Winter in the US doesn’t have to mean snow shovels and frozen sidewalks. 🌴 In fact, January is one of my favorite months to chase the sun across the country. After traveling to 40+ states (and spending more than a few New England winters dreaming of warmth), I’ve discovered the best spots where you can trade icy mornings for beach walks, desert hikes, and poolside cocktails.
From Florida’s turquoise coasts to the red rock canyons of Arizona, these destinations aren’t just warm—they’re packed with character, culture, and unforgettable experiences. I’ve personally explored many of these places in the dead of winter, and trust me, there’s nothing better than stepping off a plane in January and feeling that rush of warm air hit your face.
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At a Glance: Top Warm January Destinations in the US
Ready to ditch the heavy coats and enjoy some fun in the sun? Here are some winter destinations in America that you should add to your bucket list:
- Warmest Beaches: Honolulu, Hawaii
- Most Vibrant Nightlife: Miami, Florida
- Best Desert Escape: Phoenix, Arizona
- Top Foodie Scene: Austin, Texas
- Most Charming Coastal Town: Savannah, Georgia
- Best Artsy Vibes: St. Petersburg, Florida
- Top National Park Adventure: Tucson, Arizona
- Most Relaxing Retreat: Naples, Florida
- Best for Families: Corpus Christi, Texas
- Coolest City Escape: San Diego, California
Keep reading to see each of these places in more detail, as well as the rest of this list of 15 top winter destinations in 2025.
1. Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu hits different in January. I’ve been there during peak winter, and honestly, it’s like stepping into a completely different world when the mainland is freezing. You’ll find yourself in 80-degree weather while everyone back home is scraping ice off their windshields.
The Diamond Head hike is absolutely worth it, but here’s what you need to know – you can’t just show up anymore. They switched to a reservation system, and you’ll pay around $5 per person plus a $1 booking fee. Book up to 30 days in advance because this thing sells out, especially for sunrise slots. The 0.8-mile trail kicks your butt (560 feet of elevation gain), but those views of Waikiki and downtown Honolulu are unreal.
Pearl Harbor is free to visit, but the USS Arizona Memorial tour requires a $1 reservation fee through Recreation.gov. They release tickets 12 weeks in advance at 3 PM Hawaiian time, and they disappear fast. I mean within minutes fast. The whole experience takes about 75 minutes and includes a documentary plus the boat ride to the memorial. Just know that bags aren’t allowed, so you’ll need to use the paid storage ($7) or travel light.
Waikiki Beach is touristy as hell, but it’s touristy for a reason. The surf breaks here are perfect for beginners, and you can rent boards right on the beach for around $25-40 per day. Pro tip: head to the less crowded Kaimana Beach if you want some space to breathe.
- Read next: Picture-Perfect Places in Hawaii
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2. Key West, Florida
Key West in January is basically paradise with a side of quirky. The weather’s sitting pretty at 75-80 degrees, and you don’t have that suffocating humidity that makes summer unbearable down here.
The Mallory Square Sunset Celebration happens every single night, 365 days a year. It’s free, it’s weird, and it’s absolutely worth your time. Show up around 5:30 PM (about two hours before sunset) to snag a good spot and watch the street performers do their thing. There’s everything from sword swallowers to psychics charging $25 for readings. The whole scene has this carnival vibe that somehow works perfectly.
Ernest Hemingway’s House costs $19 for adults and $7 for kids (cash only, which is annoying). The 20-30 minute guided tours start every 15 minutes from 9 AM to 5 PM. Yeah, you’re really paying to see cats with extra toes, but the house itself is pretty cool – it was one of the first in Key West to have indoor plumbing and a pool. I spent more time watching the 50+ polydactyl cats than listening to Hemingway stories, and honestly, I’m not mad about it.
Duval Street gets crazy at night, but during the day it’s actually pretty chill for wandering and people-watching. Skip the overpriced tourist bars and hit up Blue Heaven in Bahama Village instead – their key lime pie is legendary, and you’ll feel like you found a local secret.
- Read next: Bucket List Vacation Rentals in Key West
3. San Diego, California
San Diego doesn’t really have winter, which makes January feel like cheating. You’re looking at 70-degree days and zero chance of snow, while most of the country is hibernating.
The Gaslamp Quarter is where you want to spend your time if you’re into the urban scene. It’s walkable, packed with solid restaurants, and way less touristy than the beach areas. I actually prefer it to Balboa Park because you can bar hop and try different food spots without feeling like you’re checking items off a tourist list.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is where you go when you want to hike without the crowds. The trails are moderate, the ocean views are incredible, and you won’t be fighting for parking like you would at more famous spots. Entry is $15 per vehicle, and the park opens at 8 AM.
La Jolla Cove is where you’ll see sea lions just chilling on the rocks like they own the place (which, let’s be honest, they do). Parking is absolutely terrible, so either walk from downtown La Jolla or take a rideshare. The snorkeling here is actually pretty decent if you don’t mind cold water.
For food, skip the obvious beach spots and head to Liberty Public Market or Little Italy. You’ll get better food for less money, and you won’t feel like you’re being ripped off for the ocean view.
- Read next: Best Beach Resorts in California
4. Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix in January is exactly what you want when you’re escaping winter – 70-degree days, zero humidity, and sunshine that actually feels good instead of trying to murder you.
Camelback Mountain is the hike everyone talks about, and yeah, it’s tough. The Echo Canyon Trail is 1.2 miles to the summit with 1,280 feet of elevation gain. Start early (like 6 AM early) because even in January, it gets warm and crowded fast. Parking fills up by 8 AM on weekends. The views from the top are worth the pain in your legs, trust me.
Desert Botanical Garden ($29.95 for adults) is actually way cooler than it sounds. They have over 50,000 plants, and in January, you can walk around without melting. The Papago Park location means you can combine it with a hike to Hole-in-the-Rock for some decent Instagram shots.
Old Town Scottsdale is where you go for the full Arizona experience – art galleries, southwestern food, and enough turquoise jewelry to blind a small village. It’s touristy but in a good way, and the restaurants actually know what they’re doing with Mexican food.
Day trips to Sedona (2 hours north) or the Grand Canyon (3.5 hours) are totally doable if you want to see more of Arizona. Just know that Sedona gets packed on weekends, and the Grand Canyon can actually be cold in January.
5. Miami, Florida
Miami in January is when this city actually becomes livable. You get 80-degree days without that oppressive heat that makes you question your life choices, and the humidity drops to almost reasonable levels.
South Beach is exactly what you think it is – beautiful people, expensive drinks, and art deco buildings that look like they’re straight out of a movie. The beach itself is actually pretty great, and you can rent chairs and umbrellas for around $25-35 per day. Just know that parking is a nightmare, so either walk or take a rideshare.
Wynwood is where the actual cool stuff happens. The street art here isn’t just Instagram bait – it’s genuinely impressive. The Wynwood Walls are free to check out, and the neighborhood has some solid breweries and restaurants that won’t completely destroy your budget.
Little Havana feels like stepping into a different country. Calle Ocho is the main drag, and you can get incredible Cuban coffee for like $2 and actually good Cuban sandwiches (not the tourist versions). Domino Park is where the old guys play dominoes and argue about everything – it’s free entertainment.
The nightlife here is legendary, but it’s also expensive as hell. Pre-game at your hotel or Airbnb because drinks at Miami Beach clubs will cost you $20+ each. I learned this the hard way and ended up spending $300 on drinks alone one night.
6. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs in January feels like a giant outdoor spa that someone forgot to put a roof on. Days hit the mid-70s, nights drop to a perfect 50 degrees, and the desert scenery is actually stunning instead of trying to kill you.
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway ($29.95 for adults) is touristy but worth it. You’re riding up 8,516 feet to the top of San Jacinto Peak, and the views are insane. The temperature drops about 30 degrees at the top, so bring a jacket even though it’s warm at the bottom.
Indian Canyons ($12 for adults) has some of the best hiking in the area. Andreas Canyon is easy and family-friendly, while Tahquitz Canyon has a waterfall at the end that’s actually flowing in January. The palm trees here are massive and ancient – some are over 1,000 years old.
Downtown Palm Springs is where you go to feel fancy without trying too hard. The Gardens on El Paseo has high-end shopping if that’s your thing, but honestly, just walking around and looking at the mid-century modern architecture is entertainment enough.
Joshua Tree National Park is about 45 minutes away and absolutely worth the drive. January is perfect weather for hiking here, and the rock formations look like they’re from another planet. Entry is $30 per vehicle and it’s good for seven days.
7. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans in January isn’t technically “warm” by Florida standards (60-70 degrees), but it’s way better than wherever you’re coming from, and the city has this energy that makes the weather irrelevant.
The French Quarter is tourist central, but it’s tourist central for good reasons. Bourbon Street is exactly what you expect – loud, drunk, and full of people making questionable decisions. But the side streets have incredible music pouring out of every doorway, and you can walk around with drinks, which never gets old.
Café du Monde is a must for beignets and café au lait, but the line is always insane. My move is to grab them to-go and eat them in Jackson Square while watching the street performers. Three beignets and coffee will run you about $8, which is probably the best deal in the city.
The food scene here is absolutely unreal. Skip the fancy places and hit up Mother’s for debris roast beef po’boys or Cochon Butcher for everything else. Central Grocery invented the muffuletta, and it’s still the best place to get one ($20 for a full sandwich that feeds two people).
January is perfect because it’s the calm before Mardi Gras chaos. You get the excitement building up without the crowds and prices going completely insane. Plus, the weather is perfect for walking around and exploring different neighborhoods.
- Read next: Things to Do in New Orleans at Night
8. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah in January hits that sweet spot where it’s 65-70 degrees and you can actually walk around the historic district without sweating through your clothes. The tourist crowds thin out after the holidays, so you get the city almost to yourself.
The Historic District with its 24 squares is like walking through a movie set. Each square has its own personality, and you can easily spend hours just wandering and sitting on benches under massive oak trees draped with Spanish moss. Forsyth Park is the big one with the iconic fountain – it’s free and perfect for people-watching.
River Street runs along the Savannah River and has that old-school port town vibe. The cobblestones are hell on your feet, but the shops and restaurants are actually pretty decent. The Cotton Exchange has local art and crafts that aren’t complete tourist trap stuff.
The food here is comfort food heaven. The Grey gets all the press, but The Ordinary Pub has better shrimp and grits for half the price. Leopold’s Ice Cream has been around since 1919 and makes their own ice cream – the rum raisin is legendary.
Bonaventure Cemetery is where you go for that gothic Southern atmosphere. It’s free, beautiful, and way less creepy than you’d expect. The Spanish moss and old headstones create this peaceful, almost mystical vibe that’s perfect for January walks.
- Read next: Hidden Gems in Georgia, USA
- You may also like: My Favorite Destinations in the Southeast
9. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston in January is when this city shows its best side. The weather’s sitting pretty at 60-65 degrees, the humidity disappears, and you can actually walk around the historic district without melting.
The Historic District is small enough to cover on foot, and honestly, that’s the best way to see it. Rainbow Row is the Instagram spot everyone hits, but the real magic is just wandering the side streets and checking out the architecture. Most of the houses are private, but you can peek into gardens through ornate gates.
The Battery and White Point Garden give you that classic Charleston waterfront experience. It’s free, the views of Charleston Harbor are great, and you might catch some dolphins if you’re lucky. The cannon displays are pretty cool if you’re into Civil War history.
Charleston City Market runs for several blocks and has everything from sweetgrass baskets (which are actually beautiful) to pralines that’ll put you in a sugar coma. It’s touristy but not in an awful way, and you can find some decent local art mixed in with the usual souvenir stuff.
The food scene here is what really sets Charleston apart. Husk gets all the hype, but FIG has better food for less money. Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit will ruin you for all other biscuits, and Jestine’s Kitchen does Southern comfort food the right way. I probably gained five pounds in three days here and regret nothing.
- Read next: Affordable Places to Fly from Charleston
10. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas in January is actually perfect weather – 60-degree days, 40-degree nights, and zero chance of that summer heat that makes walking outside feel like opening an oven door.
The Strip is obviously the main attraction, but January means smaller crowds and better hotel deals. You can actually walk from casino to casino without dying of heat exhaustion. Bellagio’s fountains, The Venetian’s canals, Caesar’s Palace – it’s all still ridiculous and over-the-top, just with comfortable weather.
Red Rock Canyon ($15 per vehicle) is 20 minutes from the Strip and absolutely worth the drive. The 13-mile scenic drive has multiple pullouts with easy hiking trails. Calico Hills has some of the best Instagram shots, and the weather’s perfect for hiking in January.
Valley of Fire State Park ($10 per vehicle) is about an hour away and even more impressive than Red Rock. The rock formations look like they’re literally on fire when the light hits them right. Mouse’s Tank Trail is an easy 1-mile hike that leads to ancient petroglyphs.
Downtown Las Vegas (not the Strip) has the Fremont Street Experience with free light shows every hour after dark. It’s cheesier than the Strip but also way less expensive. You can get $5 drinks and watch tourists lose their minds at penny slots.
The shows are still running strong in January. Cirque du Soleil has multiple shows running ($75-200+ depending on seats), and you can often find same-day deals if you’re flexible.
11. Austin, Texas
Austin in January is when this city really shines. You get 65-70 degree days without the summer heat that makes you question why anyone lives in Texas, and the energy here is just different from anywhere else.
South Congress is tourist central, but it’s the good kind of tourist central. SoCo has vintage shops, food trucks, and street musicians that actually know what they’re doing. Amy’s Ice Cream does those crazy cone tricks, and Home Slice Pizza consistently has the best pizza in the city.
The live music scene here is absolutely insane. 6th Street gets all the attention, but Rainey Street has better bars in converted houses that feel way more intimate. Cover charges are usually $5-15, and you’ll see bands that would cost $50+ in other cities.
Zilker Park is perfect for January weather. You can rent kayaks for Lady Bird Lake ($25-35 per hour), and the trail around the lake is great for running or just walking. Barton Springs Pool stays at 70 degrees year-round ($9 for adults), so you can actually swim even though it’s January.
The food truck scene here is legendary. Franklin Barbecue gets all the hype (and the three-hour lines), but la Barbecue has equally good brisket with way shorter waits. Torchy’s Tacos started here and does breakfast tacos that’ll change your life.
Lady Bird Lake has bat watching at sunset from the Congress Avenue Bridge. It’s free, it’s weird, and watching a million bats pour out from under a bridge never gets old.
12. Naples, Florida
Naples is what happens when Florida decides to be classy about it. January here is 75-80 degrees with Gulf breezes that actually feel good instead of humid and gross.
Naples Pier is the classic spot for sunset photos and fishing. It’s free to walk on, and you can rent fishing gear right there if you want to try your luck. The beach on either side has powder-soft sand that’s perfect for long walks.
Fifth Avenue South and Third Street South are where you go to feel fancy. The shopping is expensive, but window shopping is free, and the restaurants actually know what they’re doing. The Dock at Crayton Cove has great seafood with water views that justify the prices.
Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park ($6 per vehicle) has some of the best beaches in Florida. The water is usually calm and clear, perfect for swimming or just floating around. Parking fills up fast on weekends, so get there early.
Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary ($15 for adults) is about 30 minutes away and has a 2.25-mile boardwalk through actual swampland. You’ll see alligators, incredible birds, and old-growth cypress trees. January is perfect because no bugs and comfortable walking weather.
The downtown area feels like a real city instead of just a tourist destination. Mercato has good restaurants and shopping, while Waterside Shops is more upscale if that’s your thing. Either way, you’re getting that Florida lifestyle without the chaos of Miami or Orlando.
- Read next: Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots in Florida
- You may also like: Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Orlando
13. Tucson, Arizona
Tucson gets overlooked because everyone goes to Phoenix or Sedona, but honestly, it’s better than both for the actual desert experience. January here is 70-degree days and 40-degree nights with zero humidity.
Saguaro National Park ($15 per vehicle) is split into two sections, and both are incredible. The saguaro cacti here are massive – some are 200+ years old and 40+ feet tall. Desert Discovery Trail is an easy 0.5-mile loop that’s perfect for families, while Valley View Overlook Trail gives you panoramic views for minimal effort.
Sabino Canyon ($5 tram ride) is where locals go to escape the heat, except in January you don’t need to escape anything. The tram takes you up the canyon, and you can get off at different stops to hike or just enjoy the scenery. Seven Falls Trail is a moderate 4-mile round trip that leads to actual waterfalls in the desert.
Downtown Tucson has this cool artsy vibe that feels authentic instead of manufactured. 4th Avenue has vintage shops, local restaurants, and street art that’s actually good. Eegee’s is a local chain that does fruit drinks and sandwiches – it’s basically fast food, but it’s Tucson fast food.
Mission San Xavier del Bac (free admission) is about 20 minutes south and absolutely stunning. It’s called the “White Dove of the Desert,” and you can see why. The architecture is incredible, and it’s still an active mission with services and events.
The Mexican food here is unreal. Skip the tourist places and hit El Güero Canelo for Sonoran hot dogs or Café Poca Cosa for upscale Mexican that’ll blow your mind. The prices are reasonable, and the quality is better than anything you’ll find in most major cities.
- Read next: Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots in Arizona
14. Corpus Christi, Texas
Corpus Christi is one of those places that flies completely under the radar, which makes it perfect for January when you want warm weather without fighting crowds. You’re looking at 70-degree days and Gulf breezes that keep things comfortable.
Padre Island National Seashore ($10 per vehicle) has 70 miles of undeveloped coastline. You can drive right on the beach (4WD recommended past the first 5 miles), and you’ll have huge stretches of sand almost to yourself. Malaquite Beach has facilities and is perfect for families.
Texas State Aquarium ($24.95 for adults) is way better than you’d expect from a smaller city. The dolphin shows are actually educational instead of just entertainment, and the touch tanks let you get hands-on with stingrays and small sharks. Plan on 3-4 hours here.
USS Lexington ($19.95 for adults) is a WWII aircraft carrier turned museum that’s permanently docked in Corpus Christi Bay. You can explore the flight deck, see restored aircraft, and go below deck to see how sailors lived. It’s basically a floating city, and the self-guided tour takes 2-3 hours.
The Harbor Bridge gives you great views of the city and bay, and you can walk or bike across it for free. The Corpus Christi Marina has decent restaurants with water views, and you might catch dolphins swimming around the boats.
Mustang Island State Park ($7 per vehicle) is just across the JFK Causeway and has 3,703 acres of coastal prairie and beach. The fishing pier is popular with locals, and the beach is usually way less crowded than South Padre Island.
- Read next: Stunning Spots in Texas
15. St. Petersburg, Florida
St. Pete is what happens when Florida gets its act together. January here is 75-degree perfection with Gulf breezes and way fewer crowds than you’ll find in Miami or Tampa.
The Salvador Dalí Museum ($25 for adults) is absolutely mind-bending. Even if you think you don’t like art, the building itself is worth seeing, and Dalí’s work is weird enough to keep anyone entertained. The outdoor café has great coffee and views of Tampa Bay.
The Pier District recently got a complete makeover, and it’s actually pretty cool now. Spa Beach Park is perfect for families with calm water and a playground, while North Straub Park has events and festivals most weekends. The fishing pier extends way out into Tampa Bay and costs $3 to fish.
Central Avenue downtown has the best restaurant and bar scene in the area. Green Bench Brewing does excellent local beer, while The Canopy has rooftop views that make you forget you’re in Florida. The Saturday Morning Market (year-round) has local produce, art, and food trucks.
Fort De Soto Park ($5 per vehicle) is about 20 minutes away and has some of the best beaches in Florida. The fort itself is free to explore, and North Beach consistently ranks as one of America’s best beaches. The water is usually calm and perfect for swimming.
Sunken Gardens ($12 for adults) is this hidden gem in the middle of the city – 4 acres of tropical gardens with flamingos, parrots, and plants that look like they’re from another planet. It’s been around since 1903 and feels like stepping into a secret world.
The St. Pete Beach area (technically a separate city) has that classic Florida beach town vibe with The Don CeSar hotel dominating the skyline like a pink castle. Pass-a-Grille Beach is less developed and perfect for long walks and dolphin watching.
- Read next: Free Attractions in Florida
