best time to go to Keys
 

I just read an article on the Keys in TL-Family and it sounded like fun for a family trip sometime next year. I wonder when is the best time weather-wise so we could swim comfortably but not be too hot? All the posts say when it's so-so -- when is it ideal? Is it really crowded during "ideal" too?

I avoid the keys from May through September because of the heat and humidity. In fact, I try to avoid all of Florida during that time. Even the begining of October is very hot.

We like May. The average high is in the mid 80's and at night it stays in the mid 70's. Very little rain and wind is also a nice plus.

Late October/early November. You will find the best rates and the weather will be what you describe. Downside? Tail end of of Hurricane season, and it isn't out of the question to have a tropical system potentially screwing up your vacation. March and April also have the weather you describe with no chance of tropical storms/hurricanes. Downside- everyone wants to come then and the prices go way up. If you have the $$ I would come during the spring and avoid crowds by staying at one of the nice, small Mom-and Pop style waterfront hotels. If you are on a budget take the slight risk of storms and come in the fall.

kflodin,
Weatherwise, I would suggest mid-April to mid-May. I don't think it will be too crowded during that time. If Easter falls late during a particular year, that could cause crowding. The first two weeks in May are usually warm, but not yet stifling.

Mid-October/November is usually good for weather, but you do have the tropical systems threat plus there is a huge festival surrounding Halloween (Fantasy Fest?) and I know it is jammed for that. I'd vote for the Mid-April/Mid May timeframe.

Have a great time.

We owned a home in the Keys for over twenty years. We sold it 3 years ago, and have chosen to rent for a month at least once a year. The month that we choose is May. The weather is great, warm but not too hot. The rentals are also very reasonable during that time. It is a tad windy during that time, but it also keeps the temp moderate as the OP noted.

Thank you everybody so much. This is very helpful.