruption to outdoor plans.

During my November visit, we experienced only three brief rain showers over a 10-day period. Each lasted less than an hour, and the warm temperatures meant they caused little discomfort even when caught outdoors.

Humidity Levels

Humidity in the Florida Keys during November averages around 75%, which is slightly lower than the summer months but still noticeably humid compared to many other US destinations.

Morning humidity tends to be higher (around 80-82%), dropping to more comfortable levels (65-70%) by afternoon. This pattern makes mornings ideal for water activities and afternoons perfect for exploring historic sites or shopping.

The combination of moderate temperatures and reduced humidity in November creates a much more comfortable environment than the sometimes oppressive summer conditions, particularly for visitors not accustomed to tropical climates.

Sunshine and Daylight

November offers abundant sunshine in the Florida Keys, though with noticeably shorter days than summer months.

Sunshine Hours

The Florida Keys average approximately 8 hours of bright sunshine daily in November, accounting for about 69% of daylight hours. This means visitors can generally expect mostly sunny conditions with occasional clouds.

The quality of light in November has a distinct clarity that photographers particularly appreciate. The lower sun angle creates warmer golden hours in morning and evening, ideal for capturing the Keys’ famous sunrises and sunsets.

Daylight Hours

November days in the Florida Keys are approximately 11 hours long, with sunrise occurring around 7:30 AM and sunset around 6:45 PM early in the month, shifting to earlier sunset times as the month progresses.

These shorter days (compared to summer) mean slightly cooler evenings but still provide ample daylight hours for outdoor activities and explorations.

Water Temperature

The ocean temperature around the Florida Keys in November remains invitingly warm despite the approach of winter.

Swimming Conditions

The average sea temperature in November hovers around 78°F (25.8°C), which is considered very comfortable for swimming and water activities. While slightly cooler than summer water temperatures, most visitors find November water temperatures perfect for extended swimming and snorkeling sessions.

I spent several hours snorkeling at Looe Key during my November visit without needing a wetsuit. The water felt refreshing rather than cold, and visibility was outstanding due to reduced rainfall and calmer conditions.

Water Clarity

November typically offers excellent water clarity in the Florida Keys due to reduced rainfall and runoff. This improved visibility makes it one of the best months for snorkeling and diving, with visibility often extending beyond 50 feet on the reef.

The combination of comfortable water temperatures and excellent visibility makes November arguably the ideal month for underwater exploration in the Keys.

Wind Conditions

November is one of the windier months in the Florida Keys, which brings both advantages and considerations for visitors.

Wind Patterns

Average wind speeds in November range from 10-14 mph, with occasional periods of stronger winds when cold fronts push through. These wind patterns are typically most noticeable in the morning and evening hours.

Wind direction in November tends to shift from the prevailing southeast summer pattern to more northeasterly or northerly flows, especially after the passage of cold fronts.

Impact on Activities

For sailors and windsurfers, November’s increased winds create ideal conditions. Kite surfers particularly enjoy the consistent breezes of early winter in the Keys.

Fishing can be affected by windier conditions, with offshore trips occasionally being rescheduled during stronger wind events. However, the backcountry and flats fishing often remains excellent, as these areas can find protection from the wind.

For general beach activities and swimming, the windier conditions rarely pose significant problems, though they can make paddleboarding and kayaking more challenging on some days.

Weather Variations Throughout the Keys

While the Florida Keys share a general climate pattern, there are notable variations from Key Largo in the north to Key West at the southern tip.

Upper Keys (Key Largo, Islamorada)

The Upper Keys, being closer to the mainland, tend to experience slightly more temperature fluctuation in November than the Lower Keys. When cold fronts push into Florida, Key Largo and Islamorada might see temperatures drop a few degrees more than Key West.

Rainfall in the Upper Keys is typically a bit higher than in Key West, reflecting the general precipitation gradient that exists throughout the archipelago. However, this difference is less pronounced in November than during summer months.

Middle Keys (Marathon, Duck Key)

The Middle Keys generally experience November weather conditions intermediate between the Upper and Lower Keys. Temperature fluctuations are moderate, and rainfall amounts fall between those of Key Largo and Key West.

Wind conditions in the Middle Keys can sometimes feel more pronounced due to the narrower profile of islands like Marathon, providing less shelter from prevailing breezes.

Lower Keys (Big Pine Key, Key West)

Key West and the Lower Keys typically experience the most stable and warm November temperatures in the archipelago. When cold fronts affect the Upper Keys, they often moderate significantly before reaching Key West.

Rainfall in Key West averages slightly less than in Key Largo during November, continuing the precipitation gradient pattern. However, all areas of the Keys see significantly reduced rainfall in November compared to summer and early fall.

Hurricane Considerations

November marks the official final month of Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. However, late-season storms are increasingly rare in the Florida Keys by this point in the year.

Late Season Storm Probability

There’s approximately a 6% probability that a named tropical storm will approach within 100 miles of the Florida Keys during November, and only about a 2% chance of a Category 1 or 2 hurricane. Major hurricanes (Category 3 or higher) are extremely unlikely in November.

Most November tropical systems that do develop tend to form in the western Caribbean and move northeast, often affecting Cuba more directly than the Florida Keys.

Historical Perspective

While rare, November hurricanes have occasionally affected the Florida Keys, with Hurricane Kate in 1985 being a notable example. However, such late-season events are statistical outliers rather than typical patterns.

Most November visitors to the Keys experience no tropical weather disruptions whatsoever, though maintaining awareness of weather forecasts during your visit is always prudent.

Historical Weather Patterns

Understanding historical weather patterns provides helpful context for planning a November visit to the Florida Keys.

Typical November Scenarios

In most years, early November continues the warm, occasionally showery pattern of late October, with daytime temperatures regularly reaching 80°F (27°C) or higher.

As the month progresses, temperatures gradually moderate, and rainfall becomes less frequent and lighter when it does occur. By late November, daytime highs more consistently remain in the high 70s rather than low 80s.

About every 3-4 years, stronger cold fronts may push unusually far south, bringing temporary cooler temperatures to the Keys. Even during these events, daytime temperatures rarely drop below 70°F (21°C).

Exceptional Weather Events

Occasionally, November can bring unusually warm or cool conditions to the Florida Keys. Recent climate trends have shown a slight warming pattern, with more November days reaching above-average temperatures than in previous decades.

The record high temperature for November in Key West is 89°F (32°C), while the record low is 52°F (11°C), demonstrating the potential range, though typical days fall well within much narrower parameters.

QUICK FACTS

Average Daytime High: 78-82°F (25.5-28°C)
Average Nighttime Low: 70-75°F (21-24°C)
Average Water Temperature: 78°F (25.8°C)
Average Rainfall: 1.5 inches (37mm)
Rainy Days: 10-14 days (typically brief showers)
Sunshine Hours: 8 hours daily (69% of daylight)
Daylight Hours: Approximately 11 hours
Average Humidity: 75% (higher in mornings, lower in afternoons)
Average Wind Speed: 10-14 mph
Hurricane Risk: 6% chance of tropical storm, 2% chance of hurricane
Peak Tourist Season: Beginning to build but not yet at winter heights
UV Index: Moderate to high (6-8)
Mosquito Activity: Reduced from summer but still present
Water Visibility: Excellent (often 50+ feet on the reef)

Practical Tips

What to Pack

For a November trip to the Florida Keys, versatile, lightweight clothing is ideal:

Short-sleeved shirts and shorts for daytime
Light long-sleeved shirts or thin sweaters for evenings
A light rain jacket or poncho for occasional showers
Swimwear (the water is still perfectly warm for swimming)
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Insect repellent (mosquitoes are less prevalent than summer but still present)

I found that packing one light sweater and a rain jacket alongside summer clothing provided perfect flexibility for my November visit, with the sweater primarily used during evening boat trips when wind chill became a factor.

Best Activities for November Weather

November’s pleasant temperatures and reduced rainfall make it ideal for:

Snorkeling and diving (excellent visibility)
Fishing (many species are active in the cooler waters)
Kayaking and paddleboarding (especially in mornings when winds are lighter)
Cycling (the overseas heritage trail is much more comfortable in November than summer)
Walking tours of Key West and other historic areas
Outdoor dining
Sunset cruises

During my November visit, we found the weather perfect for alternating water activities in the mornings with cultural explorations in the afternoons, never feeling limited by heat, cold, or rain.

Weather Contingency Plans

While November weather is generally favorable, it’s wise to have backup plans for the occasional rainy periods:

The Ernest Hemingway Home, Key West Aquarium, and various museums provide excellent indoor options
Brewery tours and rum distillery visits offer entertaining shelter from passing showers
Many restaurants have covered outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the pleasant temperatures even during light rain

FAQs

Is November hurricane season in the Florida Keys?

November is technically the final month of Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. However, late-season hurricanes affecting the Florida Keys in November are quite rare, with only about a 2% probability of a hurricane approaching within 100 miles. By November, most tropical activity has significantly diminished.

Is November a good time to visit the Florida Keys?

November is an excellent time to visit the Florida Keys. The weather is typically warm and pleasant with reduced humidity compared to summer months. Rainfall decreases significantly from the wet summer/early fall period, and water temperatures remain comfortable for swimming and water activities. Additionally, November precedes the peak winter tourist season, meaning fewer crowds and often better rates on accommodations.

How warm is the water in the Florida Keys in November?

The average sea temperature in the Florida Keys during November is approximately 78°F (25.8°C), which is very comfortable for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Most visitors find this temperature ideal for extended water activities without feeling chilled or needing a wetsuit, though some divers may prefer a light wetsuit for longer, deeper dives.

Does it rain a lot in the Florida Keys in November?

November in the Florida Keys sees significantly less rainfall than the late summer and early fall months. The Keys average about 1.5 inches (37mm) of rain in November, spread across 10-14 days. When rain does occur, it typically comes in brief afternoon showers rather than all-day downpours, allowing for quick resumption of outdoor activities.

Are the Florida Keys crowded in November?

November represents a transitional period for tourism in the Florida Keys. Early November is relatively quiet, especially immediately after the Fantasy Fest celebrations in Key West (which typically end in late October). Tourism gradually increases throughout the month, with the Thanksgiving holiday week seeing a notable uptick in visitors. However, even during busier periods, November crowds are manageable compared to the peak winter season of January through March.

What is the water visibility like for snorkeling in November?

Water visibility for snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys is typically excellent in November. Reduced rainfall means less runoff and sediment in the water, while the slightly cooler temperatures help reduce algae growth. Visibility of 50+ feet is common on the reef in November, making it one of the best months for underwater activities.

Bottom Line

November offers an outstanding balance of pleasant temperatures, reduced rainfall, and manageable humidity in the Florida Keys. With daytime temperatures typically ranging from 78-82°F (25.5-28°C), comfortable swimming conditions, and significantly less precipitation than earlier fall months, it provides nearly ideal conditions for exploring both the natural and cultural attractions of this unique archipelago.

The month represents a sweet spot in the Keys’ calendar—past hurricane season’s peak, beyond the sometimes oppressive summer heat and humidity, but before the winter tourist crowds arrive in full force. For visitors seeking to experience the Keys’ outdoor attractions in comfort while potentially benefiting from shoulder-season rates, November stands as one of the most attractive months to visit this tropical paradise.