United States, North America
Key West in October
Fantasy Fest in late October is an adults-only street party. Hurricane risk remains.
The straight answer
October is a month of real tradeoffs in Key West. Fantasy Fest in late October is an adults-only street party. Hurricane risk remains.
- Weather
- Warm, highs near 85F (29C), storm risk
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What October is like in Key West
October is warm, with highs near 85F (29C), slowly falling humidity, and fewer storms than September, though hurricane risk remains. The island wakes up from its late-summer lull, and prices are moderate. Late in the month, Fantasy Fest takes over for about ten days, an adults-only costume festival and parade that fills hotels and turns Duval Street wild.
This month suits adults coming for Fantasy Fest and flexible travelers who want warm water at fair prices early in the month. It is a poor pick for families during Fantasy Fest, and anyone who wants zero storm risk. With kids, wait for November or December.
Make the most of October
What is especially good about Key West this month.
Fantasy Fest
The late October costume festival and parade is a famous adult party. It is not for kids, and hotels sell out and charge peak prices.
Early October value
The first half of the month has fewer storms than September, moderate rates, and warm water for snorkeling.
Sunset without the winter crowds
Mallory Square's Sunset Celebration is lively again but still easy to get a good spot on the dock.
What to pack for October
- A costume if you are coming for Fantasy Fest
- A light rain jacket
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Comfortable shoes for crowded streets
Our timing tip
Families should come in early October and leave before Fantasy Fest starts, while festival-goers should book rooms many months ahead.
Book Key West for October.
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- Hotels for October
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Key WestOpens a hotel search for Key West in October, 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 October. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in October
Fantasy Fest
Late October, about ten days
An adults-only costume festival and parade. Not for kids.
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 October, quick answers
Is October a good time to visit Key West?
October is a month of real tradeoffs in Key West. Fantasy Fest in late October is an adults-only street party. Hurricane risk remains.
What is the weather like in Key West in October?
Warm, highs near 85F (29C), storm risk.
Is Key West crowded in October?
Crowds in Key West are moderate in October; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Key West in October?
Fantasy Fest (late october, about ten days).
Keep planning Key West.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in October
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