January Florida weather

AStoBe

So I'm planning a small destination wedding (13 people only) in florida the end of next January (Cape Coral, Ft. Myers area)... anyways I want to have the reception on the beach at possibly Captiva.  My family is freaking out that it's too cold on the beach there, mind you we're from MN where it was -10 yesterday, so we're used to cold weather. 

What are your opinions on this?  Do people still go to the beach in January in that area?  I've only been in the summer and spring months when it's been plenty warm.  Personally I think they're just being opinionated and should enjoy the free vacation... but maybe that's a little harsh

A little off topic, but do any of you also have a good beach spot other than Captiva?

jtritch

January can be cold or it can be beautiful - it's really dependent on the year.  So far, January has been good.  Last year, it was cold to us FL people, but if you guys are from MN, you should be fine.   I personally think that the skies are gorgeous in the winter, and the light is awesome for January. 

Captiva is really beautiful- but also look at Sanibel, Anna Maria Island (north of Captiva near Sarasota) and maybe even Boca Grande area. 

Good luck!

bananafanafofashley

It's like 75 today. Nights can be totally gorgeous, or miserably cold. Days may be chilly but they aren't usually downright cold. If you do it during the DAY DAY like no later than 3 pm, you will be able to be outside as long as the sun is shining. You wont find many Floridians on the beach this time of year though.

sweetie1184

I think if you can find a good photographer they will be able to work with any kind of lighting. Although yes, I have heard that an hour before sunset is the best, and I'm sure you want sunset pics on the beach.

There's really no sure way to how the weather will be. It was freezing here in March of last year, but this past weekend I took my son swimming in an outdoor pool. Worst case scenario, if it is freezing, just be cold. Your ceremony will only last for like 10 min, maybe it'll be worth it to freeze for a short time.

AStoBe

So what time do you think is best?  I know photographers say an hour after sunrise or an hour before sunset, but that seems like both of those would be a little chilly.  I want to do a dinner following, so I would prefer an afternoon thing timing and temp wise, but do you think that will still make for good pictures?

teachermegs

I am originally from MN and have been in FL for 3 years. Last Jan and this past Dec. I wouldn't go to the beach. I even wore closed toe shoes (usually in flip flops). I know Minnesotans are known to get through cold weather, but like pp said it can be cold.
With that being said, sunset pictures are beautiful. If that is what you want, I would plan to have back up heaters. My venue throws them in for free if we need them.

bnwgator

I grew up in Cape Coral, and I live in the Tampa Area now. I'm getting married on the beach up here this Sunday. I think you'll be fine- the weather is honestly a crapshoot. You could get really cold weather, you could be very warm. It is generally gorgeous in Florida this time of year though, so I vote "go-for-it"!

As far as other beaches, if you are set on Cape Coral/Ft Myers area, you can check out Ft.Myers Beach. If you are currently planning on Captiva then you know about Sanibel, but look around anyway. 

Anna Maria island is about two hours north of the area you are looking at, but also pretty if you felt like moving.

Good luck! Let me know if you have any Cape Coral/Ft Myers questions.

rclarke08

Anna Maria is absolutely beautiful.  I live 3 miles from the island.

LIke the others said, it can be 73 (like today) but tomorrow we're getting a cold front and the low is 44...it's pretty all over the place.  I would just go for it!! Either way, it will still be worth it.