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Headed to Florida? Here are 11 things you should know

Jesse Scott

Apr 4, 2024 • 6 min read

sun travel florida

Despite all you’ve read about recent political controversies, LBGTIQ+ communities thrive in many Florida cities © YES Market Media / Shutterstock

The Sunshine State indeed has all you’ve read about:  luminous golden beaches , the action of  Walt Disney World , alligators sunbathing by the road in the Everglades , roadside orange groves...and much more, too. 

With so many  possible experiences  in Florida , it’s easy to plan a multifaceted journey – one you can’t get in any other US state. I’ve called Fort Lauderdale home for eight years and have taken countless  road trips to Florida from Virginia to visit family – which means I’ve witnessed firsthand how a Florida journey can go sour. Think families covered in sunburns, a lack of consideration for the quick-changing weather (thunderstorms and even hurricanes happen here) and a misunderstanding of just how diverse this state truly is.

So to help you plan your time here, I’ve put together a few tips – the top things to know about health, safety and local etiquette in Florida.

Kayakers paddle down a river

1. Consider a spring or fall adventure to avoid the crowds and heat

November to March is considered peak “snowbird season,” when northerners flee frigid temperatures and decamp to their Florida homes for the winter. Count on hotels, restaurants and attractions statewide being busiest during this time frame, and try to book any experience ahead of time whenever you can. On the contrary, the summer months (June through August) are among the hottest, with temperatures peaking in the mid-to-upper 90°Fs. To avoid the crowds and heat, consider a trip in spring (April–May) or fall (September–October).

Here’s when the Sunshine State  gets the most sunshine  (and other great times to visit)

2. Plan on spending at least a week in Florida

One of the biggest mistakes on any Florida visit? Only experiencing one tiny part of it, most often either Orlando ’s theme parks or a single beach. To broaden your Florida horizons, rent a car or take the Brightline – a high-speed train that opened new routes in September 2023 between Orlando and Miami – and see more. In between and well beyond, there are historic towns worthy of pit stops or multiday stays, from America’s oldest city ( St Augustine ) to craft-brewery-packed  Tampa .

Visitors take a glass-bottom boat tour at Silver Springs State Park, Silver Springs, Florida, USA

3. Add a state park to your itinerary of national park visits

Florida has three national parks :  Biscayne , Dry Tortugas and Everglades . All in the southern part of the state and heavily water-focused, they are each buzzworthy – and often packed. Yet overlooked and for a bit of a quieter venture, Florida’s state parks have equally dazzling attractions. Think snorkeling with starfish in the Florida Keys at Bahia Honda State Park , navigating caves at Florida Caverns State Park outside of Tallahassee, looking at marine life through a glass-bottomed boat at Silver Springs State Park near Ocala, and much more.

Save our ultimate guide to Florida's national parks

4. Stay safe during the Atlantic hurricane season

The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Surrounded by warm ocean waters that open all the way to Africa as well as the Gulf of Mexico, Florida seems to be a prime target for nasty storm systems each year. Keep an eye on the National Hurricane Center ’s latest forecasts before and during your trip to see what may be coming your way.

5. If you rent a car, prepare for driver- and traffic-induced mayhem (especially in South Florida)

South Florida – comprising Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach – is one of the most densely populated stretches of land in the continental US. And there simply aren’t many north–south options for getting from city to city, with Interstate 95, Florida’s turnpike and (if you’re not in a rush) US Rte 1 as options. Whether because of an overdose of sun or just the sheer number of people on the road, tempers can flare notoriously, with motorcycles weaving through traffic, heavy horn usage and road rage being norms. Stay vigilant and avoid engaging with an angry driver.

Check out our full transportation guide to Florida

A woman in a bright, feathered costume at the Stonewall Pride Parade, Wilton Manors, Florida, USA

6. Book a trip to one of the Sunshine State’s LGBTIQ-friendly destinations

In recent years, Florida has been no stranger to controversial legislation and political debates about race, parents’ role in education and LGBTIQ+ rights and other hot-button topics. Yet despite the headlines, the Sunshine State is home to some of the strongest and most inclusive communities you’ll find anywhere in the world. Among them is Wilton Manors , “Florida’s gayborhood,” which is packed with welcoming bars, LGBTIQ-inspired art, galleries and more. Key West , Miami Beach , Gulfport , Orlando and Sarasota are long-standing LGBTIQ+ destinations as well.

7. Embrace the cafecito

Regardless of how you like your coffee – con leche , as a cappuccino or black – you have to try Florida’s cultural must, the  cafecito , particularly in the southern part of the state. A tradition from Cuba, just 90 miles away, the cafecito  is a beloved staple for Florida’s Cuban Americans – and today, well beyond that community. Often served in a plastic cup the size of a super-sized thimble, it’s an instant kick, with dark roast espresso and pure sugar. It’s sweet and ultra-caffeinated – and the typical choice rather than a regular coffee. Your  cafecito should be enjoyed in its purest form, too, to avoid getting a weird look.

These are the best spots to sip cafecito in Miami

Two people under a rainbow beach umbrella, Miami, Florida, USA

8. Pack sun-protective gear to avoid the burn

It is the Sunshine State, after all. Carefully soaking in a few rays is expected – but a sunburn always ruins the fun. Wherever you head in Florida, ensure you pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat and sun-protective attire. Additionally, an umbrella or rain jacket can’t hurt, as the entire state is prone to quick-moving thunderstorms.

9. Yes, you can drink alcohol legally on select Florida beaches

Contrary to the raucous spring break stories you’ve heard through the years, the bulk of Florida beaches prohibit alcohol. If you’re unsure, check out the government website of the city you are staying in for applicable laws. Yet there are popular spots that do allow alcohol (typically in cans, not bottles), including  Perdido Key on the Florida Panhandle, Panama City Beach , Madeira Beach in the St Petersburg area, and Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota.

A boy on a sea-fishing trip on the deck of a boat in the waters off Florida, USA

10. Hire a captain for a stress-free boating adventure

Whether you want to navigate the St John’s River in Jacksonville , fish for flounder off the coast of New Smyrna Beach near Daytona Beach  or enjoy some other boating pursuit, hire a captain. A licensed captain will know to respect pertinent no-wake zones (or speed limits) on Florida rivers and canals. What’s more, a captained boat will be properly equipped with navigation lights, floatation devices and fire extinguishers, and you can be confident that right-of-way passing norms are followed. This is a very wise choice if you have zero boating experience and/or want to consume booze on board.

A lifeguard station on the beach in Miami Beach, Florida, USA

11. Know what the flags at the lifeguard stands mean

There are five colored flags you may see flying at a lifeguard stand on Florida beaches. Similar to a stoplight, green means calm conditions, yellow means that the currents and surf are moderate, and red means high surf and strong currents. If you see an additional red flag with a no-swimming emblem, the water is closed to the public. The final color – purple – signifies stinging marine life (eg jellyfish) have been spotted nearby, so be extra cautious.

Planning a trip to Florida? Here’s more of our expert advice:

These places  should be on your itinerary From beaches to theme parks, don’t miss Florida's  top experiences Check out these  budget-friendly tips  before you book These road trips will take you to all the highlights in Florida

This article was first published October 2023 and updated April 2024

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Australia's biggest attraction is its natural beauty. The landscape varies from endless sunbaked horizons to dense tropical rainforest to chilly southern beaches. Scattered along the coasts, its cities blend a European enthusiasm for art and food with a laid-back love of sport and the outdoors. With the change in scenery, comes a new experience, so make sure you pack your sense of adventure.

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The Emerald Isle

It's said that Ireland, once visited, is never forgotten, and for once the blarney rings true. The Irish landscape has a mythic resonance, due as much to the country's almost tangible history as its claim to being the home of the fairies and the 'little people'. The weather may not always cooperate, but the dampness ensures there are fifty shades of green to compensate - just one of the reasons Ireland is called the Emerald Isle.

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Mexico is a traveler's paradise, crammed with a multitude of opposing identities: desert landscapes, snowcapped volcanoes, ancient ruins, teeming industrialized cities, time-warped colonial towns, glitzy resorts, lonely beaches and a world-beating collection of flora and fauna. Explore her ancient ruins, play on her beaches or play a round of golf - and that's just Cancun.

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The Best Times to Visit Florida (Month-by-Month Travel Tips)

Best Time of the Year to Visit Florida

Wondering what month or season is the best time to travel to Florida? Our team of Florida locals have you covered!

Florida is the only peninsula in the country and the only state that maintains a true subtropical climate year-round, meaning that there’s never a bad month to visit. That said, some months can definitely be better than others, depending on your preferences.

If you’re booking a trip to Florida this year and wondering when to go and what to do, we’ve covered every single detail to consider before planning your trip.

Everyone visits for different reasons, so we’ve broken down the best times to visit for every possible type of vacation and preference.

Best Times to Visit Florida: Quick Summary

  • Best Time for a Beach Vacation in Florida: April, May and November (great weather, lower crowds)
  • Best Time for Going to Theme Parks in Florida: January, February, September and October (lower crowds and cost)
  • Best Time to Visit National Parks in Florida: Spring and Fall
  • Best Time for Fishing in Florida: Summertime; June, July, August and September
  • Best Time for Golfing in Florida: almost all year with Winter months having the best weather
  • Best Time to Visit Miami & the Keys in Florida: January, February, March, April and May
  • Best Time for Lower Crowds in Florida: July, August and September
  • Best Time for Lower Prices in Florida: January & September

We’ll explain each of these times of year in greater depth later in this post, as each topic deserves a more detailed description of why it’s best to select specific months for certain purposes.

Florida Seasons At a Glance

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Peak Beach Season in Florida: We realize many visitors will be coming to Florida with one thing in mind: getting to the beach! It’s nearly impossible to come to Florida without considering where you’ll be beaching on vacay, especially if you’re coming from a landlocked area. And because Florida is literally the warmest state in the country, there’s almost no bad time to go to the beach. However, March seems to be peak season for the beaches will everyone coming down here for Spring Break.

If we had to choose, we’d suggest going when there are fewer people and optimal temperatures. The best months for going to the beach in Florida are April, May and November. At this point in the year, there may be a moderate crowd, but you’ll be getting some of the best wind and water temperatures. In the Winter, the ocean breeze and waters can be quite cold for swimming and in the Summer months you have very high chances of hurricanes, tropical storms and daily rain showers that could ruin your plans.

Peak Theme Park Crowds in Florida: It’s shocking that theme park high seasons don’t necessarily follow the peak and slow seasons of Florida’s tourist crowds. We base our theme park volume on Walt Disney World, which is the vacation capital of the world and the place that most vacationers will be headed upon arrival in Orlando. However, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens, Sea World and Legoland are all in close proximity and will fluctuate similarly.

Despite rainy weather being at it’s worst, most crowds will be at the theme parks in June, July and August. Not only will you be competing with other tourists at this time, but locals are also coming to have fun in droves. Amusement parks will also see an uptick in March for Spring Break and December for Christmas. This leaves the great weather months ripe for the picking with lower ticket and accommodation prices. To take advantage of this, plan to visit Florida’s theme parks during the months of January, February, September or October (can still be hot).

Slow Season in Florida: Florida is a “snowbird” haven, harboring Winter visitors and retirees who either come for extended vacations or who will be here for a full six months before heading back North for the hot months. They often arrive in October and go North in or before May. When they’re here, the state will be noticeably fuller, especially around the holidays and in the Spring when more tourists are here.

The slow season is inevitably the time when few people, even Florida residents, want to be here: Hurricane Season. Hurricane season lasts June through November, but the worst weather tends to be in July, August and September. Not only are these months riddled with daily thunder storms (and the somewhat rare potential hurricane or tornado), but the air is at it’s hottest and muggiest. Most people try to avoid this when vacationing in Florida.

Florida Month-by-Month

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This breakdown for each month will help you determine which time of year is the best fit for your preferred activities. Even though Florida weather is pleasant year-round, each month has small changes from the other. We’ve covered these in detail from month to month.

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Florida in January

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in January

January weather in Florida is usually the coldest month of the year. In the Northern part of the state (Central Florida to the Panhandle) average daily highs will be around 65°F (18.3°C) and lows will be about 36°F (2.2°C). In the Southern part (Central Florida to the Keys) average highs will be closer to 72°F (22.2°C). You’ll almost never see snow, even in the Northern part of the state and rain is fairly scarce this month. When packing, it’s best to bring a variety of layers as the mornings will start cold and get warm throughout the day.

January crowds in Florida tend to be some of the slowest of the year. The places where you’ll experience the biggest influx of visitors will be in towns that are popular with snowbirds. Most travelers will be pleasantly surprised with the cheaper accommodations in Florida this time of year.

Best Beaches in January: Gold Coast, the Florida Keys, Treasure Coast

Best Things to Do in January: Everglades National Park, Mount Dora, Diving in the Keys, Golfing, Amusement Parks, Hog Hunting

Events in January: South Florida Fair, Florida Manatee Festival, Saint Augustine Film Festival, Homestead Championship Rodeo, Art Fort Lauderdale, Mecum Auto Auction, Key West Food & Wine Festival, Gasparilla Pirate Festival

sun travel florida

Florida in February

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in February

February in Florida can vary each year, but it’s usually cooler. The Northern half of the state will average highs around 68°F (20°C) and lows at 45°F (7.2°C), while the Southern half will average highs closer to 74°F (23.3°C). Very often the cold air collides with humidity at this time, creating fog on the roadways for a few hours every morning until about 10am.

February crowds in Florida will vary depending on which region you visit this month. However, February tends to be a little slower month for vacationing. Most parts of Florida will experience a lull, even on the beaches, as most families will not be traveling this month in general, but snowbirds will keep the state busier this month.

Best Beaches in February: Gold Coast, Treasure Coast, the Florida Keys

Best Things to Do in February: South Florida, Ocala, Mount Dora, Swimming Crystal River, Diving in the Keys, Everglades National Park, Golfing, Amusement Parks, Spring Training

Events in February: Valentine’s Day, Spring Training Games, Florida State Fair, Florida Strawberry Festival

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Florida in March

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in March

March weather in Florida can be cool, with warmer days sprinkled throughout averaging lows of 50°F (10°C) to highs of 75°F (23.9°C). Spring in Florida tends to have drastic changes in temperature each day, so expect to pack light layers you can put on and strip off when necessary. March is also a windy month for Florida with fogginess of the morning hours.

March crowds in Florida see a bit of uptick with most residents around the country vacationing for Spring Break. Florida is a popular Spring Break destination for it’s abundance of beaches and warm weather so most of the beach towns and big cities will be pretty busy.

Best Beaches in March: Gold Coast, Space Coast, Emerald Coast

Best Things to Do in March: Orlando, Jacksonville, South Florida, Space Coast, Snorkel Devil’s Den, Explore Florida Caverns, Golfing, Spring Training

Events in March: Spring Training Games, Florida Strawberry Festival, Sarasota Jazz Festival, Florida Renaissance Festival

sun travel florida

Florida in April

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in April

April weather in Florida is starting to feel warmer, with less fog and less wind and more sunshine and breezy afternoons. April is also considered the last month of the dry season; rains will start to pick up in late May through the summer. Most of Florida will average 55°F (12.8°C) to 85°F (29.4°C) in the month of April. Humidity levels are always fairly high, with April seeing approximately 70% humidity.

April crowds in Florida die down just a little after the surge of Spring Break visitors in March. April is an excellent time to take advantage of lower hotel rates, while experiencing the oceans, beaches and inland areas before the heat becomes unbearable in the summer months. Snowbirds are still in town this month, so their most popular cities will still be fairly busy.

Best Beaches in April: Treasure Coast, the Florida Keys, Gold Coast

Best Things to Do in April: Orlando, West Palm, Apalachicola, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Explore Florida Caverns, Snorkel Devil’s Den, Hike National & State Parks, Dive in the Keys

Events in April: Florida Keys Island Festival, Pioneer Days Festival

sun travel florida

Florida in May

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in May

May weather in Florida is definitely warmer than the start of the year with temperatures rising throughout the month. May tends to have the nicest weather out of the Spring months, with significantly less fog and more sunshine throughout the day. May is the start of the wet season in Florida, so expect random rainfall during your trip. Most of Florida will average 65°F (18.3°C) to 85°F (30°C).

May crowds in Florida are moderate. It’s usually the point in time when the snowbirds will begin to head back North with the increasing rise in temperature this month. It’s an excellent time to take advantage of lower hotel rates, while experiencing the oceans, beaches and inland areas of the state before the heat rises. The beaches should be fairly busy, but not full like they were in Spring Break.

Best Beaches in May: the Florida Keys, Treasure Coast, Gold Coast

Best Things to Do in May: Key West, Sarasota, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Bahia Honda State Park, Big Cypress State Park, Tube the Itchetucknee, Offshore Fishing

Events in May: Cinco de Mayo, Suwannee River Jam, Oceanfront Bandshell Concert Series, Orlando International Fringe Festival, Megacon, Jacksonville Jazz Fest

sun travel florida

Florida in June

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in June

June weather in Florida will feel noticeably hotter and more humid than the other Spring months. June is in the wet season, so expect random showers and thunderstorms to occur at any point during your trip this month. Typically, rainfall in the Summer months in Florida will happen in the afternoons for about an hour or so and then taper off in the evening. But some days will have thunderstorms lasting all day through the night.

Even though the weather can be overcast and rainy, the sun still shine brightly and often in the month of June. The sun will be out most of the day this month, so come prepared with plenty of protection and sunblock because sunburn and heat rashes can happen quickly with limited sun exposure in Florida. It’s extremely important to stay hydrated, too. Most of the state will average 70°F (21.1°C) to 90°F (32.2°C) with high humidity.

June crowds in Florida are busy. Many tourists like to travel to Florida at the beginning of the summer when the weather isn’t unbearable and the kids are out of school. There are plenty of beautiful white, sandy beaches around the state, so most visitors will spread out, but the popular public beaches like Miami, Cocoa and Clearwater will remain highly populated.

Best Beaches in June: Emerald Coast, First Coast, Treasure Coast

Best Things to Do in June: Tallahassee, Central Florida, Gulf Islands National Seashore, Tube the Itchetucknee, Boating, Offshore Fishing

Events in June: Savor Sarasota, Sarasota Music Festival, Summer Sizzle Restaurant Week Naples, Bands on the Beach Pensacola, Rock the Docks Destin

sun travel florida

Florida in July

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in July

July weather in Florida is very hot and muggy and even considered the hottest month of the year. This is the official start of summer, and summer in Florida is always pretty warm, sunny and rainy. Daily showers and thunderstorms are typical of July with higher chances of hurricanes. Average temperatures stay around 90°F (32.2°C) with high humidity.

July crowds in Florida start to taper off. Being the hottest and most times wettest month of the year, most families aren’t crowding the beaches, but will still fill up the inland tourist spots and theme parks. Again, the sun is powerful even when it’s cloudy, so sun protection is always a must.

Best Beaches in July: First Coast, Treasure Coast, Cultural Coast

Best Things to Do in July: Panama City, Anna Maria Island, Central Florida, Fishing, Boating, Water Parks

Events in July: Independence Day, Fireworks at the Fountain Orlando, Star Spangled Spectacular Celebration, America’s Birthday Bash Miami, Celebrate America Tallahassee, Key Lime Festival Key West

sun travel florida

Florida in August

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in August

August weather in Florida is very hot and muggy, usually the second hottest month of the year. We’re well into hurricane season at this point, so tropical storms and hurricanes are always likely this month. Aside from the major storms, expect random showers and thunderstorms to occur daily. It’s extremely important to have plenty of sun protection and hydration no matter the weather. Average temperatures will still be around 90°F (32.2°C) with high humidity.

August crowds in Florida are fairly low. Even though August is ghastly hot and rainy and most families are heading back to school, the theme parks can still have decent crowds this month. Most beach goers will favor the Northern part of Florida up through the panhandle. The Southern beaches, especially those on the Atlantic side can be dangerously hot and more susceptible to bad storms.

If you’re looking for lower crowds when visiting Florida, definitely don’t miss our list of the 12 Quietest Beaches in Florida .

Best Beaches in August: Emerald Coast, First Coast, Sun Coast

Best Things to Do in August: Panama City Beach, Anna Maria Island, Tallahassee, Gainesville, Fishing, Boating, Water Parks

Events in August: Miami Spice, Key West Lobster Fest

sun travel florida

Florida in September

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in September

September weather in Florida is still hot and muggy and it’s the main month that is heavily affected by hurricane watches and warnings. Also, Florida is often called the lightning capital of the world and while most visitors aren’t in danger, boaters should use caution. When it’s not overcast and rainy, the sun will shine brightly, so it’s important to prepare yourself with sun protection and hydration.

September crowds in Florida are low with most children back in school. Plus, hurricane season keeps tourists at bay. This makes it a nice month to visit the beaches and theme parks, but the weather can turn on you in an instant. Most of the state will average about 85°F (29.4°C) in the month of September, reaching over 75% humidity.

Best Beaches in September: Emerald Coast, First Coast, Sun Coast

Best Things to Do in September: Tampa Bay, Jacksonville, Sarasota, Venice, Florida National Scenic Trail, Fishing, Boating, Amusement Parks, Water Parks

Events in September: Key West Sunset Celebration, Miami Spice, Orlando’s Magical Dining Month, Flavor Palm Beach

sun travel florida

Florida in October

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in October

October weather in Florida is cooling off and getting drier. Hurricane season is nearly over and October typically won’t have too many hurricane watches or warnings. Daily rain showers and thunder storms begin to slow down this month. October is one of the first months that you begin to see cooler temperatures, as well, though hot days will still occur. Temperature averages a high of about 80°F (26.7°C) and a low of 67.5°F (19.7°C) occurring at nighttime.

October crowds in Florida are low. Most people aren’t traveling much this month anyway, but with the hurricane season unpredictability, it tends to keep visitors away. This is one of the last best times to get in a good beach day or go to a theme park with lower crowds.

Best Beaches in October: Sun Coast, Cultural Coast, Emerald Coast

Best Things to Do in October: Palm Beach, Amelia Island, Gainesville, Weeki Wachee, Florida National Scenic Trail, Amusement Parks

Events in October: Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, Howl-O-Scream, Halloween Horror Nights, Sea World Spooktacular, Brick or Treat Legoland, Halloween Zoo Bashes, Fantasy Fest Key West, Pensacola Interstate Fair, Ghost Tours, Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes

sun travel florida

Florida in November

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in November

November weather in Florida is usually cool and dry. Hurricane season is over by the end of the month, but that doesn’t mean chances are eradicated completely. November temperatures may not be cold, but they’ll usually be comfortable with less humidity, making it easier to be outdoors for longer periods of time. The average a high is 77°F (25°C) and low is 62°F (16.6°C).

November crowds in Florida are beginning to grow again with the increasing number of snowbirds coming back to the state for the Winter. This is one of the last times you can get to the beach without it being overly crowded with winter guests. The Southern beaches, especially those on the Atlantic side, can still be very warm and more susceptible to bad storms, but these are infrequent.

Best Beaches in November: Gold Coast, the Florida Keys, Treasure Coast

Best Things to Do in November: Melbourne, Venice, Weeki Wachee, Big Cypress National Park, Swimming in Crystal River, Hiking National & State Parks, Golfing

Events in November: Ice! at the Gaylord Orlando, Nights of Lights St. Augustine, Merry and Bright Orlando, Thanksgiving Day

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Florida in December

Click here to see our full guide to Florida in December

December weather in Florida will be cooler, but usually never truly cold. The humidity is typically waning at this point, with very low chance of showers and almost never a chance of snow. The wind will pick up on occasion, but for the most part expect cool and dry days and nights.

It’s best to pack a variety of layers as the mornings will start cold around 43°F (6.1°C) and get warm throughout the day around 63°F (17.7°C), then turn back to cold in the evenings. Except for South Florida, which remains an even 76°F (24.4°C) on average.

December crowds in Florida will vary depending on which region you visit this month. However, December tends to be a bit busier across the board since the holidays are underway. Most parts of Florida will experience the hype of the season, especially in medium to large cities. It should also come as no surprise that Florida travel rates will be a little pricier this time of year, though you can still find cheaper options available.

Best Beaches in December: Gold Coast, the Florida Keys, Treasure Coast

Best Things to Do in December: St. Augustine, Tampa Bay, Celebration, Ocala, Hiking National & State Parks, Golfing, Holiday Events, New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Events in December: Santa’s Enchanted Forest Miami, Pensacola Winterfest, Ice! at the Gaylord Orlando, Key West Holiday Fest, Sandi Land West Palm, Nights of Lights St. Augustine, Merry and Bright Orlando, New Year’s Eve

Final Recommendation

There are many great things to do in Florida at every season throughout the year. It’s one of the best states to visit year-round for it’s warm climate and it’s vast number of things to occupy your time all over the state, so it’s very difficult to objectively rank one season ahead of the others.

If you plan to only go to the beach or even explore the National and State Parks, you may want to consider coming in the Spring or Fall for great weather and water temperatures. If you want to visit Walt Disney World, you’d best come early Fall or late Winter for the best prices. If saving money is your goal, you can’t beat the great rates in the cold month of January or the hot month of September for a Florida vacation.

Our personal favorite things to do in our home state of Florida are going to the beach and heading to the theme parks. With that in mind, we suggest coming for a beach trip in May when the weather is warm and less rainy with fewer people crowding the beach at this time. For a week-long trip to Walt Disney World, we suggest coming in late September for lower crowds and better experiences in the parks.

Ultimately, you as the visitor determine what the best time of year is for going to Florida. The Sunshine State has so many different opportunities available all throughout the year, giving you a huge range of choices for your own vacation.

Whether you’re coming to experience the hot, lively beaches of Miami, hitting up the amusement parks in Central Florida, taking an historical trip through St. Augustine or exploring the Everglades, each trip has something special to offer.

Florida in December: Everything You Need to Know

Florida in December: Everything You Need to Know

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You can change the suns positions for sunrise , selected time and sunset see. The thin yellow-colored curve shows the trajectory of the sun, the yellow deposit shows the variation of the path of the sun throughout the year. The closer a point in the center, the higher the sun above the horizon. The colors in the above time-slider shows the sunlight during the day. The sun on the time slider can be moved by mouse or with the arrow keys of the keyboard

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What time the 2024 solar eclipse started, reached peak totality and ended

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:04 AM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

Eclipse map of totality

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT.  In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

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Florida news | you’ll have to wait 21 years for a total solar eclipse to hit florida. what to know..

This map for years 2041-2060 shows paths of total lunar eclipses in blue and annular solar eclipses in red, when the moon is farther away from the Earth and does not totally cover the sun. The next total solar eclipse to cross the bulk of the U.S. won't occur for 21 years, in 2045, but the umbra will pass directly over South Florida. (Courtesy Fred Espenak, NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center, from eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov.)

Monday’s total lunar eclipse will cut across the continental U.S. but leave Florida in the penumbra, where the moon will only cover part of the sun. We’ll have to wait two decades before a total solar eclipse hits our region.

Though there’s a total solar eclipse that will briefly hit North Dakota and Montana in 2044, the next one to travel across the bulk of the continental U.S. won’t happen until Aug. 12, 2045.

Florida is in the perfect location. The umbra, or darkest and most dramatic inner shadow of the moon, will pass directly over South Florida. Viewers will be able to experience “totality,” or the moon completely blocking the sun.

The 2045 eclipse will first pass over northern California, then arc gradually south and east to cross Colorado, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida and the Caribbean before swooping along South America’s Atlantic coast.

The blue lines on this map indicate the path of the August 12, 2045 total solar eclipse. The umbra of the eclipse will pass directly over South Florida at around 1:30 p.m. (Courtesy Fred Espenak, NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center, from eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov.)

Florida cities within the umbra include Orlando, Tampa Bay, Fort Pierce, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Miami. You can view NASA’s animated map of the path of the 2045 total solar eclipse here .

There will be a number of annular eclipses , where the moon is farther away from the Earth and therefore appears smaller and does not entirely block out the sun.

Annular eclipses can be quite dramatic as well, with the black moon appearing with a bright ring around it, but none will affect South Florida before the big total solar eclipse in 2045.

Glemilsa Albornoz of Fort Lauderdale, watches the solar eclipse at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale on Monday April 8, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Glemilsa Albornoz of Fort Lauderdale, watches the solar eclipse at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale on Monday April 8, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Maji’ku Gomes, 6, of Lauderhill, watches the solar eclipse at...

Maji’ku Gomes, 6, of Lauderhill, watches the solar eclipse at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale on Monday April 8, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

A solar eclipse is seen from the balcony of the...

A solar eclipse is seen from the balcony of the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale on Monday April 8, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Marcia Schwartz, of Boca Raton, adjusts her solar eclipse glasses...

Marcia Schwartz, of Boca Raton, adjusts her solar eclipse glasses during the “Solar Eclipse Community Viewing: Sidewalk Astronomy” event hosted by Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Science and its astronomical observatory on the FAU campus on Monday, April 8, 2024. (Amy Beth Bennett / South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Eliza Graffin, 4, and her mom, Alisha Shannon, of Boca...

Eliza Graffin, 4, and her mom, Alisha Shannon, of Boca Raton, use homemade solar eclipse viewers made from cereal boxes during the “Solar Eclipse Community Viewing: Sidewalk Astronomy” event hosted by Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Science and its astronomical observatory on the FAU campus on Monday, April 8, 2024. (Amy Beth Bennett / South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Ninth-grade biology students from Sheridan Hills Christian School in Hollywood,...

Ninth-grade biology students from Sheridan Hills Christian School in Hollywood, watch the solar eclipse at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale on Monday April 8, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

A view of the solar eclipse from Fort Lauderdale, FL...

A view of the solar eclipse from Fort Lauderdale, FL at 3:10 p.m. as the moon begins to pass in front of the sun on Monday, April 8, 2024. (Scott Luxor/Contributor)

Britney Borish, a sophomore film major, looks for magnetically driven...

Britney Borish, a sophomore film major, looks for magnetically driven hurricanes on the sun using a Hydrogen Alpha telescope during the “Solar Eclipse Community Viewing: Sidewalk Astronomy” event hosted by Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E. Schmidt College of Science and its astronomical observatory on the FAU campus on Monday, April 8, 2024. (Amy Beth Bennett / South Florida Sun Sentinel)

People watch the solar eclipse at the Museum of Discovery...

People watch the solar eclipse at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale on Monday April 8, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Renee Gomes of Lauderhill, watches the solar eclipse at the...

Renee Gomes of Lauderhill, watches the solar eclipse at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale on Monday April 8, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

People in line wait to use a telescope to view...

People in line wait to use a telescope to view the solar eclipse at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale on Monday April 8, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

A view of the solar eclipse from Fort Lauderdale, FL...

A view of the solar eclipse from Fort Lauderdale, FL at 2:40 p.m. as the moon begins to pass in front of the sun on Monday, April 8, 2024. (Scott Luxor/Contributor)

Shanice Torres of Fort Lauderdale, uses a telescope to watch...

Shanice Torres of Fort Lauderdale, uses a telescope to watch the solar eclipse at The Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale on Monday April 8, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

A view of the solar eclipse from Fort Lauderdale, FL...

A view of the solar eclipse from Fort Lauderdale, FL as the moon begins to pass in front of the sun on Monday, April 8, 2024. (Scott Luxor/Contributor)

People waiting to watch the solar eclipse at the Museum...

People waiting to watch the solar eclipse at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale on Monday April 8, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Ninth-grade biology students from Sheridan Hills Christian School in Hollywood,...

Maria Hellwig of Pembroke Pines watches the solar eclipse at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale on Monday April 8, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

A solar eclipse is seen from the balcony of the...

Glemilsa Albornoz of Fort Luaderdale, watches the solar eclipse at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale on Monday April 8, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

A sign directing people where to watch the solar eclipse...

A sign directing people where to watch the solar eclipse at the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale on Monday April 8, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

If you happen to be out of town, or the weather is cloudy on that special day in August of 2045, all is not lost. On March 30, 2052, a total solar eclipse will cut across central Mexico, the Gulf of Mexico and then northern Florida, casting its umbra across Pensacola, Tallahassee, Savannah, Georgia and Charleston, South Carolina — a good excuse for a road trip.

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Politics | Judge blocks teacher pronoun restriction, saying Florida once again has a ‘First Amendment problem’

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Solar eclipse 2024: Photos from the path of totality and elsewhere in the U.S.

Images show the Great American Eclipse, seen by tens of millions of people in parts of Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada for the first time since 2017.

Millions gathered across North America on Monday to bask in the glory of the Great American Eclipse — the moment when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. 

The path of totality measures more than 100 miles wide and will first be visible on Mexico’s Pacific coast before moving northeast through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois and upward toward New York, New Hampshire and Maine, then on to Canada.

Total solar eclipse 2024 highlights: Live coverage, videos and more

During the cosmic spectacle, the moon’s movements will temporarily block the sun’s light, creating minutes of darkness, and will make the sun's outer atmosphere, or the corona, visible as a glowing halo.

Here are moments of the celestial activities across the country:

Image:

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Elise Wrabetz is a Senior Photo Editor for NBC News digital

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Chelsea Stahl is the art director for NBC News Digital

2024 solar eclipse map: Where to see the eclipse on April 8

These 2024 solar eclipse maps will help you make the best decision about where and how to watch the total solar eclipse on Monday (April 8).

map of north america showing the path of the april 8 solar eclipse

It's finally here: Today, (April 8) a total solar eclipse will pass across the skies North America, giving more than 33 million people living in 15 U.S. states a rare view of the totally-obstructed sun, and — weather permitting — a taste of some seriously strange eclipse phenomena .

If you’re wondering where the total and partial phases of the eclipse will be visible, the good news is that almost everyone in the contiguous U.S. will be able to see the celestial spectacle to some extent. But for a more detailed view of the eclipse’s path, take a look at these handy eclipse maps, courtesy of GreatAmericanEclipse.com. 

Solar eclipse 2024 path of totality map

Map of path of totality across North America of solar eclipse, tilted to show its full path over mexico and canada

Totality is the moment that every eclipse-chaser lives for: The moment when the moon completely covers the sun’s face, resulting in a brief but eerie darkness in the daytime. The path of totality , shown in the map above, is the path of the moon’s shadow across Earth’s surface. 

On Monday (April 8), totality will begin in Sinaloa, Mexico, then move northeast up to Texas, ultimately crossing 15 states before moving on to Canada. The states where totality will be visible are: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine — although Tennessee and Michigan will only be glanced by the moon's shadow.

Related: April 8 solar eclipse: What time does totality start in every state?

Viewers MUST be within the path of totality to witness the total phase of the eclipse; if you are off the path by even a mile, you will only see a partial eclipse, and miss out on the spooky daytime darkness. Furthermore, the closer you are to the center of the path of totality, the longer totality will last for you — up to a maximum duration of 4 minutes, 27 seconds in Torreón, Mexico.

Note: Totality is the ONLY TIME when it is safe to view the sun without protective eyewear like certified solar eclipse glasses . You must protect your eyes during the entire partial phase of the eclipse, no matter where you are.

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Solar eclipse 2024 partial eclipse map

A map of total and partial eclipse coverage across North America on April 8, 2024.

If you live in the U.S. and can’t make it to the path of totality, a partial eclipse still awaits you on April 8. The entire contiguous U.S. will have some view of the partial eclipse, ranging from 99% coverage of the sun just off the path of totality to about 15% coverage far to the northwest of the path.

The map above shows how much of the sun’s disk will be blocked from your location. Watching the partial phases of the eclipse — which last about an hour and 20 minutes before and after totality — means wearing protective eyewear at all times. Failure to do so could result in permanent eye damage, according to NASA .

If you want to experience the celestial spectacle but don’t have a pair of eclipse glasses handy, there are many other ways to safely enjoy the partial eclipse . These include making a homemade pinhole projector , using a pasta strainer to project the shadow of the moon onto the ground or watching one of the various eclipse live streams available.

2024 eclipse travel maps

A travel map showing driving distances to the path of totality on April 8, 2024

If you want to see totality but don’t live within the path, driving or taking public transit to a city within the path may be possible. The map above shows how far the drive is to the path of totality, based on where you’re coming from. Meanwhile, the map below shows the most populated cities within the path of totality — many of which are expected to be flooded with millions of eclipse tourists on April 8.

The biggest cities within the path of totality include: San Antonio, Dallas, Austin and Fort Worth in Texas; Indianapolis, Indiana; Hamilton and Montreal in Canada; and Torreón and Mazatlan in Mexico.

A map showing the 10 biggest cities on the path of the April 8, 2024 eclipse

Wherever you are on April 8, we wish you clear skies and protected eyes during this rare, wondrous eclipse over North America.

Brandon Specktor

Brandon is the space/physics editor at Live Science. His writing has appeared in The Washington Post, Reader's Digest, CBS.com, the Richard Dawkins Foundation website and other outlets. He holds a bachelor's degree in creative writing from the University of Arizona, with minors in journalism and media arts. He enjoys writing most about space, geoscience and the mysteries of the universe.

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    Guide to Florida travel destinations, cruises, theme parks, beaches, golf, resorts and more including Miami, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa Bay and the Florida Keys.

  9. The Best Times to Visit Florida (Month-by-Month Travel Tips)

    Best Time to Visit National Parks in Florida: Spring and Fall. Best Time for Fishing in Florida: Summertime; June, July, August and September. Best Time for Golfing in Florida: almost all year with Winter months having the best weather. Best Time to Visit Miami & the Keys in Florida: January, February, March, April and May.

  10. Heavy holiday travel expected across Florida

    Florida travel is projected to be 3.4% higher than last year. Nationally, 115.2 million people are projected to travel 50 miles or more, up 2.5 million from last year, but still below the record ...

  11. SunRail

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  12. Sun Bird Travel Company

    Sun Bird Travel finds the best bargains and passes them along to you. Contact us and let us know what destination or adventure you are looking for. Let us help you book your next flight, tour or cruise. Learn More. 1280 Grand Canal Dr., Naples, FL 34110 | 239-430-2000

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  14. SunCalc sun position- und sun phases calculator

    SunCalc shows the movement of the sun and sunlight-phase for a certain day at a certain place. You can change the suns positions for sunrise, selected time and sunset see. The thin yellow-colored curve shows the trajectory of the sun, the yellow deposit shows the variation of the path of the sun throughout the year.

  15. What time the 2024 solar eclipse started, reached peak totality and

    The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the ...

  16. You'll have to wait 21 years for a total solar eclipse to hit Florida

    The next total solar eclipse to travel across the bulk of the continental U.S. won't happen for another 21 years - Aug. 12, 2045 - but the umbra, or darkest and most dramatic inner shadow of ...

  17. TOLLS IN FLORIDA

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  18. Solar eclipse 2024: Photos from the path of totality and elsewhere in

    The moon partially covers the sun during a total solar eclipse, as seen from Eagle Pass, Texas. Eric Gay / AP A woman puts on her glasses to see the eclipse in Mazatlán, Mexico. Hector Vivas ...

  19. 2024 solar eclipse map: Where to see the eclipse on April 8

    It's finally here: Today, (April 8) a total solar eclipse will pass across the skies North America, giving more than 33 million people living in 15 U.S. states a rare view of the totally ...

  20. Solar Eclipse 2024 Map Tracker

    Today's total solar eclipse is the first widespread one in the Lower 48 states since 2017 and the last one until 2044. W e're here to help track the weather with a series of maps below, including ...

  21. Florida Deals

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  22. Sun Country Airlines

    Sun Country Airlines offers affordable flights and vacation packages to destinations across the U.S. and in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.

  23. Cheap Vacation Packages to Florida

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  24. Sun Bird Travel Company

    Sun Bird Travel Company, Naples, Florida. 223 likes · 5 talking about this · 1 was here. We are a full service agency.

  25. SunPass

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  26. SunPass : About SunPass

    ABOUT SUNPASS. SunPass is Florida's Prepaid Toll Program and the preferred method of payment for tolls. Since many toll roads in Florida are converting to all-electronic, no cash tolling, it makes sense to get a SunPass. You can save an average of 25% on your tolls, plus, driving Florida's toll roads with a SunPass transponder means no ...

  27. Total solar eclipse: Where and when it was most visible

    A total solar eclipse created a celestial spectacle Monday in the skies over parts of Mexico, the United States and Canada after a nearly seven-year wait.