Bachelorette in July?

Question

I am planning a bachelor party in Florida. It would be anytime between July and August. The bride was hoping for Sarasota. Is this...feasible? We are from southern California so we all know hot weather, but none of us know humid weather. I have been reading forums, here and elsewhere, and everyone says its hot hot hot in July, and then hurricane risk in August (and hot). Our goal is to mostly have laid back fun in a nice airbnb, go out to some nice dinners, and a few hours each day out on the beach. My question is: is it too hot to do those things? I'm having trouble wrapping my head around what 90+ and humid feels like. When I looked into this and saw everyone saying its hot, I told the bride what I was reading and she said "great! I love hot weather at the beach". Is this an ok time for what we are hoping to achieve, or is it more uncomfortable than we are imagining? Thank you for your time!!

Answer

Planning a bachelorette party in Sarasota in July or August is definitely feasible, but there are some important climate considerations to keep in mind. Florida’s Southwest Gulf Coast experiences hot, humid summers, and July is typically the peak of the heat, while August carries both high heat and increased hurricane risk.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect:

Temperature and Humidity: Average highs in July and August are around 90–92°F (32–33°C), but the high humidity can make it feel closer to 100–105°F (38–41°C). This level of humidity can feel heavy and sticky, which is very different from dry Southern California heat. Some people find it tiring if you’re outside for extended periods.
Beach Time: Morning and late afternoon are usually the most comfortable times for beach activities. Midday sun combined with humidity can be intense, so sunscreen, hats, and hydration are essential.
Evening Activities: Dinners out are generally very pleasant, especially in air-conditioned restaurants. Outdoor dining is possible but evenings can remain warm and humid, sometimes with afternoon thunderstorms earlier in the day.
Rain and Storms: July and August are part of the wet season. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and can be sudden. August has the highest hurricane risk, although the likelihood of a direct hit is relatively low. It’s wise to keep an eye on forecasts and consider travel insurance.

Practical tips to make your trip more comfortable:

Plan most outdoor activities in the mornings or early evenings.
Rent a nice Airbnb with good air conditioning and possibly a pool to cool off during the hottest part of the day.
Stay flexible with beach plans—be ready to move indoors if storms roll in.
Hydrate constantly, wear light clothing, and bring sun protection.

In summary, if the bride enjoys hot weather, Sarasota in July can work well for a laid-back, beach-focused bachelorette. Expect it to feel hotter and stickier than California summers, plan indoor breaks during the peak heat, and be prepared for occasional rain or thunderstorms. With good planning, it can be a fun and relaxing trip.