Best time to visit Fort Myers

Best Time to Visit Fort Myers: A Month-by-Month Guide to Perfect Travel

Introduction: The Rhythm of the Sun Coast

Imagine the sun, a molten gold coin, hanging in a sky of impossible blue. The air smells of salt, blooming jasmine, and the promise of adventure. This is Fort Myers, a sun-drenched paradise on Florida's Gulf Coast where timing is not just a detail—it's the conductor of your entire symphony of experience. Choosing the best time to visit Fort Myers is the difference between a pleasant vacation and an unforgettable immersion into its unique, seasonal soul. A trip in the hushed, balmy perfection of winter feels worlds apart from the vibrant, thunderous energy of a summer afternoon. This guide is your key to unlocking those seasons. We've woven together the critical threads that define your journey: the caress of the Gulf breeze versus the weight of summer humidity, the serene emptiness of a September beach versus the festive buzz of a February downtown, the premium of a high-season resort versus the steal of a late-summer rental. We've considered the meteorological dance of the wet and dry seasons, the ebb and flow of tourist tides from across the globe, the spike and dip of accommodation prices, and the vibrant calendar of local festivals that can define a visit. Your perfect Fort Myers awaits, whether it's built from the quiet solitude of a kayak at dawn, the shared laughter of a family shelling on Sanibel, or the cultural thrill of walking through Thomas Edison's winter estate. Let's find it.

Fort Myers Weather Overview by Season

Fort Myers operates on a binary climatic rhythm: the idyllic Dry Season and the potent Wet Season. Winter (Dec-Feb) is sheer perfection. This is the Dry Season's peak, with cobalt skies, abundant sunshine, and low humidity. Daytime highs average a comfortable 74-76°F, with nights dipping into the refreshing mid-50s. Rainfall is a rare, brief visitor. Spring (Mar-May) is a gradual crescendo of heat and humidity. March still clings to dry-season clarity, but by May, the atmosphere thickens. Temperatures climb from the low 80s into the high 80s, with humidity rising in tandem. Afternoon thunderstorms begin their theatrical entrances. Summer (Jun-Sep) is the deep Wet Season. It is hot, humid, and profoundly green. Highs consistently hit the low 90s, with heat indices often higher. The humidity is palpable, a warm, wet blanket. Days follow a pattern: morning sun builds into towering cumulus clouds that unleash brief, intense afternoon deluges, often clearing by dusk. This is also the heart of hurricane season. Autumn (Oct-Nov) is a transitional sigh of relief. Heat and humidity slowly retreat. October can still feel summery, but by November, the air lightens, rains become less frequent, and the glorious dry season begins its approach, offering a sweet, uncrowded preview of winter's bliss.

Month-by-Month Breakdown

January

Weather Snapshot: Highs: 75°F | Lows: 55°F | Rain: Low probability, mostly sunny. This is postcard weather—crisp, dry air, brilliant sunshine, and a sky so clear it feels infinite.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Peak season is in full, elegant swing. The region hums with energy. Beaches are active but not overcrowded; restaurants require reservations. The atmosphere is vibrant and affluent.

Key Events & Festivals: The Fort Myers Film Festival often kicks off the year. ArtWalk in the River District continues monthly. The Edison Festival of Light preparations begin, building anticipation.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$$$ to $$$$$. Expect premium rates, especially on the islands. Minimum stays are common.

Best Activities: Biking the John Yarbrough Linear Park, exploring the Edison & Ford Winter Estates without sweating, dolphin-watching tours in the calm, sunny bays, and shelling at low tide on Sanibel.

Perfect for: Snowbirds and retirees seeking reliable warmth, and couples desiring a perfect, active outdoor getaway.

February

Weather Snapshot: Highs: 77°F | Lows: 57°F | Rain: Very low. Similar to January, perhaps a degree warmer. Nights remain cool and perfect for sleeping.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: The absolute zenith of the tourist season. Crowds are at their thickest, particularly around President's Day weekend. A festive, bustling, sometimes hectic energy pervades.

Key Events & Festivals: The crown jewel: The Edison Festival of Light, a month-long celebration culminating in a spectacular nighttime parade. Sanibel Shell Fair & Show draws conchologists worldwide.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$$$$. The highest of the year. Book many months in advance.

Best Activities: Attending the grand parade, visiting the Shell Fair, people-watching at the River District markets, and enjoying al fresco dining on every patio in town.

Perfect for: Event seekers and festival lovers who don't mind crowds and want to experience Fort Myers at its most celebratory.

March

Weather Snapshot: Highs: 80°F | Lows: 60°F | Rain: Low, but beginning to increase. Days are longer, sun stronger, but the humidity is still mostly at bay.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Still very high, fueled by Spring Break families and lingering winter residents. Beaches on Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel are lively. Reservations remain essential.

Key Events & Festivals: Spring Training for the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins at JetBlue Park brings a major sports vibe. The Burrowing Owl Festival in Cape Coral celebrates local wildlife.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$$$ to $$$$$. Rates remain at peak levels, especially around Spring Break weeks.

Best Activities: Catching a Grapefruit League baseball game, kayaking through the mangroves at Lovers Key, and visiting the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium.

Perfect for: Sports-loving families and sun-seekers escaping the last grips of northern winters.

April

Weather Snapshot: Highs: 84°F | Lows: 64°F | Rain: Moderate. The dry season's grip loosens. Warm days, pleasant evenings, and the chance of a late-afternoon shower increases.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Crowds begin a gradual decline after Easter. A pleasant, busy energy remains, but the frantic peak-season pressure eases slightly.

Key Events & Festivals: The Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival celebrates the local fishing heritage. Earth Day festivals are held at various parks and preserves.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$$ to $$$$. A slight dip begins, but rates are still high.

Best Activities: Fishing charters for tarpon and snook, sunset sails on the Gulf, and garden tours to see peak tropical blooms at the estates.

Perfect for: Anglers and boaters, and travelers who want great weather with slightly thinner crowds.

May

Weather Snapshot: Highs: 88°F | Lows: 70°F | Rain: High probability of afternoon storms. Heat and humidity become dominant features. The air is thick, lush, and tropical.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: A dramatic shift. The snowbirds have flown north. Crowds dissipate, leaving a more local, relaxed feel. You can find solitude on weekdays.

Key Events & Festivals: The Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest, a major charity event. Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer with beach gatherings.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$ to $$$. The first significant price drops of the year appear. Excellent value emerges.

Best Activities: Visiting the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve to see wet-season wildlife, enjoying resort pools, and planning indoor or early morning outdoor activities.

Perfect for: Budget-conscious travelers and heat-lovers who don't mind planning around daily thunderstorms.

June

Weather Snapshot: Highs: 91°F | Lows: 74°F | Rain: Very high. Classic wet season. Mornings are steamy and sunny, building to dramatic, drenching afternoon thunderstorms. Humidity is intense.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Low to moderate. Summer vacation families arrive, but they are spread thin. The islands feel sleepy. The pace is slow, dictated by the weather.

Key Events & Festivals: The MangoMania Tropical Fruit Festival at the Edison Farm. Various Fourth of July fireworks displays begin planning.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$ to $$$. Great summer deals are plentiful, especially for longer stays.

Best Activities: Museum hopping (like the IMAG History & Science Center), airboat tours in the Everglades (rains cool the air), and enjoying the lush, green landscapes.

Perfect for: Families with flexible schedules and travelers seeking deep discounts who embrace the tropical storm cycle.

July

Weather Snapshot: Highs: 92°F | Lows: 75°F | Rain: Highest of the year. The pattern is relentless: heat, humidity, and a near-daily cathartic downpour. The Gulf waters are bathtub warm.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Moderate around the 4th of July, then low. A patriotic, laid-back summer vibe prevails. It's all about water-based relief and indoor AC.

Key Events & Festivals: Spectacular Independence Day fireworks over the Caloosahatchee River and on Fort Myers Beach. The Blueberry Festival in nearby Brooksville.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$ to $$$. Some peak pricing around the holiday weekend, then very affordable.

Best Activities: Splashing in the Gulf or pool, visiting the Florida Repertory Theatre, and late-afternoon shopping or dining after storms clear the air.

Perfect for: Patriotic beach-goers and travelers who plan their days around morning adventures and afternoon relaxation.

August

Weather Snapshot: Highs: 92°F | Lows: 75°F | Rain: Very high. A carbon copy of July—hot, wet, and wildly green. This is the peak of hurricane season, so monitoring forecasts is wise.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Low. The quietest month. Those who are here are resilient or local. There's a palpable sense of weathering the heat together.

Key Events & Festivals: Back-to-school sales mark the month's end. Otherwise, it's a quiet time for local community events.

Hotel Price Ranges: $ to $$. The absolute rock-bottom prices of the year. All-inclusive resort deals can be astounding.

Best Activities: Deep-sea fishing (kingfish are running), visiting the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, and enjoying empty beaches in the early mornings.

Perfect for: Die-hard budget travelers, fishermen, and those who cherish solitude and don't fear the heat.

September

Weather Snapshot: Highs: 90°F | Lows: 74°F | Rain: High. The statistical peak of hurricane season. Weather patterns remain volatile, but the *frequency* of rain may begin to taper slightly by month's end.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Very low. This is the true off-season. A sense of waiting hangs in the air—waiting for the first cool front, waiting for the crowds to return.

Key Events & Festivals: Labor Day weekend offers a final summer fling. National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations begin locally.

Hotel Price Ranges: $ to $$. Incredible value continues, but flexibility is key due to hurricane risk.

Best Activities: Storm-watching from a safe, covered location, visiting art galleries in the River District, and enjoying spa deals at resorts.

Perfect for: Risk-tolerant empty-nesters and flexible travelers with trip insurance, seeking ultimate peace and value.

October

Weather Snapshot: Highs: 87°F | Lows: 70°F | Rain: Moderate to high. The first, subtle changes occur. Humidity starts its slow retreat. Rain chances lessen, but afternoon storms are still common. Hurricane season is not over.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Low, but a slow awakening begins. Snowbirds start to trickle back in. There's a hopeful, transitional energy.

Key Events & Festivals: Fort Myers Beach Oktoberfest. Halloween events at the Shell Factory and various haunted houses. The Sanibel Island Writers Conference.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$ to $$$. Rates begin a slow, steady climb as the month progresses.

Best Activities: Canoeing or kayaking as waters are high and wildlife is active, visiting pumpkin patches and fall festivals (a novelty in Florida), and golfing on less crowded courses.

Perfect for: Early-bird snowbirds and travelers who enjoy Halloween festivities in a warm, quirky setting.

November

Weather Snapshot: Highs: 82°F | Lows: 63°F | Rain: Low to moderate. A glorious turning point. The dry season often re-establishes itself. Humidity drops noticeably. Days are warm, nights are cool, and the risk of storms diminishes.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: Moderate and building. Thanksgiving week is a major crowd surge. A general sense of pleasant busyness returns.

Key Events & Festivals: The American Sand Sculpting Championship on Fort Myers Beach—a world-class event. Thanksgiving traditions abound.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$$ to $$$$. Rates jump significantly, especially over Thanksgiving. Book early.

Best Activities: Marveling at the sand sculptures, enjoying Thanksgiving feasts at waterfront restaurants, and taking long, comfortable bike rides without summer's sweat.

Perfect for: Families visiting for Thanksgiving and art/culture enthusiasts drawn to unique events like the sand sculpting championship.

December

Weather Snapshot: Highs: 77°F | Lows: 58°F | Rain: Low. Dry season perfection returns. Crisp, sunny days and cool nights. It's "sweater weather" by Florida standards, ideal for outdoor festivities.

Crowd Levels & Atmosphere: High to peak. The holiday influx is in full swing. A festive, cheerful atmosphere envelops the area, from beach communities to downtown.

Key Events & Festivals: Holiday Nights at the Edison & Ford Estates—a magical lights display. Boat parades on the Caloosahatchee River. Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations everywhere.

Hotel Price Ranges: $$$$ to $$$$$. Peak pricing returns, with mandatory minimum stays over Christmas and New Year's.

Best Activities: Strolling through the dazzling Edison Estate lights, watching boat parades, beachcombing for "Santa shells," and celebrating New Year's Eve with fireworks over the Gulf.

Perfect for: Holiday seekers wanting a warm Christmas and couples looking for a romantic, festive getaway under the stars.

Peak vs. Shoulder vs. Off-Season Analysis

The Peak Season (Dec-Apr) is a double-edged sword of perfection. Pros: You are guaranteed immaculate weather—low humidity, endless sun, and comfortable temperatures. Every attraction, tour, and restaurant is open and operating at full capacity. The social energy is high, and major festivals like the Edison Parade and Sand Sculpting Championship create unforgettable memories. Cons: This comes at a premium. Hotel and rental rates are at their annual zenith, often doubling or tripling off-season prices. Crowds can mean traffic, packed beaches, and the need to book every detail months in advance. Spontaneity is scarce. The Shoulder Seasons (May & Nov) offer a sublime balance. In November, you catch the tail end of great weather and iconic events with slightly lower crowds (pre-Thanksgiving). In May, you enjoy deep value as prices plummet, but you trade for rising heat and storm chances. These months are for the savvy traveler who prioritizes value and comfort over guaranteed perfection. The Off-Season (Jun-Oct) is the realm of the adventurer and the frugal. Pros: You'll find the deepest discounts, sometimes 50-70% off peak rates. Beaches and restaurants are yours alone. The landscape is explosively green and alive. Cons: The weather is a dominant, sometimes disruptive force. High heat, stifling humidity, and daily thunderstorms dictate your schedule. Hurricane season (Jun-Nov) requires vigilance and travel insurance. Some smaller shops or tours may have reduced hours. Choosing your season is choosing your priority: flawless experience (peak), balanced value (shoulder), or ultimate economy and solitude (off-season).

Best Time for Specific Traveler Types

Best for Budget Travelers: Target the deep off-season, specifically August and September. This is when hotel and flight prices hit rock bottom. Embrace the stormy rhythm—plan adventures for mornings, enjoy long, lazy afternoons indoors or by the pool, and relish having entire stretches of sand to yourself. Just always purchase travel insurance.

Best for Honeymooners: For a classic, romantic experience, April or late November (avoiding Thanksgiving week) are ideal. You'll enjoy beautiful weather—warm but not oppressive—with far fewer families than in peak winter. You can secure a lovely resort or vacation rental at a more reasonable rate than in February, ensuring privacy and pampering without the peak-season frenzy.

Best for Families: The sweet spot is March (for Spring Break) or June (for early summer). March offers predictable, glorious weather and the excitement of Spring Training baseball, though crowds are high. June provides that classic summer vacation feel, with all attractions open, warmer water for swimming, and lower prices than spring break, albeit with more humidity and rain chances.

Best for Culture Seekers: Plan your visit around the festival calendar. February for the Edison Festival of Light or November for the American Sand Sculpting Championship. These events transform the city and offer unique cultural immersion. The cooler, drier weather of these months also makes exploring the historic River District and the Edison & Ford Estates a pleasure.

Best for Outdoor Adventurers: This depends on your tolerance. For hiking, biking, and extensive kayaking, the Dry Season (Dec-Mar) is physically most comfortable. However, for witnessing the raw, lush power of Florida's ecosystems, the Wet Season (Jul-Sep) is unparalleled. Wildlife is concentrated, waterways are full, and airboat tours through the Everglades are thrilling. Just be prepared to get wet from both rain and sweat.

Money-Saving Timing Strategies

Mastering the art of the affordable Fort Myers visit is all about strategic timing. Flight Booking: For winter travel, book at least 3-4 months in advance to lock in the best rates before they skyrocket. For summer, you can often find last-minute deals, but booking 6-8 weeks out is generally safe. Use price alerts and be flexible with nearby airports like Southwest Florida International (RSW) or even Tampa (TPA). Hotel Hacks: The single biggest savings come from visiting in the off-season. If you must come in peak season, consider staying just inland, near I-75, instead of on the islands—the drive to the beach is short, but the price difference is vast. Look for hotels offering "stay 4 nights, get the 5th free" deals in the shoulder season. Vacation rental prices often drop dramatically for weekly or monthly stays in summer. Flight Price Patterns: Tuesdays and Wednesdays are typically the cheapest days to fly. The most expensive days to fly into RSW are Fridays and Sundays, coinciding with weekly vacation turnover. Local Transportation: Renting a car is almost essential, but rates fluctuate. Book your rental car simultaneously with your flight for package deals. In peak season, book the car early—inventory can run out. Use the Lee County public transit (LeeTran) for specific routes, like to the beaches, to save on parking fees and gas. Finally, dine like a local: venture a few blocks away from the main tourist drags to find family-owned restaurants with better prices and authentic flavor.

Festival & Events Calendar

Fort Myers's annual rhythm is punctuated by vibrant events that can define your trip. February is dominated by the Edison Festival of Light, a month-long homage to the inventor with a grand parade, classic car show, and 5K run. The Sanibel Shell Fair also occurs, a must for collectors. March brings the crack of bats with Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins Spring Training, filling the air with a major-league buzz. The Burrowing Owl Festival in Cape Coral highlights unique local ecology. April's Fort Myers Beach Shrimp Festival celebrates the maritime heritage with fresh seafood and music. November hosts a world-class artistic event: the American Sand Sculpting Championship on Fort Myers Beach, where master sculptors create ephemeral wonders. December transforms the Edison & Ford Estates into a winter wonderland with Holiday Nights, a stunning walk-through light display, while boat parades light up the Caloosahatchee River. Planning your visit around these events guarantees a unique cultural layer to your vacation, but be aware they also draw peak crowds and require advanced lodging reservations. Conversely, the quieter summer months focus on local community events, offering a more intimate glimpse into resident life.

Practical Monthly Packing Guides

Packing for Fort Myers is an exercise in preparing for its dual climate personality. Dry Season (Dec-Apr): Think layers. Days are warm and sunny—pack shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and swimsuits. But always include a light sweater, jacket, or long sleeves for surprisingly cool evenings, especially on the water. A light rain jacket is wise for the occasional shower. Comfortable walking shoes, sandals, a wide-brimmed hat, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential. Wet Season (May-Oct): Embrace quick-dry, breathable fabrics like linen and moisture-wicking synthetics. You'll live in shorts, tank tops, and swimwear. A high-quality, compact rain poncho or umbrella is non-negotiable—downpours are sudden and drenching. Waterproof sandals or shoes are invaluable. The sun is still fierce, so hats and sunscreen remain critical. Pack more underwear and clothes than you think; humidity means multiple changes. For any season, insect repellent is recommended for evenings. Cultural dress is casually Floridian—resort casual is acceptable almost everywhere, but some upscale dining spots may request collared shirts or prohibit overly beach-worn attire.

Sample 7-Day Itineraries by Season

Spring (March/April): Day 1: Arrive, settle into your resort or rental. Day 2: Morning at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates, afternoon stroll through the River District. Day 3: Full day on Sanibel Island: lighthouse, shelling at Bowman's Beach, lunch at a local spot, visit the Shell Museum. Day 4: Catch a Spring Training baseball game at JetBlue Park. Day 5: Kayak tour through the mangroves at Lovers Key State Park. Day 6: Day trip to Naples for upscale shopping and dining. Day 7: Relax on Fort Myers Beach, farewell sunset cruise.

Summer (July): Day 1: Arrive, hit the pool immediately. Day 2: Early morning beach walk and shelling, retreat indoors or to a museum (like IMAG) for the afternoon storm. Day 3: Airboat adventure in the Everglades—rains cool the air. Day 4: Resort day: spa treatment, lazy pool lounging. Day 5: Visit the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, enjoy happy hour after the rain clears. Day 6: Deep-sea fishing charter (morning), cook your catch for dinner. Day 7: Morning visit to the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve to see wet-season wildlife, depart.

Autumn (November): Day 1: Arrive, check into your hotel. Day 2: Full day at the American Sand Sculpting Championship on Fort Myers Beach. Day 3: Bike the John Yarbrough Linear Park, afternoon visit to the Calusa Nature Center. Day 4: Day trip to Cayo Costa State Park via ferry for pristine beaches. Day 5: Dolphin watching tour in Pine Island Sound. Day 6: Explore the art galleries and have a fancy dinner in the River District. Day 7: Relax, final beach time, depart.

Winter (January): Day 1: Arrive, unwind. Day 2: Comprehensive tour of the Edison & Ford Estates in perfect weather. Day 3: Chartered sailing or sightseeing boat tour on the Gulf. Day 4: Full day on Captiva Island: shopping, lunch at the Bubble Room, sunset at the Mucky Duck. Day 5: Golfing on a premier course, followed by a seafood feast. Day 6: Visit the Randell Research Center (Calusa heritage), afternoon beachcombing. Day 7: Leisurely morning, farmer's market visit, depart.

Conclusion: Your Moment in the Sun

So, when is the best time to visit Fort Myers? The answer, beautifully, depends on the story you wish to live. If your dream is painted in the crisp, clear strokes of perfect weather, vibrant crowds, and iconic festivals, then the winter peak season from December through April is your canvas—just be prepared to pay the premium and plan far ahead. If your ideal trip is a masterpiece of value, balancing lovely weather with thinner crowds and lower costs, aim for the shoulder months of November or May. And if your adventure is defined by solitude, deep discounts, and the raw, emerald-green power of a tropical summer, then embrace the off-season rhythm of June through October, with a careful eye on the sky. Ultimately, Fort Myers offers a compelling reason to visit every single month. Whether you're tracing the footsteps of inventors under a winter sun, hunting for shells on a deserted September beach, or cheering under a shower of parade confetti in February, your perfect moment awaits on this stretch of the Gulf Coast. Listen to the rhythm of the seasons, align it with your heart's desire, and book your ticket. Your chapter in the Fort Myers sun is ready to be written.

FAQ - Best Time to Visit Fort Myers

What is the absolute best month for perfect weather in Fort Myers?

For consistently flawless weather—low humidity, abundant sunshine, warm (not hot) days, and cool nights—March is often considered the pinnacle. It captures the tail end of the dry season's reliability with pleasantly warm temperatures before the humidity of late spring sets in. February is a very close second, but can be slightly cooler.

When is hurricane season, and should I avoid visiting then?

Atlantic hurricane season runs officially from June 1 through November 30, with peak activity typically from mid-August to mid-October. While the statistical risk is highest then, major storms are not a daily or even annual occurrence. You should not necessarily avoid visiting, but you must purchase travel insurance, monitor forecasts closely, and be mentally prepared for potential disruptions. The trade-off is significantly lower prices and minimal crowds.

Is Fort Myers too crowded during Spring Break?

Yes, Spring Break (typically March into early April) brings a noticeable surge in crowds, particularly families and college students, to the beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel. Hotels fill up, restaurants have waits, and beaches are livelier. If you prefer tranquility, avoid the weeks surrounding Easter. If you enjoy a vibrant, social atmosphere and are traveling with family, it can be a fun time to visit.

What month has the warmest Gulf water for swimming?

The Gulf of Mexico waters around Fort Myers are warm year-round but become truly bath-like in the summer months. The warmest water temperatures, often exceeding 85°F, occur from July through September. Even in winter, water temperatures rarely dip below 70°F, which many still find swimmable, especially on sunny afternoons.

When can I find the best hotel and rental deals?

The most significant discounts are found during the off-season, particularly August and September. During this period, you can often find rates 50-70% lower than peak winter prices. The shoulder months of May and early November also offer excellent value as prices transition between high and low seasons.

What is the rainiest month in Fort Myers?

July and August are typically the wettest months, receiving the highest average rainfall. This usually comes in the form of intense but brief afternoon thunderstorms that clear quickly. June and September are also very rainy. The pattern is predictable: plan outdoor activities for mornings and expect a late-afternoon shower.

Is everything still open during the off-season (summer)?

Yes, all major attractions, parks, museums, and most restaurants remain open. Some smaller, locally-owned shops or tour operators may reduce their hours or close for a brief period for maintenance or vacation, especially in September. It's always wise to check the operating hours of specific, smaller businesses you have your heart set on visiting during the summer and fall months.