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Florida Keys waterfront with turquoise water in February

Warmest Place in Florida in February: Best Places to Visit

October 10, 2026

Miami has the highest average February high among our three destinations at 76.1°F. Compare Miami, Key West, and Orlando to find the right winter getaway.

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If you're looking for the warmest place in florida in february, Miami comes out on top of our three-city comparison, with an average high of 76.1°F (24.5°C). Key West is another excellent choice, with an average high of 73.4°F (23°C), fewer rainy days, and slightly more daily sunshine than Miami.

February is a great time to escape winter in much of the United States without dealing with Florida's hottest, stickiest weather. Still, not every part of the state feels the same. Your experience in the Florida Keys can be quite different from a trip to Orlando, especially after sunset.

For this guide, we're comparing 20-year weather averages from 2006 through 2025 for Miami, Key West, and Orlando. These figures help you compare typical February conditions, although actual weather can change from one year to the next.

Which is the warmest place in Florida in February?

Based on the average high temperatures in our available data, Miami is the warmest of the three destinations. Key West offers a close alternative, while Orlando has a noticeably cooler average low, which matters if you're planning early mornings or evenings outdoors.

Place Avg high °F/°C Avg low Rainy days Sunshine
Miami 76.1°F / 24.5°C 66.2°F 9 10 hours a day
Key West 73.4°F / 23°C 70°F 5 10.2 hours a day
Orlando 73.4°F / 23°C 54.7°F 8 9 hours a day

All figures are 20-year averages for 2006 to 2025. The table compares typical conditions, not a forecast for your exact travel dates. The average low is shown in Fahrenheit, as provided in the weather data.

Miami wins on average daytime warmth, but that doesn't automatically make it the best choice for every traveler. Key West has fewer rainy days in these averages and slightly more daily sunshine. Orlando offers theme parks and family attractions, but its cooler average low makes packing layers more important.

My advice? Choose based on how you want to spend your trip, not just the highest temperature. A beach holiday, a city break, and a theme park vacation all have different weather priorities.

Sunny Miami beach with a lifeguard tower in February

Why is Miami the warmest place in Florida in February?

Miami has an average February high of 76.1°F (24.5°C) and an average low of 66.2°F. Those conditions make it a strong choice if you're hoping for warm afternoons, outdoor meals, beach time, and comfortable sightseeing without the intense summer heat.

You'll still want to plan for rain. Miami averages 9 rainy days in February, so it's sensible to keep a little flexibility in your itinerary. Rainy days don't necessarily mean continuous rain from morning to night, but you shouldn't build a trip that depends on every afternoon being completely dry.

What does February weather feel like in Miami?

During a typical afternoon, the average high is warm enough for shorts, a T-shirt, and outdoor activities. If you're walking around neighborhoods, stopping for lunch outside, or spending time near the water, February can feel like a welcome break from a cold northern winter.

Evenings are milder than in many winter destinations, with an average low of 66.2°F. A light layer is still useful, especially if you'll be sitting outdoors for a long dinner or spending time near the water after sunset.

Sunshine averages 10 hours a day. That's helpful for travelers who want to fit beach visits and sightseeing into the same day, although actual daylight and sunshine conditions vary. Clouds and showers can interrupt an otherwise pleasant afternoon.

What should you do in Miami in February?

  • Visit the beach: Plan your beach time around the forecast and take sunscreen, water, and something to cover up with.
  • Explore neighborhoods: Walk around areas with restaurants, shops, public art, and outdoor spaces during the cooler parts of the day.
  • Enjoy outdoor dining: February's typical temperatures make eating outside appealing, particularly when the evening stays mild.
  • Mix indoor and outdoor activities: Keep a museum, shopping stop, or another indoor option available in case a shower changes your plans.

For the most useful local comparison, check our detailed Miami weather in February guide before deciding what to pack.

Who should choose Miami, and who should skip it?

Miami makes sense for travelers who want the warmest average afternoon among these three cities, along with beaches, restaurants, nightlife, and city attractions. It's particularly appealing if your winter getaway needs a mix of outdoor time and urban activities.

However, don't choose Miami solely because its average high is the highest. If you prefer a quieter island atmosphere or want fewer rainy days according to these averages, Key West deserves a close look. If your main goal is visiting theme parks, Orlando may be a better fit even with its cooler mornings and nights.

Honestly, I'd avoid planning a Miami trip around uninterrupted beach weather. The average conditions are inviting, but nine rainy days in the monthly data are a good reason to have a backup plan.

Is Key West warm in February?

Yes. Key West has an average February high of 73.4°F (23°C), an average low of 70°F, 5 rainy days, and 10.2 hours of sunshine a day. It's a strong option for travelers who want warm-weather activities and a relaxed island setting during the winter months.

Key West's average high is lower than Miami's, but its average low is higher. That smaller difference between the typical high and low can be useful if you enjoy spending time outside throughout the day rather than returning indoors when evening arrives.

How does Key West feel compared with Miami?

Think about the kind of holiday you want. Miami offers a large-city experience with a broad range of restaurants, neighborhoods, shopping, and beaches. Key West is better suited to travelers who want an island destination, waterfront views, casual exploring, and a slower pace.

Key West averages 5 rainy days in February, compared with 9 in Miami. It also averages 10.2 hours of sunshine daily, compared with 10 hours in Miami. Those differences favor Key West in this particular dataset, although they don't guarantee better weather during your trip.

The average high in Key West is 73.4°F, so you can generally plan for mild to warm afternoons rather than assuming you'll experience hot summer conditions. The average low of 70°F is especially appealing for visitors who prefer mild nights.

What can you do in Key West in February?

  • Spend time by the water: Build your schedule around waterfront walks, boat excursions, or other activities that match the day's forecast.
  • Explore on foot: Leave room for unhurried walks, local shops, cafés, and historic areas.
  • Plan outdoor meals: Mild average temperatures make it easier to include patio dining and sunset outings in your plans.
  • Allow time for the islands: Don't cram every activity into a single day. Travel between attractions and weather-dependent excursions can affect your schedule.

Check our Key West weather in February guide for a closer look at the month's average conditions.

Is Key West a better choice than Miami?

Key West may suit you better if you value fewer average rainy days, slightly more daily sunshine, and a smaller island setting. Miami is the stronger option if you want the highest average daytime temperature of the three destinations.

There is one practical point to consider: don't assume that an island trip automatically means easy access to every activity. Decide which excursions matter to you, check their departure arrangements, and book popular activities ahead of time when possible.

Key West is a particularly good fit for couples, friends, and travelers who prefer a relaxed trip with plenty of outdoor time. If you want a packed schedule of major city attractions, Miami could be a better match.

Is Orlando warm enough to visit in February?

Orlando has an average February high of 73.4°F (23°C), matching Key West's average high in our data. However, its average low is 54.7°F, substantially cooler than the averages for Miami and Key West. That difference matters when you leave your hotel early or stay out after dark.

For many visitors, Orlando is still a very appealing February destination. Theme parks, family attractions, shopping, and dining can fill a trip without requiring hot beach weather. You just need to prepare for cooler mornings and evenings.

What should you expect from Orlando weather in February?

Daytime conditions can be comfortable for walking around outdoor attractions. An average high of 73.4°F is pleasant for many people, especially compared with the cold conditions they may be leaving behind at home.

Early mornings and evenings are a different story. With an average low of 54.7°F, you may appreciate a jacket or sweatshirt before the day warms up. If you plan to spend long hours outdoors, carrying an extra layer is easier than wishing you had one later.

Orlando averages 8 rainy days in February and 9 hours of sunshine per day. That means your trip should include a little flexibility, particularly if you have outdoor rides, gardens, or other weather-sensitive activities on your list.

What should you do in Orlando in February?

  • Visit theme parks: Check attraction schedules and park information before you go, and plan breaks into long days of walking.
  • Start with layers: Wear comfortable clothes that work for cooler mornings and can be adjusted as temperatures rise.
  • Keep indoor options handy: Restaurants, shops, shows, and indoor attractions can help if the weather turns wet.
  • Plan rest time: A full day of walking can be tiring, so avoid filling every hour with activities.

Our Orlando weather in February guide provides the average conditions for visitors planning a trip.

Who should choose Orlando instead of South Florida?

Orlando is the obvious contender if theme parks are the main reason for your trip. Families may prefer it because attractions can keep everyone busy even when the weather isn't ideal for a beach day.

It is less suitable if your main goal is warm evenings, a tropical island atmosphere, or spending nearly every day in beachwear. Its average low of 54.7°F is a reminder that February evenings can feel cool, even when afternoons are pleasant.

For a theme park vacation, I'd prioritize attraction plans and comfortable walking clothes over chasing the highest possible temperature. A slightly cooler destination can still make for a better trip if it offers the activities you actually want.

Family in light layers walking in a sunny Florida park in February

Is southern Florida warmer than northern Florida in February?

Generally, southern Florida is the better part of the state to consider if warmth is your main priority in February. Northern Florida is cooler, so travelers hoping for mild afternoons and outdoor activities should pay attention to the destination rather than assuming the whole state has the same winter climate.

Our data covers Miami, Key West, and Orlando only. It doesn't provide average temperatures for northern Florida cities, so we won't attach unsupported numbers to other destinations. The comparison here is meant to help you choose among the three places with available figures.

Miami has the highest average high in the comparison, at 76.1°F. Key West's average high is 73.4°F, while Orlando's is also 73.4°F. The difference becomes clearer when you compare average lows: Key West is at 70°F, Miami at 66.2°F, and Orlando at 54.7°F.

If you want to spend most of your time outdoors and enjoy milder nights, Miami and Key West are the natural starting points. If your trip revolves around theme parks and other Orlando attractions, the cooler evenings may be a reasonable trade-off.

Which Florida destination has the least rain in February?

Key West has the fewest average rainy days among the three destinations in this guide, with 5. Miami averages 9 rainy days, and Orlando averages 8.

That makes Key West an appealing option if you're planning boat trips, waterfront walks, or several outdoor activities. However, rainy-day averages aren't a promise about the weather during your dates. One trip could have mostly clear skies, while another could encounter several wet periods.

Does a rainy day mean it will rain all day?

Not necessarily. A rainy day in a climate average doesn't tell you exactly when rain will begin, how long it will last, or how much will fall. It also doesn't tell you whether the rest of the day will be sunny.

Instead of canceling outdoor plans because rain is possible, check the local forecast closer to departure. If you're booking an excursion that depends on suitable weather, review its cancellation policy before paying.

For a beach holiday, try to keep some flexibility in your schedule. A morning beach visit followed by an indoor lunch or attraction can be easier to rearrange than a full day of activities booked back-to-back.

Which Florida destination has the most sunshine in February?

Key West leads this comparison with an average of 10.2 hours of sunshine a day. Miami averages 10 hours a day, and Orlando averages 9 hours a day.

The difference between Key West and Miami is small, but both have higher daily sunshine averages than Orlando in the available data. If you want a trip centered on outdoor sightseeing, waterfront time, and enjoying the winter sun, that can help you narrow your choices.

Still, sunshine averages aren't the same as guaranteed hours of clear skies. They shouldn't be used as a substitute for a forecast, especially when your travel plans depend on a particular day being sunny.

One useful habit is to check the forecast shortly before leaving for the beach or a boat trip. Bring sun protection even when the morning starts cloudy, and keep drinking water throughout the day.

What should you pack for Florida in February?

Pack for warm afternoons, but don't leave every extra layer at home. The best suitcase depends on which destination you're visiting and how much time you'll spend outdoors after sunset.

What should you wear in Miami?

Lightweight shirts, shorts, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, and sun protection are useful starting points. With an average high of 76.1°F and an average low of 66.2°F, you may be comfortable in light clothing during the day, while a light jacket or cardigan can help in the evening.

Carry a compact umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket if you don't want a shower to interrupt sightseeing. You won't need to wear a rain layer all day, but having one available is practical.

What should you wear in Key West?

Pack breathable clothing, swimwear, sandals or comfortable walking shoes, and a light layer for changing conditions. Key West's average high of 73.4°F and average low of 70°F suggest mild conditions throughout the day and evening compared with Orlando.

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for outdoor activities. If you plan to spend time on a boat, consider an extra layer that you can use when conditions feel cooler on the water.

What should you wear in Orlando?

Orlando calls for a more flexible wardrobe. Wear light clothing during the day, but carry a sweatshirt, fleece, or jacket for early starts and evenings. The average low is 54.7°F, so don't assume that an afternoon in short sleeves means you'll be equally comfortable at night.

Comfortable walking shoes are particularly important if your itinerary includes theme parks. Add a spare pair of socks or a change of clothes if rain could affect a long day outdoors.

When should you book a February trip to Florida?

If February is your preferred travel month, start by deciding which destination and activities matter most. Weather averages can help you choose a location, but they won't tell you whether your preferred hotel, flight, or excursion will be available.

For a beach-focused trip, compare Miami and Key West first. For a theme park holiday, focus on Orlando and plan your days around the attractions you most want to visit. Once your priorities are clear, you can compare travel dates and accommodation options without trying to make one destination do everything.

Should you book beach activities in advance?

For activities with limited departures or specific time slots, booking ahead can make planning easier. Boat excursions and other popular outings may have schedules that don't match your preferred dates, so check the available options before building your whole itinerary around them.

Don't book every hour of your trip, though. Leave space to change plans if rain appears in the forecast or you find an activity you'd rather enjoy for longer. A little breathing room often makes a winter vacation feel less rushed.

What is the biggest booking mistake to avoid?

Assuming the weather will be identical throughout Florida is a common planning mistake. Miami, Key West, and Orlando have different average lows, sunshine figures, and rainy-day averages. Those differences can affect your clothes, daily schedule, and choice of activities.

Another mistake is using monthly averages as a day-by-day forecast. Check conditions closer to departure, review the policies for weather-dependent activities, and avoid making nonrefundable plans that leave no room for changes when flexibility matters to you.

You can organize your destination, dates, and activities with the WeatherApex trip planner.

Is February a good time to visit Florida?

February is a strong choice for travelers who want to escape winter and spend time outdoors without planning a summer-style vacation. The three destinations in this guide offer different strengths, from Miami's higher average daytime temperature to Key West's lower average rainy-day count and Orlando's theme park attractions.

The best choice depends on what you want to do. Miami is the temperature leader in this comparison. Key West is attractive for visitors who prioritize sunshine averages and milder evenings. Orlando makes sense for a trip built around theme parks, provided you're ready for cooler mornings and nights.

North Florida is generally cooler, so travelers focused on warmth should compare destinations carefully instead of assuming the whole state will feel tropical in winter.

Warmest place in Florida in February: final verdict

Based on the available 20-year averages, Miami is the warmest place in Florida in February among the three destinations compared here, with an average high of 76.1°F (24.5°C). It's the clearest choice if average daytime warmth is your main priority.

Key West is a close alternative, with an average high of 73.4°F (23°C), an average low of 70°F, 5 rainy days, and 10.2 hours of sunshine a day. Those conditions make it especially appealing for travelers who want a relaxed island trip with plenty of outdoor time.

Orlando also has an average high of 73.4°F (23°C), but its average low of 54.7°F makes evenings cooler. It's a sensible choice when theme parks and family attractions matter more than having the mildest nights.

For a quick decision, choose Miami for the highest average high, Key West for the fewest average rainy days and most daily sunshine, or Orlando for a theme park-focused trip. Then check the forecast for your actual travel dates and pack for both daytime warmth and changing conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What is the warmest place in Florida in February?

Miami is the warmest of the three destinations compared in this guide, with an average February high of 76.1°F (24.5°C). Key West and Orlando both average highs of 73.4°F (23°C). These figures are 20-year averages from 2006 through 2025, not a forecast for specific travel dates.

Is Key West warmer than Miami in February?

Miami has the higher average daytime temperature, at 76.1°F compared with Key West's 73.4°F. However, Key West has a higher average low of 70°F, compared with Miami's 66.2°F. Key West also averages 5 rainy days, while Miami averages 9, making the two destinations appealing for different reasons.

Is Orlando warm enough for a February vacation?

Yes. Orlando averages a February high of 73.4°F (23°C), which can be comfortable for sightseeing and theme parks. Its average low is 54.7°F, though, so pack an extra layer for early mornings and evenings. Orlando averages 8 rainy days and 9 hours of sunshine daily, so flexible plans are useful.

Which Florida destination has the least rain in February?

Key West has the fewest average rainy days in this comparison, with 5 in February. Orlando averages 8 rainy days, and Miami averages 9. Key West also averages 10.2 hours of sunshine a day. These are long-term averages, so check the forecast before scheduling weather-dependent activities or boat excursions.

Frequently asked questions

What is the warmest place in Florida in February?

Miami is the warmest of the three destinations compared in this guide, with an average February high of 76.1°F (24.5°C). Key West and Orlando both average highs of 73.4°F (23°C). These figures are 20-year averages from 2006 through 2025, not a forecast for specific travel dates.

Is Key West warmer than Miami in February?

Miami has the higher average daytime temperature, at 76.1°F compared with Key West's 73.4°F. However, Key West has a higher average low of 70°F, compared with Miami's 66.2°F. Key West also averages 5 rainy days, while Miami averages 9, making the two destinations appealing for different reasons.

Is Orlando warm enough for a February vacation?

Yes. Orlando averages a February high of 73.4°F (23°C), which can be comfortable for sightseeing and theme parks. Its average low is 54.7°F, though, so pack an extra layer for early mornings and evenings. Orlando averages 8 rainy days and 9 hours of sunshine daily, so flexible plans are useful.

Which Florida destination has the least rain in February?

Key West has the fewest average rainy days in this comparison, with 5 in February. Orlando averages 8 rainy days, and Miami averages 9. Key West also averages 10.2 hours of sunshine a day. These are long-term averages, so check the forecast before scheduling weather-dependent activities or boat excursions.

Sources

  1. National Weather Service(opens in a new tab)
  2. Visit Florida Official Tourism Website(opens in a new tab)