The 12 Prettiest Warm Winter Vacations in the US to Visit

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I’ll never forget that moment I first dipped my toes in the waters of Hanauma Bay last December, watching sea turtles glide by while my friends back home were scraping ice off their windshields. Winter travel doesn’t always mean bundling up. Sometimes it means trading your snow boots for flip-flops and embracing endless summer.

From swimming with manatees in Crystal River, Florida, to hiking through blooming desert wildflowers in Joshua Tree, these are the most beautiful places in the United States to escape winter’s chill. Whether you’re craving a week of island hopping in Hawaii or seeking sunny adventures in the Arizona desert, I’ve rounded up 12 destinations where you can leave your winter coat at home and soak up the sun instead.

Top Must-See Places in the US for Warm Winter

Looking for the best destinations in the US for a Warm Winter? Explore the coastal charm of Santa Barbara, California, soak up the desert sun in Phoenix, Arizona, discover the unique wetlands of The Everglades, Florida, and relax on the sandy shores of South Padre Island, Texas. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, or a relaxing getaway, these warm winter destinations offer the perfect escape.

1. Santa Barbara, California

• 📍 Location: Central California coast, about 2 hours north of Los Angeles and 5 hours south of San Francisco 
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, wine enthusiasts 🍷, architecture buffs 🏛️ 
• 📸 Top Experiences: Strolling Stearns Wharf, touring the historic Mission, wine tasting in nearby Santa Ynez Valley 
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September through November when summer crowds thin out and temperatures remain pleasant 🍂 
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Californian – Spanish Colonial splendor with Moorish accents just steps from the beach and Urban Wine Trail

Santa Barbara looks like Spain if you dropped it on the California coast and handed it a surfboard.

Start at Stearns Wharf. For killer golden hour shots, be there around 5:30–6:30 PM in the fall. Face west for backlit sailboats and glassy water. From there, it’s a quick walk to the Urban Wine Trail — check out Kunin Wines (known for Rhône varietals) or Area 5.1 for something offbeat and fun. These spots are casual and rarely crowded on weekdays.

Make time for Mission Santa Barbara at sunset — it glows pink-orange and the symmetry of the twin towers is unbeatable for photos. Want a view? Hike Inspiration Point (3.5 miles roundtrip, moderate, ~1.5–2 hours). Go in the late afternoon for softer shadows over the Pacific.

Best time to visit? September to November. Fewer tourists, warm but not hot, and the light is perfect for photography. Santa Barbara nails that rare mix: wine country ease, walkable streets, and beach views without the crowds or pretense.

• Read Next: Hidden Gems in California

2. Phoenix, Arizona

• 📍 Location: Central Arizona’s Valley of the Sun, surrounded by Sonoran Desert landscapes 
• 🏆 Best For: Desert explorers 🌵, outdoor adventurers 🥾, golf enthusiasts ⛳ 
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Camelback Mountain, exploring Desert Botanical Garden, watching desert sunsets 
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November through April when temperatures are moderate and skies are consistently clear ☀️ 
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Arizona Biltmore – Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced architectural masterpiece with lush grounds and multiple pools

Phoenix hits different when you’re chasing sunrise from a mountain and cooling off in art galleries by lunch.

Start with Camelback Mountain — take the Echo Canyon Trail (2.4 miles roundtrip, steep, ~2–3 hours). Be on the trail by 5:30 AM to summit in time for sunrise. Pack water and gloves (seriously — there’s scrambling), and shoot facing east for insane desert light over the valley.

For easier access and equally good golden hour photos, hike up to Hole-in-the-Rock in Papago Park. It’s a 10-minute walk and ideal just before sunset when the sky burns orange.

Midday, duck into the Desert Botanical Garden, especially in March–April when the desert is blooming. Then head to Roosevelt Row: think murals, vintage shops, and tacos worth writing home about.

Best window? November to April. You get blue skies, 65–75°F days, and razor-sharp sunlight that makes your photos pop.

• Read Next: Things to Do in Phoenix at Night

3. The Everglades, Florida

• 📍 Location: Southern Florida, covering 1.5 million acres from Lake Okeechobee to Florida Bay 
• 🏆 Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts 🐊, bird watchers 🦅, eco-adventurers 🛶 
• 📸 Top Experiences: Taking an airboat tour, spotting alligators, hiking the Anhinga Trail 
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December through April during the dry season when wildlife is most visible and mosquitoes are less abundant 🦟 
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Best Western Plus Kendall Hotel & Suites – A surprisingly polished stay near the Everglades with spacious rooms, a relaxing pool, and easy access to nature without sacrificing comfort

The Everglades feels more like a National Geographic set than a park — think gators, misty wetlands, and silence.

Your first move: Anhinga Trail near Royal Palm. It’s an easy 0.8-mile boardwalk loop but packs in more wildlife than hikes ten times the length. Get there just after sunrise — soft light, active birds, and reflections on the water make it a goldmine for photographers.

Want to go deeper? Rent a kayak at Nine Mile Pond and paddle through mangrove tunnels. It’s flat water and surreal — perfect for wide-angle nature shots. Bring dry bags and bug spray, always.

Skip the big commercial airboats and book with smaller outfits like Coopertown or Everglades Safari Park — you’ll actually hear the birds and maybe even spot a python or two.

Go December to April for dry trails, visible wildlife, and way fewer mosquitoes. Don’t miss the Miccosukee Indian Village nearby — a window into the culture and resilience of the people who’ve lived here for centuries.

• Read Next: Beautiful Places to Visit in Florida

4. South Padre Island, Texas

• 📍 Location: Southern tip of Texas, on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico near the Mexican border 
• 🏆 Best For: Beach enthusiasts 🏖️, fishing aficionados 🎣, water sports lovers 🏄‍♀️ 
• 📸 Top Experiences: Relaxing on pristine beaches, dolphin watching cruises, releasing rehabilitated sea turtles 
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September through February for fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures (avoid March for spring break crowds) 🌊 
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Peninsula Island Resort & Spa – Upscale beachfront accommodations with private balconies overlooking the Gulf

South Padre Island is what happens when Texas meets tropical — sea turtles, clear Gulf water, and skies that light up at dusk. Start your day at the north end beaches — way quieter, and perfect for sunrise walks around 6:30–7:00 AM. The light is low, the water’s still, and it’s a great spot to snap silhouette shots of shorebirds.

Rent a paddleboard in Laguna Madre Bay. It’s calmer than the Gulf side and great for spotting stingrays and dolphins. Book a dolphin-watching cruise mid-morning when the water is calmest and visibility is best for photos.

In the late afternoon, head to the Birding & Nature Center. You’ll catch migrating birds in golden light — bring a zoom lens. Then visit Sea Turtle Inc. Check their schedule for release events — it’s emotional, rare, and worth planning around.

Avoid March unless you’re chasing Spring Break energy. Go September to February for warm water, fewer people, and unforgettable sunsets over the bay.

• Read Next: Beautiful Places to Visit in Texas

5. Key West, Florida

• 📍 Location: Southernmost city in the continental U.S., at the end of the Florida Keys archipelago 
• 🏆 Best For: Free spirits 🌈, history buffs 🏛️, ocean adventurers 🐠 
• 📸 Top Experiences: Celebrating sunset at Mallory Square, touring Hemingway’s Home, snorkeling the only living coral reef in the continental U.S. 
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March through May when temperatures are pleasant and the winter crowds have thinned 🌞 
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Gardens Hotel – Lush tropical oasis in a historic mansion in the heart of Old Town

Key West, Florida is the end of the road—in the best way. Start at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park just after sunrise for calm water and great snorkeling near the rocks. Bring a camera—the light’s best before 9:30 a.m. Next, skip the selfie and take the quick tour of Hemingway’s House. It’s fun, weird, and full of cat lore.

Head to Mallory Square by 5:30 p.m. for street performers and fiery sunsets. Want better water visibility? Book a morning snorkel at Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary—less wind, more reef time.

Looking for an epic day trip? Hop a ferry or seaplane to Dry Tortugas National Park. Tour the massive Civil War-era fort, then snap shots of the moat as afternoon shadows stretch. No shops or food—pack everything.

• Read Next: Dreamy Vacation Rentals in Key West

6. Palm Springs, California

• 📍 Location: Southern California’s Coachella Valley, about 2 hours east of Los Angeles 
• 🏆 Best For: Architecture enthusiasts 🏠, desert hikers 🥾, relaxation seekers 💆‍♀️ 
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring mid-century modern homes, riding the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, exploring Joshua Tree National Park 
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November through April when temperatures are pleasantly warm rather than scorching hot 🌡️ 
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Parker Palm Springs – Eclectic Jonathan Adler-designed retreat with sprawling grounds and vintage desert glamour

Palm Springs, California is a retro time capsule with desert drama and spa luxury. Book an early Modern Tours Palm Springs walk—morning light pops off the mid-century angles. Ride the Aerial Tramway to Mount San Jacinto and hike the 1.5-mile Desert View Trail for sweeping valley views.

By noon, escape the heat at Azure Palm Hot Springs. Midweek is quietest and the pools are geothermal bliss.

Drive 45 minutes to Joshua Tree’s Hidden Valley for golden hour. The easy 1-mile loop has sculpted boulders and twisted trees that light up at sunset. Bring a tripod—this is one of California’s best stargazing spots.

7.  St. John, US Virgin Islands

• 📍 Location: Eastern Caribbean, smallest of the three main US Virgin Islands, about a 20-minute ferry ride from St. Thomas
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, snorkelers 🤿, nature enthusiasts 🌴
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming at Trunk Bay, hiking the Reef Bay Trail, snorkeling at Maho Bay
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to April for perfect weather and minimal rainfall ☀️, September-October for fewer crowds
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Gallows Point Resort – Oceanfront suites with stunning sunset views and private terraces

St. John, US Virgin Islands is 20 minutes from the cruise crowds—and feels like it’s 20 years back in time.

Start your morning on the Reef Bay Trail, the island’s best hike. It’s 2.5 miles downhill through dense tropical forest, past petroglyphs carved by the Taino people, and the ruins of a Danish sugar plantation. It ends at a remote beach—bring water, snacks, and prepare for a humid, uphill return.

For snorkeling, hit Maho Bay by 8:30 a.m. Sea turtles graze in the shallows, and the water’s clearest before the wind picks up. Want postcard views without the cruise ship crowd? Visit Trunk Bay at 4 p.m. The sand glows peachy-gold, and most people are already gone.

For a killer overlook, hike 5 minutes up to Peace Hill Ruins. There’s an old stone windmill at the top and sweeping views of Hawksnest Bay and the BVI. Best time? Sunrise—nobody’s there, and the light spills across the water like liquid gold.

• Read Next: Top Things to Do in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

8. New Orleans, Louisiana

• 📍 Location: Southeastern Louisiana along the Mississippi River, about 2 hours east of Baton Rouge
• 🏆 Best For: Food enthusiasts 🍽️, music lovers 🎷, history buffs 🏛️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the French Quarter, enjoying live jazz on Frenchmen Street, sampling Creole cuisine
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February-May for perfect weather and festivals including Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest 🎭
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Monteleone – Historic landmark hotel with the famous rotating Carousel Bar in the heart of the French Quarter

New Orleans, Louisiana isn’t a city you see—it’s one you absorb through sound, smell, and soul.

Wake up early and wander the French Quarter at 7 a.m. The streets are empty, and the soft light hitting the iron balconies is perfect for moody wide shots. Grab beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde before 8—by 8:30, it’s shoulder-to-shoulder.

Skip Bourbon. At night, head to Frenchmen Street instead. By 9 p.m., the live music spills out onto the sidewalks. The Spotted Cat and Snug Harbor are your go-tos—no cover, just tip the band.

During the day, explore the Garden District on foot. The self-guided walking tour takes about 1.5 hours and passes antebellum mansions, twisted oak trees, and Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. Go late afternoon—the soft light and long shadows make for dramatic shots with zero editing.

When it’s time to eat, don’t overthink it. Coop’s Place does killer gumbo, and Atchafalaya has shrimp and grits worth planning your whole day around. Best time to visit? Late April. Jazz Fest is rolling, the weather’s mild, and the crowds are manageable.

9. Maui, Hawaii

• 📍 Location: Central Pacific Ocean, second-largest Hawaiian island, about a 5-hour flight from California
• 🏆 Best For: Beach enthusiasts 🏄‍♀️, road-trippers 🚗, nature lovers 🌋
• 📸 Top Experiences: Driving the Road to Hana, watching sunrise at Haleakalā, snorkeling at Molokini Crater
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-May and September-November for ideal weather and fewer crowds 🌺
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Montage Kapalua Bay – Luxurious oceanfront accommodations with traditional Hawaiian influences and private lanais

Maui, Hawaii hits hard from the start—red, black, and gold beaches, cliffside waterfalls, and a volcano sunrise you have to earn.

Start with the Road to Hana, a 52-mile coastal drive. Leave before 7 a.m. and stop at Waiʻānapanapa State Park to hike the 2-mile lava cliff trail. At Wailua Falls, swim under the 173-foot cascade and grab banana bread in Ke‘anae.

Book a sunrise at Haleakalā. You’ll need a reservation and layers—temps can dip below freezing. Arrive by 5:30 a.m.; the best light hits 15 minutes after sunrise.

For snorkeling, take the first boat (around 6:30 a.m.) to Molokini Crater. Visibility is best early. You’ll likely see reef sharks, rays, and butterflyfish. Visit April–June for calmer water, fewer crowds, and late whale season.

• Read Next: Hidden Gems in Maui

10. Coastal Georgia

• 📍 Location: Southeastern Atlantic coast, stretching from Savannah to the Florida border, including barrier islands
• 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏛️, beach loungers 🏖️, nature photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring historic Savannah, visiting Jekyll Island’s Driftwood Beach, wildlife watching on Cumberland Island
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March-May for pleasant temperatures and blooming azaleas 🌸, September-November for fewer crowds
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Cloister at Sea Island – Elegant seaside resort with Southern hospitality and world-class amenities

Coastal Georgia is for travelers who want Spanish moss, wild horses, and beaches with zero cell service.

In Savannah, walk all 22 squares. Start at Forsyth Park and move north. Shoot photos around 5 p.m. for soft shadows and golden light. Grab lunch at Mrs. Wilkes’ (cash only, opens at 11 a.m.).

Head to Tybee Island for a sunrise shoot at North Beach Lighthouse. Then drive to Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island. Go at low tide near golden hour for tree silhouettes and glowing skies.

Ferry to Cumberland Island—day trips fill fast, so book early. Hike 4 miles round trip to Dungeness Ruins and spot wild horses, osprey, and armadillos. Visit late March–early May for azaleas, mild temps, and low crowds.

• Read next: Bucket List Ideas

11. Sedona, Arizona

• 📍 Location: Northern Arizona, about 2 hours north of Phoenix and 30 minutes south of Flagstaff
• 🏆 Best For: Spiritual seekers 🧘‍♀️, hikers 🥾, photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking among the red rocks, watching sunset at Cathedral Rock, stargazing under dark skies
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: March-May and September-November for mild temperatures and brilliant blue skies against red rocks 🌵
• 🏨 Where to Stay: L’Auberge de Sedona – Creekside cabins and lodge rooms nestled among towering sycamores with red rock views

Sedona, Arizona is where you go when you want a hike that slaps, a view that looks fake, and stars that don’t quit.

Start with Cathedral Rock. It’s 1.2 miles out and back, but it’s steep and requires some scrambling. Go at 4:30–5 p.m. in spring or fall. The saddle near the top is the shot you want—framed by towers of red rock and soft evening light.

Next: Devil’s Bridge Trail. Skip the 4×4 shortcut and take the full 4.2-mile roundtrip from Dry Creek Trailhead. Hit the trail before 7 a.m. to avoid crowds and catch soft, directional light across the bridge. Bring a tripod if you’re shooting the arch.

Don’t want to sweat? Book a Pink Jeep Tour into Broken Arrow Trail or Schnebly Hill. It’s bumpy but takes you deep into the backcountry without the work. Stargazing? Sedona’s a certified Dark Sky city—best visibility in September and October. Head to Doe Mountain Trailhead after dark for a wide-open view of the Milky Way.

12. San Diego, California

• 📍 Location: Southern California coast, about 2 hours south of Los Angeles and just north of the Mexican border
• 🏆 Best For: Beach goers 🏄‍♂️, family travelers 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, outdoor enthusiasts 🌊
• 📸 Top Experiences: Relaxing on pristine beaches, exploring Balboa Park, visiting world-famous San Diego Zoo
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September-November for warm water and fewer crowds ☀️, March-May for perfect temperatures and blooming gardens
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel del Coronado – Historic beachfront landmark with Victorian architecture and modern luxury on Coronado Island

San Diego, California gives you warm waves, world-class tacos, and just enough adventure to feel like you did something.

Start at La Jolla Shores. Rent a kayak and head to La Jolla Sea Caves (roughly 2 hours round trip with stops). Go early—like 8 a.m.—to beat the wind and tour groups. Snorkeling the marine reserve in late summer? Expect harmless leopard sharks and insane water clarity.

For a peaceful photo op, skip the name—Sunset Cliffs Natural Park—and go at sunrise. You’ll get empty bluffs, soft pink light, and the cliffs to yourself. Late September through November has the calmest mornings.

Midday, hit Balboa Park. Beyond the museums, walk the Palm Canyon Trail—a short 0.5-mile loop under towering palms and tucked-away desert flora. Then check out the Alcazar Garden for geometric hedges and tiled fountains—best shot at noon with overhead light.

Dinner? Little Italy. For seafood, Ironside’s oysters and uni toast are elite. Want pasta? Bencotto’s got hand-rolled everything. Stay on Coronado Island if you want quieter beach vibes, and take the ferry back to downtown at sunset for skyline views. Trust me—it’s the shot.

• Read Next: Things to Do in San Diego at Night

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Best Warm Winter Vacations in the US

Looking to learn more about the best warm winter vacations in the US? Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best attractions and activities at winter destinations.

1. How wet is Florida in December?

Florida in December is generally drier compared to the summer months. You can expect mild temperatures and less rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach days.

2. Where are the most affordable warm winter US vacation destinations?

For affordable warm winter getaways in the United States, consider places like Coastal Georgia or Sedona, Arizona. These destinations offer a range of fun activities in winter without breaking the bank. From the historic charm of Savannah to the natural beauty of the Arizona desert, there are plenty of budget-friendly options.

3. What is the average temperature in California over Christmas?

Over Christmas, California’s average temperature varies by region. In Southern California, including destinations like San Diego, you can expect mild to warm temperatures, typically ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit. This makes California a fantastic choice for those seeking stuff to do in winter under sunny skies.

4. Is January a good time to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands?

Absolutely! January is an excellent time to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands. The weather is warm and relatively dry, with average temperatures hovering around the mid-80s Fahrenheit. It’s perfect for enjoying the islands’ beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.

5. Can you experience snow in any warm winter US destinations?

Yes, you can! Sedona, Arizona, occasionally gets a light dusting of snow, creating a stunning contrast against the red rocks. It’s a unique experience where you can enjoy cool stuff in winter against a backdrop of desert landscapes.

6. Are there any winter festivals worth visiting in these destinations?

Definitely! New Orleans, for example, has vibrant winter festivals, including Mardi Gras in early spring. San Diego hosts the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, a spectacular boat parade. These festivals add an extra layer of excitement to your winter vacation.