Travel in late September?

[Edi]

I would like to visit Florida with my two children in the last week of September. It is their first visit. They are six years old. I want them to be able to enjoy the beaches and swim in the ocean. Will it be warm enough for them to swim in the ocean? If not, I can change my plans. What can I expect weather-wise in late September. Is this a bad idea to visit at that time of year? We want to enjoy Clearwater Beach, Sanibel Island and the Everglades.

[world trecker]

I think your kids will be fine at that time of year. The avg. high for Clearwater Beach in Spetember is 90 degrees (only a hair cooler than the 92 avg you get in July & August) and in October it only drops to an avg. of 85. I can see your kids perhaps whining a little bit when their feet first touch the water but just tell 'em they'll get used to it and in 5 minutes they'll be having a rollicking good time ;)

Late September is actually a good time to visit, since most of the summer crowd will be gone but it's still warm enough to almost *feel* like summer. So come on out!

[wanderer]

I agree with World Treker, September is a great time to visit Florida. The crowds have gone away, and the extreme heat of summer has passed. It's still warm, but not so hot that you want to scream. If you're worried about the ocean being too cold, you could save your swimming for the heat of the afternoon when the sun has had time to warm up the beach.