Ah, February—the month when most of the continental United States is bundling up in parkas while South Florida is basking in mild temperatures and sunny days. If the thought of cold weather makes you cringe and winter crowds aren’t your scene, then you’re in luck—February is a great time to escape to Key West, a popular destination that knows how to serve up a warm welcome. With average temperatures in the high 70s, fewer crowds, and some of the best Key West experiences of the year, there’s never a bad time to visit, but February might just be the best time. So grab your mobile device, book those hotel rooms, and let’s dive into all the much fun you can have in Key West this time of the year.
Key West Weather Report: Your February Forecast for Fun
Let’s talk Key West weather. February is one of the coldest months for the rest of the country, but here? It’s paradise. The average high temperature sits comfortably in the high 70s, while the water temperature stays between 70-74 degrees—perfect for all those water sports you’ve been dreaming about. And because this time of year brings the least amount of rainy days, you won’t have to worry about dodging tropical storms or dealing with the rainy season like you would in the humid months of summer.
Even better? February offers a whopping 22 sunny days, meaning you’ve got plenty of daylight hours to explore. And unlike the summer months, you won’t be sweating buckets as you walk Duval Street or visit historic sites like the Ernest Hemingway Home.
If the ocean calls to you, but you’d rather stay dry, hop on a glass-bottom boat tour to experience marine life without getting your feet wet. Prefer something more adventurous? February is a good time to snorkel, dive, or take a Key West adventure to Dry Tortugas National Park, one of the top things to do here.
Glass Bottom Boat Tour Recommendations – Click Here!
February in Key West: Beating the Crowds and Enjoying the Island Vibes
Unlike the holiday season and peak season, February gives you a shoulder season sweet spot. The high season madness of December and January is winding down, and spring breakers haven’t descended yet. That means you’ll find fewer crowds, potentially lower hotel rates, and more chances to grab a prime spot at Mallory Square for sunset celebrations.
And don’t stress about the Atlantic hurricane season—that’s months away. February is a great time to visit without worrying about sudden storms ruining your plans.
Want to experience local life? Check out the Old Island Days Art Festival, where you can find fine art, handcrafted goods, and Key West art in one of the most popular spots in town. Or, if you’re a foodie, indulge in the Key West Food & Wine Festival, where you can sip, savor, and celebrate fresh seafood and local flavors.
Grab Our FREE Key West Happy Hour Guide – Click Here!
Exploring Key West: Ditch the Car, Enjoy the Walkability
Forget renting a car at Key West International Airport—this small island is best explored on foot. Take a leisurely stroll down Duval Street, where you’ll find live music, quirky shops, and street performers entertaining crowds. Or venture to Truman Waterfront Park, a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
For history lovers, February is also a great time to visit historical sites like the Hemingway Home or take a deep dive into literature at the Key West Literary Seminar. If you’re here toward the end of the month, stop by the Key West Craft Show to pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Outdoor Activities: From Fishing to Festivals
With mild weather and higher temperatures than most of the continental United States, February is the best bet for enjoying outdoor activities in Key West and the Lower Keys. Whether you’re into deep-sea fishing, water sports, or just soaking in the views, you’re in for a treat.
- Fishing: February is prime time for catching sailfish, kingfish, and tuna.
- Sunset Sails: Take in the views and toast to another great time in paradise.
- Culinary Tours: Eat your way through Key West food hotspots, from fresh seafood to key lime pie.
- Festivals: If you’re visiting during the long President’s Day weekend, you’ll find plenty of events happening across the island, including fine art shows and wine tastings.
Missed out on Dry Tortugas National Park tickets? No worries. Key West is full of hidden gems, from snorkeling spots to secluded beaches where you can just relax.
Plan Your February Vacation: Where to Stay & What to Expect
While February isn’t the peak tourist season, it’s still a popular destination for those looking to escape the cold winter up north. That means higher prices on accommodations, especially at the best hotels. Want to score the best deal? Book early to lock in good hotel prices before demand spikes.
One last tip: Don’t wait until Fantasy Fest or Hemingway Days to visit—February is the best time to experience Key West at its most relaxed and beautiful.
Escape the Cold & Soak Up the Sun
If you’re tired of scraping ice off your windshield and layering up just to check the mail, it’s time for a Key West adventure. With high temperatures, fewer crowds, and more warm days than you can count, February is the best time to trade in cold fronts for ocean breezes.
So pack light, book early, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate February vacation in Key West. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on Duval Street, indulging in fresh produce at the local markets, or watching the sunset at Mallory Square, you’ll leave wondering why you don’t live here full-time.
Now, all that’s left is to book that flight, grab a key lime pie, and start living your best island life. See you in paradise!
Check out our list of What Not to Miss – Here
Here’s what’s happening in Key West in February:
Key West Library Speaker Series: Special Pre-Gala Talk – February 3
The February 3rd Speaker Series guest, appearing in advance of the annual Friend’s Gala Fundraiser, is Ann Cleeves in conversation with Roberta Isleib/Lucy Burdette.Cleeves is the best-selling author behind two hit TV series – the BBCs Shetland and ITVs Vera. Her latest crime novel is The Dark Wive in the Vera Stanhope series. This Speaker Series talk is the only ticketed event in the series. Gala and Talk tickets for non-members and free Talk-only tickets for everyone will be available on Jan. 1.
Studios of Key West: Will Kimbrough in Concert – February 4
William Adams Kimbrough is an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer based in Nashville, Tenn. Kimbrough’s songs have been recorded by Jimmy Buffett, Little Feat, and Jack Ingram, among others. Most recently, their co-written song “Bubbles Up” became Buffett’s first posthumous single and a viral hit. He performs in concert Feb. 4 at 7 p.m. at the Studio’s Helmerich Theater and Feb. 5 at 6 p.m. on the Hugh’s View rooftop. 533 Eaton St.
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum Lecture Series: The Amistad – February 4
Scholar, artist and activist Dinizulu Gene Tinnie will discuss the history and significance of the Cuban slaving schooner Amistad. Seized by captured Africans onboard while enroute to a Caribbean plantation, it was intercepted in August 1839 off the coast of Long Island, New York by the U.S. brig Washington. Tinnie will delve into the intricacies of this important event and its relevance to the maritime slave trade. He will also discuss his role as the co-director of an ambitious project to build a full-scale replica of a 19th century slave ship including a virtual, digital version. Doors open at 6 p.m., program at 6:30 p.m. Open seating with no reservation required. 200 Greene St.
Studios of Key West: First Thursday Open House – February 6
Studios of Key West invites all to visit during First Thursday Open House, where art, conversation and community come alive after hours. Wander through the galleries showcasing the newest exhibitions, sip drinks under the stars at the Hugh’s Rooftop terrace, and explore the creativity in the third-floor artist studios. Take in the vibrant energy, connect with fellow art lovers, and discover hidden gems at Books & Books. Mingle, marvel, or make memories!
Key West Theater: Ben Harrison – February 6
Ben Harrison is a playwright, lyricist and composer who is also an entertainer. What makes his live performances so enjoyable is that, at his core, he is a barroom guitar player/singer/songwriter who somehow manages to blend history, musical theater, Key West and humor into unusual stories that are mostly true. Key West Theater’s Backstage Listening Room. Doors at 6 p.m.; show at 7 p.m. 512 Eaton Street.
Key West Theater: Massacoustics – 25 Years of Key West – February 6
The Massacoustics formed in 2000 with brothers Andrew Thompson on guitar and vocals and Matthew Thompson on drums, bass and vocals). They’ve performed their own brand of writer rock all over the world, but have a long history in Key West.
Coffee Butler Amphitheater: The Gipsy Kings Featuring Nicholas Reyes – February 8
Nicolas Reyes has been the leader and co-founder of the Gipsy Kings for well over 30 years. In the past three decades, the group has dominated the World Music charts and sold more than 14 million albums worldwide. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; show at 8 p.m. 21 E. Quay Rd.
Conch Republic Polar Plunge – February 9
All brave souls are welcome for the 15th Annual Southernmost Conch Republic Polar Plunge, a cherished tradition benefiting the programs of Samuel’s House supporting the homeless in Key West. Take the plunge into the cool Atlantic Ocean waters at Higg’s Beach in front of Salute Restaurant, 1100 Atlantic Boulevard at 12 p.m. (noon) on Super Bowl Sunday. Your $50 registration includes an event T-shirt, a cool symbol of your support.
Impromptu Classical Concerts: Dover Quartet – February 9
Named one of the greatest string quartets of the last 100 years by BBC Music Magazine, the two-time Grammy nominated Dover Quartet is one of the world’s most in-demand chamber ensembles. The quartet is the Ensemble in Residence at the Curtis Institute of Music and holds additional residencies at Northwestern University and the Walton Arts Center’s Artosphere festival. 4 p.m. at St. Paul’s, 401 Duval St.
Sheriff’s Animal Farm Open House – February 9
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. Animals include a capybara, possum, sloths, goats, birds and many more. Visits are free of charge, but donations of cash or fresh produce are always welcomed. Stock Island Detention Center, 5501 College Rd.
Galentine’s Luncheon – February 10
Grab your best gal pal, wear your finest pink outfits and gather at Key West Yacht Club, 2315 N. Roosevelt Blvd., for a “Galentine’s Day” Luncheon. Enjoy music, signature cocktails, lunch, a dessert buffet and a fabulous auction, all to benefit the programs of Wesley House Family Services.
Key West Library Speaker Series: Mondays at 6 p.m. – February 10- 24, 2025
Authors in the Key West Library Speakers series appear on Mondays through March. February’s featured speakers are: February 10: Ellen T. White and Leslie Tinsley. White is author of Key West: Paradise Found and Tinsley is author of more than 70 titles on American crafts and Key West Cottages and Gardens. February 17: Cheryl Lu-Lien Tan, author of Sarong Party Girls and A Tiger in the Kitchen. February 24: Michael Ruhlman, author of cookbooks and non-fiction narratives; and Ann Hood, author of memoir and fiction titles. Free to attend, no registration required. Talks take place in the library’s Palm Garden, 700 Fleming St. at 6 p.m.
Studios of Key West: Boston Globe Spotlight Journalist Mike Rezendes– February 10
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Mike Rezendes was one of the Boston Globe‘s “Spotlight” team which exposed the Roman Catholic clergy sexual abuse scandal. Now a member of the Global Investigative Team at the Associated Press, he comes to Key West to talk to Stephen Kitsakos, Artistic Advisor, about his work as an investigative journalist, screenwriter and Jimmy Breslin’s biographer. 6 p.m. in Helmerich Theater, 533 Eaton Street.
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum: Santa Clara Insider Tour – February 11
An informal tour of the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum’s recently installed exhibition, ‘Uncovering the Santa Clara,’ led by Corey Malcom, Ph.D. The tour will provide a behind-the-scenes look at the museum’s conservation lab, wet storage and visible permanent collection storage, all spotlighting artifacts from Santa Clara. The program is sold out, please sign up for the waitlist. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. 200 Greene St.
Studios of Key West: Full Moon Love Stories with Libby York– February 12
Celebrated vocalist Libby York and her accomplished accompanists, perform classic love songs under a rising full moon on the Hugh’s View rooftop. Whether you’re burning with love, lust, or romantic dismay, York will lift your heart as you watch the Snow Moon rise over the best view in town. 6 p.m., 533 Eaton St.
Presidential Families Weekend – February 13 – 17, 2025
A series of special events takes place over Presidents’ Day Weekend at the Harry S. Truman Little White House beginning on Thursday, Feb. 13 with a “Happy Hour at Harry’s.” On Sat. Feb. 15, there is a discussion panel with presidential descendants. Presentations of the one-man play “Give ‘Em Hell, Harry!” take place Sunday and Monday. There will also be a traditional President’s Day cookout on Monday, Feb. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with picnic-style food available for purchase. Find more event information and ticket sales online. 111 Front Street, Key West.
Key West Outdoor Movies: Valentine’s Date Night – February 14
Key West Outdoor Movies presents a romantic film (to be named) at the parade grounds at Fort East Martello, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd. The grounds open at 5 p.m. with free admission. Food and drink will be available for sale by vendors onsite, and there will be free popcorn and activities for all. Bring low chairs or a blanket. The movie starts at dusk.
South Florida Symphony: Don Juan with Berlioz and Johan Strauss – February 14
Celebrate love in all its dramatic, erotic, poetic, scandalous, and insatiable forms with R. Strauss’ swashbuckling escapade Don Juan and his touching Four Last Songs (featuring soprano Amy Shoremount-Obra). Plus, Berlioz’ tumultuous King Lear Overture and the world’s most famous waltz – J. Strauss II’s gorgeous The Blue Danube.
Old Island Restoration Foundation: February Home Tours – February 14 – 15, 2025
Key West is home to what is considered the largest predominantly wooden historic district in the United States. One weekend a month in February and March, five distinctive homes and their gardens open, revealing a range of architectural gems, eclectic art, transformed cigar-makers cottages, shipbuilders’ craft, re-imagined Victorian mansions, and the stories behind the facades. Home tour tickets provide entry to 5 homes at your self-guided pace during the Friday-Saturday tour dates. All tickets for sale online. Your receipt will be your ticket to enter the home. If you prefer to have a physical ticket, you can pick one up at the Oldest House Museum gift shop, 322 Duval St., the week before the tour date.
Florida Keys Seafood Festival – February 15 – 16, 2025
The 19th annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival takes place Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Truman Waterfront Park, located at the end of Southard Street. Everything Florida Keys seafood is on the menu, including fish baskets and platters, grilled spiny lobster, peel and eat Key West pink shrimp, smoked fish dip, Bahamian conch chowder and more. Attendees can enjoy adult beverages, live music, great shopping and art and a children’s eco discovery zone.
Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden: Rum Infused Scavenger Hunt – February 15
This second annual Rum Infused Adult Scavenger Hunt is a fun way to enjoy the beauty and natural wildlife of the garden. Teams can be created for the scavenger hunt with points given for the most items identified within one hour. A silent auction and raffle is to raise funds for the capital campaign for construction of a new educational facility at the garden. Don’t forget your pirate and mermaid costumes for the costume competition, and yes there will be rum tastings and libations all evening! Music by John Bartus. 5 to 9 p.m. 5210 College Rd.
Tropic Cinema: Movies Under the Stars – The Princess Diaries – February 15
Don’t miss the monthly free Movies Under the Stars screening – this month, the movie is The Princess Diaries. The film will be presented free for all, outdoors on Eaton Street. Bring chairs or blankets for seating. Concessions are to be available in the theater lobby. The film begins a half hour after sunset. 416 Eaton St.
The Turtle Hospital: Sea Turtle Release in Key West – February 15
The public is invited to watch a sea turtle release Saturday from Higg’s Beach behind Salute’ restaurant, 1000 Atlantic Blvd. Help cheer for “Luna Diana”, a gorgeous 270 pound loggerhead sea turtle returning to her ocean home. The turtle was rescued last month when she was found with a boat strike injury, struggling at the surface off Key West. Treatment at The Turtle Hospital included wound care, antibiotics, fluids, and vitamins. Luna Diana is strong and healthy and ready to return to sea! The Turtle Hospital ambulance will arrive at Higg’s beach with the marine turtle at 11:10 a.m. with release at 11:30 a.m
6th Annual Pup Crawl– February 15
Don’t miss this tail-wagging good time for people and their furry friends, all to support the Florida Keys SPCA. Make your way from bar to bar and engage in fun activities at each location, gathering pet toys and treats along the way. There are to be contests with prizes, a mini pool party for pets, whipped cream treats for dogs, and drinks for humans. Register in advance online, or at Hank’s Hair of the Dog Saloon or Tattoos & Scars from 12:30 to 1 p.m. on Feb. 15. Then stroll to all participating bars in any order from 1 to 5 p.m. — Hanks, General Horseplay, Island Dogs Bar, Retro Room, Tattoo’s & Scars and Shots & Giggles. Get the full schedule of events with registration.
Key West Theater: Debbie Gibson – February 16
Legendary singer, songwriter and theatrical performer Debbie Gibson is a celebration of passion, innovation, and community. Embrace the opportunity to explore the world of music with her. Doors open at 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m. 512 Eaton St.
Coffee Butler Amphitheater: Willie Nelson & Family – February 17
With a seven-decade career, Willie Nelson has earned every conceivable award as a musician and amassed reputable credentials as an author, actor, and activist. He continues to thrive as a relevant and progressive musical and cultural force. The iconic entertainer returns for a show Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. with family members and featured artist Randall King at Coffee Butler Amphitheater, 21. E. Quay Rd.
Key West Theater: Garrison Keillor Tonight – February 18
Garrison Keillor Tonight is an evening of stand-up, storytelling, audience song, and poetry. One man, one microphone. There are sung sonnets, limericks and musical jokes, and the thread that runs through it is the beauty of growing old.
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum Lecture Series: Treasure Coins with Carol Tedesco – February 18
Carol Tedesco, author of “Treasure Coins of the Nuestra Señora de Atocha & the Santa Margarita” and other shipwreck-related books and archaeological “mystery” articles, is to speak on silver coins and other intriguing artifacts. She will discuss the similarities and differences in Spanish Colonial shipwreck cargoes based on year, geography and twists of fate. Open seating. No reservations required. Doors open at 6 p.m., program at 6:30 p.m. 200 Greene St.
Key West Theater: A Totally Rad Island Affair – February 21
Rock out to music from the 1980s with The Durtbags from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and DJ Chaka from 8 to 10 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Enjoy games, dancing, and bid on awesome silent auction items. Proceeds go toward funding field trips, recreation areas and teacher appreciation programs at Sigsbee Charter School. 512 Eaton St.
Studios of Key West: Anne McKee Fine Art Auction – February 21
The Studios hosts the annual Anne McKee Auction now celebrating its 31st year. The Anne McKee Artists Fund supports an array of visual, literary & performance artists whose creative contribution adds to the quality of life throughout the Florida Keys. Proceeds fund grants exclusively benefiting Keys artists.
Key West Art & Historical Society: Let’s Disco, a Night of Glitter, Glam & Groove! – February 21
This fundraiser for the Key West Art & Historical Society is the ultimate night to dance, sip and feast in true 70s style! Get ready for a vibrant and high-energy event where the beats are hot, the drinks are flowing at our open bar, and the food is just as fabulous as the fashion. It’s a throwback celebration packed with nonstop fun and retro glamour as well as a fantastic silent auction. 6 to 9 p.m. at Fort East Martello Museum, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd.
Key West Garden Club: Garden Tours – February 21 – 22, 2025
Take a peek behind five gardens gates of private Key West homes. The Key West Garden Club hosts annual tours of select, beautiful and diverse gardens. Find tickets in advance at keywestgardenclub.com or purchase at any one of this year’s garden venues.
Connections Project: A Mosaic of the Keys Pop-Up at Key West Art & Craft Festival – February 22 – 23, 2025
The Florida Keys Council of the Arts Connections Project spotlights visual and performing artists throughout Monroe County at a series of pop-up events. View this year’s mosaic of almost 100 unique canvases created by Keys artists along with performances by talented musicians from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Key West Art & Crafts Festival at Truman Waterfront Park at the end of Southard St.
Key West Art & Craft Festival – February 22 – 23, 2025
The Key West Craft Show and Old Island Days Art Festival are now combined to create the Key West Art & Craft Festival. The event includes artist demonstrations, a patron comfort station with valet package check, upscale food trucks, plenty of seating, and fun events and activities for children. The location for the combined show is along the Quay at Truman Waterfront Park, 100 Southard Street.
Impromptu Classical Concerts: Avery Gagliano – February 23
Avery Gagliano, pianist, is Impromptu’s 2025 “Rising Star”. Having made her debut at Carnegie Hall at the age of just 20, 22-year-old, Gagliano is an artist with ‘distinctive young talent’. Avery came to international acclaim as the First Prize and Best Concerto Prize winner at the 2020 National Chopin Piano Competition, and as the only American semifinalist at the 18th International Chopin Competition in 2021. 4 p.m., St. Paul’s, 401 Duval St.
Sheriff’s Animal Farm Open House – February 23
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. Animals include a capybara, possum, sloths, goats, birds and many more. Visits are free of charge, but donations of cash or fresh produce are always welcomed. Stock Island Detention Center, 5501 College Rd.
Schooner Wharf Bar: Wrecker’s Cup Race – February 23
Set your sails for the 40th annual Wrecker’s Cup Race series. Sailing vessels of all sizes are welcome to join the regatta. A captain’s meeting is to be held Sat. night, Feb. 22, with the race beginning Sunday, Feb. 23 at 1 p.m. An awards ceremony is to follow Sunday evening at 7 p.m. Spectators can view the action on a big screen at the bar, located at 202 William St.
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum Lecture Series: Stories from the Golden Crew– February 25
Enjoy a panel discussion with members of Mel Fisher’s Golden Crew moderated by Carol Shaughnessy. Panelists include Tom Ford, Syd Jones, Andy Matroci and Vince Trotta. Shaughnessy will initiate and guide a lively exchange of memories as experienced by some of the key figures who worked the famed Atocha’s “main pile,” recovering priceless historic artifacts from the wreck site. Open seating. No reservation required. Doors open at 6 p.m., program at 6:30 p.m. 200 Green St.
Key West Theater: Ben Harrison– February 26
Ben Harrison is a playwright, lyricist and composer who is also an entertainer. What makes his live performances so enjoyable is that, at his core, he is a barroom guitar player/singer/songwriter who somehow manages to blend history, musical theater, Key West and humor into unusual stories that are mostly true. Key West Theater’s Backstage Listening Room. Doors at 6 p.m.; show at 7 p.m. 512 Eaton Street.
Coffee Butler Amphitheater: Beach Boys– February 28
See the band whose songs forever changed the musical landscape, The Beach Boys, on the Endless Summer Gold Tour at Key West’s Coffee Butler Amphitheater at Truman Waterfront Park, 21 Quay Rd. Doors open at 6 p.m.; show at 7:30 p.m .
Studios of Key West: Come Rain or Come Shine: The Story of Judy Garland’s Comeback, with Darcy Cooke – February 28
Through a meticulously curated selection of songs, Cooke pays tribute to Judy Garland, a perennial inspiration who embodies determination and unsurpassed talent. In 1961, Judy Garland made the comeback of a lifetime! Just one year earlier, she was near death and being told she would never perform again. But on April 23, 1961, Judy delivered the “greatest night in showbiz history”. Experience Judy’s thrilling musical journey with vocalist Darcy Cooke. Relive the magic and inspiration of Judy Garland through this one remarkable year that earned Judy her title as “the world’s greatest entertainer”. 7 p.m. at 533 Eaton Street at The Studios of Key West.
