If there's one event that perfectly captures the spirit of the Florida Keys, it's lobster season.
Every summer, locals and visitors alike count down to one of the most exciting weeks of the year. Recreational lobster season—better known as Mini Season—returns to the Florida Keys on July 29-30, giving divers two action-packed days to hunt for Florida's famous spiny lobster before the regular commercial and recreational season begins on August 6. It's more than just a fishing season—it's a tradition that brings together families, friends, and the entire community for unforgettable days on the water.
Whether you're a seasoned lobster hunter or planning your first trip to the Keys, here's everything you need to know before you hit the water.
Know Before You Go
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) works hard to ensure our lobster fishery remains healthy and sustainable for generations to come. Before heading out, be sure you're familiar with current regulations, licensing requirements, bag limits, size restrictions, and protected areas.
Some important reminders include:
- Mini Season runs July 29-30, 2026.
- Regular lobster season opens August 6 and continues through March 31.
- In Monroe County, the daily recreational bag limit during both Mini Season and the regular season is six lobsters per person.
- Lobsters must measure more than three inches across the carapace, and they must be measured while still in the water.
- A valid Florida saltwater fishing license and spiny lobster permit are required for most recreational harvesters.
Because regulations can change and certain areas have additional restrictions, we always recommend checking the latest information directly with the FWC before your trip.
For complete rules and regulations, visit Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Spiny Lobster Regulations.
Not Diving? Eat Like a Local Instead.
Not everyone wants to spend the morning searching reefs and patch holes—and that's perfectly okay.
One of our favorite parts about lobster season is supporting the hardworking commercial fishermen who make fresh Florida seafood available all season long. When commercial season opens on August 6, one of our favorite local businesses to visit is Eat Florida Seafood. Whether you're looking for whole Florida spiny lobster, fresh lobster tails, local fish, Key West pink shrimp, or stone crab when the season arrives, they're our go-to recommendation for seafood that's caught right here in the Keys.
Supporting local fishermen helps preserve one of the Florida Keys' oldest industries while ensuring you're enjoying seafood that's as fresh as it gets.
Make Lobster Season Your Vacation Tradition
There's no better home base for lobster season than the Florida Keys.
Whether you're planning a family diving trip, a long weekend with friends, or a month escaping to paradise, Coastal Realty offers vacation rentals throughout the Upper Keys that put you close to world-class diving, boating, waterfront dining, and everything that makes lobster season unforgettable.
Our vacation rentals offer the perfect place to relax after a day on the water—whether you're cleaning your catch, grilling dinner with family, or simply watching another incredible Keys sunset.
To reserve your stay for the remainder of lobster season, call 305-664-0077 and let our team help you find the perfect Florida Keys vacation rental.
Ready to Make the Florida Keys Home?
For many visitors, lobster season starts as an annual vacation and eventually becomes something more.
After spending years returning to the Keys each summer, many people decide they're ready to call this incredible place home.
Whether you're looking for a waterfront retreat with dockage, a canal-front home for easy boating access, or your forever home in the Florida Keys, our local sales team is here to help you navigate every step of the process.
At Coastal Realty of the Florida Keys, we don't just sell homes—we live this lifestyle every day. From lobster season and boating to waterfront living and island traditions, we understand what makes life here so special because it's home for us too.
If you're thinking about buying or selling property in the Florida Keys, let our local experts help you make your next move.
Contact Coastal Realty of the Florida Keys today at 305-664-0077 to start your next chapter in paradise.
