United States, North America
Key West in July
Hemingway Days and the lobster mini-season bring crowds. Hot and sticky.
The straight answer
July is a month of real tradeoffs in Key West. Hemingway Days and the lobster mini-season bring crowds. Hot and sticky.
- Weather
- Hot, highs near 90F (32C), storms
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What July is like in Key West
July is hot and sticky, with highs near 90F (32C), heavy humidity, and afternoon storms that pass quickly. Hurricane risk is building but still below its late-summer peak. Two events bring crowds: Hemingway Days, around his July 21 birthday, and the two-day lobster mini-season, when boats and divers fill the Keys. Prices are moderate the rest of the month.
This month suits divers, fishing families, and Hemingway fans who do not mind the heat. It is a poor pick for anyone sensitive to humidity or anyone hoping for quiet during the event weeks. For easier weather, choose April or May instead.
Make the most of July
What is especially good about Key West this month.
Hemingway Days
Around Hemingway's July 21 birthday, the island hosts a look-alike contest, readings, and a street party. Book rooms early that week.
Lobster mini-season
On the last Wednesday and Thursday of July, recreational divers can catch spiny lobster. Expect busy docks and full boats.
Warm water all day
The water is at its warmest, so reef snorkeling feels like a bath. Go on a calm morning for the clearest visibility.
What to pack for July
- Light, breathable clothes
- A compact umbrella for afternoon storms
- Reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard
- A wide-brim hat and electrolyte packets for the heat
Our timing tip
If you are not here for Hemingway Days or lobster season, book the other weeks of July, when rates are lower and streets are calmer.
Book Key West for July.
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- Hotels for July
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Key WestOpens a hotel search for Key West in July, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Key WestWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Key WestTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Key West for July. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in July
Hemingway Days
July, around Hemingway's July 21 birthday
Look-alike contest, readings, and a street party.
Florida lobster mini-season
The last Wednesday and Thursday of July
A two-day recreational lobster season that fills the Keys with divers and boats.
Things to do in Key West
Dry Tortugas National Park
Reach it by the official ferry or seaplane. Book months ahead in winter and spring; seas are calmest from spring into early summer.
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Hemingway's house, with dozens of six-toed cats. Go at opening.
Mallory Square Sunset Celebration
Every evening at sunset. Arrive early for a spot on the dock.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
The best beach on the island, with a Civil War era fort and snorkeling off the rocks.
Harry S. Truman Little White House
Truman's winter White House, with guided tours.
Reef snorkel trips
Half-day trips to the outer reef. Calmest from late spring through summer on non-stormy days.
Beat the crowds
- Book Dry Tortugas ferry seats and Old Town hotels months ahead for January through April.
- Come in late April or May for dry-season weather with lower rates.
- Walk Duval Street in the morning; it gets rowdy at night, especially during spring break and Fantasy Fest.
- Cruise ship days crowd Old Town midday. Check the cruise schedule and plan museums for early morning.
Know before you go
- Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30, peaking August through October. Storms can close the Overseas Highway and prompt evacuations of the Keys.
- Some small restaurants and shops close for a few weeks in September.
- Dry Tortugas ferries can cancel on rough seas, most often in winter cold fronts. Build in a backup day.
Key West in July, quick answers
Is July a good time to visit Key West?
July is a month of real tradeoffs in Key West. Hemingway Days and the lobster mini-season bring crowds. Hot and sticky.
What is the weather like in Key West in July?
Hot, highs near 90F (32C), storms.
Is Key West crowded in July?
Crowds in Key West are moderate in July; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Key West in July?
Hemingway Days (july, around hemingway's july 21 birthday); Florida lobster mini-season (the last wednesday and thursday of july).
Keep planning Key West.
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