As a family, we started a vacation tradition when my youngest was two years old, and my oldest was almost six years old. Each year in February, when it is the coldest in Michigan, and we are over the winter weather and ready for spring, we would travel to my ex-father-in-laws home in Cape Coral, Florida.
Even though we would travel by road to our family in North Carolina or to up north destinations in Michigan, we always flew because, with toddlers and young children, a two-day road trip is very taxing for the whole family. We flew from Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) to Fort Meyers (RSW), where my then-father-in-law (Grandpa) would pick us up and drive forty minutes back to his beautiful condo in Cape Coral. It has a gorgeous view of the Caloosahatchee River, which connects to the Gulf of Mexico.
Oftentimes, while visiting with Grandpa, he would take us out on a boat trip on his Hurricane deck boat, which did very well on the ocean and in the bays. A few times, we went to a restaurant in Boca Grande, which is only accessible by boat. Apparently, legend has it this restaurant is where Jimmy Buffet got his inspiration to write the “Cheeseburger in Paradise” song. It was a great cheeseburger, and the ambiance was excellent.
Prior to our annual trip to Cape Coral with Grandpa, I grew up spending more time on the East coast of Florida in places like Fort Lauderdale, Big Pine Key, and Daytona, or in Wildwood, New Jersey, and The Outer Banks (OBX), North Carolina. So, the Gulf of Mexico was a treat to be able to explore and boat on.
Other than being on my honeymoon with my ex-husband, I had not yet experienced any hurricane like weather in Fort Lauderdale or Fort Meyers, so I am not sure which side of Florida gets hit by hurricanes more.
According to the Florida Climate Center, “A common misconception in Florida is that there are parts of the state that do not get hurricanes. Since 1850, all of Florida’s coastline has been impacted by at least one hurricane. With its long coastline and location, Florida frequently finds itself in the path of these intense storms. The southeast coastline is extremely susceptible to a land-falling hurricane, followed by the panhandle. Areas around Tampa, Jacksonville and the Big Bend do not have as high of a risk of a direct strike from a hurricane but are still susceptible to a landfall each year. Even if the hurricane makes landfall elsewhere in the state, the impacts can be felt hundreds of miles away,”.
There you have it; nowhere in Florida is immune to or more prone to hurricanes – the whole state is susceptible to a cyclone’s wrath. However, hurricane season is typically when they are most active.
What are the worst months for hurricanes in Florida?
Again, the Florida Climate Center reports that the peak of hurricane season occurs between mid-August and late October when the waters in the equatorial Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico have warmed enough to help support the development of tropical waves.
Hence why, we were fortunate to have nice weather in February when we were on our annual family trip to visit Grandpa. We were not so fortunate on my honeymoon trip several years earlier to Riviera Maya, Mexico, located just south of Cancun, and a short boat ride to the island of Cozumel. On the last day of our trip, red flags were posted everywhere along the beach, and the waves were huge because a hurricane was approaching the area later that day. Fortunately, we left that afternoon to arrive safely back home at DTW airport.
What is the best month to visit Florida?
Based on average weather conditions, crowds, and rates, some of the best months to visit Florida are March-April or September-October. However, for us, the rates were much lower in February, and it coincided with my sons’ school breaks. Even though they only had about three days off for mid-winter break, they were still in elementary school, so taking a few more days off wasn’t much of a problem. That is until my oldest reached middle school age, where it was harder to make up work and miss days of school.
Sometimes, we would get lucky, and while we were in Florida, it would be snowing in Michigan, and the kids would get snow days off and not have to take an absence. Imagine that: us sitting in the sunshine, poolside, enjoying a snow day off of school!
Florida truly offers something for everyone year-round, but different seasons bring diverse experiences. For those seeking a quieter experience with fewer tourists, January and February are excellent choices. The weather is typically mild and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities without the sweltering heat of summer. Additionally, this period is ideal for visiting attractions like Disney World and Universal Studios, where lines are often shorter and the parks less crowded.
If you are a wildlife enthusiast, consider visiting in the spring when migratory birds pass through the state. This is incredibly fascinating in areas like the Everglades and Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, renowned for birdwatching. Springtime also showcases the beautiful blooming flora, providing vibrant backdrops across botanical gardens and state parks.
For beach lovers who enjoy warmer waters without the summer peak tourist influx, May and November can be superb. Both months offer slightly lower temperatures and allow for leisurely beach escapes without contending with heavy crowds. Lastly, if you’re a festival lover, attending one of Florida’s numerous local festivals throughout the year can provide unique cultural insights and fun activities tailored to regional specialties.
Most hurricane prone areas in Florida
In conclusion, while no part of Florida is immune to hurricanes, understanding seasonal patterns can enhance your travel experience. Visiting in the less busy months like February not only provides pleasant weather but also fewer crowds, making it perfect for family vacations. Remember, preparation is vital during hurricane season, ensuring a safer visit.