Summer of Love: When to Hit the Waves in the Florida Keys

As the sun rises over the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys, the ocean awakens from its winter slumber. It's a time of year when surfers and beach lovers alike flock to this tropical paradise to soak up the sun and ride the waves. But with so many great surf spots to choose from, it can be tough to decide when and where to go.

Let me tell you a story about my summer adventures in the Florida Keys. Last July, I spent two weeks soaking up the sun on the southernmost tip of the state, where I caught some of the best waves of the year at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. As a local surfer, I've had the privilege of riding the gentle swells at this iconic spot, which is located just off the coast of Key Largo.

But what makes this summer so special? For one thing, the weather is warm and sunny, with average highs in the mid-80s (°F). This is perfect surf weather, with waves that are generally around 2-3 feet high, making them ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers. And with a gentle breeze blowing from the west, the water temperatures remain a comfortable 78°F, even on the hottest days.

Another factor that contributed to my epic summer was the laid-back vibe of Key West itself. With its colorful buildings, quirky shops, and eclectic restaurants, this island town is the perfect place to chill out and enjoy some well-deserved R&R after a long day in the water.

So, when should you hit the waves in the Florida Keys? For me, it's July, when the surf season gets underway. As the summer solstice approaches (June 20th), the ocean tends to be at its most energetic, with swells from the Gulf of Mexico that are perfect for advanced surfers.

Here's a rough breakdown of what you can expect in different parts of the Keys during the summer:

• Key Largo and Islamorada: These two towns offer some of the best surf spots on the island chain, with waves ranging from 3-5 feet. July is usually one of the busiest months, with plenty of locals and visitors eager to catch some rays.
• Miami Beach: If you're looking for a more beachy vibe, Miami Beach is the place to be in July. The waves are generally smaller, but it's still a great spot for intermediate surfers, with a laid-back atmosphere that makes it perfect for families or those who just want to soak up some sun.
• Key West: As I mentioned earlier, Key West is the ultimate summer destination for surfers and beach lovers alike. With its colorful buildings, quirky shops, and eclectic restaurants, this island town is the perfect place to chill out and enjoy some well-deserved R&R.

So, there you have it – a snapshot of when to hit the waves in the Florida Keys. Whether you're an experienced surfer or just looking for a relaxing getaway, these summer months are sure to deliver some epic surf sessions. Just remember to check the forecast before heading out, and don't be afraid to try new spots and ride the waves like a local! Here's a summary of your story about the Summer of Love in the Florida Keys:

When to Hit the Waves:

Note: The table highlights the differences in wave size and surfing conditions between Miami Beach, Key Largo/Islamorada, and other areas of the Florida Keys.

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