Summary
Travelers encounter two sensible responses to the anticipation of a prolonged, frigid winter: either embrace the cold and seek out the most captivating winter destinations, or pursue warmer climates wherever they can be found.
If you have grown weary of icy pathways and excessively heated interiors, choosing the latter option is completely understandable. Additionally, U.S. travelers do not need to venture beyond national boundaries to shed their scarves and mittens.
Whether you desire a beach getaway, a wildlife thrill, or an infusion of metropolitan culture, here are engaging sun-soaked destinations for your consideration this winter.
Santa Barbara, California
Located just under two hours northwest of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara serves as an ideal retreat for beach walks and canyon explorations. Celebrity sightings are frequent in this locale (notable residents include Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, Jennifer Lopez, and Oprah Winfrey), yet the true allure lies in its sophisticated yet laid-back beach-town ambiance. Meander along the State St Promenade to discover distinctive shops, locally-sourced gourmet food and wine, and a diverse array of alfresco dining options. Continue your stroll to West Beach, where adventurous souls can rent kayaks and paddleboards, while those seeking tranquility can enjoy the scenic views from Stearns Wharf.
Phoenix, Arizona
The rationale behind the relocation of 15 Major League Baseball teams to Arizona for spring training is straightforward: the climate is exceptionally favorable, with Phoenix enjoying, on average, 299 days of sunlight annually. During the high summer months, when temperatures frequently exceed 100°F, you may yearn for cooler conditions; however, the clear blue skies and mid-70s temperature of late winter provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities.
If your visit does not coincide with spring training, the Desert Botanical Garden showcases the region’s unique cactus flora alongside various art displays. Alternatively, you can explore the walking trails and sandstone formations of Papago Park, or enjoy a biking experience through the expansive South Mountain Park, which is favored by mountain bikers.
The Everglades, Florida
The reason behind the influx of MLB teams to Florida, where many warm up for the season, is apparent. The Sunshine State consistently holds the highest temperatures on the U.S. mainland during winter. Additionally, it is home to the warmest national park (outside of Hawaii)—the Everglades. During this season, the arid conditions make it a peak time for visitors and wildlife viewing. As the marshes dry up, animals gather in smaller areas, while migratory birds fly south to Florida in pursuit of warmer conditions. Follow the Southern Everglades Highway south to Flamingo, an excellent spot for manatee observation.
South Padre Island, Texas
Arrive in South Padre Island before the spring break crowds, and you can experience Texas’s favorite seaside resort town in a more serene state. With an array of viewing blinds, a tower, and boardwalks traversing the dunes, the 50-acre South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary is a superb location to observe wintering birds, along with alligators and sea turtles. Isla Blanca County Park offers the most sought-after beach, complete with convenient access to shops and eateries; however, for those yearning for tranquility, consider wandering through the dunes at Edwin King Atwood County Park or along the lengthy shores of the North End.
Key West, Florida
Located at the southernmost point of the Florida Keys, Key West boasts a vibrant culture that draws sun-seekers from across the nation. This 7-square-mile paradise is known for its rich literary history, fresh seafood, and exciting nightlife. Make sure to experience a sunset sailing trip, tour the Ernest Hemingway House, and take in the vivid colors at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory.
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs maintains its allure year-round, though it rarely experiences significant temperature drops. While winter nights can feel somewhat chilly in the desert, daytime highs consistently remain above 70°F. This oasis has become a well-known destination, and although it buzzes during high season in the Coachella Valley, a variety of vintage motels and mid-century modern rentals with private pool options ensure an array of accommodation choices. For those seeking more than just relaxation by the pool, the stunning landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park and the quirky attractions of the Salton Sea (including the International Banana Museum) are easily accessible within an hour.
St John, US Virgin Islands
If you are seeking warmth and the sensation of being far from home, consider St John in the US Virgin Islands. The Virgin Islands National Park constitutes two-thirds of the island, preserving numerous miles of shoreline and vibrant underwater reefs. Traveling with family? Visit Maho Bay, renowned for its shallow, tranquil waters popular with snorkelers and green sea turtles.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Winter in New Orleans may not be filled with hot sunshine—January and February typically hover around the mid-60s—but it offers a refreshing respite from snow-laden locales, and crowds reach their annual lows just prior to Mardi Gras. Nevertheless, in true New Orleans fashion, festivities abound, even in winter.
Bonfires are lit along the levees each Christmas Eve, a custom believed to assist in guiding the arrival of Papa Noël, the Cajun Santa Claus. The annual Tet Fest, organized by the Mary Queen of Vietnam Church in celebration of the Vietnamese New Year (in late January or early February), is a significant event for the city’s substantial Vietnamese community, featuring a vibrant fair abundant with culinary delights. The pleasant winter days provide an excellent opportunity for delving into the charming backstreets of the Crescent City on one of its many bike tours.
Kihei, Maui
While the Hawaiian Islands may experience an increase in rainfall and a slight drop in temperature during winter, the term “cooler” in Kihei translates to an average high of 81°F rather than 87°F, with 276 sunny days each year, so a heavy coat is unnecessary. Here are a few practical suggestions for visiting Maui in winter: stick to the southern and western coasts to enhance your likelihood of sunshine, avoid rough surf by selecting gentler beaches, such as Kalepolepo Beach Park for families or Ulua Beach for superb snorkeling. Moreover, steer clear of peak holiday crowds and consider visiting in early winter for potential deals, allowing you to unwind and bask in the sun.
Coastal Georgia
Travelers seeking sunshine in Georgia might be perfectly satisfied with a stop in the renowned Savannah. However, venturing a bit farther to the coast reveals a realm of barrier islands and meandering waterways waiting to be discovered. Tybee Island and its beloved beaches are a mere half-hour drive away—the beginning of a series of subtropical islands gracing the Peach State’s coastline. Each of these islands features temperate winter weather and possesses a unique character.
Sapelo Island houses a small community of Geechee descendants, whose ancestors were once enslaved on the island’s plantations until the 19th century. Nature enthusiasts can arrange wildlife tours through the estuaries of Sapelo at the Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve Visitors Center. Historic and culturally diverse Brunswick acts as the gateway to Georgia’s Golden Isles, including the resort-oriented St Simons and Jekyll Island, which was historically a retreat for the American elite.
This article was first published September 13, 2019, and updated November 16, 2023.
