15 Best Places to Visit in Florida in December in 2023
Most people across the United States would likely agree that December is one of the busiest and most stressful months of the year. In the thick of the holiday season, facing freezing temperatures each day, you might be aching for a sunny getaway.
There are so many great places to visit in Florida in December, perfect for enjoying that Florida sunshine.
We love visiting Florida during the colder months to escape the freezing cold temperatures at home. It is nice to have a change of scenery and some extra sunshine. Come along with us as we break down the best places to visit in Florida in December.
Best Places to Visit in Florida in December
1. Orlando
Orlando is one of the most popular family vacation destinations on the East Coast, and with good reason. Theme parks and day trips to the beach make this city a family fun spot for sure.
Visiting Orlando, Florida, in December isn’t necessarily the best time to visit this part of the state because of holiday crowds. If you’re seeking a Vitamin D recharge, there’s no worry to fret; sunshine will be in abundance. And so will the crowds.
Disney World and Downtown Disney will be decked out in holiday garb, so you’ll be sure to catch the Florida Christmas spirit if you spend some time there. Also, just because Florida doesn’t have snow doesn’t mean you have to abstain from some fun winter recreation. Check out the indoor tubing adventure at Orlando Gaylord Palms.
Plus, the drive out to Clearwater is short enough that you can have a beach day if you’d like.
Where to Stay in Orlando
Residence Inn by Marriott Orlando
⭐️ Rating 9.6/10 |📍Location: 2111 Flagler Ave in Winter Garden | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Residence Inn by Marriott is a wonderful place to set up your home away from home while visiting Orlando. Guests can choose from either a spacious studio or a one-bedroom suite, depending on their specific party needs. Both styles of room feature a fully-equipped kitchen and extra seating.
This is an excellent choice for families spending Christmas in Florida, as the property has swimming pools and a complimentary breakfast. It’s also just a short walk away from many of the best Orlando attractions.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Residence Inn by Marriott Orlando
2. Destin
Destin, Florida, and the surrounding area have some of the best beaches in December. Destin beaches are stunning, and they provide a great and relaxing way to experience winter in Florida.
Whether you decide to jump aboard a fishing charter, fly a beach kite, or go on a dolphin cruise, there are so many things to do in Florida in December. We always have such a great time when we visit Destin.
The water and beaches, especially those in Henderson Beach State Park, are beautiful. We camped in this state park during our last visit to Destin and had an amazing time. The beaches were not crowded, and my kids had fun completing the junior ranger program there.
Being in the northern part of the state, the weather here will be a bit cooler compared to some beaches further down the gulf and on the Atlantic Ocean Coast. But it’s still a wonderful warm beach escape and one of the best Florida Gulf Coast family vacation spots!
You can unwind and enjoy the sunshine while also keeping the family busy with so many things to do in Destin with kids!
Where to Stay in Destin
Courtyard Fort Walton Beach – West Destin
⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍Location: 414 Santa Rosa Blvd in Fort Walton Beach | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
The Courtyard by Marriott has two really great things going on. Firstly, it’s affordable. And even more important, it’s on the beach! This price and location cannot be beat.
Get ready to wake up to Gulf of Mexico views, with white sand and emerald waters! The hotel rooms are clean, modern, and comfortable. And they also have an on-site restaurant that is known to serve some amazing entrees.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Courtyard by Marriott
3. Clearwater
Clearwater is lovely any time of the year and would make an excellent stop on a Florida road trip in December. Home to more than just amazing Gulf Coast views and stunning Clearwater Beach, your family will love all the kid-friendly activities this city offers.
Clearwater is one of the best places in Florida to visit in December and a personal favorite of our family, thanks to the beautiful weather. With highs around 70°F, it’s warm but comfortable. This is the perfect type of weather to enjoy a kayak tour or sunset cruise, which are some of the best things to do in Clearwater.
All the foodies out there should be sure to check out Clearwater’s epic food scene. From trendy downtown restaurants to memorable breakfast spots, there’s no shortage of food choices in Clearwater!
Where to Stay in Clearwater
Sandpearl Resort Clearwater Beach
⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍Location: 500 Mandalay Ave. in Clearwater Beach | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Clearwater is known for its impressive family resorts, and Sandpearl Resort Clearwater Beach fits the bill for a good time. The spacious rooms have everything you look for in a comfortable living space.
But the recreation deck really seals the deal for family fun. This space features grills and picnic areas where families can enjoy a meal together.
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are many affordable Clearwater motels that offer amazing accommodations in great parts of town. Some of them are even pet-friendly motels, which come in handy for families who like to travel with pets.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Sandpearl Resort Clearwater Beach
4. Marco Island
We visited Marco Island in the winter and had a great time. My kids loved the beautiful, calm water and had a great time playing at the beach. With daily temperatures in the mid-70s, everyone was comfortable. It really is one of the best places to visit in Florida in December.
Tigertail Beach is a wonderful place to spend a beach day while visiting Marco Island. The white sandy shores are perfect for shell hunting and beachcombing. We also love exploring the lagoon and mangrove trails. It’s a unique and fun adventure for our family, plus you can often spot some beautiful wildlife along the way.
After a fun day at the beach, grab some fresh seafood at one of the local Marco Island restaurants.
Where to Stay in Marco Island
Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa
⭐️ Rating 8.2/10 |📍Location: 560 S Collier Blvd in Marco Island | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa is a lovely resort on Marco Island. It’s a 4-star hotel, so you can be sure to count on great accommodations. Some of the highlights of this place include the resort restaurant, impressive pool, kids club, and full-service spa.
This property really has all of the makings of a relaxing getaway.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa
5. Miami
Miami isn’t exactly a Christmas town in Florida, but the city would make for a perfect cultured winter getaway. It is not a beach town in the same way many others on this list are, but can still provide a fun family experience. Miami is a lively city brimming with art and food influenced by cultures around the world.
If you’re traveling with kiddos eager for beach time, A 20-minute drive outside of the city will get you to Miami Beach, one of the warmest Florida beaches in December. You will have an amazing time playing with your kids and their beach toys in the sand at a variety of different beaches in the area.
With water temperatures in the mid to high 70s, it’s one of the best places to play in the water in Florida in winter.
Where to Stay in Miami
The Standard Spa Miami Beach
⭐️ Rating 8.4/10 | 📍Location: 40 Island Ave. in Miami Beach | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
The Standard Spa Miami Beach is one of the most luxurious hotel options in the Miami area. The property is stunning and has amazing accommodations. Keep in mind this is an adults-only hotel, so it’s not a viable choice for family vacations with children.
That said, the beautiful pool, relaxing spa, and top-notch restaurant make for a very relaxing stay.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at The Standard Spa Miami Beach
6. Panama City
Panama City is home to some of Florida’s best Gulf Coast beaches. Known for being a spring break party city, there are still many family-friendly ways to enjoy this city apart from the rowdy beach scene.
St. Andrew’s State Park is a great beach alternative if you’re looking to escape the crowds at Panama City Beach. Jetty Beach is an amazing spot to spend the day with your family.
Expect slightly cooler temperatures here because it’s in the Florida panhandle, as opposed to warmer cities in the southern portion of the state.
If you’re brave enough to venture into the water, you can enjoy the sand and surf, snorkel in the lagoon, or maybe even ride a boogie board. You can still enjoy the beach from the shore if you’d rather not get wet, shell hunting, or fishing. There’s so much to enjoy at this beautiful park, so grab your beach bag and enjoy!
Panama City happens to be one of the best places in Florida to see dolphins. There are multiple dolphin tours available to book here, offering your family the chance to get out on the water and see these delightful and playful sea creatures.
Where to Stay in Panama City
Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach
⭐️ Rating 9/10 | 📍Location: 11127 Front Beach Rd. in Panama City | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
The Holiday Inn Resort is a nice hotel to consider if you’re planning to visit St Andrews State Park; it’s right down the road! This location is well-reviewed and has all of the amenities you could need.
From beach access to a super convenient pool complex complete with a splash pad, you can’t find a better option for families traveling in this area.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Holiday Inn Resort Panama City Beach
7. Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is an enormous park full of so much wildlife and wonder. It would be an amazing place to spend time together, exploring with your family in Florida in December. You can bike, hike, or take a waterway tour, the possibilities are endless in this Florida national park.
The park offers three different convenient entrances, depending on where you are in the state: Homestead, Shark Valley (in Miami), and Gulf Coast (in Everglades City).
This park is one of the best places in Florida for viewing endangered species. You never know what you might see here, including the likes of Manatees, American crocodiles, and Florida panthers. Have fun exploring!
Where to Stay near Everglades National Park
Everglades Adventures Hotel Suites by Ivey House
⭐️ Rating 9.2/10 | 📍Location: 107 Camellia St E, Everglades City, FL | 🏩 View on Expedia
If you’re considering a visit to Everglade’s Gulf Coast entrance, Everglades Adventures Hotel Suites by Ivey House is a fantastic place to stay. The rooms are perfect for traveling families. They include a full kitchen with a full-size refrigerator and microwave. Guest services are also super helpful with arranging tours to help you best enjoy your time in this area!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Everglades Adventures Hotel Suites
8. Key West
Key West is beautiful, and it just so happens to be the warmest place in Florida in December as well. In short, you can’t lose with a stop here. If you’re chasing after the winter heat, this is definitely the place for you.
Smathers Beach is the perfect place to spend a lazy day on the beach in Key West. It’s the largest beach in this area, offering your family plenty of space to enjoy the beach however you’d like.
If you want to make your time in Key West memorable, buckle up for an adventure to Dry Tortugas National Park. It’s one of the most unique national parks in Florida, requiring a 70-mile water journey on a ferry or with a tour to make your way to the secluded islands.
Also, stop by the Key West Holiday Fest if you’re looking to take part in a little holiday cheer during your visit. The path around the harbor will be adorned with Christmas lights for all to enjoy.
The drive through the Keys is absolutely amazing. The water is the most amazing color of blue.
Where to Stay in Key West
The Palms Hotel
⭐️ Rating 8.2/10 | 📍Location: 820 White St. in Key West | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
The Palms Hotel is a charming place to stay in Key West. If you’re someone who enjoys history, you’ll love this older property. The wrap-around porches are gorgeous, and the overall atmosphere of the space takes visitors back to old-time Key West.
We also appreciate that this hotel offers a continental breakfast. It’s delicious and served under a cabana alongside the pool. You can’t beat starting a day in paradise that way!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at The Palms Hotel
9. Seaside
Seaside is an affluent resort community and one of the best places to visit the 30A beaches. It would make for a wonderful place to visit in Florida in December. We didn’t stay here but spent a good amount of time exploring this beautiful place and its beaches. This area is exceptionally beautiful.
We were also very impressed by its urbanist design. All of the houses are soft pastel colored, with most being white. There are many access points to the beach throughout town, and we also loved the pavilions along the shoreline as well.
Be sure to check out Airstream Row, an Airstream food truck park, for some amazing food while you’re there! The snowcones alone make a visit worth it!
Where to Stay in Seaside
There aren’t many hotels or resorts in Seaside. A vacation rental is your best option when traveling here, and VRBO has lots of rentals in the area.
10. Tampa
Tampa is a buzzing metropolis, so if you’re looking for the fast-paced energy of the city with lots to do, see, and eat, this could be the best option for you. It is also just a short drive away from the beaches in Clearwater.
Busch Gardens and Zoo Tampa are your best bets for amusement-park-type fun with kids in this city. We have been to zoos all over the country, and Zoo Tampa is one of my absolute favorites. There are free rides for the kids, great animals, and an underwater exhibit for the manatees.
Tampa isn’t known for its beaches, especially due to bacteria in the water, but Ben T. Davis Beach makes for a fun place to have a picnic or play in the sand. Kids will certainly love exploring the Tampa Riverwalk, especially during this time of year when it will be decked out with Christmas lights.
Where to Stay in Tampa
Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
⭐️ Rating 8.4/10 | 📍Location: 2900 Bayport Dr. in Tampa | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay boasts clean rooms with top-of-the-line comforts. The large bay windows and terrace offer some of the best views of Tampa Bay. You can also grab a bite to eat at the convenient hotel restaurant and lounge in a hammock by the pool. Florida in December doesn’t get more relaxing than this!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
11. Naples
If you’re looking for a glamorous Floridian getaway in the middle of winter, then Naples might be for you. This city is very ritzy, known for its art galleries, fancy boutiques, and golf courses, but it’s not necessarily for everyone.
Families will be able to find some serenity outside the glimmering city at Naples Pier or Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Celebration Park is a fun spot to enjoy the comfortable temperatures with a dinner outside from the local and varied food trucks.
Where to Stay in Naples
Staybridge Suites Naples
⭐️ Rating 9.2/10 |📍Location: 9401 Triangle Blvd in Naples | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Staybridge Suites Naples is a 3-star hotel that offers a free buffet breakfast. There are several room configurations (Studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom suites) available here, making it all the more convenient to find the perfect setup for your family’s winter getaway.
We love that the suites at this property include full kitchens. This makes all the difference when traveling with a family, especially over an extended period of time. We love being able to have the tools and space to prepare our own food when staying at a hotel.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Staybridge Suites Naples
12. St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg is a charming Florida destination. It’s a good place to visit in December for families looking to enjoy the warm weather in a laid-back and relaxed fashion. St. Pete is not demanding or flashy, making it a great place to pause, reconnect with those you love, and take in some amazing scenery.
St. Pete Pier is a fun place to explore the city and enjoy the sunshine. They even feature a fun Winter Beach set up during this time of year where families can go ice skating while taking in views of the ocean. Be sure to check out some of the amazing St. Pete downtown restaurants afterward!
We often see dolphins right off the shore near the park and the pier, so make sure to visit that area leading up to sunset!
Where to Stay in St. Petersburg
Avalon Hotel Downtown St. Petersburg
⭐️ Rating 9.2/10 |📍Location: 443 4th Avenue North in St. Petersburg | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Avalon Hotel Downtown St. Petersburg is a simple yet nice place to stay when spending some time in St. Petersburg. The hotel rooms feature comfortable beds, free wifi, and flatscreen TVs. The property also has an outdoor pool for families to enjoy and a restaurant.
There’s also a beautiful garden that offers some stunning views of the bay, where your kids might enjoy playing.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Avalon Hotel Downtown St. Petersburg
13. Sarasota
Sarasota combines natural beauty with a thriving arts and cultural scene. Siesta Key Beach, a beach we absolutely love, is renowned for its soft, powdery white sands and turquoise waters. Sarasota offers nature lovers opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife spotting at places like the Celery Fields and Myakka River State Park.
Sarasota is also a hub for the arts, with a vibrant downtown area filled with art galleries, boutiques, and gourmet restaurants. The Ringling Museum of Art, The Sarasota Opera House, and the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall are all fascinating places to visit in town.
Sarasota is a beach town that offers a perfect blend of relaxation, inspiration, and cultural immersion. Making it a great place to recharge on a visit to Florida in December.
Where to Stay in Sarasota
Lido Beach Resort
⭐️ Rating 8.4/10 | 📍 Location: 700 Benjamin Franklin Dr in Sarasota | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Lido Beach Resort is a fun place to stay when exploring Sarasota with your family. This hotel has all the amenities parents want when traveling with their kids. First of all, there are two outdoor pools where the family can unwind anytime they see fit.
Secondly, the rooms are soundproofed, so you’re better able to stick to a normal sleeping schedule. And they include a microwave and refrigerator, making keeping food on hand much easier. Top it all off with private beach access and on-site laundry facilities, and it’s a match made in heaven!
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Lido Beach Resort
14. Sanibel Island
It’s no secret that many people flock to Florida in December for the comforts of the beach in January, during the thick of winter. Sanibel Island has six public beaches, so there’s plenty to choose from here. Relax and rejuvenate on the sand or take to the island’s 25 miles of bike paths for some active fun.
If you’ve got any shell collectors in your family, check out Bowman’s Beach and Blind Pass Beach for some real gems. And keep your eyes on the sky throughout the day too, as this is one of the best spots in Florida for birding! Every time we visit Sanibel, we can’t get over the amount of seashells everywhere.
Where to Stay near Sanibel Island
Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa
⭐️ Rating 8.6/10 | 📍 Location: 15951 Captiva Drive in Captiva | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa is almost like a mini-city. The plush rooms are spacious and comfortable. When you get hungry, your family can choose from three separate on-site restaurants. Not to mention the spa and hair salon where you can get prepped for your evening at the nightclub, all located right at the resort.
The property also grants guests access to their own private beach, with picnic areas and grills nearby. There are also outdoor pools to enjoy for those moments when you decide to forgo the beach. Tween Waters is a winter wonderland of relaxation and enjoyment.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa
15. St. Augustine
Given St. Augustine’s storied past, this is a great Florida destination to visit in December for history lovers. You can walk back to the 17th century with a visit to Castillo de San Marcos or climb to the top of Augustine’s Lighthouse to take in the city from above.
Kids and holiday lovers, in general, will really enjoy a visit to St . Augustine in December. The city goes all out when it comes to decorating. Be sure to catch the Night of Lights display to really get into the Christmas cheer.
We love the amazing architecture and history of St. Augustine, coupled with their beautiful beaches. Anastasia State Park is one of our favorite beaches to visit in the area.
Where to Stay in St. Augustine
Southern Oaks Inn
⭐️ Rating 8.8/10 |📍Location: 2800 N. Ponce de Leon Blvd in St. Augustine | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Southern Oaks Inn is a simple and cozy place to stay in St. Augustine. It has a great location near Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. The rooms and overall property are not flashy, but they are clean and comfortable. Families can enjoy the outdoor pool and free continental breakfast each morning.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Southern Oaks Inn
Best Beaches in Florida in December
Florida is a wonderful place to escape to during the cold winter months, thanks to the countless miles of coastline that stay warm and beautiful all year long. Not all Florida beaches are created equal, though. It’s important to know that water temperatures will vary based on which area of the state you are visiting.
Beaches in South Florida tend to be the warmest. Key West, Miami Beach, West Palm Beach, and Fort Lauderdale Beach are some of the warmest beaches in Florida in December. You can count on them having warm enough temperatures to enjoy the water in December.
Pros of Visiting Florida in December
There are some major advantages to visiting Florida in December. Many of them are weather-related. Florida is naturally very humid, and with high temperatures throughout most of the year, the climate can be too much for some travelers to handle. Temperatures in December are still warm but cool enough that they offer a reprieve for those who don’t handle high temperatures well.
Florida is also known for some amazing holiday celebrations in Orlando and other parts of the state. The lights and festivities are reason enough to visit Florida in December.
Cons of Visiting Florida in December
Visiting Florida in December also has its downsides. Because so many are desperate for a sunny escape in the best places to visit in Florida in December, this is a very busy tourist month for Florida. With the influx of visitors comes the rise in travel and hotel expenses, making it one of the most expensive times to visit the Sunshine State.
And though the beaches are beautiful year-round, the lower temperatures do impact the level of enjoyment you can experience in the water. Many of the Gulf Coast and Atlantic beaches will have a comfortable water temperature, but others may be too cold to swim, surf and or snorkel in.
Florida in December Weather
When it comes to Florida temperatures in December, it all depends on which part of the state you are visiting. While still warm, the panhandle and overall northern portion of the state usually has an average temperature of 63°F for the high. Not the most enjoyable beach day temperature.
You can expect the more southern portion of the state to have a warmer average at 76°F, which makes all the difference when looking to enjoy water sports and other outdoor activities.
FAQ: Best Places to Visit in Florida in December
What Part of Florida is Best to Visit in December?
Key West is the warmest spot to visit in December. The Florida Keys offer beautiful weather and awesome family activities, making it one of the best places to visit in Florida in December.
Is December a Good Month to Go to Florida?
December is a good month to visit Florida if you’re looking for a sunny escape. It’s also a busy and expensive time to vacation there.
What Part of Florida is Warmest in December?
The southern part of the state is the warmest region to visit in December.
Are Any Beaches in Florida Warm in December?
There are many warm beaches in Florida in December and January. Key West and Miami Beach in South Beach are some of the warmest and most enjoyable.
Conclusion: Best Places to Visit in Florida in December
We hope this guide will help you as you make plans for a getaway in Florida in December. We love visiting Florida and exploring all it has to offer as a family. Have fun making family memories wherever you decide to visit out of the best places to visit in Florida in December.
