Tampa Weather by Month: A Complete Guide for Travelers
Tampa, Florida is known for its warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, and proximity to beautiful Gulf Coast beaches. However, the city’s weather can vary significantly throughout the year—especially between the dry and rainy seasons. This month-by-month guide will help travelers decide when to visit Tampa based on weather, activities, and comfort.
Tampa Weather by Month
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Travel Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 70°F (21°C) | 52°F (11°C) | Ideal winter escape |
| February | 73°F (23°C) | 55°F (13°C) | Great for outdoor activities |
| March | 77°F (25°C) | 60°F (16°C) | Popular spring travel month |
| April | 82°F (28°C) | 65°F (18°C) | One of the best months to visit |
| May | 87°F (31°C) | 71°F (22°C) | Visit before peak summer heat |
| June | 90°F (32°C) | 75°F (24°C) | Plan activities for mornings |
| July | 91°F (33°C) | 76°F (24°C) | Expect daily thunderstorms |
| August | 91°F (33°C) | 76°F (24°C) | Fewer crowds, hot weather |
| September | 89°F (32°C) | 74°F (23°C) | Good hotel deals |
| October | 84°F (29°C) | 68°F (20°C) | Excellent fall weather |
| November | 78°F (26°C) | 62°F (17°C) | Great for sightseeing |
| December | 72°F (22°C) | 55°F (13°C) | Popular holiday destination |
January: Mild & Pleasant
- Average highs: ~70°F (21°C)
- Average lows: ~52°F (11°C)
- Rainfall: Low
January is one of the best months to visit Tampa. The weather is mild, humidity is low, and outdoor activities are very comfortable. It’s perfect for sightseeing, golfing, and beach walks.
Best for: Winter escapes, festivals, outdoor dining
February: Cool, Dry, and Sunny
- Average highs: ~73°F (23°C)
- Average lows: ~55°F (13°C)
- Rainfall: Very low
February continues the pleasant winter trend. Days are sunny and warm without being hot, and evenings are cool.
Best for: Beach trips, city tours, romantic getaways
March: Warmth Begins
- Average highs: ~77°F (25°C)
- Average lows: ~60°F (16°C)
- Rainfall: Low
Spring starts to show in March. The water warms up, crowds increase, and humidity remains manageable.
Best for: Spring break, boating, outdoor attractions
April: Spring Perfection
- Average highs: ~82°F (28°C)
- Average lows: ~65°F (18°C)
- Rainfall: Moderate
April offers some of the best weather of the year—warm days, cooler nights, and relatively low rain.
Best for: Beaches, theme parks, photography
May: Hotter with Rising Humidity
- Average highs: ~87°F (31°C)
- Average lows: ~71°F (22°C)
- Rainfall: Increasing
May marks the transition into summer. Temperatures rise, and humidity becomes noticeable, though rain is still manageable.
Best for: Early summer travel before peak heat
June: Start of the Rainy Season
- Average highs: ~90°F (32°C)
- Average lows: ~75°F (24°C)
- Rainfall: High
June is hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Mornings are usually sunny.
Best for: Water activities, indoor attractions, budget travel
July: Hot, Humid, and Stormy
- Average highs: ~91°F (33°C)
- Average lows: ~76°F (24°C)
- Rainfall: Very high
July is one of the hottest months. Daily thunderstorms are common, but they often pass quickly.
Best for: Beach lovers who can handle heat, families on summer vacation
August: Peak Summer Heat
- Average highs: ~91°F (33°C)
- Average lows: ~76°F (24°C)
- Rainfall: Very high
August feels similar to July, with intense heat and humidity. It’s also part of hurricane season, though direct hits are rare.
Best for: Resort stays, indoor entertainment, fewer crowds
September: Hot but Quieter
- Average highs: ~89°F (32°C)
- Average lows: ~74°F (23°C)
- Rainfall: High
September remains hot and rainy, but tourist numbers drop, making it a calmer time to visit.
Best for: Deals on hotels, relaxed travel
October: Cooler & Drier
- Average highs: ~84°F (29°C)
- Average lows: ~68°F (20°C)
- Rainfall: Decreasing
October brings relief from summer heat. Humidity drops, and the weather becomes more comfortable.
Best for: Outdoor events, food festivals, sightseeing
November: Ideal Fall Weather
- Average highs: ~78°F (26°C)
- Average lows: ~62°F (17°C)
- Rainfall: Low
November is another excellent month to visit Tampa. Conditions are dry, mild, and sunny.
Best for: Holiday travel, cultural events, beach walks
December: Mild Winter Escape
- Average highs: ~72°F (22°C)
- Average lows: ~55°F (13°C)
- Rainfall: Low
December offers pleasant winter weather without snow or extreme cold. It’s a popular time for visitors from colder climates.
Best for: Winter vacations, holiday festivities
Best Time to Visit Tampa (Quick Summary)
- Best overall weather: February–April, November
- Best for beaches: March–May, October
- Best for budget travelers: August–September
- Hottest months: July–August
20 FAQs about Tampa Weather
- What is the best month to visit Tampa for good weather?
February, March, April, and November offer the most comfortable temperatures and lowest humidity. - What is the hottest month in Tampa?
July and August are typically the hottest months, with high humidity and temperatures above 90°F (32°C). - Does Tampa have a rainy season?
Yes, Tampa’s rainy season usually runs from June through September. - Which month has the least rainfall in Tampa?
February is usually the driest month of the year. - Is Tampa weather good in winter?
Yes, winter in Tampa is mild, sunny, and dry, making it popular with visitors from colder climates. - Can you swim at Tampa beaches year-round?
Yes, but water temperatures are most comfortable from April through October. - Is Tampa humid all year?
Humidity is highest in summer and much lower during winter and early spring. - What months are best for beach vacations in Tampa?
March through May and October are ideal for beach weather without extreme heat. - Does Tampa get hurricanes?
Tampa is affected by hurricane season from June to November, but direct hits are relatively rare. - What is the coldest month in Tampa?
January is typically the coldest month, though temperatures rarely drop below 45°F (7°C). - Is September a good time to visit Tampa?
September offers fewer crowds and lower prices but comes with hot, humid weather and higher rain chances. - What should I pack for a summer trip to Tampa?
Light clothing, sunscreen, a hat, rain gear, and breathable fabrics are essential. - What is Tampa weather like in spring?
Spring is warm, sunny, and one of the most pleasant seasons to visit. - Are afternoon thunderstorms common in Tampa?
Yes, especially in summer, with short but intense afternoon storms. - Does Tampa ever get cold?
Temperatures can feel cool in winter evenings but rarely reach freezing. - What month has the best weather for outdoor activities?
April and November are excellent for outdoor adventures. - Is Tampa weather suitable for theme parks year-round?
Yes, but cooler months like February and March are more comfortable. - When is the cheapest time to visit Tampa based on weather?
August and September often have the lowest prices due to heat and rain. - How hot is Tampa in May?
May is hot, with daytime temperatures around 87°F (31°C) and rising humidity. - Does Tampa get a lot of sunshine?
Yes, Tampa enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, even during rainy months.
Final Thoughts
Tampa’s climate makes it a year-round destination, but your experience can vary greatly depending on the month. Whether you’re seeking mild winter sunshine or a lively summer beach vibe, understanding Tampa’s monthly weather will help you plan the perfect trip.
