Top 12 Best Places To Visit In Florida In December

Florida transforms into a winter paradise during December, offering the perfect escape from cold northern climates. Discover the best places to visit in Florida in December as we guide you through the Sunshine State's most captivating destinations.

From the art deco glamour of Miami to the tropical isolation of Key West, Florida's December magic extends across pristine beaches, historic streets, and vibrant cultural scenes. Naples beckons with its sophisticated charm, while Sanibel Island offers shell-collecting adventures that feel like treasure hunting.

Whether you're seeking the colonial mystique of St. Augustine or the family thrills of Orlando, December's mild temperatures and fewer crowds create the ideal conditions for exploration. Get ready to experience Florida's winter wonderland.

1. Miami: Art Deco Dreams Under December Sun

Miami in December feels like stepping into a pastel-colored dream where 75°F temperatures make winter coats irrelevant. South Beach's art deco buildings catch the afternoon light with cinematographic precision, creating Instagram-worthy moments at every corner.

I remember standing on Ocean Drive at sunset one December evening, watching the neon signs flicker to life while couples strolled past in summer dresses. The contrast between this tropical paradise and the snow-covered cities I'd left behind felt surreal.

The Lincoln Road pedestrian mall buzzes with energy as street performers entertain crowds of winter escapees. Restaurant patios remain packed well into the evening, with many establishments offering happy hour specials from 4-7 PM to capture the early dinner crowd.

2. Key West: America's Caribbean Secret

Key West sits 90 miles south of mainland Florida, closer to Cuba than to Miami. This geographic isolation creates an atmosphere that's part tropical paradise, part bohemian refuge. December temperatures hover around 78°F, perfect for exploring the island's eclectic mix of Hemingway history and sunset celebrations.

The daily sunset ceremony at Mallory Square transforms into a festival where fire jugglers, musicians, and artists compete for attention with nature's nightly light show. Locals call it “the green flash”—that split second when the sun disappears and the sky turns emerald.

Duval Street's famous bars serve frozen drinks year-round, but December's comfortable humidity makes bar-hopping actually enjoyable. The Hemingway House's six-toed cats still roam the property, descendants of the author's original feline companions.

3. Naples: Sophistication Meets Seashells

Naples epitomizes Florida's elegant side, where manicured beaches meet world-class shopping and dining. The Naples Pier extends into the Gulf of Mexico like a wooden boardwalk to paradise, offering dolphin sightings and spectacular sunsets.

Fifth Avenue South pulses with energy as visitors browse upscale boutiques and gallery openings. Many restaurants offer “early bird” specials before 6 PM, making fine dining surprisingly affordable. A three-course meal at a waterfront restaurant typically runs $35-45 during these hours.

The Naples Botanical Garden showcases 170 acres of cultivated beauty, but December's mild weather makes outdoor exploration comfortable for hours. I've spent entire afternoons wandering through the Brazilian Garden, losing track of time among the tropical plants.

4. Sanibel Island: Shell Collecting Paradise

Sanibel Island's unique east-west orientation creates a natural shell collector's paradise. December's calm waters deposit treasures along the shoreline daily, creating what locals call “Sanibel Stoop”—the hunched posture of dedicated shell hunters.

The island maintains a strict building code limiting structures to tree height, preserving its natural character. This means no high-rise hotels or neon signs disrupting the peaceful atmosphere. Instead, visitors find charming bed-and-breakfasts and family-owned restaurants.

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge covers one-third of the island, providing habitat for over 245 bird species. December's cooler temperatures make the refuge's walking trails particularly enjoyable, with wildlife more active during the comfortable weather.

5. St. Augustine: Living History Under Winter Sun

St. Augustine claims the title of America's oldest city, and December's mild temperatures make exploring its cobblestone streets and historic architecture particularly pleasant. The city's Spanish colonial buildings tell stories spanning over 450 years.

The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument stands as America's oldest masonry fortress, its coquina stone walls glowing golden in December's afternoon light. I've watched countless sunsets from these ancient ramparts, imagining the Spanish soldiers who once stood guard here.

St. George Street's pedestrian zone transforms into an outdoor museum where costumed interpreters demonstrate blacksmithing, candle-making, and other colonial crafts. Horse-drawn carriage tours operate year-round, but December's comfortable weather makes the leisurely pace particularly enjoyable.

6. Tampa: Urban Energy Meets Coastal Charm

Tampa balances big-city amenities with Gulf Coast relaxation. The Historic Ybor City district celebrates its cigar-making heritage with Cuban restaurants, live music venues, and the Columbia Restaurant—Florida's oldest continuously operating restaurant since 1905.

The Tampa Riverwalk connects downtown attractions along a 2.6-mile waterfront path. December's temperatures make this walk comfortable at any hour, with plenty of parks and cafes providing rest stops. The Florida Aquarium and Tampa Museum of Art anchor the cultural scene.

Busch Gardens' roller coasters operate year-round, but December's smaller crowds mean shorter wait times. The park's Christmas celebration adds seasonal decorations and special events, creating a unique holiday atmosphere in the Florida sun.

7. Orlando: Theme Park Magic Without Summer Crowds

Orlando in December offers the perfect theme park experience—mild weather, shorter lines, and holiday decorations throughout Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. Average temperatures reach 73°F, ideal for spending entire days outdoors.

Disney's Magic Kingdom transforms into a winter wonderland with artificial snow on Main Street USA and holiday fireworks that light up the December sky. The park's Christmas celebration extends through New Year's Eve, creating weeks of special entertainment.

Universal Studios' Harry Potter areas take on extra magic during December, with Butterbeer warming visitors while they explore Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. The cooler weather makes wearing robes and scarves actually comfortable rather than sweltering.

8. Clearwater: Sugar Sand and Sunset Celebrations

Clearwater Beach consistently ranks among America's best beaches, and December's comfortable temperatures make it perfect for long walks along the sugar-white sand. The beach's western exposure creates spectacular sunsets that draw nightly crowds to Pier 60.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium houses Winter the dolphin, star of the “Dolphin Tale” movies. December's mild weather makes the aquarium's outdoor exhibits particularly enjoyable, with comfortable temperatures for extended visits.

Beach volleyball courts remain active year-round, but December's weather makes playing actually pleasant rather than exhausting. Many beachfront restaurants offer outdoor seating with Gulf views, perfect for lunch overlooking the water.

9. Fort Lauderdale: Venice of America

Fort Lauderdale's 165 miles of inland waterways create a boating paradise where December's mild weather makes water activities comfortable all day. The Las Olas Boulevard district combines shopping, dining, and entertainment in a walkable downtown core.

The Intracoastal Waterway bustles with yacht traffic, creating a constant parade of luxury boats. Water taxi services connect various neighborhoods for around $25 per day pass, offering a unique perspective on the city's canal system.

The Bonnet House Museum and Gardens showcases early Florida architecture surrounded by 35 acres of tropical landscape. December's comfortable temperatures make exploring the extensive gardens particularly pleasant, with many plants blooming during the cooler season.

10. West Palm Beach: Culture and Coastal Beauty

West Palm Beach combines urban sophistication with coastal relaxation. The Norton Museum of Art houses one of the Southeast's finest collections, while Clematis Street's entertainment district offers restaurants, bars, and live music venues.

The Flagler Museum occupies Henry Flagler's former mansion, showcasing the Gilded Age luxury that helped develop Florida's east coast. December's mild weather makes exploring the mansion's grounds and gardens particularly enjoyable.

CityPlace downtown creates an open-air shopping and dining complex where December's temperatures make outdoor dining comfortable well into the evening. The area's frequent festivals and events take advantage of the pleasant weather.

11. Sarasota: Cultural Sophistication Meets Beach Relaxation

Sarasota earned its reputation as Florida's cultural capital through world-class museums, theaters, and music venues. The Ringling Museum complex showcases circus history alongside fine art collections, all set in magnificent waterfront grounds.

Siesta Key Beach boasts sand so fine it squeaks underfoot, composed of 99% pure quartz. December's mild temperatures make beach days comfortable without the intense summer heat. The sand remains cool even during midday sun, perfect for barefoot walks.

The Sarasota Opera House and theaters maintain active winter seasons, taking advantage of the area's seasonal residents. December performances often feature touring companies and special holiday productions.

12. Fort Myers: Edison's Winter Laboratory

Fort Myers preserves the winter estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, where these American innovators escaped harsh northern winters. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates showcase their laboratories, inventions, and botanical gardens.

The Caloosahatchee River flows through downtown Fort Myers, creating a scenic waterfront district with restaurants and entertainment venues. December's comfortable temperatures make riverfront dining particularly pleasant, with many establishments offering outdoor seating.

The nearby Sanibel Causeway provides access to both Sanibel and Captiva Islands, making Fort Myers an ideal base for exploring multiple destinations. The $6 causeway toll grants access to some of Florida's most pristine beaches.

Your December Florida Adventure Awaits

Florida's December magic extends far beyond escaping winter weather. These best places to visit in Florida in December offer experiences that create lasting memories—from watching dolphins play in Clearwater's waves to discovering shells on Sanibel's pristine shores.

The combination of perfect weather, smaller crowds, and holiday celebrations creates an atmosphere that's both relaxing and exciting. Whether you're drawn to Miami's urban energy or Naples' sophisticated charm, Florida's December destinations offer something special for every traveler.

Start planning your Florida December adventure today. The sunshine, warm beaches, and endless possibilities are waiting to welcome you to paradise.