12 Warmest Beaches in Florida in January: Beat the Winter Chill!
You’re in the Sunshine State during the winter months and you want to explore beaches, so here’s a blog about the warmest beaches in Florida in January, which is considered one of the coldest months in U.S. history.
Florida’s beaches are home to sandy shores and emerald waters, and you’ll surely love the vibe, sunshine, sand, and the environment. There are various outdoor water activities like fishing, kayaking, and snorkeling that you can enjoy during this month. You’ll find young and old people are in love with Florida! Read, my blog on, the pros and cons of retiring in Florida, it’ll be crystal clear to you.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay any extra penny, but I’ll get a small commission that encourages me to deliver more helpful content for you.
Also, if you find yourself sweating through Florida’s summer, I recommend adding fun to your beach tan lines. Don’t miss the ‘bare’ necessities—check out the Sunshine State’s hilarious nude beaches!
So, for now, let’s take a dip in the best Florida beaches to visit in January for warmth.
Table of Contents
Can You Swim in Florida in January?
Yes, swimming in the Gulf of Mexico waters is incredibly relaxing during the winter months (December – January), with average water temperatures ranging between 62 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Even from Palm Beach to Monroe County, the Atlantic water temperatures hover around the mid-71 degrees Fahrenheit.
Many of you ask me whether you can visit the ocean from Orlando in winter. The answer is that the oceans are quite far away from Orlando. However, you can definitely come to Cocoa Beach and the Space Coast to witness rocket launches.
Hence, the water temperature in Florida Beach in January is on average around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Yes, my friends, you can use your swimming caps in the winter season in Florida!
Where Can You Find Sunbathing Weather Even In the Winters in Florida?
The answer is simple: South Florida. Here, throughout the year, you can experience nothing but summer, summer, and more summer. The area offers a nice, fresh breeze from the Atlantic Ocean, making it ideal to enjoy the warmth of the sun.
Fort Lauderdale, Naples, Miami, and the Florida Keys become the top winter getaways in Florida for both Floridians and tourists from the USA. The temperature here is between the upper 70s – and low 80s with no snowfalls.
Even Georgia is a great destination to choose if you love warm temperatures in winter. If you want to know more about Georgia, you can read my blog on the pros and cons of living in Georgia and Florida. The logic behind it is that the farther south you go, the warmer it gets.
Warmest Beaches in Florida in January
1. Tigertail Beach
- Island: Marco Island on Florida’s southwest coast
- Fee: $10
- Fact: The beach resembles a tiger’s tail as it curves into the Gulf of Mexico. The daily temperature range hovers around 79 degrees Fahrenheit in December and January.
To bask in some winter sun and enjoy the white sands, visit this remote region of the Florida Everglades, Tigertail Beach, which was just an offshore sandbar 15 years ago.
It came into existence, thanks to the winds of Hurricane Wilma, and has since become a dream destination for beachgoers who love kayaking, paddle boarding, and bird-watching.
You can’t miss the Great Florida Birding Trail; it’s my favorite spot for spotting shorebirds. I recommend crossing the lagoon, where the fun begins.
Crossing the lagoon, with its abundance of small fish and squishy, grassy mud, is delightful. However, be cautious of red crabs.
Once you’ve reached the north, you’ll encounter a seashell tree and a tree covered in handwritten messages. The place is truly unique, and you might even spot snowy plovers, black skimmers, and more.
2. Grayton Beach State Park
- Location: Florida Panhandle, it sits northwest corner of Florida in South Walton
- Fee: $5
- Fact: Have you ever wondered about the best Florida beach activities in January, like camping at Topsail? It’s one of the famous resort RV parks.
Yes, I camped at Grayton Beach State Park in the “premium” sites, which are situated along the water and offer a more rustic environment.
There was also a coastal dune lake, making it even more beautiful! You’ll love walking or taking bike rides while watching the clean waves of the Gulf.
The place is incredibly soothing for the mind. From here, the sunset is truly amazing. You can see the sky turning yellow and orange right before your eyes.
I spotted herons, stingrays, and many deer on the beach. However, be cautious about bears. This beach has been voted as the best beach in Florida.
This is one of the warmest and most family-friendly beaches in Florida to visit in January for a great walk, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, and swimming. If you’re on the lookout for a stunning home in the Florida Panhandle, I’ve got just the blog for you! Take a moment to give it a read, and discover the beauty that awaits.
3. Delnor Wiggins State Park
- Island: In Southwest Florida
- Fee: $6 per vehicle up to 8 people
- Fact: The spot where the Cocohatchee River flows into the Gulf is so refreshing
Have you ever wondered how to have the best winter beach vacation in Florida? You can spend time with your family picnicking, and enjoying a BBQ, while overlooking the beach and the Cocohatchee River in the backdrop.
The powdery white sand and the beach are perfect for families looking to snorkel or have a family fishing time! You can spot sea stars, small ray scoots, big mullets, sea trout, red drum, and more along the shore.
During my visit, we went kayaking into the cluster of mangrove islands at Water Turkey Bay, which was one of the best experiences. We saw so many birds, starting from osprey, egrets, kingfishers, and herons. If you’re lucky, you can even spot a black-whiskered vireo.
Tips:
- Parking is limited at lots 1 and 2
- After the storm, major things have changed, hence, you can check their Facebook page to know what to expect from new
- Swimming is not allowed in the past
- Pets are not allowed
Romantic Getaways on Warm Florida Beaches in January
4. Rent a Cabana at Delray Public Beach and Discover Wildlife with Your Partner
- Location: North of Fort Lauderdale near Atlantic Avenue
- Fee: $150 per day
Indulging in the fresh ocean breeze in Delray Beach and relishing the blissful opportunity to unwind on the stretch of soft sand, alongside numerous charming cafes and under the warm sun, is something every couple looks forward to.
Waking up to the view of the sunrise, with the sky gradually turning blue and harmonizing with the soothing blue waters of the beach, along with the sandy hues and a sun-drenched, carefree lifestyle, is just what you need during the winter months!
Not only can you enjoy this at the beach, but you can also take a leisurely stroll along colorful murals, art installations, and Artist’s Alley, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere while conversing with passionate locals and creating wonderful new memories.
5. Walk the streets of Holmes Beach with Anna Maria Island’s annual Art Walk
- Location: Around Gulf Drive and Holmes Boulevard area
- Fact: From 12th January – April 13, 5.30 p.m – 7.30 p.m
It’s winter, and Floridians know that they should come to Anna Maria Beach to escape the cold, enjoying the warm water, a good book, and a peaceful day. However, if you’re new, I recommend you ditch the beach for a day and go for a unique experience.
Take part in Anna Maria Island’s annual Art Walk, which features a special exhibit of local pottery, stunning wildlife, and landscape photography by local Gulf Coast artists, free refreshments, music, and a chance to savor various types of culture.
Tip: Try out seafood local restaurants like Rod and Reel Pier, The Sandbar, Bridge Street Bistro, and Red Lobster
6. Move your hips at Mile 0 Fest in Key West
Location: 21 Quay Road in Truman Waterfront Park
Key West’s Mile 0 Fest is one of the great Texas Red Dirt music festivals for Floridians to enjoy performances by artists such as Pat Green, Ian Munsick, American Aquarium, Shane Smith & the Saints, and other renowned “Red Dirt” musicians.
It’s a 5-day festival, and after experiencing this fun, you can explore Key West’s clean water, secluded coves, and untouched shores. My all-time favorite is Smathers Beach because it has a proper parking area and restrooms.
The crowd on the beach is mixed – young and old as the beach features a broad range of fun activities. It’s an ideal Florida beach destination in winter for snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming. There are many food trucks outside the beach making it great for food lovers to taste local cuisines.
Best Sunny Florida Beaches in Winter
7. South Beach
Location: Miami
White sands, turquoise waters, and a vibrant party scene are what South Beach is famous for, but did you know it’s also one of the best winter vacation spots in Florida, where you can try out parasailing?
Along the beach, you’ll find delicious restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. You can explore the architecture, enjoy nature, and bask in the pretty weather. The annual South Beach Jazz Festival features a range of events, from small to mid-range performances and functions.
Art Basel Miami Beach is another famous art and music event that draws crowds to Miami. Additionally, ‘The Nutcracker’ is a classic holiday ballet that you can experience. I can tell you that the sun during January is so pleasant that you can enjoy the city’s attractions without feeling sweaty!
Tip: Do not miss the sunset view from Collins Avenue or Miami Beach
8. Boca Raton
I can’t count how many times my family and I had picnics at Spanish River Park in Boca Raton during our childhood winters. We used to bring our hammocks, set them up, and had such an amazing time!
It’s a great place to have a picnic with your kids, play volleyball, or swim. In the evenings, my father used to take us bird-watching on the Great Florida Birding Trail. Moreover, it’s worth noting that Spanish River Park is now part of the Intracoastal Waterway, so if you have a fishing license, you can enjoy fishing here.
Also, if you’re in Boca Raton during the second week of January, be sure to attend the Boca Fest, which showcases handcrafted jewelry and artwork by talented creators.
Winter Sunbathing in Southwest Florida
9. Sanibel Island
Location: Leeward side of Pine Island
With the blistering cold in January, Sanibel Island stands out as one of the best Florida beach towns with mild January weather, where you can enjoy warm sand and beautiful beaches.
This beach offers a high level of relaxation that I guarantee you won’t find anywhere else. What makes Sanibel Island the best is its 26 miles of bike paths, incredible shelling opportunities, and open-air farmer markets.
Spending time on Sanibel Island creates a lifetime of memories, as this Florida beach is home to 230 bird species and over 250 types of pastel-colored shells. You can also come to the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, a mangrove jungle that is home to manatees, and other tropical birds.
10. Clearwater Beach
Did you know that in 2018, Trip Advisor ranked Clearwater Beach as the number 1 beach in America? The golden sand and clean water have earned it nationwide acclaim. Therefore, the beach attracts many travelers.
However, in winter, it sees fewer visitors, allowing you to enjoy a secluded vibe. The water temperature averages in the upper 60s and 70s, but remember that at night, temperatures fall to around 50 degrees, so it’s always recommended to bring your hoodie.
Every year on January 20th, residents of the area gather at the Pier 60 Daily Festival to celebrate the sunset. The event starts 2 hours before sunset and remains open after sunset. Artists and street performers also join the festival, making it a delightful event to participate in.
Beach To Visit in Florida Panhandle in January
11. 30A, Emerald Coast
Location: 30A sits between Panama City and Destin
A secret Gulf Coast oasis of Florida that has its own character and charm, 30A is certainly an experience you cannot miss out on! Okay, let me tell you what 30A is. It’s a collection of beaches like Dune Allen Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Blue Mountain Beach, WaterColor, Seaside, WaterSound Beach, Inlet Beach, and a few more.
I personally love Rosemary Beach for its cobblestone streets, tree-lined avenues, and the trend of bicycle rides that make me absolutely adore this place. By the beach, you can rent chairs and spend hours enjoying the vibe.
The beach hosts exhilarating events and festivals throughout the year and is home to many restaurants offering rich and diverse cuisines. I especially enjoy coming to Lola Coastal Italian for a taste of foreign flavors. Beer lovers, you can’t miss Beach and Brew on 30A, another amazing spot.
12. Juno Beach Park
How about jogging by the beach and soaking in a laid-back vibe throughout the day? Welcome to Juno Beach Park, one of the most captivating barrier islands between West Palm Beach and Jupiter.
Do you know what makes the beach unique? The Oceanside eateries, where you can sit, have affordable food with your friends, and hang out as much as you want. In the evening, come to Juno Beach Pier to watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean and bask in the beauty of Mother Nature.
Read More:
