When to Go

North Florida enjoys as much sunshine as the southern part of the state, but the climate here is more temperate than tropical. Unlike the rest of Florida, the Panhandle's high season falls roughly between Memorial Day and Labor Day, when hordes of tourists and vacationing families from neighboring states head south for the summer. (Up to 80% of Panhandle visitors drive in from Alabama, Georgia, and other cities in Florida.) Lodging prices in the region are usually based on a four-season system: spring break and summer rates are highest, winter lowest, and fall and spring are between the two extremes. (In the Tallahassee area only, hotel room prices increase during Florida State University home-game weekends, graduation week, and when the Legislature's in session around March and April.) If you prefer your beach less crowded or can't take the heat the Panhandle is famous for, plan to visit in the autumn -- October and November can be the loveliest months of the year here -- when warm, sunny days alternate with cool, rainy spells and there's relatively little humidity. Winter days can be both brilliant and bitterly cold, perfect for fishing or walking along miles of deserted beach.