On the Florida Panhandle, on the so-called "Forgotten Coast," Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach are among the best holiday destinations in the United States. All three seaside communities are close to Saint Joseph Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, an area renowned for its stunning natural beauty, pristine white sandy beaches, and abundant marine life.
However, despite drawing visitors from across the country and beyond, this stretch of the Florida Panhandle can become a little crowded with tourists and visitors, particularly during the peak season, which typically takes place from June to August. During this time, temperatures rise, and the sunny weather attracts beach enthusiasts, leading to busy shores and bustling beach activities.
For those who prefer quieter shores, the best time to visit is during the fall, from September through November, when temperatures are mild, and there are fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful and relaxed vacation experience.
For us and many locals, fall is an optimal time to explore Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach for several reasons — in this blog, we'll delve into why.
Why is fall the best time to visit Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach?
As vacation crowds thin out, fall becomes prime time for soaking up the vibes of the Forgotten Coast. From mid-September through early November, the weather's just right — nice and mild with plenty of sunshine. It's not too hot; not too chilly, just perfect for relaxing on the beach or getting into some outdoor fun.
And there's a bonus: The water's crystal clear during this season, making it ideal for swimming and all kinds of water activities. With less rain, there's less muck in the water, and the cooler temperatures and calmer winds add to the clarity.
It's not just about the beaches. Since it's not peak season, fall means fewer crowds at the attractions and restaurants, but they're still open for business. So, you get all the fun without the hustle and bustle, making for a very laid-back vacation vibe.
With the comfy weather, fewer crowds, and clear waters, fall's definitely the time to hit up the region and have a great time.
What is the weather like in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach during the fall?
Fall weather on Florida's Forgotten Coast is indeed a sweet spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're soaking up the sun on the beach or enjoying water activities, the season offers a delightful blend of comfortable temperatures and pleasant conditions. Let's dive into some data.
Average Temperature in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach during the fall (°F)
In September, temperatures range from 75°F to 85°F, offering warm days perfect for beach outings and outdoor adventures.
As October rolls in, the temperatures dip slightly, with highs averaging from 68°F to 79°F. This mild weather is ideal for strolls along the coastline or exploring the region's natural beauty.
By November, the temperatures cool further, ranging from 59°F to 72°F, creating a crisp and refreshing atmosphere.
Average Precipitation in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach during the fall (in)
The average precipitation in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach during the fall (September through November) is around 3-4 inches per month. Fall in this region is also characterized by lower humidity levels compared to the summer months.
Water temperatures in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach during the fall (°F)
The water temperatures in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach during the fall are:
September: 82°F to 86°F
October: 77°F to 81°F
November: 72°F to 76°F
Though temperatures cool, all Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach still beckon water enthusiasts with warm and inviting Gulf and bay waters.
As mentioned above, early fall is ideal for leisurely swims, refreshing dips, and water activities like paddleboarding and more.
What to wear in the water?
In September, wear light and breathable swimwear for maximum comfort in the water.
As October rolls in, water temperatures dip slightly. Despite the slight cooling, conditions are still comfortable for water adventures. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling or diving, even if they might need a wetsuit or thicker rash guard just to stay on the safe side and maintain warmth in the slightly cooler waters.
By November, as temperatures continue to decrease with the late fall season, the water cools further. With the water feeling noticeably cooler, this is an opportunity for adventurous souls to embrace the brisk Gulf waters. Wearing a full wetsuit or thicker neoprene attire is the way to stay warm.
Wind conditions in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach during the fall
The wind conditions in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach during the fall are typically moderate, with wind speeds ranging from 11 to 18 knots. These wind conditions are suitable for various wind-related sports like kitesurfing, windsurfing, sailing, surfing, and fishing.
Heads up! The Florida Panhandle is a hurricane-prone area. Fall, particularly between mid-August and late October, is the peak of hurricane season. It is essential to stay alert for potential hurricanes during fall, especially in hurricane-prone areas like the Florida Panhandle.
Paddling and kayaking in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach during the fall
Paddling and kayaking in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach during the fall are two fantastic ways to explore the calm waters and scenic coastlines. Local outfitters offer paddleboarding and kayaking rentals, catering to both beginners and experienced paddlers, as well as guided tours.
For seasoned paddlers, embarking on a 2.5-mile journey from St. Joe Beach to the remote tip of Cape San Blas provides an exhilarating experience.
St. Joseph Bay, a large estuary on the Gulf of Mexico's coast, is a popular spot for paddling and kayaking, with calm and shallow waters ideal for beginners and families.
Paddlers can explore the bay's seagrass beds, salt marshes, and shallow flats, taking in the stunning natural beauty of the area.
Here are some suggestions for paddling and kayaking:
T. H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park (Bayside & Gulfside): Paddling and kayaking at this park offer the best of both worlds. Between St. Joseph Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, the park provides diverse waterways for paddlers to explore, catering to both beginners and experienced kayakers.
Troy Deal Public Kayak Launch (Bayside): The Troy Deal Public Kayak Launch on the bayside offers paddlers a convenient starting point to explore the tranquil waters of the bay. This area is suitable for paddlers of all skill levels.
William J. "Billy Joe" Rish Recreational Park (Bayside & Gulfside): Here, you have the opportunity to enjoy both bayside and gulfside experiences. Paddlers can expect to encounter various wildlife and marine species while exploring the waters surrounding the park.
Dunes Drive Beach Access (Gulfside): At Dunes Drive Beach Access on the Gulfside, paddlers can launch their kayaks and explore the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. This beach access point provides kayakers with the chance to paddle along the gulf and enjoy the coastal scenery.
Fishing in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach during the fall
With the Gulf of Mexico providing access to deep-sea waters and St. Joseph Bay offering more sheltered and calm waters, Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach, FL are in a geographically ideal spot for fishing, both inshore and offshore. Fall is particularly a good time for fishing as the waters are warm, which attracts larger fish closer to the shore.
Inshore and nearshore fishing yields various fish species such as redfish, pompano, Spanish mackerel, and crevalle jack.
Offshore fishing is also good. Anglers can target a range of deep-water species such as grouper, snapper, amberjack, and king mackerel. Charter fishing boats are available for hire, offering guided trips to prime fishing spots offshore.
Enjoying the Beaches in and around Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach during the fall
If you're more into just staying put and enjoying the serene scenery in the sand, you're also in for a treat. Visiting the beaches in and around Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach during fall means a much more serene experience and more space for you to relax and unwind. The fall setting is perfect for leisurely strolls on the shore and beach picnics.
Fall events in and around Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach
It's not all about getting wet and enjoying the sun and sand during fall in Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach. The season also brings a calendar of exciting events and festivals, celebrating the region's cuisine, culture, and heritage.
Let's see some of the main ones:
The Port St. Joe Scallop Festival, usually held in late August or early September, is an annual event that brings people together for live music, local food vendors, and even a beer tent during Labor Day weekend.
Following that, the Blast on the Bay Songwriters Festival, typically held in October, is a three-day music extravaganza in Port St. Joe. It provides songwriters with a platform to reconnect with their roots and showcase their original compositions.
And rounding off the fall festivities is the Annual Florida Seafood Festival, typically held in November, a celebration of local cuisine in the nearby town of Apalachicola. This festival boasts delicious seafood dishes, live music, arts and crafts, competitions, and a colorful parade.
Best Season for Crowd-Free Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach
With all that we've mentioned above, it's hard to argue for a better time to visit the Forgotten Coast, right? Still, the truth is that the region is a treasure all year round, and no matter which season you decide to visit, you'll find something utterly amazing.
Looking for more tips on Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, and Mexico Beach? Check out our local destination blog. We've covered everything from the best places for a night out to where to take your furry friends and where to grab the best cup of coffee in town. There's always more on the way, so keep your eyes peeled for new blogs!
Where to stay when visiting Cape San Blas, Port St. Joe, & Mexico Beach?
Stay like a local by booking a vacation rental with Pristine Properties. We are proud to offer a selection of Cape San Blas Vacation Rentals, Port St. Joe Vacation Rentals, and Mexico Beach Florida Vacation Rentals.
Our properties are well-located, just steps away from beautiful beaches, great dining options, and an array of outdoor pursuits. That's the secret to a perfect holiday on the Florida Gulf Coast!