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Can You Swim In Key West In January? (Answered)

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The short answer is yes. Swimming in Key West in January is enjoyable. Even though this is during the winter season, the temperature of the water averages between 72 degrees Fahrenheit and 77 degrees Fahrenheit.

Panoramic vista over the palm trees and rooftops, hotels, shops, and waterfront of beautiful Key West, across Mallory Square to the turquoise ocean and tropical islands at the very end of the Florida Keys.

Although January falls into the winter season, there is no winter in the Keys. There is only the wet and dry season. January falls into the dry season, which means the seas are calmer and more inviting for swimmers.

Because the coral reefs prevent sand from accumulating on the shores, the shoreline is mostly rocky. What is not rocky is used as docks for boat landings.

Key West only has a few beaches, including Sandspur Beach, Calusa Beach, Higgs Beach, Smathers Beach, Fort Zachary Taylor, and Dry Tortugas. The beaches are not closed off during this period, allowing the visitors to enjoy the sun and surf as the rest of the country avoids the beaches.

On this list, only Higgs Beach and Smathers Beach have free admission, the others are within state parks, or a ferry is required to access the beach.

The waters of Key West are crystal clear and offer activities such as fishing, snorkeling, paddling, kayaking, and picnicking.

Overall, swimming in Key West is typically safe. The greatest danger found in the waters of Key West is the Fire Coral and jellyfish.

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