April is so much fun. Spring is in the air, we’ve sprung ahead, and the heat of the summer Florida sun hasn’t set in yet. As with any month, there is so much to do in Key West and April is no exception. But, the first question we always get is… what’s Key West weather in April? How do I pack? Will I get rained out? Let’s jump right in.
April is off peak season. The snowbirds have headed North and the island is a bit quieter. The high season usually runs from December through March and you’ll see a lot more visitors on the island. But, still, if that’s the time that works best for you to visit, come on down. Depending on timing, you may encounter the Spring Break crowd, but not every April.
Key West Weather Forecast
Average Temperatures
The average temperature range for April is 65 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The average high temperature is 82 degrees and the lows at night rarely dip below 60 degrees. The fun part about this time of year, the days are starting to get longer. There’s pleasant weather and very few cold fronts to contend with during April.
In contrast, the hottest month is August with average high temperatures of around 89 degrees. The coldest month is January with average temperatures topping out around 74 degrees. In the summer months, the humidity can top 100% .. yep sticky and hot. But April offers a nice range of 60 to 70% humidity. This, of course, is the comfort level as measured by the dew point. But, understanding the heat of Florida, the month of April is not a humid month.
Water Temperatures
What about the water? Get ready to dive into some truly delightful water temperatures! The average sea temperature is a cozy 77.7°F (25.4°C), which means it’s basically begging you to take a dip. And don’t worry about it being too chilly—temperatures can reach a max of a toasty 79.6°F (27.3°C) and a minimum of 75.8°F (23.5°C). Some folks even say the sea temperature is around a perfect 78°F, maybe even warmer, making it prime time for snorkeling, swimming, or just floating around like a relaxed starfish.
Daylight
Daylight hours start off at 12 hours and 20ish minutes and end with over 13 hours of daylight. This means you have a lot of time to explore Key West without feeling rushed to the sunset celebration. If heading out onto the water is one of those activities, you will find the water temperature to be in a comfortable range of 76 to 78 degrees. We all know the longest day is June 21… but even if you are visiting during the shorter winter months, you will find lots of stuff to do.
Rain and Clouds
What about rainy days? The average inches of rain for April is around 2. Rarely more than 3 inches. Overall, you can expect maybe 3 days of rain for the month. It’s a great time to enjoy Key West before the tropical storms of the summer appear and the Atlantic Hurricane season starts.
Now, let’s talk about the skies in April—because, honestly, what’s a tropical paradise without a perfect backdrop? You’ll be thrilled to know that the statistical data shows, April gives you an 82% chance of clear skies, which means blue heavens are practically your birthright this month. Just think of it: 82% of the time, it’s you, the sun, and endless azure.
As for the remaining 18%? Well, that’s just the sky giving you a little break to reapply your sunscreen or grab another piña colada. Trust me, when the clouds decide to make their brief cameo, you’ll appreciate the brief shade—not to mention it’s the perfect time for a quick nap under your beach umbrella! Plus, that slight cloud cover can create the most mesmerizing sunsets you’ll ever see. So, pack your sunnies and get ready to bask in mostly cloudless glory, with just enough cloud cover to keep things interesting.
What months offer the most and least amount of clouds? June is the cloudiest month and March is the least. Why is this important? If you are wanting clouds to show off the amazing sunset colors, or want no clouds to interfere with your water views.. those are the months to plan to visit Key West and the Florida Keys.
Sunny days? Well, on average Key West sees 104 sunny days a year and 155 partly sunny days. So, it’s always a good time to visit. My advice? Always check the weather forecast, but know rainy days usually don’t last all day and of course, there is always something to do in Key West.
Interesting weather facts
- Windiest Month – November – average speed 14 mph
- Least windest month – July – average speed 9 mph
- Driest Month – February with an average rainfall of 1.5 inches
- Wettest Month – September with over 5 inches of rain
Dry Tortugas National Park
Now, while you’re soaking up the sun in Key West, why not make a splash by visiting the Dry Tortugas National Park? Picture this: a stunning cluster of seven small islands, home to historical Fort Jefferson and surrounded by the most crystal-clear waters you’ve ever seen. April is the perfect time to visit, with the weather playing nice and the crowds still relatively low.
Imagine yourself exploring the underwater wonders while snorkeling, or perhaps channeling your inner Robinson Crusoe on a secluded beach. Don’t forget to wave to the friendly sea turtles—they’re basically the park’s unofficial mascots!
A quick travel tip… if flying into Key West International Airport, skip the car rental line. Head to your hotel and don’t worry about a car. Key West is so walkable, and parking a car is way too expensive. If you want to explore the beautiful places up the keys – check out this tour.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
If you’re looking for the perfect blend of history, nature, and jaw-dropping sunsets, then Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is your go-to spot in April. Start your day off by exploring the historic fort—channel your inner Indiana Jones as you wander through this 19th-century military structure. You might even feel like you’ve stepped onto a movie set!
After your historical escapade, stretch out on the park’s sandy shores and take a leisurely swim in the turquoise waters that are just begging to be splashed in. And trust me, when the sun starts setting, you’ll want to have your camera ready because this place serves up sunsets so stunning, they practically come with their own soundtrack.
So, pack a picnic, some sunscreen, and your best sunset-viewing shades—Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is calling your name! Oh, and one more thing—don’t forget to bring your beach shoes. The beach at Fort Zach can be a bit rocky, and you’ll want to protect those toes while you soak in all the beauty!
Now that you have a better idea of the weather… what’s happening in Key West for April? Let’s see!
One of the great events held in April is the Conch Republic Independence Celebration. It’s multiple days of fun, festivities and so much more held toward the end of the month. – Check out the events here. If April had a peak time, this would probably be it.
TENNESSEE WILLIAMS THEATRE: DINOSAUR WORLD, LIVE! – April 2
Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World, Live! in this “roarsome” interactive show for all the family. Discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus! A special meet and greet after the show offers all our brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. Don’t miss this entertaining and mind-expanding jurassic adventure, live on stage. Showt at 7 p.m. Tickets $18 to $68. 5901 College Rd.
STUDIOS OF KEY WEST: FIRST THURSDAY OPEN HOUSE – April 4
During the First Thursday Open House event, the Studios keep the lights on late and throw the doors open to celebrate the newest work in its galleries. Stop in to say hello, relax with a glass of wine on the rooftop terrace, tour the third floor artist studios and see the just-installed exhibitions in the various galleries. 6 to 8 p.m. at 533 Eaton St.
STUDIOS OF KEY WEST: THE PAPERS, A MUSICAL – April 5 – 7, 2024
A staged reading of a musical adaptation of Henry James’ novella, “The Aspern Papers.” The story, originally set in 1888 Venice, has shifted to contemporary Key West. The piece asks how we contend with the art and accomplishments of flawed people. How do we appreciate the achievements of heroes who may also be villains? Friday, Saturday and Sunday performances at 8 p.m. in Helmerich Theater. 533 Eaton St.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF KEY WEST & THE LOWER KEYS: TROPICAL GALA – April 5
Visitors are invited to join residents for the annual celebration in support of Habitat for Humanity at the Harry S. Truman Little White House, 111 Front St. The Tropical Gala event features a delicious dinner, top shelf libations, games, auctions and more. 6 to 10 p.m.
KEY WEST THEATER: DAVID FEDER – LIMITLESS GUITAR – April 5
David Feder’s laid-back, bohemian style easily disguises his virtuosity on the nylon string Flamenco Guitar. Three decades of island living in the Florida Keys has influenced Feder’s breezy, approachable and sophisticated music. Doors open at 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m. Tickets available online or at the box office. 512 Eaton St.
WESLEY HOUSE FAMILY SERVICES: BLACK TIE BENEFIT – KEY WEST – April 6
The Black Tie Benefit in Key West raises funds for Wesley House Family Services. This evening of Tropical Elegance takes place at Beachside Resort & Residences, 3841 N. Roosevelt Blvd. Cocktails at 6 p.m. followed by dinner and dancing.
KEY WEST ARTISAN MARKET: BE THE CHANGE EDITION – April 7
Shop a curated outdoor market displaying delicious culinary creations, fresh produce, fine crafts, art, jewelry and more from talented Florida Keys makers. Listen to awesome local musicians, meet talented local authors and support the market’s featured cause. This week, you’re invited to “Be the Change” by supporting Kids Come First in the Florida Keys with donations. As always, the market offers a full bar and is open 10 a.m to 2 p.m. in Sonny McCoy Indigenous Park, 1801 White St.
RED BARN THEATER: THE LIFESPAN OF A FACT – April 9 – 27, 2024
With a deadline looming, a talented writer, a desperate magazine editor and a young aggressive fact checker go head-to-head in this oh-so-funny and gripping dispute over factual truth vs. the beauty of literary dishonesty. Showtime 7 p.m. 319 Duval St.
KEY WEST THEATER: TAB BENOIT – April 10
Delta swamp blues master Tab Benoit brings songs of the bayou along with Ghalia Volt and an all-star Louisiana roots band to Key West Theater. Doors open 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m. 512 Eaton St.
KEY WEST SAILFISH TOURNAMENT – April 11 – 13, 2024
The inaugural Key West Sailfish Tournament April 11th through the 13th is a two-day, all-release sailfish contest, with optional categories for heaviest tuna, dolphin and wahoo. Tournament activities will be held at Dante’s Key West Pool Bar & Restaurant, 955 Caroline St.
COFFEE BUTLER AMPHITHEATER: MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD – April 12
Globally-recognized musician Michael Franti and his band Spearhead, along with Bombargo, perform in a high-energy show filled with inspiring music. Doors open 5:30 p.m.; show at 7 p.m. 21 E. Quay Rd.
TRUMAN LITTLE WHITE HOUSE: PLEIN AIR PAINTING COMPETITION – April 12
Be inspired by the beauty of the tropical landscaping and grounds at the Truman Little White House during the TRU-ly Amazing Art Plein Air Competition from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The contest this year is led by artist Wesley Truman Daniel, great-grandson of President Harry S. Truman. Painters will be provided with an authentic 1911 roof shingle from the Truman Little White House as their canvas. Participating artists must bring their own painting supplies. The winning piece will be selected by popular vote and announced at that evening’s Truman Music Series Concert. Tickets $35. 210 Front St.
PLANT A MILLION CORALS: REEFS & RHYTHMS – April 13
Sip frosty brews on the Waterfront Brewery’s rooftop, enjoy live music and learn about Plant a Million Corals’ ambitious goals for coral restoration. Support the organization through raffles and by bidding on items in a silent auction. There will be food and drink specials provided by the brewery at the event from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. 201 William St.
KEY WEST ARTISAN MARKET: OCEAN AWARENESS EDITION – April 14
Shop a curated outdoor market displaying delicious culinary creations, fresh produce, fine crafts, art, jewelry and more from talented Florida Keys makers. Listen to awesome local musicians, meet talented local authors and support the market’s featured cause. This week, you’re invited to support Ocean Awareness. Reef Relief will be there to help you lean ways to improve and protect our oceans, and would appreciate your donations. The market offers a full bar and is open 10 a.m to 2 p.m. in Sonny McCoy Indigenous Park, 1801 White St.
CONNECTIONS PROJECT: KEY WEST RECEPTION – April 16
For years, the Florida Keys Council of the Arts has gathered mini-canvases from area artists to create one large Keys art mural/mosaic its annual Connections Project. This year, the council created five separate murals and, at each opening reception in each region of the Keys, is including live music to create a multi-faceted celebration of the artistic spirit that makes the Keys so special. The free Key West reception on April 16 culminates the Connections Project. It takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. at Williams Hall, 729 Fleming St. Attendees can enjoy live music by Jillian Todd, Bobby Nesbit and Carmen Rodriguez. Individual canvases from the mosaic are to be available for purchase for $100 each.
FRINGE THEATER: DEATH AND THE MAIDEN – April 17 – 27, 2024
A white-knuckle thriller and riveting tug-of-war. Who do you believe – your deeply troubled spouse, or your new persuasive friend? Winner of the 1992 Olivier Award for Best New Play. Tickets $45-$60. 7 p.m. at the Armory, 600 White St.
KEY WEST THEATER: ROCK ‘N ROLL BURLESQUE SHOW – April 18
Key West Burlesque presents the Rock ‘n Roll Bulesque Show, an immersive night of rock music and mesmerizing performances. The show features rock and roll hits of the 1960s, 70s, 80s and 90s played by the Mark King Band. Doors open at 7 p.m; show at 8 p.m. Tickets available online and at the box office at 512 Eaton St.
CONCH REPUBLIC INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION: OPENING CEREMONY AND KICK-OFF PARTY – April 19
The annual celebration of the creation of the Conch Republic’s official opening ceremony takes from 5 to 6 p.m. at Mallory Square, 400 Wall St. That is followed by the official Kick-Off Party and Conch Shell Blowing Contest at Schooner Wharf Bar, 202 William St., beginning at 7 p.m. Both events are open to the public with no ticket required.
CONCH REPUBLIC DAY INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION: CONCHY BEACH CLEANUP – April 19
Join other citizens of the Conch Republic for the annual Conchy Beach Cleanup, a fun way to meet others and to help kick off the annual celebration of Independence in the Florida Keys. Show up and tools will be provided for you. Meet at the Key West Bocce Court parking lot, 1801 White St. The cleanup begins at 8 and runs until 9 a.m. Organized by Plogging the Keys and Help Keep the Conch Republic Beautiful.
42ND ANNUAL CONCH REPUBLIC DAYS – April 19 – 28, 2024
Fans and friends of the Florida Keys’ Conch Republic can celebrate the irreverent “nation’s” 42nd birthday with activities including the World’s Looooongest Parade down Duval St. Thursday, April 25 at 8 p.m.; the Naval Parade and Great Sea Battle Friday night on Key West Harbor starting at 7 p.m.; the Blue Ribbon Bed Races Saturday at 3 p.m., followed by the Brawl on Duval amateur boxing match starting at 7 p.m. and the Pirate Ball & Costume Contest at Schooner Wharf, also at 7 p.m. Saturday; and the Schooner Wharf Wrecker’s Cup race series Sunday afternoon .
EARTH DAY 5K RUN/WALK – April 20
The Key West Southernmost Runners’ 26th annual Earth Day 5k Run/Walk takes place Saturday at Truman Waterfront Park at the end of Southard St. The start and finish line is near the U.S .Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum. Proceeds from the race benefit the Conch Republic Marine Army, a local non-profit grassroots organization dedicated to cleaning and restoring the shallow mangrove habitats of the Florida Keys. Registration is $25 per person (free for children under 5 with a parent). Participants can register online or in person at the race location from 5 to 7 p.m. April 19, and at 7 a.m. April 20 before the 8 a.m. race start.
MOTE MARINE LABORATORY: OCEAN FEST – A COMMUNITY CELEBRATION – April 20
Underwater and outdoor enthusiasts, eco-travelers and families are encouraged to celebrate Earth Day and the marine environment during a fun day of crafts, games, live music, food, local brews and shopping from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Truman Waterfront Park. There will be two kids’ fishing clinics for children age 7-12 fro 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and also 2 to 4 p.m. The Keys’ treasured marine environment will be showcased along with raising money for coral reef research, restoration and conservation. Attendees can explore conservation and environmental exhibits, meet Mote scientists and learn how you can help.
KEY WEST BOTANICAL GARDEN SPEAKER SERIES: TO SAVE AN ORCHID – April 20
Leigh Coolidge with the Key West Orchid Society explains the joint venture between the society and the botanical garden to conserve, preserve and protect Florida Keys native orchids.
PARTY LIKE A CONCH STAR – April 21
Head to Rum Row at the Gates Hotel, 3824 N. Roosevelt Blvd., for a day of non-stop fun, live music and drink specials — all in keeping with the Conch Republic Independence Celebration. Visit vendor booths, soak up some sun and celebrate from 2 to 4 p.m. The event is free, but reserve your spot on Eventbrite to ensure entry.
EARTH DAY JAM WITH THAT HIPPIE BAND – April 22
Groove to the music of the 60s and 70s focused on environmental protection with That Hippie Band. Doors open at 6 p.m.; show at 7 p.m. Tickets available online or at the theater box office at 512 Eaton St.
PLOGGING THE KEYS: EARTH DAY CLEANUP AT US 1 AND COW KEY CHANNEL BRIDGE – April 22
Join other volunteers for an Earth Day Cleanup event Sunday morning from 8 to 9 a.m. of the area around US 1, the Triangle, the Cow Key Channel Bridge and surrounding streets. Meet alongside Tavern N Town and US 1 to pick up your vest, gloves, bucket and picker. One hour makes a huge difference, so start your day by taking part! After the cleanup, Tavern N Town will provide breakfast and coffee to all volunteers.
REEF RELIEF: EARTH DAY KEY WEST CLEANUP – April 22
Visitors are invited to join locals and the team from Reef Relief for an Earth Day cleanup from 9 to 11 a.m. Meet at the stage in front of the Edward B. Knight (White Street) Pier. The first 100 participants will receive a free pair of flip flops.
STUDIOS OF KEY WEST: ABBIE GARDNER IN CONCERT – April 23 – 24, 2024
Abbie Gardner is a fiery dobro player with an infectious smile. Whether performing solo or with Americana group Red Molly, her acclaimed tales of love and loss, both gritty and sweet, are propelled by her impeccable slide guitar playing. Her live show is truly unique—as an award-winning songwriter, captivating vocalist, and a world-class lap style dobro player, she has an unmistakable sound all her own. Wednesday night’s show starts at 8 p.m. on the roof at Hugh’s View; Thursday night’s show is 7 p.m. in Helmerich Theater. 533 Eaton St.
TENNESSEE WILLIAMS THEATRE: LES BALLETS TROCKADERO DE MONTE CARLO – April 25
The world-renowned, all-male Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo visits Key West to present a brilliant combination of skillful ballet movements and hilarious parodies of classic ballets such as Swan Lake. Founded in New York in 1974, the company, affectionately known as the Trocks, began by performing late-night in Broadway lofts to small audiences who appreciated the ensemble’s iconoclastic humour. In the 50 years since, the company has grown to appeal to an ever-growing audience who flock to theatres around the world each season to see these “prima ballerinas” perform. Tickets $35 to $135. Show at 8 p.m. 5901 College Rd.
KEY WEST THEATER: THE WALLFLOWERS – April 26
Jakob Dylan and his band, the Wallflowers perform at Key West Theater. Doors open 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m. 512 Eaton St.
KEY WEST BOTANICAL GARDEN: EARTH DAY/ARBOR DAY ECO-FAIR – April 27
Celebrate both Earth Day and Arbor Day with an Eco-Fair at Key West Botanical Garden from on April 27. Activities include a docent-led tour of the garden at 10:30 a.m.; children’s art activities from 10 a.m. to noon; a tour of the Key West Native Nursery at 11:30 a.m.; a composting demonstration at noon; a rain barrel workshop from 1 to 2 p.m.; a bicycle raffle at 1 p.m. and native plant sales from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
CONCH REPUBLIC INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION: PIRATES’ BALL – April 27
As part of the annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration, the Pirates’ Ball is a night of swashbuckling fun and merriment. Watch the daring swashbuckling and sword fighting performance by the Conch Republic Privateers. Come in costume to win great prizes. The fun begins at 7 p.m.
COFFEE BUTLER AMPHITHEATER: THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE – April 28
Come on down! The Price is Right Live comes to Key West’s Coffee Butler Amphitheater April 28. Ticket holders will have the chance to register to be a contestant and play to win valuable prizes. If you’re a fan of The Price is Right on TV, you’re going to love this exciting, live (non-televised) version of the show.
KEY WEST ARTISAN MARKET: CONCH REPUBLIC EDITION – April 28
This is the last Artisan Market of the season until November and is a special salute to the Conch Republic. Shop a curated outdoor market displaying delicious culinary creations, fresh produce, fine crafts, art, jewelry and more from talented Florida Keys makers. Listen to awesome local musicians and meet talented local authors. The market offers a full bar and is open 10 a.m to 2 p.m. in Sonny McCoy Indigenous Park, 1801 White St.
SCHOONER WHARF BAR: WRECKER’S CUP RACE – April 28
The final race of the 39th annual Wrecker’s Cup Race Series to Sand Key kicks off Sunday at 1 p.m. The all-in-fun race series recalls the tradition of the wreckers from Key West in the 1800s. All sailing vessels, local sailors and visiting yachtsmen are welcome to join the regatta. Spectators can view from Schooner Wharf and the Historic Seaport. After the race, first, second and third place will be awarded in each division, with trophies, a bottle of Pusser’s rum, Schooner Wharf Bar tabs and wrecker T-shirts as prizes. Find Schooner Wharf Bar at 202 William St.
