Fort Lauderdale is one of Florida’s most popular destinations, known for its white-sand beaches, navigable waterways, and vibrant nightlife. When planning a trip, choosing the right time to visit can make all the difference in your experience. Here you’ll find everything you need to know about the weather, seasons, prices, and the best events to visit the city.
Best time to visit
When the weather is more pleasant
Fort Lauderdale has a tropical weather, with mild temperatures for much of the year. The most pleasant time to visit the city is from November to April, when temperatures vary between 18°C and 28°C and there is little rain. This is the ideal time for those who want to enjoy outdoor activities, explore the city's canals and walk along the famous Las Olas Boulevard.
If you want to avoid the intense heat and summer rains, the months of december to february offer sunny days and dry weather, perfect for exploring attractions like the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park and nearby islands.
Best time for beaches
If your main goal is to enjoy the beaches of Fort Lauderdale, the months between may and september are ideal, as the sea water temperature is between 27°C and 30°C. However, this is also the rainiest period, with frequent showers in the late afternoon.
the months of March, April, October and November are a balanced alternative, combining warm temperatures and a lower chance of rain. This is the best time for activities such as boat trips, diving and water sports.
Seasons and prices
High season and high costs
The high season occurs from december to april, when the city receives many North American tourists escaping the winter. During this period, hotels and airfares can be up to 50% more expensive. If you plan to travel during this time, it is best to book your accommodation and flights in advance to ensure better prices.
Furthermore, this is the busiest time of year on beaches and tourist attractions, such as Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale, one of the most popular tours in the city.
Low season and promotions
The low season goes from May to November, when temperatures rise and there is a greater incidence of rain. The advantage of this period is that prices are much more affordable, with hotels offering discounts of up to 40%.
If you want to save money and avoid crowds, travel in September or October can be an excellent choice. In addition, attractions such as the Flamingo Gardens and local museums are more accessible for visitors.
Month-by-month weather in Fort Lauderdale
Summer: heat and rain
The summer, of June to September, is the hottest time of the year, with temperatures between 25°C and 33°C and an even higher thermal sensation due to humidity. Rain is frequent, especially in the afternoon, and can last from a few minutes to a few hours.
Plus, this is the time when Fort Lauderdale welcomes college students looking to have fun during the Spring Break, making the city quite lively.
Winter: mild and dry weather
Between december and february, winter in Fort Lauderdale is quite pleasant. Temperatures range from 15°C and 27°C, with little rain and lots of sun. This is the ideal time for boat trips along the city's canals, visits to natural parks and outdoor activities.
Hurricane Season: What to Know
When more storms occur
Hurricane season runs from June to November, with August and September being the most critical months. Although Fort Lauderdale is well prepared for tropical storms, it is essential to check the weather forecast before traveling.
Precautions for tourists
If you plan to visit the city during this period, follow these tips to avoid unexpected events:
- Take out travel insurance that covers cancellations due to bad weather.
- Follow weather alerts, especially if you are staying near the beach.
- Have a backup plan for rainy days, such as visiting museums and aquariums in the city.
Events and festivals worth the trip
Carnival and spring festivals
If you like lively parties, March and April are ideal for visiting Fort Lauderdale. During the Spring Break, the city becomes one of the main meeting points for American university students.
Another interesting event is the Caribbean Carnival, which takes place in October and features music, dance and typical Caribbean cuisine.
Music and food festivals
- Tortuga Music Festival (April): One of Florida's largest country and pop music festivals, held on the beach.
- Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (October/November): One of the most important nautical events in the world.
- Las Olas Wine & Food Festival (April): Perfect for food lovers, with wine tasting and dishes from renowned chefs.
If you want to combine your trip with cultural experiences, these dates are excellent to make the most of the city.
Best time for different travel profiles
For families
Those traveling with children should prioritize the months of October to April, when the weather is milder and attractions are less crowded. In addition to the beaches, activities such as Butterfly World, one of the largest butterfly houses in the US, and the Museum of Discovery and Science are great options.
For couples
For a romantic trip, the months of september to november offer quieter hotels and special packages for couples. Sunset cruises, waterfront dinners and art gallery visits in the Las Olas Boulevard make the experience even more special.
For those looking for savings
If the priority is to spend less, the best months are May, September and October, when hotels and airfares are cheaper. During this period, attractions such as Bonnet House Museum & Gardens it's the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park can be visited at a lower cost.
Transportation and Mobility in Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale has a good transport infrastructure, making it easy to get around its main attractions.
Transportation options in the city:
- Car rental: Ideal for those who want to explore other nearby cities, such as Miami and West Palm Beach.
- Water taxi: One of the most popular means of transport, allowing you to explore the city through its canals.
- Public transportation: Buses and trains connect Fort Lauderdale to other areas of Florida.
- Bicycles and scooters: Sustainable options for strolling along the waterfront and city center.
Staying close to the main attractions can reduce the need to rent a car, making the trip more practical and economical.
Fort Lauderdale is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your travel style. For perfect weather, go between November and April. If you want to save money, choose the months of May to October. For special events, plan your trip around local festivals and celebrations.
Regardless of when you choose to go, Fort Lauderdale always has something special to offer. 🌴☀️