Looking to escape the winter season already? Florida offers cool and comfortable temperatures and gets warmer the more south you go. November is the last chance for visitors to explore or relax on beaches without the holiday and winter crowds.
There will be a lot going on this month getting ready for the holiday season, snowbirds arriving for the season, and outdoor activities are popular due to the absence of rain.
Florida in November can give visitors wonderful memories and good weather.
You will get essential Florida November tips for:
- the weather
- outfits/what to wear
- crowds
- the best things to do
Considering September or October? Check out our complete Florida guide for the fall months.
This is an essential November guide with tons of helpful tips from our writers who lived and traveled in Florida for over 10 years.
Weather
The weather in November tends to be pleasant and drier. It is the start of the dry season. The humidity is present, but not too noticeable, great for visiting theme parks. Keep in mind, this month will still have a few random days with hot temperatures, or thunderstorms.
The average high temperature in November is 71-79°F (23-26°C) in Florida, with Destin being the coolest place and Miami the warmest. It is the start of the dry season with cooler water and lower temperatures. Rainfall decreases this month with a monthly average of 2.7 inches.
Average highs in November:
- Miami: 79°F (26.1°C)
- Tampa: 78°F (25.5°C)
- Orlando: 78°F (25.5°C)
- Jacksonville: 74°F (23.3°C)
- Destin: 71°F (21.6°C)
Rainfall
The rainy season is finally over as November brings the start to the dry season. There may be some leftover rain showers or storms, but that is very uncommon and short-lasting, usually.
💡 The southern regions in Florida have a higher chance of seeing a storm, due to warmer waters.
The average rainfall in November is 2.7 inches, with the chance of rain decreasing as the month goes on. There are on average 10 rainy days this month and only a 16% chance of thunderstorms.
Heat/Humidity
Humidity is constantly high in Florida. The humidity isn’t as bad in the winter months due to lower temperatures and stronger winds. However, if you aren’t used to the tropical climate, or are coming from a snowy state, you may feel more of the effects.
The average humidity in November is anywhere between 50-89% and tends to be higher in the mornings around 7 am, and lowest in the afternoons after 1 pm.
Daily Weather Progression
November is the shift from wet to dry season, and this causes cooler ocean waters, as well as temperatures. The weather doesn’t change drastically throughout the day, but afternoons will always have higher temperatures no matter where you are.
Mornings tend to be bright and filled with sunshine, this will be the time of day when humidity levels will be more noticeable.
Evenings: temperatures drop fast in the evenings after the sun goes down.
Daily temperature progression of a southern location, Miami:
- 8 AM: 71°F
- 11 AM: 77°F
- 2 PM: 78°F
- 9 PM: 73°F
Water Temperature | Swimming
From our experience, this tends to be a very good months of the year in the sunshine state for a combination of pleasant temperatures along with warm waters. Just perfect for any type of water sports.
November is a great time for swimming in Florida. The ocean temperature is usually comfortable, with averages ranging from 72°F to 80°F (22°C – 27°C), depending on the location. In Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Key Largo, the swimming conditions are perfect, with water temperatures up to 83°F.
💡 Waters in the southern part of the state will have the warmest waters. Miami Beach, as well as the southeastern coast, such as Delray Beach, will average a water temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Keep in mind that beaches located in the northern part of the state will have cooler waters, often too cold to swim for some people. Pensacola on the Gulf Coast will have waters around 72 degrees Fahrenheit, as well as the northern Atlantic Coast such as Jacksonville.
What to Bring | What to Wear
Dressing for unpredictable weather in Florida can be tricky, and every day is a surprise.
With Florida’s subtropical climate, it can be difficult trying to pack for the winter months. From our personal experience with traveling around the Cultural Coast this time of year, you can definitely feel the shift from the wet to dry season and the effects of lower temperatures.
While Florida’s temperatures start to get cooler in November, wear clothes that can be easily layered. Pack light sweaters, a light jacket, t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, shorts, and t-shirts for the southern region and the warmer days. Wear comfortable shoes.
Layering is key! That way you can add or remove clothing items as the temperature fluctuates throughout the day.
During the month of November, the clothing items in your suitcase should consist of:
- Shorts (if in southern locations)
- Leggings/ Long thin pants
- T-shirts & Long-sleeved shirts
- Layering options
- A light sweater or jacket
- Bathing suits/cover-up, swim trunks
- Raincoat or poncho
Comfortable shoes: Pack comfortable shoes, no matter where you go. Don’t underestimate the amount of walking you will be doing in theme parks. Without comfortable walking shoes, you can end up with blisters and hurting feet at the end of the day. Please don’t wear flip-flops in theme parks.
Light rain jacket: In November, rains are possible but uncommon due to it being the start of the dry season. An occasional downpour is always a possibility in Florida. Please bring a raincoat as a precaution.
Other packing suggestions are sunglasses, a small backpack for day trips, a hat, water shoes (if doing water sports or boating in Miami for example), a water bottle for hydration, sunscreen, a small portable fan, a cooler, and of course your Mickey Mouse ears for Disney.
Additional items list to pack:
- Sunglasses
- Small backpack for day trips
- Comfy walking shoes
- Beach bag
- Hat
- Water shoes (for water sports or boating)
- Water bottle for hydration
- Sunscreen
- Small portable fan
- Cooler
- Mickey Mouse ears for Disney.
Restaurant tip: When staying in Florida, we always keep a sweater or light jacket handy throughout the day for dining out in indoor restaurants. Even during the winter months, a lot of facilities keep the a/c on year-round and can be cooler indoors for some people.
Headache meds: When traveling in Florida we suggest always bringing some medicine for a headache. The Florida heat is no joke and if you aren’t used to a warm climate, this could really bring a damper to your vacation. As November humidity levels drop, it can still affect people who aren’t used to a tropical climate.
Rates
November is the month when rates start to increase again due to the holiday season and the return of seasonal residents. Expect higher than average rates, increasing as the month goes on. The only day of the month you might catch a break on prices is on Black Friday, but keep in mind everyone has that same idea.
- 10 Best Hotels in Orlando (via booking.com)
- 10 Best Hotels in Sarasota (don’t miss this city! Read more below)
- 10 Best Tampa Hotels (via booking.com)
- 10 Best Hotels in Miami
The hotel links above are really useful to save time and money. Bookmark your preferred destinations.
Depending on your preference and budget, you can find hostels starting at around $60 a night. Staying in an Airbnb averages around $200 a night, hotels average $60-$400 a night depending on location and style, and full home vacation rentals can be up to $600 per night.
Thanksgiving & Black Friday: Keep in mind, Thanksgiving and Black Friday are the last week of November. This is where you will see an increase in rates and crowds all over the state due to the holiday seasons, especially in cities farther south like Miami, and that is popular with beach crowds such as Clearwater.
Crowds
November is the first month of the dry season, and the last little bit of time left before the holidays take over. As the month goes on, crowds and visitors will increase in Florida. One reason is, that the ‘snowbirds’ return to their winter homes in the sunshine state.
Local opinion: Traffic is terrible in Florida during the holidays, keep that in mind when traveling or moving around. Give yourself extra time to get places, leave early if necessary; and unless you are a die-hard shopper, stay home on Black Friday.
Beach crowds: Always remember, it is Florida, so beaches are always going to be somewhat crowded, even in November. Cities with a higher number of snowbirds as well as more southern beaches will experience the most number of visitors, such as Miami or Tampa areas.
Tip: If you would like to learn about November crowds in other regions and how to avoid busy traffic times, visit our complete guide about the best time to avoid crowds and heavy traffic in November and on Thanksgiving.
Places to Visit / Things to Do in November
Most visitors think about the major attractions in Orlando (Disney, Universal, Sea World) and the beaches across the state. However, beaches and theme parks aren’t the only way to enjoy Florida in November. There are countless options to immerse yourself in nature and the outdoors in the sunshine state during this month.
November offers visitors dozens of different activities to satisfy any type of traveler. This month is a great time to enjoy the great outdoors, visit places off the beaten path, and kick off the holiday season with a Thanksgiving dinner filled with seafood.
Florida Beaches
The coastline of Florida is a vacation hotspot all year round because of the gorgeous beaches. November brings the end of hurricane season and the start of cooler weather and cooler waters.
The Florida Keys is going to have the best weather in the whole state. It is the most southern point of the country and sees the most sunshine in the whole state.
Daytona and Cocoa Beach are located in the middle of the state on the Atlantic side, the closest beaches to Orlando. A great option for combining the beach and a trip to Disney
Miami Beach/South Beach has the most favorable water temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit and brings in many visitors due to its popularity.
Sarasota and Fort Myers will be some of the busiest places this month, with seasonal residents (snowbirds) arriving back in town, and locals taking advantage of the last few weeks of peace before the holiday season.
Festivals
Florida is the host of various festivals during the month of November, as well as it is the start of the holiday festivities, including the following:
- Ice! Gaylord Resort, Orlando
- Thanksgiving Dinner (dozens of restaurants will have special menus)
- Merry and Bright, Orlando
- Nights of Lights, St. Augustine
Orlando
The average high temperatures in Orlando hover around 78°F (25.5°C). Rainfall is unlikely due to it being the first month of the dry season, but still possible on occasions.
Crowds: Crowds tend to become larger as the month goes on due to Thanksgiving being the last week of the month. Visit during the first half of the month to avoid even larger crowds.
Find more tips in our detailed guide to Orlando in November.
Universal Studios | Orlando
Universal Studios is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Florida. Kids are in school during November but will have a few days off for the holiday season. Be aware of massive crowds and rates towards the end of the month.
- Tip: Hotels in Universal Studio Resort (stay there to save time)
Is the park-to-park ticket worth it? The park-to-park ticket allows you to roam between the three parks (see below) on the same day. You definitely should get it if you are a Harry Potter fan, as you can ride the Hogwarts Express exclusively with this ticket.
Check out here if the ticket is worth it for you: Universal Orlando – Park-to-Park-Ticket
Additionally, some visitors always get the park-to-park ticket as they love to move around, particularly if it’s too busy in one park. It just gives you more flexibility.
Skip-the-line-ticket: The crowds in November are usually low enough to do Universal Studios without the express/skip-the-line ticket. However, the skip-the-line ticket might be useful if visiting on weekends and at the end of the month.
Three parks: Universal Studios is not just one park. There are a total of three Universal parks, each with its own theme and unique attractions:
- Universal Studios Florida
- Islands of Adventure
- Volcano Bay Water Park
Walt Disney World | Orlando (Nearby)
Disney World is Florida’s most prominent attraction and has great weather in the month of November. Rain will be less likely to be an issue, and kids are still in school most of the month. Be aware of a higher number of visitors as the month goes on.
Keep in mind, holiday events usually begin Thanksgiving weekend, and those draw in more visitors and higher crowds.
While Disney World features multiple attractions, including water parks and golf courses, its main attractions are the four theme parks:
- Magic Kingdom
- Animal Kingdom
- Hollywood Studios
- Epcot
Tickets: For a hassle-free experience, get the base tickets in advance: Walt Disney World Orlando – Admission Base Tickets 2-7 days (mobile voucher or printed voucher)
How many days? 5-7 days are recommended for the best Disney World experience. If you only have two or three days, visit Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom or Epcot. Magic Kingdom is the best park as its rides and attractions have more magic than anything else.
In general, plan 1-2 days for each of the four parks in Disney World Orlando. Park experts recommend two days for each park, except Animal Kingdom, which can be easily done within a day.
SeaWorld | Orlando
When visiting Sea World in Orlando, you get the fantastic chance to see penguins, otters, dolphins, and other amazing sea creatures up close. The park won’t be extremely crowded in November, however, holiday celebrations begin this month and last the rest of the year.
5 tips for a perfect SeaWorld visit in November:
- Make reservations in advance: It’s still not fun waiting in a long line. Save time and money by purchasing (mobile or printed voucher) tickets in advance: Park Admission Ticket Reservation
- Pack a light sweater: While November offers pleasant temperatures in Orlando, the animal exhibits and aquariums which are not outside can get quite chilly. A sweater helps if you get cold easily.
- Arrive early at the shows: As the number of daily shows is limited, they often fill up quickly. In particular, the dolphin show, Dolphin Adventures, and Shamu’s close-up, Orca Encounter. Try to arrive 20 to 30 minutes before showtime.
- Check the weather forecast: Check the forecast in the morning and prepare for your visit. Light rain showers are fine, as you can do many things indoors. However, many outdoor shows close due to bad weather (rainstorms or lightning). During one of those last few rainy days in November, you might plan to visit the Kennedy Space Center instead, for example.
- Bring rain gear: You can get wet easily during one of the water rides or in the splash zone of the shows. We recommend bringing some rain gear or wearing clothes that dry quickly.
Kennedy Space Center | Orlando (Nearby)
The Kennedy Space Center is worth visiting and is only a 50-minute-drive from Orlando. You can either buy the admission ticket (mobile or printed voucher) solo or one where you don’t have to worry about driving as it includes transport from and to Orlando (via GetYourGuide – safe booking)
November isn’t terribly crowded, but the number of visitors increases on weekends and as the month goes on.
Must-see attractions:
- Watch a rocket launch
- See a real space shuttle
- Go behind the gates (NASA restricted areas)
- Take the bus tour to the Apollo/Saturn V Center
Guided tour: You can explore everything on your own, but a guided tour is highly recommended since the area is overwhelming in its size and scope.
Tampa
In November, the average high temperature in Tampa is 78°F (25.5°C). It’s about 10 to colder in the early morning and late evenings, as temperatures start to drop.
Tampa Bay’s Sun Coast offers some of Florida’s best beaches, including Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach. November is the month when most seasonal residents arrive and settle in for the winter months. Expect larger crowds now than in the summer and fall seasons.
Besides hitting the beaches, Tampa has some great activities to offer for the whole family. Our tips:
Busch Gardens: Tampa’s huge theme park features intriguing wildlife with more than 2000 animals from around the world, huge roller coasters, live shows, restaurants, and games. Spend a full day at Busch Gardens. Ticket reservations (mobile voucher or printed): Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Ticket & Multi-Park Options
Florida Aquarium: The Florida Aquarium is located on the southeastern edge of downtown Tampa. It’s truly fascinating and has a huge collection of marine life, with 14,000 animals, including stingrays, moray eels, and turtles. Consider 2-3 hours for your visit. If you plan to vision a weekend or if you want to reduce wait times, get a skip-the-line ticket: The Florida Aquarium Skip-the-Line Entrance
Sarasota
Sarasota is a city on Florida’s Gulf Coast south of Tampa that was originally the winter home of the Ringling Brothers Circus.
Local Opinion: When the sun goes down, temperatures drop fast and winds are a bit stronger. Keep a jacket or long-sleeved shirt handy for this time of day.
Early Morning: It’s 10-15°F degrees cooler in the morning (before 9 AM).
Sarasota is a vibrant place with plenty of great things to do. From the white sandy beaches to golfing and shopping or nightlife activities.
The Mote Marine Laboratory, which is ideal for small children, and the historical Marie Selby Botanical Gardens are two of Sarasota’s main attractions.
Tours by bike or bus are a fantastic way to experience the city, but you can also do it on your own.
Must-see/recommended:
- Ringling Museum: Perfect for November on one of those rare rainy days.
Tip: To discover the main attractions as well as the hidden neighborhoods, book a Sarasota sightseeing tour. It covers the historic downtown neighborhoods of Gillespie Park, Burns Court, Laurel Park, St. Armands Circle, and the Rosemary Design District.
Another spot you shouldn’t miss: The Unconditional Surrender Statue, which recreates the famous World War II photograph of a sailor kissing a nurse after returning home.
Everglades
In November, the Everglades have a pleasant and comfortable temperature with an average high of 81°F (27.2°C) and an average low of 69°F (20.5°C). With the end of the wet season, rain becomes less common than in previous months and has a lot more sunshine as well.
Please read our complete Everglades guide and find out why November is a great month to visit, along with many helpful tips.
As wildlife starts to disperse with the rising water levels, the mornings and evenings are the best times to spot animals in November. The mosquitos and biting bugs shouldn’t be too much of an issue this month with the climate being a lot drier than in previous months.
Crystal River | Manatees
If you haven’t been to Three Sisters Springs in Florida to either swim with manatees or just watch them, you’re missing out! It’s intriguing to watch the gentle and playful giants in the water.
November is the start of the Crystal River manatee season as they migrate from colder waters to warmer spring waters. A huge number of them frequent the natural springs of Crystal River.
Tip: If you plan to see the manatees or swim with them, plan your visit after mid-November when most of them have arrived in Crystal River.
Miami
In November, the average temperature in Miami is 79°F (24.4°C). This is a great month to visit as the rains are finally moving out, and November brings the most ideal water temperatures of the year.
Visit our full guide to Miami in November with even more helpful tips for this month.
Crowds: Crowds are always common in Miami due to its popularity. November is the first month of the dry season, and the holiday season makes crowds higher as the month goes on.
Activities: Keep in mind that there is more to experience than Miami Beach and South Beach. Our tips:
- Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show (starts in Gator Park)
- Miami: 45-Minute Sightseeing Speedboat Tour (mobile tickets): A thrilling ride through Miami with the best sights
- Miami: South Beach 30-Minute Plane Tour: Experience amazing views of South Miami with a terrific pilot
- Miami: City Cruise to Millionaire’s Homes & Venetian Islands (our tip!)
Florida Keys
The Florida Keys is hands down one of the best places to visit when exploring Florida.
In November the average temperature for the Florida Keys is 79°F (24.4°C) and enjoys the most sunshine in the whole state.
After months of threatening storms and wet weather, the Keys are welcoming more visitors in November than in previous months.
The Florida Keys cater to various types of travelers and there is something for everyone. This area is great for sportsmen, beach lovers, foodies, and history buffs of all ages.
Activities around the Keys
- Key West: One of our favorites in all of Florida. It’s warm and ideal for living the island life at its best!
- Key Largo: Famous for being the Dive Capital of the world and being the site for the biggest artificial reef. Make sure to visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park during your visit.
- Dry Tortugas National Park: The most southern National Park in the country, is the perfect place to learn about history. Take a tour to the island and learn about legends of sunken treasures, pirates, and ghostly civil war stories. Divers will also love this place because it has some of the least disturbed reefs in the whole country.
- Snorkeling: There are countless world-class snorkeling spots all over the Florida Keys. You can take boat tours to various locations, or just walk right in the water and explore at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.
- Seven Mile Bridge: This is amongst the longest bridges in the world, connecting the Florida Keys islands. It was also featured in various television dramas such as Burn Notice. Drive down over the water for some of the most spectacular views of a lifetime!
- Bahia Honda State Park: Bahia Honda State Park offers visitors an award-winning beach, a historic bridge, snorkeling tours, kayak adventures, and the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary.Keep in mind, this park will close if it gets too crowded, to protect the environment and assure visitors enjoy their time. The park is open daily from 8:00 am until sunset.
Conclusion
November offers drier weather, lower humidity levels, and cooler temperatures. It is the last chance for a quick trip before the chaos and madness of the holiday season begins. Crowds will start to become higher due to snowbirds, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying the various beaches and attractions Florida has to offer.