Thinking about escaping the polar vortex by flying south? If Puxatauny Phil’s predictions are accurate, you’ll have been shoveling your driveway and scraping your windshield for three solid months. The snow has piled and taken a dirty brown color that has lost all its romance.
By the time March rolls around, it’s time for a little island getaway. Key West is calling, and Key West in March is about as perfect as it gets. Here’s a look at the weather, things to do, and what to expect.
Key West Weather in March
The March weather in Key West Florida can’t be beat. It’s warm and sunny, with a zero percent chance of overnight flurries or wintery mixes.
Overall, March in Key West is one of the best months to experience the island. There’s not much rain, lots of sun, and plenty of happy hours. Key West is pretty nice any month, but March is especially lovely. And everything is open, all the tours are operating, and there’s basically no reason why you shouldn’t visit. Just book the ticket already.
Key West Florida Temperature in March
How about some specific examples? Weather Spark says the average temperature in Key West in March is 73 degrees, with average highs of 78 and lows of 70. Those are averages, but it doesn’t stray too far from that in reality. If you look at the NOAA records, the hottest it’s been is 89, and the coldest was 47. If you’re not a fan of sweating, you’ll be pleased to know that March is one of the only months Key West has never hit the 90s.
What to Do in Key West in March?
If you’re headed down from points north, you’re probably wondering about the water temperatures. Can you swim in Key West in March? While you certainly don’t want to take a dip in Poughkeepsie, the water in Key West is warm enough for watersports or whatever else you might want to do. Take a dip at Smather’s Beach (boring!), or hop on one of our fantastic boat trips out to the best Key West beaches — the sandbars (amazing!).
But, as a local, I’d be remiss if I didn’t tell you the whole truth and nothing but the truth. The water can feel a bit brisk in March, even in Key West! The internet will tell you that the average water temperature is 75 degrees, which sounds terrific. But that is actually a bit brisk for a lot of people, especially the locals, who seldom get in the water if it’s below 80. If you plan to come and go snorkeling, diving, or water sporting, I’d bring a shorty wetsuit to keep warm. If you’re from Northern Latitudes and think that’s crazy talk, you do you and stick to your banana hammocks.
Is Key West Crowded in March?
Unfortunately for you, everyone realized that March in Key West is incredible before you did. It’s one of the busiest months all year, with tourists packing the island and escaping their snow-buried driveways and dead car batteries. March is historically the peak of Key West’s high season, so hotels and flights are at their most expensive.
You’ll want to book your room and excursions early, and you’ll have to hunt a bit to find good deals. Things slow down quickly after March, and there is more availability if you can hold your trip until April or even May. These months still provide great weather (even though the temps start climbing as summer draws near).
Key West Events in March
There are quite a few significant things going on in Key West in March.
St Patrick's Day in Key West
Key West is the perfect place to celebrate St. Paddy’s Day. It’s not Chicago or NYC by any means, but we’ve got plenty of stout and bar stools upon which to enjoy it. Or margaritas, which happen to be a festive green color.
Seriously, though, nearly all the bars and restaurants offer themed drinks, menus, and events. In honor of the holiday, there’s an official pub crawl/bar stroll down Duval.
Key West Airshow — The Southernmost Air Spectacular
March is also the month of the Key West Southernmost Air Spectacular, an airshow put on by the Navy Air Station in Boca Chita (right next to Key West). The Blue Angels will be flying, along with many other military and civilian performers.
It’s going on March 29 and 30, 2025. The Key West airshow is on the Navy Air Base at Mile Marker 6 and 7 (not at the regular airport!), so you’ll want to drive up or take a ride share to get the best views. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider chartering a private boat to view the show from the water — give me a call, and we’ll work it out.
March Merkin Permit Tournament
If that sounded like Greek, welcome to the world of backcountry fishing. Permit are crazy-looking, big, silver fish, and people love chasing them around the Keys.
The tournament is hosted at Oceans Edge, March 10 – 13, 2025.
Key West in March — A Winning Combination
Even if you don’t catch a permit on a fly, it’s worth spending some time in March in Key West. On this island, the March weather is unbelievable, and everyone appreciates the shining sun, warm(ish) water, and miles of clear blue water to play in. Whether you’re escaping the snow or just looking for an island vacay, Key West is the perfect spot.
If you’re coming to town, give me a call, and I’ll arrange a private boat excursion for your group. March is the perfect time to explore the sandbars, snorkel, and see the best sights Key West has to offer.
Key West In March Q&A
What time is the sunset in Key West in March?
The sunset is around 6:30 pm before the clocks change. After Daylight Savings Time begins on March 9th, sunset will be around 7:33. By the end of the month, it will be at 7:43. Check the weather app on your phone for the precise time on the day of your visit.
How is the weather in Key West in March?
The weather in Key West is pretty hard to beat: daily highs are in the upper 70s, and evening lows are in the lower 70s. It’s comfortable for beach days in the sun, but you might want a light jacket or sweater after dark if the breeze blows off the water.
Can you swim in Key West in March?
Absolutely! Swimming in Key West is great any month. But then, people do polar bear plunges and Swedish ice baths. Thankfully, Key West in March offers ocean water temperatures around 75 degrees, which is downright balmy in comparison. Most people will enjoy a quick dip, but if you want to spend more time in the water (snorkeling, diving, or other water sports) consider wearing a shorty wetsuit to stay warm for longer.
How warm is the water in Key West in March?
The average water temperature in Key West in March is 75 degrees — plenty warm for swimming or playing on the sandbar.
