United States, North America
Key West in March
Spring break crowds on Duval Street. Great weather, very busy.
The straight answer
March is a good month to visit Key West. Spring break crowds on Duval Street. Great weather, very busy.
- Weather
- Warm, highs near 79F (26C), dry
- Crowds
- 5 of 5
- Prices
- 5 of 5
What March is like in Key West
March is warm and dry, with highs near 79F (26C), sunny skies, and water that is starting to warm up. It is also spring break, so Duval Street is loud and busy, and hotel rates stay at their peak. Snowbirds are still in town, and ferries, snorkel boats, and restaurants book up. Everything on the island is open.
This month suits groups of friends and families who can only travel on spring break and are ready for crowds. It is not the month for a quiet or cheap trip, and Duval Street at night is not a great scene for kids. If you can wait, late April and May bring the same sun with fewer people.
Make the most of March
What is especially good about Key West this month.
Warming water for snorkeling
The water warms through the month, and reef trips get more comfortable. Pick a calm day for the outer reef.
Beach days at Fort Zachary Taylor
The island's best beach is at its best on warm, dry March days. Bring snorkel gear to explore the rocks just offshore.
Long, sunny days
Daylight saving time begins in March, so sunsets come later and leave more time after a day on the water.
What to pack for March
- Reef-safe sunscreen and a wide-brim hat
- A mask and snorkel for Fort Zachary Taylor
- Water shoes for rocky beaches
- A light layer for breezy boat rides
Our timing tip
Check your spring break dates against the busiest college weeks, and walk Duval Street in the morning when it is calm.
Book Key West for March.
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- Hotels for March
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Key WestOpens a hotel search for Key West in March, 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 March. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
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 March, quick answers
Is March a good time to visit Key West?
March is a good month to visit Key West. Spring break crowds on Duval Street. Great weather, very busy.
What is the weather like in Key West in March?
Warm, highs near 79F (26C), dry.
Is Key West crowded in March?
March is peak crowd season in Key West; expect lines at the headline sights.
Keep planning Key West.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in March
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