Earlier than you bounce on a aircraft, practice, or into your automotive, you’ll have to know the very best time to go to Tampa. In any case, for those who go at a time that doesn’t swimsuit what you may have deliberate, it’s going to have an effect on your journey. Nevertheless, there may be some excellent news: Tampa is nice irrespective of which month you go to.
Tampa doesn’t actually have 4 seasons, it has two: sizzling and humid, and gentle and dry. That makes determining when to go to Tampa lots simpler.
Nevertheless, it does have a busier season when crowds are ample; for those who go to between Could to August, you’re going to see line-ups however don’t let that put you off as a result of Tampa is unbelievable irrespective of the time of yr.
I’ve visited Tampa extra instances than I’ve fingers on my fingers and stayed for a number of weeks at a time. There are such a lot of things to do in Tampa that the climate will simply be a background theme to all of the enjoyable you’re having. However, that will help you pinpoint the very best time for you, let’s discover Tampa all year long:
Total Finest Time To Go to Tampa
Personally, I just like the interval between the tip of September to December. Throughout this time, the very best danger for hurricanes has handed, the humidity has fortunately calmed down, and the majority of the crowds have receded.
The opposite plus level is that inns are usually cheaper presently too, so you may typically seize a cut price so long as you keep away from Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New 12 months. I’m not an enormous lover of maximum warmth, so June to August is much too sizzling for me, and the humidity is off the dimensions.
When you take pleasure in seaside time and want to catch a tan, the very best time to go to Tampa is September. I take pleasure in this month as a result of it’s heat and sunny, however not insufferable. In fact, everybody can have their private preferences, however if you wish to get essentially the most out of the realm, the decrease temperatures throughout these months will aid you just do that.
Peak Season in Tampa
(Could-August)
Between Could and August, you’ll expertise warmth, humidity, and crowds, however there’s additionally lots happening. It’s about weighing up a steadiness and understanding when to go to Tampa in line with your wants.
When you’re into festivals, this can be a good time to go to as that is when the Sunset Music Festival and two beer festivals: BeerFest (in July) and Bolts Brew Fest are held. You may also take pleasure in loads of seaside time to chill down from the warmth.
As with peak season anyplace on the planet, lodge costs are greater throughout this time of the yr. A superb hotel in Downtown will value you round $430 per evening in July, in comparison with round $370 in October.
Shoulder Season in Tampa
(September and April)
I believe the shoulder season is the very best time to go to Tampa. It affords all of the enjoyable of peak season however with out the extremes. September is an excellent month as a result of the humidity has began to drop and belief me, the air in August is extraordinarily heavy. September affords some reduction whereas remaining heat.
April is an analogous story; the climate is warming up however hasn’t fairly hit the excessive notes but. You may also try Taste @ The Straz, a must-do for foodies. At this level, hotels can also cost far much less, and you may typically get a room for round $100 cheaper than throughout peak season.
Off-Season in Tampa
(October and January to March)
You possibly can’t name this an low season, however for those who’re contemplating the climate, it might fall into that class. I like this time of yr as a result of the rain doesn’t final lengthy. It’s the very best time to journey to Tampa for those who’re in search of lodge offers, as you may normally discover a high-quality hotel in Downtown for round $300 per evening or much less.
The Oktoberfest (in October) is a pull for a lot of craft beer lovers, and the quieter vibe means you may discover lots simpler. The one draw back is that fewer out of doors actions, reminiscent of watersports, could also be obtainable, just because there aren’t as many vacationers in comparison with the months to come back.
When to Go to Tampa For Seashores
When you’re in search of enjoyable within the solar, I’d counsel visiting between Could and the tip of July. Nevertheless, keep in mind that July is the most popular month, so solely go to for those who’re a critical fan of warmth. The plus level is that the ocean is at all times splendidly refreshing and affords loads of reduction.
There are numerous seashores round Tampa Bay, and some of my favorites embody Clearwater, St. Pete Beach, and Ben T Davis Beach, which is the closest to Downtown. You’ll discover that seashores are extra crowded presently, however there are extra amenities and water sports activities on provide.
When to Go to Tampa For Festivals
The ironic factor about determining when to journey to Tampa for festivals is that the majority occasions are likely to fall into the so-called low season. Between January and April, there are some nice festivals to attend, together with Tampa Pride, Tampa Bay Beer Week, and Taste @ The Straz.
Nevertheless, the height season is once you’ll discover not solely common festivals however ad-hoc ones too. It looks like there’s at all times one thing happening between Could and August, together with the Sunset Music Festival, Bolts Brew Fest, and BeerFest. Sure, Tampa loves its craft beer.
When to Go to Tampa For Historic Websites
Essentially the most historic a part of Tampa is Ybor City and the very best time to go to Tampa if you wish to discover the realm freely is between October and November, or between January and March. At these instances, the climate is lots higher for strolling round (with out sweating), and the crowds are much less intense.
The Ybor City Historic Walking Tour is a superb alternative presently of yr and is right for these in search of one thing slow-paced. Nevertheless, you can simply as merely stroll round and take a look at the structure, exploring by yourself steam. This can be a lot simpler when the climate is cooler and fewer humid.
When to Go to Tampa For Wildlife
The broader Tampa space is residence to a variety of totally different species of wildlife, and it’s at all times an awesome thought to move out and discover. I at all times take pleasure in dolphin-watching and the excellent news is that the very best month to go to Tampa for that’s, effectively, anytime! Simply be sure to e book your tour for mid-morning as that’s once you’re more than likely to identify one thing.
When you take pleasure in bird-watching, the months between December to March are finest for recognizing totally different species. There are lots of mountain climbing trails superb for fowl watching, reminiscent of Lettuce Lake Park Boardwalk.
When to Go to Tampa For Low cost Costs
Between January and the tip of April, you will discover some nice offers on inns. Throughout January and February, you may typically discover high-quality hotels for round $100-$150 much less per evening than through the peak season. Some financial savings could also be greater for those who spend sufficient time procuring round.
That is the very best time to go to Tampa if you wish to preserve some cash in your pocket and use it to discover extra freely. Whereas restaurant and store costs will stay the identical, you’re extra prone to see reductions, reminiscent of New 12 months gross sales in comparison with different instances of the yr.
When to Go to Tampa For Climbing
The most effective time of yr to go to Tampa for mountain climbing is between September and December. A lot of Tampa’s trails are open all yr spherical, however presently, you’ll be capable of stroll with out worrying about an excessive amount of rain and uncomfortable temperatures. Because of this, you’ll see much more of the realm and expertise fewer crowds.
I found a love for mountain climbing in Tampa, after initially being skeptical of any type of bodily train whereas on trip. Lizards Tail is a specific favourite of mine, which takes you thru Cypress Creek Protect and affords beautiful views. I additionally loved Eureka Springs Boardwalk, which is a brief stroll superb for households.
The Riverwalk can be classed as a path, and when the climate is cooler, and there are fewer individuals round, it’s a lot simpler to discover and take your individual candy time.
The Finest Time to Go to Tampa By Month
In our quest to determine the very best time to go to Tampa, let’s check out every month and be taught extra concerning the common climate circumstances and what it’s like within the metropolis all year long.
Bear in mind, Tampa is a big metropolis, and it doesn’t matter what the month, it’s filled with issues to see and do. The one factor it’s essential be certain of is which you could simply tick off no matter you add to your must-do record, with out being hindered by issues exterior of your management.
Tampa in January
Tampa in January means winter, however don’t even take into consideration snow. We’re speaking a few quiet time, when everyone seems to be recovering from New 12 months, and the climate is gentle and typically wet. One of many best places to visit in January is Florida.
Climate in Tampa in January
The common daily temperature presently of yr is round 70°F/22°C. Evenings generally is a little cooler, however actually not chilly, and you’re very unlikely to see snow. What you might even see is a bit drizzle, with a median of simply 6 days of rain all through the month.
As you may see, these gentle temperatures are perfect for exploring, and all you’ll want is a lightweight jacket within the day and maybe one thing a bit hotter for the evenings. Regardless of it being the best month, it’s nonetheless removed from chilly.
Issues To Do in Tampa in January
Whereas January is quieter, there’s nonetheless lots to see and do. All the principle sights are open, and the Gasparilla Pirate Festival is an actual spotlight. You’ll see parades, music, costumes, and a complete lot of enjoyable, celebrating Tampa’s swashbuckling previous.
Taking a Historic Ybor City Food Walking Tour is a good suggestion presently since you’ll be lots freer to discover. It’s an awesome introduction to the realm and helps you uncover locations to return to throughout your keep.
Tampa in February
When visiting Tampa in February you may take pleasure in all of the Valentine’s celebrations whereas nonetheless with the ability to discover brazenly because of cooler climate.
Climate in Tampa in February
Climate in February is similar to January, with daytime temperatures hovering round 73°F/23°C. The possibility of rain is round 17% on any given day, however it’s normally gentle and never torrential. I’ve visited Tampa presently, and I discovered it actually gentle and nice.
Issues To Do in Tampa in February
A terrific occasion to attend in February is the Florida State Fair. There are rides, exhibits, meals, and the whole lot you may think about to have fun the Sunshine State. It’s additionally a good time to identify manatees as they collect abundantly through the winter – you by no means know what number of you may see.
Try inns and eating places round Valentine’s Day as many have particular menus on provide, however keep in mind to order a desk prematurely as locations fill rapidly.
Tampa in March
Tampa in March means we’re heading slowly towards the hotter climate, and this can be a nice time to move outside and discover nature.
Climate in Tampa in March
You’ll see a sluggish warming up occurring in March, with daytime temperatures round 77°F/25°C, with barely cooler evenings. It’s much less prone to rain too, with a low likelihood of 13% every day. It could be a bit cloudy more often than not, however you’re nonetheless positive to see some lovely blue skies.
Issues To Do in Tampa in March
March is the best time to move out mountain climbing – one in every of my favourite actions. There are lots of trails round Tampa and with the milder climate, you’ll take pleasure in them rather more. Most tour corporations begin their sunset cruises presently of yr, and that is the best time to take a tour with out so many crowds. Click here for details.
The Gasparilla Music Festival takes place in March/April, and you may catch dwell bands in Downtown, together with craft beer stalls and scrumptious meals.
Tampa in April
Visiting Tampa in April is one in every of my favourite instances to go. The climate is superbly heat, there are sufficient guests to make issues fascinating, and loads of actions to take pleasure in.
Climate in Tampa in April
It’s not prone to rain in April, so benefit from the dry climate earlier than the wetter season simply across the nook. Temperatures are likely to hover round 83°F/28°C through the day, with lows of 66°F/19°C at evening; it’s splendidly gentle presently of yr.
You’re most likely not going to wish a jacket even within the evenings, however I’d suggest preserving an umbrella in your bag if attainable, simply in case of sudden downpours. For me, that is the very best time to go to Tampa if you wish to spend most of your time outside.
Issues To Do in Tampa in April
When you love Blues music, head to the Tampa Bay Blues Festival which lasts for 3 days each April. It’s an awesome likelihood to hearken to some unbelievable music and mingle with like-minded individuals. You’ll additionally discover stalls promoting scrumptious meals and drinks.
Outside actions are an awesome thought presently. I loved a kayaking tour final April, and it was a lot enjoyable, particularly because the kayak had a glass backside. Exploring the Riverwalk is at all times beneficial, and with the height season not but in full swing, you’ll be capable of stroll much more freely than at different instances of the yr.
Tampa in Could
Tampa in Could means summer season is beginning, and whereas the acute warmth hasn’t hit but, it’s not distant. This can be a good time to go to if you wish to hit the seaside, however don’t wish to battle for an area on the sand.
Climate in Tampa in Could
Could is the final month earlier than the beginning of the hurricane season, and temperatures are actually warming up. You possibly can count on an average of 87°F/31°C with very gentle evenings certainly. The possibility of rain continues to be very low so this can be a good time to benefit from the dry climate.
Issues To Do in Tampa in Could
Head to the seaside in Could and also you’ll take pleasure in peace and quiet with some superbly heat days. Ben T Davis Beach could be very near Downtown however it’s also possible to go a bit additional afield and take a look at Honeymoon Island State Park or the ever-popular Clearwater Seashore.
You’ll possible discover a number of celebrations for Cinco de Mayo (on Could fifth), that are at all times nice enjoyable to participate in. If you wish to go to a Mexican restaurant particularly, be sure to reserve a desk effectively prematurely.
Tampa in June
June 1st is the official begin of the Atlantic hurricane season, however you shouldn’t let that fear you an excessive amount of. Tampa could be very effectively ready for hurricanes, and also you’ll hear about any attainable antagonistic climate effectively forward of time, with all precautions taken. Test the Nationwide Hurricane Middle web page here.
Climate in Tampa in June
Tampa in June could be very heat certainly, and humidity is beginning to enter the fore. You possibly can count on temperatures of round 88°F/31°C, though the humidity may make it really feel barely hotter. I’m not an enormous lover of sizzling climate, however I discover June fits me tremendous.
The possibility of rain begins to sneak up a bit presently, with a 30% likelihood on any given day. When showers do fall, nevertheless, they are usually fairly fleeting. Simply preserve an umbrella with you, and also you’ll be tremendous.
Issues To Do in Tampa in June
It’s positively time to benefit from the seaside now and head out to the parks across the metropolis itself. The Tampa Bay Zipline Adventure is a superb factor so as to add to your itinerary in June, with barely fewer crowds however unbelievable climate for zipping by means of beautiful surroundings.
Alternatively, head out on a dolphin sightseeing cruise and see for those who can spot any of those light animals whereas they’re looking for meals. When you’re not one to move to the seaside, one other nice approach to fill a day is to go to Adventure Island Park – an enormous waterpark with area to relax too. Click here for ticket details.
Tampa in July
Tampa in July is sizzling, sizzling, sizzling. Sure, that is the hottest month of the yr so for those who like the warmth, that is the month for you. When you don’t, effectively, maybe wait just a few months earlier than you go to.
Climate in Tampa in July
The common daytime temperature in July is a really sticky 90°F/33°C and humidity is extraordinarily excessive. The possibility of rain is round 30% any day, and it’s finest to hunt shade at any time when you may.
In fact, for those who’re all concerning the seaside and summer season enjoyable, that is the very best time to go to Tampa. You’ll actually want your air con to sleep at evening, nevertheless, as nighttimes are simply as sticky because the day and don’t appear to get a lot cooler.
Issues To Do in Tampa in July
Presently of yr, Tampa is vibrant and vibrant. It’s a busy time of yr as we’re now into the height season, so for those who go to any of the principle sights, it’s a good suggestion to e book your tickets on-line beforehand to keep away from the queues.
If you wish to dodge the stickiness of town, I’d extremely suggest the Fort De Soto Beach Guided E-Bike Tour. You’ll get to discover wildlife and nature, and there’s loads of shade too, excellent for avoiding the solar. The seaside right here can be lovely. Click here for more information.
Evenings are very heat so that you’ll wish to dine outside. Fortunately, Tampa has loads of eating places that tick that field, together with a agency favourite of mine—Ulele.
Tampa in August
Tampa in August means rain. That is the wettest month of the yr, however that doesn’t imply it’s going to be a monsoon both. The plus level is that August is filled with unbelievable occasions and issues to do.
Climate in Tampa in August
It’s nonetheless very heat in August, with a median daytime temperature of round 88°F/31°C and really heat evenings. Once more, air con is a should presently of yr; there’s no approach I’d have survived August’s humidity with out it.
It’s too heat to put on a rain jacket, so I’d simply counsel preserving an umbrella useful or looking for shelter if a downpour does come about. Regardless of the chance of rain, you’ll get an excellent 13 hours of sunshine on common per day, so that you’ll want solar safety.
Issues To Do in Tampa in August
Try Tampa Bay Comic Con, which lasts for 3 days yearly, and is a must-do for comedian e book followers (and anybody who merely desires an excellent day trip). I’d additionally suggest benefiting from these heat evenings by taking the Tampa Terrors Ghost Tour. It’s such a enjoyable night, whether or not you see something spooky or not.
St. Pete Seashore could be very near town and is a tremendous day trip from Tampa through the hottest instances of the yr. You’ll discover a number of issues to see and do there, and it’s solely a 30-minute drive away. When you’d fairly keep near town, strive the Tampa History Cruise, serving to you be taught extra concerning the space and absorbing the solar on the identical time.
Tampa in September
Visiting Tampa in September is one in every of my favourite issues to do; I like the climate, I like the vibe, and fortunately, the humidity is beginning to fall.
Climate in Tampa in September
The climate towards the tip of September is healthier than at the start, when it’s nonetheless fairly humid and heat, nevertheless, mid-month and into the final week brings fantastic circumstances. Whereas it may not seem like temperatures have fallen a lot, with an average of 86°F/30°C, the drop in humidity makes it really feel much more comfy.
In fact, that is the center of the hurricane season however merely keep in mind to hearken to native information. If a hurricane does head Tampa’s approach, simply observe directions and steering till it passes. Bear in mind, simply because it’s hurricane season doesn’t imply you’re going to expertise one.
Issues To Do in Tampa in September
The most important crowds have ebbed away by the center of September, so you will get out and see extra with out individuals getting in your approach. Mid-September is the beginning of the NFL season, so heading to see the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on the Raymond James Stadium is an exciting factor to do.
The Tampa Bay Boat Show takes place each September, and also you don’t must be a crusing fanatic to take pleasure in it. You may also reap the benefits of fewer guests by taking a guided city tour in a deluxe golf cart; it’s nice enjoyable and lets you take within the metropolis with out taking a toll in your ft.
Tampa in October
It’s spooky season and visiting Tampa in October means you may be taught extra concerning the metropolis’s haunted previous.
Climate in Tampa in October
There are some enjoyable occasions occurring in October, and the marginally cooler climate lets you take pleasure in them to the fullest. You possibly can count on day by day highs of round 82°F/28°C and there’s a noticeable drop in humidity. The possibility of rain additionally drops, to fifteen%.
I’ve by no means wanted a lightweight jacket in October as evenings are nonetheless very gentle.
Issues To Do in Tampa in October
Each October, the Tampa Bay Oktoberfest rolls into town, and this can be a must-do for craft beer followers or anybody simply seeking to have an excellent time. This three-day occasion is held at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and options German-inspired meals, drinks, and leisure.
Anybody visiting with youngsters ought to try Seminole Height Great Pumpkin Patch, which runs for many of October and is a superb alternative to move outside and discover the proper pumpkin.
In fact, it wouldn’t be October with no ghost tour, wouldn’t it? I liked the Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour, and I felt like a real-life ghostbuster with the paranormal searching tools.
Tampa in November
November is the final month of the hurricane season and likewise brings very nice climate, supplying you with the possibility to pack your days with sightseeing choices.
Climate in Tampa in November
Delicate temperatures are again at 77°F/25°C with a lot cooler evenings; you may not even want air con. Tampa in November is lots quieter than the final couple of months, however for me, it’s the very best time to go to Tampa you probably have an extended record of stuff you wish to see and do.
It’s a lot much less prone to rain in November, and you may nonetheless stroll round in a T-shirt through the day. You may want a lightweight jacket on some evenings.
Issues To Do in Tampa in November
The principle occasion in November is Thanksgiving. On the fourth Thursday of the month, you’ll be capable of take part with celebrations everywhere in the metropolis. Some eating places and bars could shut for the day, however many will stay open for particular occasions.
The Tampa Bay Times Turkey Trot in Downtown is a should. This occasion takes place on Thanksgiving itself and holds a enjoyable race for adults and a shorter race for youths. The ambiance is vibrant, with meals, costumes, music, and common merriment. You don’t have to e book tickets, however if you wish to participate within the race, you’ll have to register beforehand. Click here for details.
Automobile followers ought to head to the Tampa Conference Middle for the Tampa Bay International Auto Show. You possibly can take a look at drive automobiles, be taught extra about new fashions, and primarily fill your thoughts with the whole lot vehicle-related.
Tampa in December
The final month of the yr is one in every of festivities, and also you may be picturing snow in your thoughts. That’s not going to occur in Tampa in December, however there’s a lot to see and do.
Climate in Tampa in December
Delicate and nice are the very best methods to sum up the climate in December, with average day by day highs of 73°F /23°C. Evenings may be chilly, however it’s an awesome excuse to put on a flowery coat and hit the city in type.
It doesn’t are likely to rain very a lot in December, so it’s a good time to discover the festivities occurring across the metropolis.
Issues To Do in Tampa in December
In the course of the night, head to Tampa Theater and catch a festive film, and you’ll want to try the Christmas Boat Parade, which you’ll be able to see from the Riverwalk. It’s a gorgeous sight to see, with coloured lights and music in all places.
Merely strolling across the metropolis and absorbing the ambiance is one in every of my favourite issues to do because the festive season approaches.
When you’re staying for Christmas, it’s a good suggestion to order tables at eating places forward of time, particularly for New 12 months’s. On New 12 months’s Eve there are unique events at many of the high inns and eateries, so select one which fits you and dress up.
Finest Time to Go to Tampa: FAQS
Listed below are some solutions to ceaselessly requested questions on the very best time to go to Tampa, FL:
The hurricane season runs from June to the tip of November.
The rainiest time of the yr happens concurrently the very best temperatures, growing humidity. You possibly can count on essentially the most rainfall between June and September, with August being the wettest month.
The most effective time to go to Tampa for prime temperatures is July.
January is the coldest month, nevertheless, day by day temperatures are nonetheless hovering round 70°F/22°C, so nonetheless very gentle.
Tampa isn’t very chilly, and temperatures are usually fairly gentle even through the winter. In actual fact, the cooler months are the very best time to go to Tampa if you wish to discover.
Orlando is far hotter than Tampa in the summertime months, with extraordinarily excessive humidity. Nevertheless, Tampa is milder through the winter months.
In Conclusion
The most effective time to go to Tampa varies for every type of traveler, relying on what you wish to see and do. The principle level to recollect is that Tampa isn’t a metropolis with freezing chilly temperatures and the bars and eating places by no means actually shut. The low season could be very a lot decided by the decrease temperatures, not essentially a scarcity of issues to occupy curious guests.
All main sights stay open all yr round, and it merely comes down as to if you may deal with excessive temperatures and humidity sufficient to go to in the summertime. When you can’t, don’t hesitate to save lots of a bit cash on lodge costs and go to Tampa throughout its so-called ‘winter’. Belief me, this place doesn’t know what winter actually is!