When to Visit Fort Lauderdale: Seasonal Travel Guide 

Fort Lauderdale is a great year-round destination full of sunshine, fun, and great memories. That being said, each season brings something unique and exciting to the table. Some months are perfect for beachgoers, while others are packed with festivals and local events.

We’re here to put the spotlight on the different seasons and what they have to offer visitors and locals alike. And while there’s no bad time to visit Fort Lauderdale, one season shines above the rest.

When to Visit Fort Lauderdale

Our top pick for the best season to visit Fort Lauderdale? Drum roll, please…

Spring!

Spring in Fort Lauderdale is that perfect sweet spot— warm but not too hot, lively but not overcrowded. The winter crowds start to thin out, and the summer humidity hasn’t kicked in yet, making it the ideal time to soak up the city’s beaches, events, and outdoor adventures. It’s a great time to be in the city, whether you want to lounge by the water, explore the Everglades, or join in on the fun at one of the city’s biggest festivals.

 

Fort Lauderdale Spring Weather

Spring serves up some of the best weather of the year. Expect warm temperatures, low humidity, and plenty of sunshine. Highs typically hover in the low-to-mid 70s °F in March and climb into the low 80s °F by May. Rain showers are minimal compared to summer, and the ocean is warm enough for comfortable swimming.

 

In other words, it’s prime beach weather.

What to Do in Fort Lauderdale in Spring

While everything Fort Lauderdale has to offer is on the table in the spring, it is definitely the season for outdoor fun. Luckily, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy it. Some of the best things to do this time of year include:

 

• Hitting the beach: With perfect temperatures and fewer winter tourists, it’s an ideal time to relax on the sand or take a dip in the ocean.
• Tortuga Music Festival: This beachfront country music festival is one of Fort Lauderdale’s biggest events, drawing major artists and music lovers from all over.
• Exploring the Everglades: Spring is a great time to take an airboat tour or go wildlife spotting before summer rains make the area extra steamy.
• Boating and water sports: Whether it’s paddleboarding, sailing, or cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway, spring’s calm waters make it an excellent time to get out on the water.
• Dining al fresco: Cooler evenings mean comfortable patio dining, perfect for enjoying fresh seafood with a waterfront view.

 

With great weather, fun events, and fewer crowds than winter, it’s easy to see why spring gets the top spot. But that doesn’t mean the other seasons aren’t worth a visit—each one has its own unique draw.

Traveling to Fort Lauderdale in Other Seasons

Just because spring is our top pick for when to visit Fort Lauderdale doesn’t mean that the others are a flop. In fact, each season offers something that you won’t find in the next. 

Summer: Great for Water Lovers

Summer in Fort Lauderdale is hot, humid, and filled with sunshine. Daily highs sit in the upper 80s °F to low 90s °F, and the ocean is at its warmest. Afternoon rain showers are common but usually short-lived, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the beach, pool, or water activities.

With the summer heat in full force, this is the season to embrace all things water— whether it’s snorkeling at Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, paddleboarding through the mangroves, or cooling off at a resort pool. If you don’t mind a little extra heat, you can experience Fort Lauderdale at a slower pace with fewer tourists around.

 

Fall: Best for Avoiding Crowds

Fall is Fort Lauderdale’s quietest season, making it the perfect time for travelers who prefer a more laid-back experience. Temperatures remain warm, starting in the high 80s °F in September and dropping to the upper 70s °F by November. While the city does see some rain and the potential for storms left over from summer, October and November bring drier days and a sense of calm before the winter crowds roll in.

With fewer people around, it’s a great time to enjoy local restaurants, take a scenic canal cruise, or stroll Las Olas Boulevard without the peak-season rush. The water is still warm enough for swimming, and outdoor activities like kayaking, golfing, and biking are more enjoyable with the slightly cooler temperatures. 

Fall is also a fantastic time to score deals on hotels and flights, making it a budget-friendly season for a Florida getaway.

 

Winter: Best for Festivals and Events

Winter is the high season in Fort Lauderdale, and for good reason. While much of the country is bundling up, South Florida stays sunny and mild, with highs in the 70s °F and little rain. It’s the perfect escape for those looking to swap snow for sand, but it can also mean higher prices and bigger crowds, especially around the holidays.

This season is all about lively events and celebrations. The Winterfest Boat Parade, one of the city’s most iconic traditions, kicks off the holiday season with a dazzling display of decorated yachts. Art, food, and music festivals fill the calendar, giving visitors plenty of ways to experience Fort Lauderdale’s culture beyond the beach. With perfect weather and so much going on, winter is an exciting time to visit— just be sure to book early to secure the best spots.

 

A Place to Stay for All Seasons

No matter when you visit Fort Lauderdale, Yacht Haven Park & Marina is the perfect place to call home. Spring is an especially great time to stay, with warm weather, fewer crowds, and easy access to all the best seasonal activities. But whether you’re soaking up the lively atmosphere of winter, enjoying the slower pace of fall, or making the most of summer’s sunshine, Yacht Haven has everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay.

 

Winter travelers will find a welcoming community of snowbirds who return year after year to escape the cold. Summer guests can rest easy knowing that the resort is well-prepared for Florida’s unpredictable weather, offering resort-style amenities and a waterfront location that makes it easy to cool off. And no matter the season, the marina, spacious RV sites, and picturesque setting make it a true haven for anyone looking to experience Fort Lauderdale at its best.

 

Whenever you decide to visit, Yacht Haven is ready to welcome you. All that’s left to do is pick the season that’s right for you.