Miami in October

Miami is one of the most attractive cities in the Sunshine State, and it lives up well to its reputation. Between the miles of shorelines, trendy neighborhoods, and hundreds of restaurants, there is a never-ending list of ways to spend your vacation days in Miami.

October is ideal for visitors wanting to travel slowly and avoid the outrageous effects of weather conditions, such as high humidity and severe rainfall.

We cover everything you should know:

• Weather in October
• What to wear/packing tips
• Crowds
• Best things to do

If you are up for surprises and flexibility, October is the perfect month to visit.

However, there is still a small chance of potential tropical storms and hurricanes and some essential things to consider.

All of the links above open in a new tab. They are incredibly useful for your Miami trip.

Man tips are from our Florida resident. Additionally, we have visited Miami fairly often in October.  That’s why we have prepared all the best tips and information to make your trip to Miami the best it can be during this month.

3 Must-Do Activities | Everglades – Speedboat – City Cruise

All three tours are excellent in October! However, you are free to book anything else, of course!

Is October a Good Time to Visit Miami?

October is a great time to visit Miami if you want to avoid tourists and travel slowly through the city. The weather is good with less rain than before. October also hosts the South Beach Seafood Festival for many tasting and cuisine opportunities around Miami.

Weather

The average high temperature in October is 83-87°F (28-30°C) in Miami. It is the final month of the wet season with warm weather and lower humidity. It is the end of hurricane season, and the rainfall slowly decreases towards the end of the month with an average of 2.8 to 5.2 inches.

Temperature progression in October:

• Early October: 87°F (30°C)
• Mid-October: 85°F ( 29.4°C)
• Late October: 83°F (28.3°C)

Rainfall

October is the final month of the rainy season here in Miami. Rainfall will start to decrease as the month goes on rapidly, but hurricanes and tropical storms are still possible, especially in the first half of the month. Take proper precautions when necessary.

The average rainfall in Miami in October is 5.2 inches at the start of the month and 2.8 inches by the end of the month. If tropical storms and hurricanes are still present, expect 3.4-10 inches of rainfall this month.

Hurricanes: It is important to take hurricane warnings seriously and be sure to take the necessary precautions to ensure safety in case of an emergency. Even though they are less common than in previous months, there is still a slim chance for hurricanes and tropical storms throughout October.

Local opinion: Chances of being near a hurricane in Florida during any given week in October are minuscule. I would not worry about it. Chances of rainfall are greater in early October, about fifty percent less in late October.

Can it rain the whole day? Rainfall won’t spoil your Miami trip throughout October. From our experience, rain usually doesn’t last very long during this month. Rain is more common in the afternoon hours, so keep that in mind when planning certain activities.

Heat/Humidity

Miami will always have high levels of humidity due to its southern location in the sunshine state and being so close to the Caribbean. However, October is the month where you will start to see a shift in weather from summer to fall. Other than early in the mornings, the high humidity won’t be as noticeable this month.

The morning hours usually have humidity levels of 86% and drop to 62% during the late afternoon. On average, Miami humidity on a daily basis is 74%.

Tip: It is important to stay hydrated throughout the day and apply sunscreen when being outdoors for long hours. We suggest bringing a refillable water bottle to keep with you throughout the day.

Daily Weather Progression

October has fairly consistent weather throughout the day in Miami. Expect higher humidity and lower temperatures in the morning, with lower humidity and higher temperatures starting in the afternoon.

Typical daily temperature progression:

• Early Morning (6 AM): 77°F
• Early Afternoon (1 PM): 85°F
• Evening (9 PM): 80°F

Mornings: Mornings have high levels of humidity in the mornings from 4-8 am. There tend to be sunny skies, and the rainfall usually holds off till the afternoon.

Evenings: We found that evenings can get chilly, especially when we spend time near the coastline. Temperatures stay lower throughout the evening/nighttime hours, and humidity stays low until around 4 am.

Water Temperature

Miami brings some of the warmest waters in the entire state due to its southern location.

October is the last ‘acceptable’ swimming month of the year. Once the rainy season ends, the ocean starts to decrease in temperature. Miami’s water temperatures in October average around 83°F, still an ideal condition for swimming and water sports.

What to Bring | What to Wear

In Miami almost any style is acceptable and you will see a wide range of summer clothes in October, especially around South Beach. This city gives you the possibility to wear any trendy outfit you like.

During October in Miami, wear shorts and tanks or t-shirts in the mornings since the humidity levels are highest. Keep a raincoat handy in the afternoons. Additionally, shorts can still be worn in the evenings, but keep a jacket with you when the temperatures are lower and winds higher.

Temperatures increase in the afternoon, but so does the chance of rainfall.

• Sandals
• Shorts
• Capri Pants
• T-shirts & V-necks
• Raincoat or Poncho
• Light Sweater or Jacket
• Bathing Suit/Swim Trunks
• Bathing Suit Cover Up
• Loose Fit Clothing

Additional items to pack:

• Sunscreen
• Umbrella
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Bug Spray (mosquitos are bad in August)
• Water Bottle -stay hydrated!
• Small backpack or fanny pack
• Water shoes
• Light sweater or jacket
• Halloween costume for Halloween on Lincoln Road

Restaurant tip: When staying in Miami, we keep a sweater or light jacket handy throughout the day for dining out indoors. Since the temperature outdoors is mostly hot, the air conditioners are typically set to arctic temps. If you get cold easily, definitely bring a sweater.

Headache: When we went to Miami, we always brought 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.

Crowds

The fall season brings fewer visitors to the sunshine state compared to the following winter season.

October has some of the lowest crowds of the whole year in Florida, even in Miami. Kids are back in school, and hurricane season is still present. Vacationers don’t want to risk the chance of their trip being interrupted due to bad weather conditions.

Miami is host to the South Beach Seafood Festival in October, which tends to bring more crowds during those days of the month. Visitors can enjoy the best of Miami’s cuisine with food and wine tastings, live music, and more. The always loved that event! It lasts for 4 days, so expect higher crowds during this week.

Beach crowds: Always remember, it is Florida, so beaches are always going to be somewhat busy when the weather is pleasant. If relaxing on the beach is what you are most looking forward to on your vacation, October is a great month as it tends to bring fewer visitors to the coastline due to unpredictable weather conditions.

Good to know: The area called ‘Miami Beach’ is huge and feels infinite. Thus, you can always find places where you can sit in solitary, even on busier days.

Rates | Affordable Hotel Tips

Due to slow tourism during the month of October, rates will be lower than average during most of the month. October is in the middle of shoulder season in Florida, so if you are trying to visit Miami on a budget, this is one of the best months to do so.

Halloween: The last weekend in October will have the highest rates of the month due to Halloween weekend and the many events going on around the city such as Halloween on Lincoln Road.

5 Best Cheap Hotels in Miami

A night in Miami during October does not have to cost you hundreds of dollars. There are so many terrific but inexpensive motels as well. We have assembled a list of fantastic but reasonably priced hotels (see below). If you can’t find one now, make sure to bookmark the top hotels in Miami with a price match guarantee by booking.com.

1. The New Hotel (Location: North Beach/Miami Beach): This is a hidden gem! Actually, we don’t think you can find a more affordable one which is that good and so close to the beach. The rates per night start from ~ $120. The owner Joyce is truly lovely and such a helpful lady.
2. Marriott Vacation Club Pulse (Location: South Beach): What a hotel and location for that price! If you can spend a little more (from ~180 USD), choose this one in October! It is an affordable oceanfront hotel located in the heart of South Beach. It’s located in the middle of everything. Beautiful rooms, great beds, and bathroom, fantastic staff. A+++ for everything, including the cleanliness.
3. Circa 39 Hotel (Location: Miami Beach): Another gorgeous boutique hotel with amazingly friendly staff and amazing rooms. The location is just perfect, as you can walk to Miami Beach within 3-4 minutes. One great detail: They offer free beach chairs and umbrellas. Ask the staff at the hut and they set it up for you on the beach during your October visit!
4. El Paseo Hotel (Location: South Beach): You easily walk to South Beach in 1-2 minutes from the El Paseo Hotel. This will definitely save you a lot of time! Also, there are amazing restaurants downstairs and it’s a safe place in the evenings. The rooms are super clean, the beds are great and comfortable (you will sleep well!), and the staff is very friendly.
5. Life House (Location: Little Havana): An extraordinary place to experience Cuba’s atmosphere during this month in Miami: Little Havana (Google Maps Location). The hotel is very close to Main Street, with a lovely rooftop bar, and very friendly and helpful staff. We highly recommend this one for one or two nights in October.

Other budget options: Depending on your preference and budget, you can find hostels starting at around $18 a night, and go up from there. Staying in an Airbnb starts at around $55 a night (depending on the size).

Places to Visit / Things to Do in Miami

Miami is a city where it is hard to ever be bored. Between the various beaches, museums, restaurants, and shops, visitors have a never-ending list of things to do in Miami in October.

Beaches

A trip to Miami isn’t complete unless you spend a day or three at the beach. Miami has Florida’s warmest waters and most beautiful coasts. Depending on what type of beach you like, Miami offers a variety of possibilities for visitors. South Beach and Miami Beach are the two most popular beaches in the Miami area.

• South Beach: This is one of the most popular beaches in the country and is loaded with restaurants, attractions, shops, and sights. It is a very welcoming, energetic, and trendy/upbeat city, so visitors shouldn’t be surprised by anything. It is known for its thriving nightlife and abundance of bars and clubs on the strip.
• Miami Beach: For visitors wanting a more relaxing and peaceful vibe on the beach, head north to Miami Beach. Ideal for travelers who are wanting to enjoy their time in Miami, without all the craziness and upbeat energy that comes along with South Beach.

Airplane and Heli Tours

You will love this flight!! It’s an incredible journey to view Miami and Miami Beach from a breathtaking bird’s eye view. We did this one 3 times already! It makes you feel as if you are in my own private plane!

• Miami: 60-Minute Airplane Flight Tour (via GetYourGuide). Check the availability here:

Review from a customer: ‘Just excellent, the special pilot, brings confidence, humor, and experience. Felipe, the guide, is more than attentive and willing to coordinate everything perfectly and adjust to the client 100%. An unforgettable experience and more than recommended.’

You will see from above (it’s jaw-dropping):

• South Beach, North Beach, and Haulover Beach
• Biscayne Bay and its famous lighthouse
• Colorful Boca Chita and Elliot keys
• The Miami Seaquarium
• The Bayside cruise port
• Skyscrapers of downtown Miami
• Islands with celebrity homes
• The Art Deco District and Ocean Drive
• The amazing Everglades
• The Vizcaya Mansion and Gardens
• The Miami Marlins Stadium
• The Hard Rock Casino
• The American Airlines Arena and Bayfront Park
• Incredible Cayo Brickell
• The Venetian canal and islands
• Stiltsville homes hovering above the water
• Indian Creek Gulf Camp
• Hard Rock Stadium

Everglades

Everglades National Park is just a short 30-mile drive west of downtown Miami. In October, the Everglades become a bit cooler, with an average high of 85°F (29.4°C) and an average low of 74°F (23°C).

The rainfall is starting to taper off, decreasing as the month goes on. Mornings and evenings will be the best time to spot animals due to rising water levels in the afternoons.

Our personal favorite tour is this one:

• Everglades National Park: Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show (via GetYourGuide): Make a reservation. It’s hassle-free and you get a voucher via phone (you can also print it if you like)

Boat Tours

The city of Miami, particularly Biscayne Bay, is filled with many different boat tour opportunities for travelers. Depending on your budget and interests, there is something for everyone. If boats aren’t your thing, jet skis (South Beach Jet Ski Rental) are also available as an alternative.

45-Minutes Speedboat Tour (reservation via GetYourGuide): Our personal tip and absolute favorite. What an adventure! We were blown away at how much fun this was. We did this one three times last year!

You can float by Millionaire Row and Celebrity Island for sights of some of the most beautiful homes in all of Miami, owned by famous celebrities such as Shaquille O’Neal and P.Diddy. We highly recommend checking out this tour:

City Cruise to Millionaire’s Homes & Venetian Islands. The tour guides are amazing and the whole cruise is simply amazing.

There are also sunset tours, city tours, and boat tours all over the area of Biscayne Bay. Sunset tours are great for group or girls trips, and a superb way to end an evening of exploring:

Sunset Cruise through Biscayne Bay and South Beach: ‘Our guide was an amazing host, entertainer, and historian! The views of the sunset were stunning!’

Water Sports

The abundance of water sports available in Miami is unmatched. In October, you can take part in kayaking/canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, kitesurfing, swimming, snorkeling, diving, and jet skiing all over the city of Miami.

Biscayne Bay Kayak or Paddleboard Rental: Perfect for explorers, as you can get to incredible places that are hard to reach with a car or motorized boat along the shores of Biscayne Bay.

Since Florida has some of the bluest waters in the state, Key Largo Marine Sanctuary has some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the country.

Great for beginners, and seasoned SUP lovers as well, Crandon Park has calm waters and little distractions, and ideal conditions for stand-up paddleboarding.

Wynwood Arts District

A personal favorite activity of ours is the Wynwood Arts District. This outdoor street museum is filled with street art, graffiti, and art installments that are unique, beautiful, and historical as well. There are guided tours available if you are interested in learning about history.

Wynwood Art District 1-Hour Street Art Tour by Golf Buggy: Even locals are doing this tour and recommend it as a fantastic experience!

It is also the ideal place to get the perfect new profile picture as there are dozens of backdrops available for creators.

Little Havana

This is a ‘must see’ in Miami if you are a lover of food. Little Havana offers a little taste of Cuba right in the middle of Miami. It is a very walkable neighborhood and there are guided walking tours daily as well.

Little Havana: Food & Cultural Walking Tour with Lunch: The tour guides are exceptional and the food on this tour is fantastic! This is a must-do!

While you are here, don’t forget to stop by Versailles restaurant in October. Miami’s most popular Cuban restaurant dating back to 1971.

Museums

Miami has a museum for every type of traveler. Depending on your interests, Miami is home to history, science, art, and interactive museums. This is a great activity for people for an afternoon in October when the weather is unpleasant.

Special Tip: ‘Superblue Miami’ Immersive Art Experience Ticket

If you are a lover of music, head downtown to the Museum of Contemporary Art on Friday evenings for live music. If history is more your cup of tea, you may enjoy the Vizcaya museum and gardens, with history and facts dating back to the 19th century, and beautiful views. Additionally, and great for kids, The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is not only a museum but also a planetarium and aquarium.

Bayside Marketplace

Located in the heart of downtown, the Bayside Marketplace is another one of our personal favorite places to spend an afternoon in October. Located on the Bay close to Miami’s port, visitors can enjoy an afternoon of shopping and snacking at the various stores and cafes at the marketplace. This is an ideal place to grab any last-minute gifts or souvenirs!