Visiting Hernando Beach or Weeki Wachee in the winter? There are definitely things to avoid and things to definitely go for. These two months are wonderful to experience this area because it’s not as crowded as certain weeks in the year.

The number one thing not to miss: manatee sightings in Weeki Wachee is very likely.

Also, since most travel was done just last month for the holidays, airfare are also pretty cheap for these two months except for February school vacation.

Quick Facts about January and February in Hernando Beach and Weeki Wachee:

“There are 6 weeks of winter in Florida – but you never know which 6 weeks, and they aren’t consecutive”

• Water temp ranges from 65 – 85 depending on temperature (yes, I personally recorded it) – see the table here
• Manatee sighting at Weeki Wachee river is VERY LIKELY
• Less crowded everywhere. But the snowbirds are starting to come back by now.
• It could be 85 degrees and sunny, it could thunderstorm everyday. There is no way to predict this.
• Weeki Wachee river is around 74 degrees year round. It it’s sunny it feels refreshing, if it’s cold that day this is pretty cold.
• If you have a boat watch the tides and water levels if you’re thinking of venturing to the Flats – the tides can be a low low

Things that are good to do year-round

Things to Avoid

• Manatee tours in Homosassa or Crystal River – even though the water is 72-74 degrees year round, when it’s cold it gets pretty cold in the water and you just won’t enjoy it as much. But if this is the only time you can make it to this area, seeing a manatee in the wild is an unforgettable experience you won’t regret.
• Avoid traveling during school vacation in February – it gets busy and airfare is expensive.