Central Florida's West Coast

Central West Florida is the most well-known and heavily populated region of Florida’s west coast. Tampa is what usually comes to mind when thinking about the west coast of the state, but the central west has a lot more to offer than the economic powerhouse Tampa has become. The central west region continues to grow rapidly as it offers the best job markets on the west coast of Florida, which attracts a lot of young professionals in addition to retirees and snowbirds looking to spend their time in warmer climates.  

The central west region is known for its beaches, some of which are consistently ranked among the world’s best. The beaches are known for powder white sand and clear blue/green water. They feature less wave action than other areas of the state with a shallow, gradual entry. Due to their popularity, beaches here can get crowded by both residents and tourists during certain times of the year. Like the rest of the west coast, there are numerous bays, coves, beaches, and islands for boaters to explore.  

In this part of the state, the climate is a humid subtropical climate zone. This is characterized by short, dry, and mild winters and hot, humid summers with frequent thunderstorms. Depending on the location in this region the total average rainfall is 51 – 56 inches a year. This is higher than the U.S. average of 38 inches per year. On average, precipitation falls 102 – 106 days (about 3 and a half months) per year with August being the wettest month and June through September being the wettest time of year. November is the driest month on average with spring being the driest season of the year. 

On average there are 248 – 251 sunny days per year. This is higher than the U.S. average of 205 days per year. From November through March, this region experiences average low temperatures between 50 and 60 degrees. From October through April, the weather can be very pleasant. Excessive summertime heat starts in May and runs through September. July and August are the hottest months of the year with average high temperatures approaching 91 degrees. 

This region of the West Coast generally has less of a resort vibe than southwest and northwest Florida. There is a greater sense that you are in the action, especially around the larger Tampa Bay, St Petersburg, and Sarasota metro areas. There are more things to do here, more restaurants, nightlife, culture, professional sports, and events, in addition to beach and water-related activities.