What is the Florida Panhandle area like in the winter?
Jun 8th, 2005, 11:23 AM
#1
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What is the Florida Panhandle area like in the winter?
We have seen some very nice condos for rent in the Destin area that have very good rates in the winter months. No doubt it is because it is relatively cool there compared to locations farther south. We would have no problem staying there if the temperatures were in the high 50's or low 60's durign the day. We could still play golf, sit on our balcony wearing sweatshirts, etc. What is the real downside to staying in the area during the winter months? The prices are certainly very reasonable.
Jun 8th, 2005, 11:40 AM
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Hi boulder,
The really only big negative to staying in the panhandle in the witer is the weather. During the months of Jan. and Feb. you can reasonably expect freezing temps. at times. Otherwise, temps. in the 50's would be about normal. Also, the panhandle is typically a summer tourist destination, so expect small crowds and freedom to roam.
The really only big negative to staying in the panhandle in the witer is the weather. During the months of Jan. and Feb. you can reasonably expect freezing temps. at times. Otherwise, temps. in the 50's would be about normal. Also, the panhandle is typically a summer tourist destination, so expect small crowds and freedom to roam.
Jun 8th, 2005, 02:42 PM
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Having grown up at that same latitude but a little farther west in southern Louisiana, I have seen weather in the winter vary widely. Generally, but not always, December can be pretty pleasant, with highs in the 50s, perhaps even low 60s. But January and February can get cold, and there will always be freezing temperatures on several days during those months. A benefit of the colder weather is that such days are generally clear and sunny. Cold, clear days are usually the ideal time to get out and take a long walk.
Jun 8th, 2005, 06:49 PM
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I live in Fort Walton Beach which is just across the bridge from Destin--really just one big community. I can't think of any downside to the panhandle during the winter months! Yes it can get cold, even freezing some nights, but it usually doesn't stay there for more than a day or two. And the temps usually warm up by 10 or 11 making for clear, pleasant days for golfing, walking on the beach or shopping. No bugs, horse flies or mosquitos either.
Best of all, there aren't long waiting lists for eating out and the traffic is once again reasonable. In short, we become the best kept secret on the Emerald Coast for a few short, sweet months!
Best of all, there aren't long waiting lists for eating out and the traffic is once again reasonable. In short, we become the best kept secret on the Emerald Coast for a few short, sweet months!
Jun 8th, 2005, 07:42 PM
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I lived in Pensacola Florida from September until May..the only downside...I had tennis at 8:00 a.m., it was 32....by 9:00 it was already up to 50!!! It gets chilly at nights, but like you said, 50, 60 during the day!!
Jun 9th, 2005, 05:14 AM
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No downside at all. We live in the panhandle and my husband plays golf twice a week year round. We live inland and it is always a little warmer on the coast. October and early November are especially nice because the water is still warm enough for swimming but the oppressive heat is gone. Also gone are the crowds and traffic! You can't lose.
Jun 9th, 2005, 06:24 AM
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I agree that the winter is a great time to visit the Panhandle. It will be too cold for boating and other water sports. Things will be very quiet but it would be nice time to relax and enjoy the area.
Jun 9th, 2005, 10:59 AM
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Winter rates start the end of October.
So even though November isn't technically winter, as J9999 has been kind enough to point out, it still enjoys winter rates. October falls in the fall rates season which is not as inexpensive as winter but still a big savings over summer.
So even though November isn't technically winter, as J9999 has been kind enough to point out, it still enjoys winter rates. October falls in the fall rates season which is not as inexpensive as winter but still a big savings over summer.
Jun 10th, 2005, 05:35 AM
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Am I reading Sunshinesque's post correctly
-- that winter rates in the FL panhandle are cheaper than summer rates?
If that's true, then certainly that's a reversal opposite the norm for most of FL. Usually, FL is dirt cheap in the summer.
-- that winter rates in the FL panhandle are cheaper than summer rates?
If that's true, then certainly that's a reversal opposite the norm for most of FL. Usually, FL is dirt cheap in the summer.
Jun 10th, 2005, 05:46 AM
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Yep, that's true. Many of my friends with condos rent them out monthly to Canadians from Jan - Mar. I guess the difference j9999 is that the Panhandle isn't "tropical" in winter like Miami/ South Florida, etc. Still, it's lovely. There can be cold days/nights, but for the most part the weather isn't very cold, not a lot of rain in the winter and the beaches are wonderful for walking if not for swimming.
Boulder, I don't think there is a downside - unless you want to swim every day. In that case, you could wear wetsuits like they do in California
If Boulder is from Boulder - winter days in the Panhandle can be similar to summer days in RMNP. Perfect sweatshirt and golf weather.
Boulder, I don't think there is a downside - unless you want to swim every day. In that case, you could wear wetsuits like they do in California
If Boulder is from Boulder - winter days in the Panhandle can be similar to summer days in RMNP. Perfect sweatshirt and golf weather.
