I get it, Key West in August may sound … well… really hot. Truthfully, it can be quite hot, but I think summer is the best time to visit Key West. This island city gets a bad rap in the summer. Unlike other beach locations, Key West slows down. I find it relaxing. The summer season heat forces you to slow down and enjoy all that Key West offers.

So, when is the best time of the year to visit Key West? Well, that really depends on if you prefer it hot or do you prefer it cooler? Don’t mind rain? Or want no chance of rain? During the summer months, there are usually smaller crowds, and hotel rates are adjusted to “off-season” pricing. But, if you prefer lower humidity, then stick to the winter months (think January, February, and March) but.. this is peak season and prices will be adjusted.

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But, all of that said about the heat, a great time can be had … even in the hot days of summer.

Places to Explore

Of course, Duval Street comes to everyone’s mind first. Some of the best things about Duval are the air-conditioned bars and the live music. During the daytime, it can be a bit quiet, but at night… it’s quite a lively street (isn’t that the best way to think about the action on Duval?)

Don’t mind the heat? Or, want to enjoy live music in an outdoor setting? Stop by Smokin’ Tuna. Their outdoor space offers a hidden spot to enjoy a cold beverage and listen to amazing music. Want something a bit more quiet? Then head down Duval to Vinos and enjoy a glass of wine on their front porch.

Or, head over to Mallory Square and enjoy the world-famous sunset celebration Grab a beverage and enjoy what I think is the carnival atmosphere oceanside. Don’t forget to wander over to the Historic Seaport. Many cool shops and restaurants to explore.

Some of my other favorite locations to explore are:

• 3 Reasons Why Smathers Beach is the Best
• Some of our favorite Happy Hour locations
• Fort Zach – Why you don’t want to miss this place!
• Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
• The Custom House and other museums in Key West (hint… most are air-conditioned)

Cool Off on the Water

Don’t feel like walking around in the heat? Need to explore the waters around Key West? The water temperatures in August average 87 degrees Fahrenheit. Snorkeling around the coral reef or simply enjoying a gorgeous sunset is an amazing way to spend an August day.

Want to stay on land? Then check out the pool parties at Dante’s … they are legendary!

Water Activities you don’t want to miss

Key West Weather – What to Expect

Key West in August, as I have mentioned before, can be hot, humid, and well… to some, uncomfortable. But, it’s all up to you and how you want to experience Key West. The average temperature sits around the low 90’s. Keep in mind, that is without humidity. So the feel’s like temperature can be pushing over 100 degrees once the relative humidity kicks in. Coolest month? January with an average temperature of 77 degrees. Still doesn’t sound too bad, especially if you are sitting inside watching it snow outside.

Looking for sunny days to ignite the tropical heat? Keep in mind August, usually only averages 4 sunny days per month, but you can count on about 22 partly cloudy days. December has the highest number of sunny days averaging 13 for the month.

Rainy Days… don’t let them get you down

As the song goes, “Rainy Days and Mondays….”, but in Key West, don’t let either of them get you down. There is a lot to do on this island even if it rains. In August, the average rainfall is around 3.3 inches with about 20 or so rainy days. But, it doesn’t usually rain all day so plan for adventure and fun.

Tropical storms and hurricanes are something I must mention. Always keep an eye on the weather forecast before arriving and, probably during your stay. August is smack dab in the middle of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June through November. So be prepared and plan accordingly. If possible, allow for flexibility in your trip.

There are a lot of indoor activities you can do… other than day drinking. You can check out the museums, not only are they great places to escape the heat, but they are great places to escape the rain.

Or, go check out a movie at the Tropic Cinema. One of my most favorite movie theaters around. Or head over to Kermit’s for a yummy slice of Key Lime pie.

Driest month? That would be December with less than a 1/2 inch of rain on average. Wettest month? September with over 3.5 inches of rain.

Events

The Turtle Hospital: Tour de Turtles – August 2

Roseleigh, a juvenile green sea turtle that was brought to the Turtle Hospital last spring after being found entangled in fishing line and with a heavy load of fibropapilloma tumors, will be released Friday at 9:30 a.m. at Sombrero Beach. She will be fitted with a small satellite transmitter as part of the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s annual Tour de Turtles program. The public will be able to track Roseleigh’s journey online at TourDeTurtles.org.

Murray Nelson Government & Cultural Center: Comedy for a Cause – August 2

Hosted by Gwen Filosa, this event promises a night of entertainment starting with cocktails and fundraising followed by a hilarious comedy show. Starting at 6:30 p.m., take part in raffles with proceeds to support two amazing causes, Florida Keys Wild Bird Center and Pawsitive Beginnings. Both Upper Keys non-profits work tirelessly to give animals a second chance at life. The comedy show begins at 8 p.m. The show is rated R and is restricted to 21+ only. Mile marker 102 bayside.

Miami Boat Rally – August 2 – 4, 2024

Designed as a recreational, nautical and sporting activity for the whole family, up to 100 boats of various sizes and models are expected to meet up and safely navigate roundtrip from/to Miami, through staged stops in Key Largo and Islamorada, then on to Marathon for more on-the-water fun and events shoreside at Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club. Each boat earns points for timing and activity participation based on the rally schedule. An awards ceremony with prizes and raffle drawings is to cap off the fun.

JAG GALLERY: “POOLSIDE” EXHIBIT OPENING RECEPTION – August 3

Jag Gallery, 1075 Duval St., hosts a free opening reception from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. for the new exhibit, “Poolside 2024.” The popular annual juried exhibit returns for its 4th year, and will remain on display through September 1st.

Marathon Community Park: Family Color Run – August 3

The 2nd annual Family Color Run takes off at 9 a.m. at Marathon Community Park. All ages are welcome to run or walk in this 5k event, where participants are showered with brightly colored powder. Register online in advance by Aug. 1. The park is located at 200 36th St Ocean.

Marathon Community Theater: A Murder Mystery Event – August 3

Don’t miss this new Murder Mystery Event, the interactive comedy “Grilled to Death!” Be sure to arrive at 6 p.m. for complimentary pre-show BBQ-style heavy appetizers including smoked pork sliders, corn on the cob, veggie platters, desserts and more. Before the show starts, attendees will team up in groups of 8 to search out clues from the characters during the performance. Great prizes will be awarded to the team with the most correct answers at the end of the night.

National Night Out – August 6

National Night Out is a national police and community free event where attendees can meet local first responders, military and law enforcement representatives at four locations throughout the Keys. View vehicles, boats and other equipment used in law enforcement, rescue and more at informational booths staffed by multiple agencies. Children are welcome. There will be music and fun activities. All four celebrations take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., with locations at Key Largo Community Park, Founders Park in Islamorada, Sheriff’s Office Aviation Hangar at Marathon International Airport and at Bayview Park in Key West.

KEY WEST TROPICAL HEAT – August 7 – 11, 2024

Enjoy five days of sizzling happenings in the island city whose openness and respect for diversity have made it a world-renowned gay vacation destination. The festival’s events range from all-male theme parties, pool parties and entertainment showcases at the island’s LGBTQ venues. Attendees can also enjoy activities ranging from eco-tours to museum explorations.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Thursday Fish ID Class with REEF – until August 8

Reef Environmental Education Foundation hosts a fish identification class in the John Pennekamp State Park Visitor Center and Aquarium on Thursdays at 11 a.m. During this weekly program, you’ll learn how to identify common fish species of the Florida Keys and learn how to become involved in citizen science projects. The program is free with paid park admission.

KEY WEST LOBSTERFEST LOBSTER BOIL – August 8

Join the Key West LobsterFest’s annual Lobster Boil at the Porter Mansion from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The traditional opening meal event for LobsterFest includes fresh lobster, jumbo Key West shrimp, red skin potatoes, corn-on-the-cob and fresh baked jalapeño corn bread. Enjoy dinner in the beautiful outdoor garden, full bar and music. 429 Caroline Street.

27TH ANNUAL KEY WEST LOBSTERFEST – August 8 -11, 2024

Seafood lovers can chow down on Florida’s clawless lobster during this tasty “feast-ival” annual event with a savory schedule of events ranging from a traditional lobster boil to open the festival Thursday night at the Porter Mansion, to special dinners, a pub crawl, pool parties and a lively street fair. The flavorful festivities celebrate the bounty of the Florida Keys lobster season that opened Aug. 6. The free street fair takes place Saturday, Aug. 10th on Duval Street from noon until 11 p.m. with live music and over 80 vendors selling fresh Florida lobster plus other many other food and drink options.

TRUMAN LITTLE WHITE HOUSE: PAINT & SIP. August 10

Take inspiration from the tropical landscaping and grounds during the TRU-ly Amazing Art Paint & Sip event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Relax and enjoy sipping wine while creating artwork painted on an authentic 1911 roof shingle from the Truman Little White House as a canvas. The experience is led by Key West painter Fran Decker. 201 Front St.

SOUTHERNMOST BEACH RESORT: CIRCUS OF THE SEA – August 10

The Southernmost Beach Resort presents Circus of the Sea — a talented family of acrobats performing a one-hour, pirate-themed acrobatic and aerial show. Enjoy aerial stunts, trampolines, funny skits, drinks, snacks, face-painting and more. Tickets include access at 6 p.m. to the resort’s Pineapple Pool for a pre-show pool party at 6 p.m. Show at 7:30 p.m. 1319 Duval St.

Florida Keys History & Discovery Center: Summer Palette Art Show – until August 11

Get swept away by a wave of vibrant hues and playful compositions that capture the essence of summer at this art show collaboration featuring the works of vibrant local artists from the Jessica Ann Art Gallery. The center is located on the Islander Resort property, mile marker 82 oceanside.

SHERIFF’S ANIMAL FARM OPEN HOUSE – August 11 and August 25

Visit the family-friendly Monroe County Sheriff’s Animal Farm, open the second and fourth Sundays of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. Visits are free of charge, but donations are always welcomed. Stock Island Detention Center, 5501 College Rd.

COFFEE BUTLER AMPHITHEATER: STICK FIGURE – August 12

Stick Figure, featuring the distinctive vocals of Scott Woodruff, headlines a show at Coffee Butler Amphitheater that also includes SOJA and Little Stranger. Show starts at 7 p.m. 21 Quay Rd.

KEY WEST THEATER: AUGUST AND 30 YEARS AFTER – A COUNTING CROWS TRIBUTE – August 12

2023 marked the 30th anniversary of the debut smash record “August and Everything After” from Counting Crows. Celebrate the milestone with the Tim Williams Band as they perform the album front-to-back, complete with an opening set of 1993 pop-rock hits. Shows start at 8 p.m. 512 Eaton St.

HALF SHELL RAW BAR: “BAD MONKEY” TV WATCH PARTY – August 14

Watch the premiere of the first two episodes of Bad Monkey, the new Apple TV+ series based on Carl Hiaasen’s best-selling novel. The screening starts at 8 p.m. 231 Margaret St.

RUM FEST KEY WEST – August 14 – 18, 2024

Key West is famous for tropical heat, mouth watering seafood and some of the best rum you can get your hands on, among many other things. Rum Fest Key West showcases the best rum from around the world. Experiences include sunset sails, sandbar trips, rum strolls, food and cigar events featuring rum, a rum cake competition, master class rum seminars, a rum grand tasting and more.

KEY WEST THEATER: PETER, BRENDAN & JIM MAYER – August 15

Peter Mayer, his son Brendan Mayer and brother Jim Mayer perform together as a trio. Peter and Jim are long-time members of Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band, and Brendan has emerged as a strong songwriter and performer in his own right. Doors open at 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m. 512 Eaton St.

Hawks Cay Resort: Fins in Paradise – August 15 – 18, 2024

Hawks Cay Resort celebrates Key West’s favorite son, Jimmy Buffett, with a weekend packed with fun including live Trop Rock music, pool parties, tropical food and beverage treats and an array of fun activities to celebrate Buffett and the island lifestyle. Events include a Jimmy Buffett Look-Alike contest, a Buffett trivia contest, tailgate costume contest and specials on cheeseburgers and margaritas. Live bands include the Landsharks Band; Peter, Jim and Brendan Mayer; and Jimmy Stowe & the Stowaways. The resort is offering special 3-night and 2-night hotel and villa packages complete with festival passes. A limited number of general admission daily resort passes will be available. The resort is located at MM 61 oceanside on Duck Key.

Morada Way Third Thursday Art Walk – August 15

The Morada Way Arts & Cultural District’s Third Thursday Art Walk in Islamorada is the organization’s landmark, monthly event. On the Third Thursday of each month, Keys-inspired fine artists, vendors, residents, and visitors congregate on Morada Way in Islamorada to celebrate the arts and culture in the Florida Keys. Enjoy a relaxing evening from 6-9 p.m. perusing local fine art, imbibing local craft beer and wine and listening to music, in the area between mile markers 81 and 82.

KEY WEST THEATER: JESSE RICE – August 16

Key West Rum Fest presents singer-songwriter Jesse Rice, known for songs including “Cruise,” “Where the Map Turns Blue” and more, appearing in concert at Key West Theater. Doors open at 7 p.m. Show starts at 8. 512 Eaton St.

Plant a Million Corals: Uncorking Hope – August 17

Celebrate coral restoration and the work of Plant a Million Corals at Uncorking Hope: Summer Sips for Coral Restoration from 2:30 to 4:30 at My New Joint in Cudjoe Key at 22658 Overseas Hwy oceanside. Sip on selected wines and cocktails while enjoying crafted paired bites, live music and a silent auction. Find out about strides being made in coral conservation.

History of Diving Museum: Summer Guided Tours – August 17

In honor of Bathysphere Day, guided tours are offered at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Find out the interesting stories behind all of the exhibits. The tours are included with the price of admission. The museum is located at mile marker 82.9 bayside.

City Bikes Key Largo Triathlon – August 18

City Bikes Key Largo Triathlon at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park takes place on August 18. It will feature an Olympic and Sprint distance Triathlon, Duathlon, and an Olympic distance Aquabike. Swim in the calm waters just off John Pennekamp State Park’s beach, bike on US1 & Card Sound Road, and run through the state park and nearby neighborhoods.

History of Diving Museum: Immerse Yourself – Shark Research – August 21

Dr. Mikki McComb-Kobza, Ocean First Institute Shark Researcher, is to discuss her research on great white sharks and why sharks are an iconic and misunderstood species with a long evolutionary history. Program begins at 7 p.m. Register in advance for either the free in-person presentation or on Zoom. Mile marker 82.9 bayside.

Key West Brewfest – August 29 – September 2, 2024

At the end of the month, fans of beers and ales can sample about 150 of them while also discovering the flavors of the continental United States’ southernmost island. Activities ‘on tap’ include brew-focused dinners, pool parties and brunches, and the lavish BrewFest Signature Tasting Festival held Saturday, Aug. 31 on Key West’s South Beach at 1319 Duval St. VIP tickets ($100 per person) and general admission tickets ($45 per person) for the popular tasting festival are available online.

Just a Few Friends – Key West Favorite Son Celebration – August 30 – September 2, 2024

Join the citizens of Key West and fans from around the world to celebrate the life and music of Jimmy Buffett throughout Labor Day Weekend. Events planned so far include a cheeseburger contest and welcome party; a bubbles brunch; walking tours; a 5k run/walk; a margarita bar crawl and scavenger hunt; and on Sunday, the Second Line Memorial Walking Parade and free outdoor celebration and concert at Truman Waterfront Park. Will Kimbrough, co-writer of “Bubbles Up,” will be one of the performers, along with some of Key West’s best singer-songwriters. On Monday, plans include a sunset cruise and a Farewell but not Forgotten party. All proceeds from $30 commemorative parade passes go to support Bahamas Village Music Program and Reef Relief.

Cheeseburger Beach Battle in Paradise & Concert – August 30

The “Just A Few Friends Key West Favorite Son Celebration” and Southernmost Beach Resort present national touring tribute band, “Buffett’s Margaritaville – Legendary Tribute to Jimmy Buffett.” The band performs live on the beach while you try some of the best cheeseburgers Key West has to offer. Vote for your favorite to crown the best burger in paradise. Tickets are $20 for entry and an extra $10 if you want to sample the burgers and vote. Bring a low chair if you’d like, and don’t forget your flip flops! Doors open at 4 p.m.; burger contest starts at 5 p.m.; concert starts at 6 p.m. 1319 Duval St.

COFFEE BUTLER AMPHITHEATER: AARON LEWIS WITH MIKEY WAYNE – August 31

Aaron Lewis, the multi-platinum founder of rock group Staind, continues pursuing his country roots, bringing his own brand of outlier country to Key West. This rescheduled show was originally planned for March 9. All previously-purchased tickets will be honored and new tickets are on sale.

PARROTS AND MARGARITAS 5K RUN/WALK & FLIP FLOP MILE – August 31

Run, walk or stroll and be a part of the “Just a Few Friends Key West Favorite Son Celebration” in memory of Jimmy Buffett. Runners and walkers begin and end the 5k at Irish Kevins, 211 Duval St., followed by participants in the Flip Flop mile. The races start at 8 a.m. There will be free post race party food for participants including cheeseburger sliders and tater tots. Race proceeds support Reef Relief.

The Nest at Green Turtle Inn: Comedy Show – August 31

Get ready for a night of non-stop laughter at the Nest BBQ and Sports Bar at Green Turtle Inn on August 31. This month’s Comedy Night features the hilarious headliner, Dean Napolitano, arguably the best touring comic in Florida today, and featured comedian Marvin Izquierdo. Two showtimes at 6 and 8:30 p.m., with seatings a 5 and 7:30 for dinner and drinks.

Key West Art & Historical Society: Beaches, Creatures & Cowboys – Florida Movie Posters Exhibit – until September 1

Forty classic Florida film posters are on display at the Customs House Museum, 281 Front St., Friday in the “Beaches, Creatures & Cowboys: Florida Movie Posters” exhibition celebrating filmmaking in Florida. The classic posters that form part of the display include artwork for “Beneath the 12 Mile Reef,” “Cocoon,” “Flipper,” “Operation Petticoat and more” The exhibit runs through September 1, 2024.

Key West Art & Historical Society: Flora & Fauna – Early Naturalists in Florida – until September 13

Enjoy the “Flora & Fauna: Early Naturalists in Florida” exhibit through September 13 at Key West Museum of Art & History’s Custom House, Museum, 281 Front Street. The exhibit includes short biographies of the principal naturalists working in the Florida Territory in the early nineteenth century alongside representations of their Florida-inspired works. Their observation of plants and animals was an art as well as a science.

History of Diving Museum: Salvaging the Deep – until December 31, 2024

Learn about some of the world’s deepest wrecks and how salvage divers got there in the museum’s featured exhibit, on display through Dec. 31. Mile marker 82.9.

Overall, August in Key West can be a lot of fun but is also a month filled with hot days. That said, any month in Key West is fun. It all really depends on what you want to do and when your calendar allows you to visit. My favorite time to visit Key West? Anytime! A good time can be found in the hottest month and even the coolest month.