My Best Advice for Visiting Florida in April

I might be biased, but April is the best month to visit Florida! It does happen to be my birthday month and the month we got married, but we chose that specifically because of the weather and affordability.

When visiting Florida in April, you can expect warm sunshine (but not too hot) and often fewer crowds than earlier in the year. It is just the right time for a vacation and I will explain why in this blog post!

1. April Weather

This time of year, the weather in Florida tends to be hot and sunny with few chances of April showers. I find it to be ideal beach and pool weather, without being hot enough to make outdoor activities miserable.

To give you an idea of what to expect weatherwise, I have broken up the typical weather by region below.

North Florida

In cities like Jacksonville, Tallahassee, and Pensacola, April brings mild and enjoyable temperatures with highs typically in the mid-70s to low 80s°F (around 24-28°C) and lows in the 50s to low 60s°F (around 10-16°C). This is excellent weather for biking, hiking, and even camping!

Central Florida

Over in the Orlando and Tampa Bay region, plan for average highs in the low to mid-80s°F (around 27-30°C), with evening temperatures cooling down to the 60s°F (around 15-20°C). Keep in mind, that this will feel hot if you are traversing the theme parks, while over on the coast, you might need a light jacket. Luckily, there is little rain, so you can enjoy many classic Florida experiences without having to run for cover.

South Florida

By April, it is rare to see South Florida drop below 70°F (around 21-25°C). Expect most days to be in the 80s°F (around 29-31°C) with sunny skies. Luckily, the humidity won’t be as bad yet, so you can get a break in the shade this time of year.

2. What to Pack for A Florida Vacation in April

My Ultimate Packing Guide explains everything you would need to bring to Florida in April. I would bring more shorts and tees as opposed to pants and sweatshirts. However, be sure to bring a light jacket in case the temperatures drop in the evening.

You will want to be sure to pack sunscreen and bug wipes if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors. I would also bring a hat and rain jacket to deal with the elements. Most importantly, bring a reusable water bottle so you can stay cool in the heat!

3. The Best Florida Places to Visit in April

Though April still has some spring break crowds, especially if Easter falls later in the month, it is generally less crowded than earlier in the year. I would take this opportunity to visit some of the top destinations without the crowds or the heat. You can’t go wrong with April in Florida, but here are my favorite places to visit.

Orlando: The weather is perfect for exploring the world-renowned theme parks and vibrant city of Orlando without heavy crowds. Enjoy theme parks and the nearby Kennedy Space Center on weekdays for low crowds.

St. Augustine: As the oldest city in the U.S., the spring season brings cooler temperatures and lower humidity, ideal for walking tours of the historic district, exploring the Castillo de San Marcos, and strolling along the cobblestone streets.
Fort Myers: Known for its pristine beaches, historic estates, and outdoor activities, Fort Myers is particularly appealing in April. This is an especially great time to see wildflowers, in places like the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary where orchids are in bloom.
Tampa Bay: April’s mild weather makes Tampa a top contender for a Florida family vacation. Experience activities like the Tampa Riverwalk, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and the many outdoor dining options.
Miami: For a vibrant April vacation, head to Miami where you can relax on the beach, tour the art deco architecture of South Beach, take a boat tour of Biscayne Bay, see sea creatures at the Miami Seaquarium or taste the culinary delights of Little Havana.

4. Events and Festivals in April

April is a popular time of year for Florida events and festivals to take place. Between nature experiences and musical events, there is something for all sorts of interests. Here are some experiences to plan for in April.

National Park Week

National Park Week in April is an ideal time to explore Florida’s stunning national parks. Take advantage of free admission day (April 22nd) and special events the rest of the week (April 17^th – 23^rd).

It’s the perfect time to visit places like the Everglades National Park or Biscayne National Park, where you can go hiking, try wildlife viewing, and learn about the state’s unique ecosystems and history.

Events at the Theme Parks

April has a packed calendar of events at the Central Florida theme parks, with festivals and fun experiences. If you plan to visit Orlando or Tampa, make a note of these upcoming events.

Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival: Throughout the entire month of April, Epcot is in bloom with topiaries, beautiful blooms, concerts, and themed kitchens. There are so many extras free to experience with a park ticket.
Universal Studios Mardi Gras: The beginning of April continues the excitement of this New Orleans tradition by offering a spectacular parade, live concerts, delicious Cajun cuisine
SeaWorld Seven Seas Food Festival: Check out SeaWorld’s foodie festival every Thursday through Sunday in April, included with admission. Not only are there all sorts of unique dishes to try, but you can also listen to live music!
Busch Gardens Food and Wine Festival: Every weekend, this theme park gives visitors the chance to sample gourmet foods, wines, and craft beers from around the world. It combines the thrill of theme park rides with the pleasure of culinary exploration, making it a perfect outing for foodies and thrill-seekers alike.

Foodie Festivals

Theme parks are not the only places celebrating food in Florida this April! In South Florida, The Pompano Seafood Festival is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Held on the beach on April 20^th and 21^st, the festival offers a feast of fresh seafood, live music, arts and crafts, and beautiful ocean views.

Over on the Panhandle, indulge in a regional dish at the Pensacola Crawfish Festival the last week of April. Feast on Cajun cuisine, including thousands of pounds of boiled crawfish, along with live music, crafts, and family-friendly activities, all set in Pensacola’s historic downtown.

Miami Film Festival

This year, the 41st Miami Film Festival showcases the best in international and independent filmmaking, from April 5^th to April 14^th. With screenings across the city, the festival offers a platform for innovative filmmakers and provides film lovers with an opportunity to explore diverse narratives and cinematic styles.

Tortuga Music Festival

Set on the sands of Fort Lauderdale Beach, the Tortuga Music Festival is a three-day event starting April 5th and featuring top country, rock, and roots performers. It’s not just about the music; the festival also raises awareness and funds for marine conservation efforts.

Conch Republic Independence Celebration

The Conch Republic Independence Celebration in Key West lightheartedly commemorates the city’s symbolic “secession” from the United States in 1982. The week-long festival takes place from April 19^th to the 28^th and features parades, parties, food, and a lively reenactment of the “secession,” celebrating Key West’s quirky spirit.

Pick Your Own Blueberries

April is blueberry season in Florida, and many farms open their doors to visitors looking to pick their own fresh berries. Find a farm near you with this guide to U-Pick farms.

Florida Sports Spectating in April

Sports are in full swing by April in Florida, and it’s a lovely time to attend outdoor sporting events. The following teams have games going on this month:

Hockey: The NHL season is heading towards the playoffs, making it an exciting time to catch a Florida Panthers or Tampa Bay Lightning game.
Basketball: The NBA regular season is wrapping up, offering the last chance to see the Miami Heat or Orlando Magic in action before the playoffs.
Soccer: Major League Soccer is in full swing, with Orlando City SC and Inter Miami CF competing in exciting matches.
Baseball: April marks the start of the MLB season, a perfect time to watch America’s pastime by supporting the Miami Marlins or Tampa Bay Rays.

5. April Crowd Levels

Crowd levels vary significantly in April influenced by spring break schedules, school holidays, and special events. When Easter falls later in the month, there can be high crowds the weeks before and after it, mainly in Orlando and on South Florida beaches.

However, this month tends to be milder in terms of crowds, especially in Late April. By then, most spring break crowds have dissipated. For travelers looking to avoid the peak crowds while still taking advantage of the fantastic weather and events, planning a visit to Florida in late April offers the best of both worlds.

6. Average April Costs

April tends to be a moderately priced time to visit Florida, with the exception of Easter weekend when it falls in April. Hotels will average rates, with a potential for cheaper rates on weekdays. Flights tend to be on the slightly more expensive side, but there is the potential for weekday deals.

Overall, while April presents a popular time for visiting Florida, with strategic planning and flexibility in travel dates and activities, it’s possible to manage costs and enjoy the Sunshine State’s offerings without breaking the bank.

7. April Safety Tips

There is little to worry about when visiting Florida in April, as you are unlikely to experience hurricanes or extreme heat. However, to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

Sunscreen is a must, even on cloudy days! Be sure to bring sunscreen and reapply regularly.
April is generally pleasant, but it can also bring sudden showers or storms. Check the local weather forecast regularly, especially if you plan outdoor activities or are visiting coastal areas.
Pay attention to beach flags and signs indicating current water conditions. Always swim in areas supervised by lifeguards, and be aware of the risk of rip currents.
Do not swim in retention ponds, rivers, or small bodies of water, as they are often home to gators.

Know Before You Go

April in Florida is a period of sublime weather, vibrant festivals, and a plethora of outdoor activities, making it one of the best times to explore the diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of the Sunshine State. Be sure to save this guide for help planning a spring getaway to Florida this time of year.

Here’s a quick rundown of things to remember:

Weather: Sunny and warm
Ideal Destinations: Orlando, Miami, Tampa Bay, Fort Myers, St. Augustine
Areas to avoid: North Florida is seeking hot beach weather
Crowds: Average besides Easter weekend
Affordability: Average prices for hotels and flights

Do you agree that April is the best time to visit Florida?! Let me know! And for more ideas of things to do on your trip, be sure to check out my Ultimate Florida Bucket List!