Florida may feel pleasantly cool in winter, but the sunshine doesn't really let up. Even when humidity dips and breezes feel mild, the UV rays reflected in the UV index stay strong enough to cause skin damage. Whether you’re traveling from colder states or you’re a long‑time Floridian, understanding winter UV patterns can help you enjoy every moment outdoors while staying protected. This expanded guide takes you month by month through Florida’s winter weather, UV expectations, and practical sun safety habits that fit easily into your day.

Florida Winter Weather & UV Index by Month

Month	Avg High Temp	Avg Low Temp	Avg Max UV Index	Rain Frequency
December	70–75°F (21–24°C)	50–59°F (10–15°C)	4–6 (Moderate to High)	Dry season, low rain
January	68–72°F (20–22°C)	48–52°F (9–11°C)	4–6 (Moderate to High)	Driest month, rare rain
February	72–76°F (22–24°C)	52–56°F (11–13°C)	6–8 (High to Very High)	Dry, few showers

The above chart gives a quick overview of Florida’s winter climate: steady sunshine, low rainfall, and UV levels that stay stronger than most people expect. Below, you’ll find a deeper look at each month so you know exactly what to prepare for.

December in Florida: Comfortable Days, Moderate UV & Holiday Sun Safety

December brings gentle, comfortable weather that draws people outside for festivals, markets, beach walks, and holiday celebrations. Many travelers assume cooler air means lower UV risk, but the sun remains active and can still burn unprotected skin.

Average Weather in December

• Highs: 70–75°F (21–24°C)
• Lows: 50–59°F (10–15°C)
• Max UV: 4–6 (Moderate to High) 
• Humidity: Lower and more comfortable as the dry season begins
• Rain: Light rainfall with many clear, sunny days

December marks the start of Florida’s dry season. Warm afternoons and cooler evenings create ideal conditions for outdoor activities, from exploring parks to enjoying the beach without the intensity of summer heat.

UV Index in December

Expect average maximum UV levels of 4–6, firmly in the moderate to high range. At these levels, during the 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. peak, fair or unprotected skin can burn in about 30–45 minutes. While the sun may feel gentle, UVA rays remain steady throughout the day and continue contributing to long‑term skin changes like sunspots, fine lines, and deeper UV‑related aging.

Sun Protection Tips for December

Here are a few simple ways to stay protected during December’s cooler but still sunny days:

• Wear lightweight UPF 50+ layers or hoodies that protect your skin without adding bulk.
• Apply SPF 30+ daily on your face, neck, chest, and any exposed skin.
• Don’t rely on shade alone. Sand and water both reflect UV, increasing exposure even on cooler days.

Keeping these habits in mind will help you enjoy the season comfortably and confidently while minimizing UV exposure.

January in Florida: Cooler Weather, Steady UV & Fresh Starts

January brings the coolest temperatures of the year, with crisp mornings and comfortable afternoons. It’s one of Florida’s best months for running, biking, sightseeing, and enjoying theme parks without heavy humidity. Despite being the heart of winter, UV levels don’t dip much.

Average Weather in January

• Highs: 68–72°F (20–22°C)
• Lows: 48–52°F (9–11°C)
• Max UV: 4–6 (Moderate to High)
• Humidity: Low, with crisp and comfortable air
• Rain: Minimal rainfall and plenty of clear, sunny days

January brings cool mornings and mild afternoons, making it one of the most pleasant months to be outdoors. Bright skies and low humidity create ideal conditions for long walks, sightseeing, and enjoying Florida’s winter sunshine.

UV Index in January

The average maximum UV index stays between 4–6, matching December’s levels. Even with lower temperatures, ultraviolet radiation can still cause cumulative damage, especially for those who spend extended time outside.

Sun Protection Tips for January

Here are a few simple ways to build a stronger sun protection routine as the new year begins:

• Kick off the year with healthy habits. Any day is a good day to begin better sun protection.
• Wear long sleeves comfortably. Cooler weather makes UPF layers easy to keep on all day.
• Protect easy-to-miss areas. Lips, hands, and eyelids need sunscreen too.
• Check the UV index forecast. Clear winter days can bring surprisingly strong UV levels.

Keeping these small habits in place can make your winter sun routine easier, more consistent, and far more effective.

February in Florida: Warming Up, Higher UV & Early Spring Sunshine

February marks the shift toward spring. Temperatures rise, days lengthen, and UV levels increase noticeably. Many outdoor festivals, sporting events, and beach days happen in February, making it one of the most enjoyable months to explore Florida.

Average Weather in February

• Highs: 72–76°F (22–24°C)
• Lows: 52–56°F (11–13°C)
• Max UV: 6–8 (High to Very High) 
• Humidity: Slightly increasing but still comfortable
• Rain: Very light rainfall with plenty of sunny days

February brings mild temperatures and gradually lengthening daylight. Conditions remain pleasant and inviting, making it easy to spend long stretches outdoors as winter transitions toward spring.

UV Index in February

The average maximum UV index jumps to 6–8, placing it in the high to very high range. Peak hours typically fall between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and UVB rays can stay strong until about 4 p.m. Around midday, fair skin can burn in 15–25 minutes without protection. This rise surprises many visitors who assume winter means weaker sunshine.

Sun Protection Tips for February

Here are a few simple ways to stay protected during February’s stronger early-spring sunshine:

• Choose early or late outdoor activities to avoid the midday spike.
  
• Wear breathable UPF clothing, since it's comfortable even as temperatures climb.
  
• Reapply SPF 30+ every two hours, especially during sports or beach time.

These habits will help you enjoy February’s warm, sunny days while keeping your skin healthy and protected.

Frequently Asked Questions on Florida UV in Winter

What’s the weather like in Florida in December, January, and February?

Expect mild, dry, sunny days. Daytime weather stays comfortably warm, evenings cool off noticeably, and rain remains minimal throughout the season.

What is the UV index in Florida during winter?

From December to February, UV levels typically fall between 4 and 8, with February reaching the highest UV readings. Midday is still the period of strongest UV exposure, making it the most important time to stay protected.

What’s the highest UV index in winter?

Clear February days, especially in South Florida, can reach 8 (Very High), strong enough to burn unprotected skin in minutes.

Are UV rays stronger in Florida?

Yes. Florida’s subtropical latitude, reflective coastal surfaces, and long daylight hours keep UV levels elevated year round, even throughout the winter season.

What are the best sun protection tips in Florida during the winter?

Wear UPF 50+ clothing, apply broad‑spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, reapply every two hours, wear sunglasses, and plan activities outside peak UV hours whenever possible.

How to Make the Most of Visiting Florida in Winter

Florida’s sunshine is one of its biggest draws in the winter, offering mild temperatures, clear skies, and low humidity. Even though it feels cooler, UV exposure remains steady, so staying sun‑safe isn’t about avoiding the outdoors; it’s about being prepared.

Here are a few simple ways to make the most of your winter visit:

• Wear UPF 50+ clothing for reliable coverage that lasts all day.
• Apply broad‑spectrum SPF 30+, even when the air feels cool.
• Use sunglasses and a hat to protect your eyes and face.
• Check the UV forecast before spending long hours outside.

If you're planning a trip to Florida this winter, this guide will help you enjoy the sunshine comfortably and confidently. Your skin will thank you later.

Sun Safety Made Easy with Essuntials® 

Sunscreen is a great start, but relying on it alone can be tough. Life gets busy, schedules get full, and remembering to reapply every two hours isn’t always realistic, especially in Florida where UV levels stay high even in winter when the cooler air can make the sun feel less intense. That’s where UPF 50+ clothing steps in. It offers steady, built-in sun protection that stays with you all day, no timer required.

At Essuntials®, we create lightweight, ultra-soft UPF 50+ apparel that blocks 98% of UVA and UVB rays without sacrificing comfort. Rooted in St. Petersburg, the Sunshine City, we know firsthand what year-round UV feels like and how important it is to keep your skin protected through every season. Our clothing is designed to make that simple, comfortable, and as easy as getting dressed.

The Essential Takeaway: Florida Winter Sun Still Shines Bright

Winter in Florida offers some of the most enjoyable weather of the year, but UV protection should remain part of your daily routine. Whether you’re exploring Orlando’s theme parks, relaxing on Miami’s beaches, spending time outdoors in Tampa, walking along St. Pete's waterfront, or enjoying a quiet Gulf Coast getaway, sun protection remains essential wherever you are.

December brings moderate UV levels with crisp, sunny days, January stays cool but still delivers steady UV exposure, and February ushers in longer days and stronger sunshine as spring approaches. Let lightweight UPF clothing, sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses help you enjoy Florida’s winter season to the fullest, safely and confidently.

Live well under the sun™

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