Month-by-Month Breakdown for Tennis, Pickleball & Golf—With Real Local Tips
Quick Summary
South Florida offers year-round outdoor sports, but knowing the best time to play tennis, pickleball, or golf makes all the difference. From weather and crowds to heat, rain, and seasonal patterns, this insider guide helps you plan the perfect match or tee time.
Why Timing Matters for South Florida Sports
If you’re serious about enjoying the best outdoor sports in Florida, timing is key. You’ll need to factor in heat, humidity, afternoon rain, hurricane season, and the annual wave of snowbirds. The right window can mean the difference between an amazing match and a washed-out round.
South Florida by Season: What to Expect
Winter (December–February): Prime Playing Time
Bullet Highlights:
- Weather: 60s–70s, low humidity, low rain
- Best for: Tennis, Pickleball, Golf
Local Scoop (Quote Block):
While the snowbirds make public courts and courses more crowded, this also means more players—especially at the beginner and intermediate levels. Great for social games and league play. Be sure to arrive early or book ahead, especially for tennis and golf.
Avoid: Longer wait times, fully booked tee sheets, resort pricing
Why it’s great: Cool temperatures, dry skies, and vibrant community energy
Spring (March–May): Still Excellent, Getting Warmer
- Weather: 70s–80s, moderate humidity
- Best for: All sports—Pickleball tournaments, tennis leagues, spring golf
Local Scoop:
March and April are beautiful, but still within the peak golf season, so courses remain crowded. May begins the golf off-season—more availability, fewer crowds, and better rates, though heat picks up.
Avoid: Midday matches in late spring due to rising temps
Summer (June–August): Hot, Humid & Rainy
- Weather: 85–95°F, very high humidity, frequent afternoon storms
- Best for: Early-morning tennis, indoor pickleball, uncrowded golf
Local Scoop:
June and August are the wettest months in South Florida. Most players start as early as 7:00 AM and are off the courts by 9:30 AM.
Avoid: Midday sun, mosquitoes, slick courts, heat exhaustion
Note: Least crowded and most affordable for golf
Fall (September–November): Cooling Down & Clearing Up
- Weather: 70s–80s, variable humidity
- Best for: Golf getaways, pickleball leagues, tennis training
Local Scoop:
For many locals, November is a favorite month—cool, dry, less crowded (until mid/late month), and ideal for tennis or pickleball.
Golf Tip: October is the tail end of the off-season. November has perfect weather, but crowds return fast.
Sport-Specific Breakdown
Pickleball
Best months: November–April
Avoid: Late summer (heat + indoor crowding)
Tip: Use lighted public courts for cooler evening games
Want to learn more about the sport? Visit the USA Pickleball site for rules and resources.
Tennis
Best months: December–March
Avoid: May–August unless playing early
Tip: Choose clay courts—they stay cooler and are easier on the joints
Golf
Best weather months: November–April
Crowd warning: Perfect weather = slow rounds and packed tee sheets
Best availability months: May–September
Pro Tip: Want peaceful play? Aim for early summer mornings.
When NOT to Play: What to Watch For
Daily Rain: Especially June, August, early September
Midday Heat: Avoid 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. from May–September
Mosquitoes: After storms, especially near still water
Hurricane Season: Officially June 1–Nov 30 (peak risk = Sept)
Local Scoop Highlight
Quote:
“I love playing in November. It’s one of the best times of year in South Florida—cool, quiet, and perfect for doubles or a long golf walk. It can be a little windy, but I’ll take that over 95 degrees any day.”
FAQ’s
Q: What’s the best month overall to play sports in South Florida?
A: Most locals agree March, April, and November offer the best combination of weather, comfort, and game availability.
Q: Is it safe to play tennis or pickleball in summer?
A: Yes—but only if you play early in the morning or indoors. Afternoon heat and storms pose serious risks.
Q: Does it rain every day in Florida during summer?
A: In June, August, and early September, you can expect near-daily afternoon thunderstorms—usually after 1:00 p.m.
Final Take: Best Months at a Glance
- Top Overall Months: March, April, November
- Best for Social Play: December–February
- Best for Quiet Play: May–October
- Most Risky: June–August (weather), January–March (crowds)
Ready to Play?
Explore our full South Florida Play directory to find the best courts, parks, and clubs near you. Browse by sport, city, or skill level—and start planning your perfect match or round today.
Explore our Tennis, Pickleball, and Golf directories to find the best places to play across South Florida.