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Escape the Cold: 36 Best Warm Winter Getaways in the USA

Something about the dull, grey winters makes me long for a getaway to a warmer, sunnier place. So, if you’re like me, wanting to escape the gloomy season and chase some winter sun, here’s my suggestion of 36 warm winter getaways in the USA.

Whether you want to travel solo, with your family or friends, or make it a romantic winter getaway, there are beaches, outdoor adventures, stays with heated pools, and more that you’ll enjoy in these warm destinations. 

36 Warm Winter Getaways in the USA

1. Austin, Texas

Austin in winter is all about lower prices, fewer crowds, live music, mouthwatering cuisine, and outdoor activities.

With temperatures hovering around the low 60s, all you’ll need is a light jacket. Enjoy glancing at the festive lights and seasonal fairs, like the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar; you can even grab some baked goods here and participate in the Armadillo Scavenger Hunt.

The two-week Austin Trail of Lights festival in Zilker Park is a sight to behold, like a lit-up wonderland.

The Governor's Mansion in Austin landmarks in texas
The Governor’s Mansion in Austin PC Flickr

For excellent city views, head to Mount Bonnell, and for a dip, check out the iconic Barton Springs Pool, fed by underground springs and water temperatures at 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Foodies will be delighted with Austin’s food truck scene and can’t miss the Austin Oyster Festival (if you visit in February).

Stay at: Driskill Hotel, East Austin Hotel

You might enjoy reading my posts about the Warmest US States in Winter, Warm Places to visit in January in the USA, Sunny Places to Visit in the USA, Most Shark Infested Beaches in the USA, World Heritage Sites in the US, Most Visited Places in the United States and tourist attractions on the drive from New York to Florida.

2. Anna Maria Island, Florida

Trade in the winter snow for sparkling-white sand with a visit to Anna Maria Island. The famous Old Florida destination has temperatures in the low 70s (Fahrenheit) around January and February.

With crowds at a minimum and cheaper rates of beachfront vacation rentals, you can truly soak in the island’s spirit – enticing sights of the turquoise waters and luxurious white sand. 

anna Maria Island
anna Maria Island

Shop at the boutiques, curio shops, art galleries, and beach shops along mainland Sarasota or Historic Bridge Street. Or, check out winter events, including Cortez Fishing Festival, Winterfest, Holiday Boat Parade, Bradenton Blues, and Manatee County Fair.

Try the sumptuous food at the popular restaurants here, like Ginny’s and Jane E’s, Poppo’s Taqueria, The Porch, and The Waterfront (for dinner with a view).

Stay at: Pelican Post at Anna Maria Island Inn, Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound

Don’t miss my article on the best white sand beaches in the US.

3. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Unlike the blazing hot summer sun in Big Bend National Park, the winters are ideal for outdoor activities here.

With temperatures between 37 – 59 degrees Fahrenheit, outdoor enthusiasts will love a hike along the Santa Elena Canyon Trail, and canoe rides down the river.

big bend national park

Other great trails include Emory Peak, The Lost Mine Trail (for the best mountain views), and the Hot Springs Trail.

For a more relaxed experience, head to the Rio Grande inside the park and dip in the natural hot water springs (as hot as 105 degrees Fahrenheit). The 0.5-mile walk to the hot springs has incredible mountain and river views.

big bend national park texas

Stay at: Chisos Mountain Lodge

4. Big Island, Hawaii

Hawaii is undoubtedly a great getaway destination at any time of the year. The winter temperatures hover around the 70s and 80s, and the Big Island is a top winter getaway.

The largest of the island chain, the Big Island has stunning landscapes, two active volcanoes, and the world’s tallest island mountain (the 13,800-foot Mauna Kea).

big island hawaii warm winter getaways in the usa

You can fly directly to the main cities of Hilo Town and Kona to get here. The Hilo side has lush greenery, botanical gardens, and waterfalls, with easy access to the Volcanoes National Park.

The resort areas and magnificent white sand beaches (like Hapuna Beach) are on the Kona side of the island. You can also kayak at Kealakekua Bay, sample honey at the Big Island Bees Farm, and walk along the black sand beaches of Waipio Valley.

big island hawaii volcano

Stay at: Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

5. Charleston, South Carolina

Exuding Southern charm with its picturesque harbor and quirky cobblestone streets, Charleston (the Holy City), in winter, has temperatures ranging between 45 – 61 degrees.

Winter is the oyster season in Charleston, and you can visit any oyster roasts held across the city to sample the local delicacy. Take a horse or carriage ride to admire the historic aesthetics of the city, or go for a boat experience on the harbor.

charleston south carolina waterfront

The festive season has events like the Festival of Lights and the holiday markets to roam around.

Fried chicken at Poogan’s Porch, the Charleston Supernatural 90-minute Ghost Tour, and the five-day Charleston Wine+Food Festival (beginning of March) are things you can try out.

charleston south carolina waterfront

Stay at: Andrew Pinckney Inn, Hotel Indigo Charleston

6. Clearwater Beach, Florida

florida clearwater beach

A top-rated beach, the winter temperatures here sway between 50 – 73 degrees, making it ideal for strolling on the beaches and watching dolphins swim nearby (if you’re lucky enough to see them).

Head to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium to see rescued manatees and dolphins in rehab and hang out at the Caladesi Island State Park for a swim or dolphin viewing.

Clearwater Beach sunset
Clearwater Beach

With several migratory birds crossing here, it’s a delight for birdwatchers. Indulge in fishing, parasailing, or jet-skiing activities and stroll across the Clearwater Memorial Causeway Bridge while gazing at the boats, yachts, and sandy beaches below.

Stay at: Pier House 60 Clearwater Beach Resort

7. Death Valley National Park, California

With winter temperatures between 41 – 68 degrees, Death Valley National Park is a perfect getaway for a comfortable hike and intriguing landscapes.

You’ll be amazed when you stargaze from Mesquite Flat Dunes, Badwater Basin, and Dante’s view; you can even see the Milky Way Galaxy.

death valley

Head to Zabriskie Point to witness a magnificent sunrise or walk atop the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes to catch a fantastic sunset. The Artists Drive, with splashes of yellows, purples, pinks, and blues, is a mesmerizing spot for a postcard-perfect view.

Hike along the trails like Badlands Look Hike, Gower Gulch, or Golden Canyon, and don’t miss exploring Badwater Basin (the lowest point in the United States), filled with white salt.

death valley
death valley

Stay at: Panamint Springs Resort, The Ranch at Death Valley

8. Gulf Shores, Alabama

gulf shores alabama
gulf shores alabama

A place not too hot and not too cold, Gulf Shores is the perfect getaway, with temperatures between the mid-40s and mid-60s.

Rent a bike and hit the 28 miles of trails at Hugh S Branyon Backcountry Trails, or enjoy zip-lining, go-karting, or mini-golfing in the Gulf Shores. If you’re more into nature than adventure, explore the Gulf State Park’s flora and fauna.

gulf shores
gulf shores

Check out YoHo Rum & Tacos for some sumptuous tacos and margaritas, and don’t miss the fantastic oversized ice cream dishes at The Yard Milkshake Bar.

Stay at: Phoenix All Suites Hotel, The Lodge Gulf State Park

9. Joshua Tree National Park, California

With unique rock formations, uniquely bristled Joshua trees, and desert ecosystems of the Colorado and Mojave deserts, Joshua Tree National Park is the perfect warm winter getaway for hikes and scenic views.

An average winter temperature of 37 – 62 degrees makes for comfortable hiking and stargazing. Hike along the many trails, including Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop, the Split Rock Trail, and Discovery Trail.

joshua tree park
joshua tree park

Sunset viewing from Keys View gives you a view of the entire Coachella Valley. Fun activities include rock climbing, camping, horseback riding, and bouldering. 

Some quirky attractions worth checking are the Glass Outhouse Gallery, the World Famous Crochet Museum, and Desert Christ Park.

Grab your lunch at Natural Sisters Cafe or head to Pappy & Harriet’s for some BBQ and live music.

joshua-tree-national-park
joshua-tree-national-park

Stay at: White Tank Campground, Super 8 by Wyndham Yucca Val

10. Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai, Hawaii volcano

A winter getaway doesn’t get any better than the Garden Island – Kauai, with temperatures between 54 – 72 degrees.

The winter brings large waves, some reaching up to 20 feet, perfect for surfing or surf watching. With waters warm enough for a swim, you can also go scuba diving or snorkeling.

Make your trip memorable with an air tour that takes you over Kauai’s stunning landscapes, like the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon.

Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai

Snorkel on Poipu Beach and spot green sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals or kayak along the Wailua River to see hidden waterfalls.

Stay at: Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay, Koloa Landing Resort

11. Houston, Texas

Houston, the biggest city in Texas, is an excellent warm winter getaway, thanks to its temperatures of 46 – 64 degrees.

houston texas
houston texas

Among the many galleries and museums in the city, visit the Children’s Museum of Houston if you’re taking your kids along and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Wintertime has these museums showcasing festive celebrations worldwide, like model planes and miniature trains.

At Buffalo Bayou Park, you can walk, ride a bike, have a picnic, play frisbee and volleyball, or just hang out.

houston
houston

For some ice skating, hit the Woodlands Mall, Memorial City Mall Ice Rink, or Galleria Ice Skating. Dine at Pinkerton’s BBQ, Uchi (for great sushi), or El Tiempo (for classic Tex-Mex).

Stay at: Holiday Inn Express Houston Space Center, The Post Oak Hotel

12. Jackson, Mississippi

Among the charming Southern towns brimming with history and landmarks, Jackson is a great winter getaway for rodeos. The winter temperature stays between 39 – 59 degrees here.

jackson mississippi
jackson mississippi

The capital of Mississippi has many fun winter events, like the Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo.

For some fantastic live music and drinks, drop into Hal & Mal’s. You can also check out many museums on your visit, like the Mississippi Museum of Natural History, the Old Capitol Museum, the interactive Mississippi Children’s Museum, and the Russell C. David Planetarium.

jackson
jackson

Stay at: Old Capitol Inn, The Westin Jackson

13. Key West, Florida

key west sunset boat
key west

Soaking up the sun on a beach with turquoise waters in winter is very much possible, thanks to Key West’s temperatures of 67 – 77 degrees.

If you’ve longed to try out any water activities, here’s your chance: boating, jet skiing, paddle boarding, scuba diving, or snorkeling.

cruisin tikis key west sunset
cruisin tikis key west sunset

Stroll along Duval Street for some live music and the many attractions, or board the Conch Tour Train to bask in the festivities with a Holiday Lights Tour.

Foodies will enjoy the Key West Pink Shrimp at Half Shell Raw Bar and the world-famous Key lime pie at Kermit’s. Literary buffs mustn’t miss a visit to the Ernest Hemingway house.

A day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park will bring you to the historic Fort Jefferson.

Stay at: The Capitana Key West, Santa Maria Suites Resort

14. Laguna Beach, California

This is a great warm winter getaway for couples and families alike, with temperatures between 43 – 68 degrees.

laguna beach california
laguna beach california

With its scenic coastline and a great location next to the Laguna Mountains, it’s also filled with festivities and water activities. Hike along the Laguna Coast wilderness trails, go kayaking the pristine waters, or join a sea cave tour; there’s much to do here.

laguna beach
laguna beach

Spot dolphins, finback whales, and even gray whales on the Whale Watching Cruise. The town has several art galleries, and you mustn’t miss California’s oldest one – Laguna Art Museum.

Stay at: Capri Laguna on the Beach, La Casa del Camino

15. Las Vegas, Nevada

There’s always something to do in Las Vegas, any time of the year. Winters in Vegas stay between 28 – 61 degrees, making it a great getaway.

things to do in vegas besides gamble
Mini welcome to Las Vegas sign on the LINQ promenade

While you can gamble, shop, party, hit the spa, or see a show, you can also go hiking in the Valley of Fire State Park or Red Rock National Conservation Area. Soaking in the hot springs at Arizona Hot Springs is a feeling unlike any other during the wintertime.

A night-time ride on the High Roller will give you a bird’s eye view of the lit Vegas.

las_vegas_valley-of-fire-elephant
Elephant rocks in the Valley of Fire

Stroll through the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, take a gondola ride at The Venetian’s Resort’s Grand Canal Shoppes, or visit the quirky Neon Museum; the list of activities is almost endless.

Stay at: Tahiti Village Resort, Caesar’s Palace

16. Los Angeles, California

Sunset_Griffith_Observatory_Los_angeles places in California
Sunset at Griffith Observatory

From beaches and deserts to mountains and more, Los Angeles is home to several small cities. Temperatures of 50 – 68 degrees make a mild winter ideal for a warm getaway.

Experience fake snow at Elysian Park, lounge on Zuma Beach, explore the Santa Monica Pier, catch the waves at Surfrider, and hike along the Runyon Canyon for marvelous city views.

Santa_Monica_Pier_Sunset_Los_Angeles_California.jpg
Santa Monica Pier

It’s basketball season in the winter in LA, so head to the Staples Center to catch a Lakers game. And if you happen to come across a rainy day, head to one of the many museums here, like the Broad, The Getty Center, or LACMA.

Stay at: Hollywood Hotel, Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills

17. Maui, Hawaii

Winter temperatures of 55 – 70 degrees with waterfalls, lush valleys, volcanoes, and mesmerizing black sand beaches, Maui is like a paradise in winter.

All along the coast, the one winter activity that never ceases to amaze is whale watching. Sunrise from atop the Haleakala Volcano is the experience of a lifetime.

Kapalua Bay maui
Kapalua Bay maui

Take the Turtle Town Snorkel Tour and swim alongside Hawaiian sea turtles, attend a luau performance, drive the legendary road to Hana, and visit the mystical ‘Iao Valley to take in as much of Maui as possible on your getaway.

Don’t miss tasting Mama’s stuffed fish at the iconic Mama’s Fish House; it’s a mahimahi with a sumptuous stuffing of the tastiest lobster and crab.

Haleakala Volcano sunset
Haleakala Volcano sunset

Stay at: Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows, Kaanapali Beach Resort

18. Miami, Florida

art deco buildings miami
art deco buildings miami

A popular destination all year round, Miami, during winter, has daily highs of mid to upper 70s, with tons to do.

Miami sees about 10.5 hours of sunlight in the winter, and you can easily spend those long days at South Beach, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, and Virginia Key Beach.

Take your pick from the range of festivals you’d like to attend, like the Miami Comedy Festival, Ultra Music Festival, and South Beach Wine and Food Festival. If you visit around November and December, you can experience Santa’s Enchanted Forest – the ultimate entertainment and fun for families.

Everglades airboat

Versailles Restaurant in Little Havana has excellent authentic Cuban food and a Cuban bakery. An airboat tour of Everglades National Park and snorkeling at Biscayne National Park are other fun adventures you could look into in Miami on your winter getaway.

Stay at: Betsy Hotel, EAST Miami

19. Mobile, Alabama

A winter getaway needn’t always be about outdoor activities; you can spend time with indoor activities too. The underrated port city of Mobile, with winters ranging between 44 – 63 degrees, is a great winter getaway in Alabama.

mobile alabama
mobile alabama

With the Mobile Museum of Art, the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, and the GulfQuest National Maritime Museum of the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll love the place whether you’re visiting solo or with your family.

For more scenic views, Cooper Riverside Park and the Mobile Botanical Gardens will please you. Then, visit the historic Dauphin Street for live music, boutique shops, street art, restaurants, and bars.

mobile alabama downtown
mobile alabama downtown

The Victorian architecture at De Tonti Square and the 19th-century mansions and cottages by Oakleigh Garden are worth checking out.

Stay at: Fort Conde Inn, The Battle House Hotel & Spa

20. Naples, Florida

naples pier florida at sunset
naples pier

Naples is among Florida‘s ultimate warm winter getaways, with moderate winters and highs of 70 – 80 degrees.

If plenty of sunshine, warm waters, and soft sand beaches are what you desire, Naples has these in abundance. With low humidity, winter visitors get to enjoy warm days and comfortable evenings.

Where there are beaches, there are activities like fishing, kayaking, jet skiing, and paddle boarding. And around Christmas time, experience the holiday spirit with events like downtown Naples celebrations, Christmas Boat Parades, and Naples Boat Parade.

naples sunset in florida
naples sunset

Also, with Everglades just a short drive away, you can hike, boardwalk, birdwatch, and see some splendid wildlife.

Stay at: Bellasera Resort, Hyatt House Naples

21. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans (or NOLA), with winter temperatures in the 60s, has Christmas Eve bonfires and the Krewe of Jingle around the festive season.

New Orleans French Quarter

Another celebration you can witness around February is the epic Mardi Gras, with parades run by krewes with their own history and themes. The parades, costumes, and music run through the city leading up to Fat Tuesday.

The Roosevelt Hotel’s Winter Wonderland has the most epic holiday decorations. You mustn’t miss great shopping, live entertainment at the French Quarter, and even a Ghosts, Vampires, & Voodoo French Quarter Tour. 

historical places in new orelans

A NOLA specialty you must try is the beignet (a cross of a donut and a French pastry) at any cafe around town, like Cafe du Monde.

Stay at: Bourbon Orleans Hotel, Hotel Mazarin

22. Oahu, Hawaii

oahu

The beautiful Hawaiian island of Oahu is a blend of the bustling city and quaint natural wonders, modern and ancient influences, and western and non-western culture.

A warm winter getaway minus the crowds, Oahu, with an average temperature of 64 – 77 degrees, has great Pipeline surf waves on the North Shore for avid surfers. The activities that you can add to your Oahu getaway include relaxing on the beach, scuba diving, hiking, surfing, and visiting Pearl Harbor.

oahu
Oahu

Join the Dolphin Watching and Snorkel Excursion to snorkel and swim with the dolphins, and don’t forget to try North Shore Tacos and Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck – some great food trucks in North Shore.

If you’re a movie buff or love shopping, visit the Kualoa Ranch – Hawaii’s famous shopping area.

Stay at: Lotus Honolulu, Coconut Waikiki Hotel

23. Orange Beach, Alabama

This small city, also known as Seaside Resort, Orange Beach, with winters ranging from 42 – 66 degrees, is perfect for families, couples, and even a solo trip, for the beach, water activities, and seaside vibes.

orange beach alabama
orange beach alabama

Soak up some sun and enjoy the salty Gulf air by relaxing on the pristine, white sand. Gulf State Park has many biking and hiking trails to help you get your adrenaline pumping, and the Gulf State Park Pier is another must-visit place.

orange beach
orange beach

Don’t miss visiting The Wharf at Orange Beach for great dining spots, shopping, and nightlife. 

Stay at: The Lodge at Gulf State Park

24. Orlando, Florida

Home of Walt Disney World, Orlando is the best warm winter vacation for theme parks. With average winter temperatures between 53 – 75 degrees, the crowds are smaller, making for a comfortable visit.

Walt Disney World orlando
Walt Disney World orlando

Disney and Universal Studios go all out during Christmas with Disney Very Merriest and Grinchmas at Universal – a sight to behold.

Icon Park Orlando
Icon Park Orlando

If you manage to take some time apart from theme park visits, visit the Wekiwa Springs for a dip or kayak/canoe down the river. And for some manatee viewing, head to Blue Springs.

Stay at: Grand Floridian, Saratoga Springs Resort

25. South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island
South Padre Island

The most Southern point in Texas on the Gulf Coast, South Padre Island, makes for an excellent winter beach vacation. 

With temperatures in the upper 60s to low 70s, you probably can’t don your swimsuit, but you can go sunset chasing and sip on seaside cocktails in your shorts. However, be aware that students begin flocking to the island for Spring Break by the end of February.

South Padre Island
South Padre Island

Island Adventure Park is great for families; there’s also go-karting and zip-lining. Visit the SPI Birding and Nature Center or Sea Turtle Inc., dine at one of the many seafood restaurants on the Laguna Madre, and drop into South Padre Brewing Co.

Painted Marlin Grille’s Fish Tacos and Pier 19’s Ceviche are other items you must try.

Stay at: La Copa Inn Beach Hotel, Isla Grand

26. Palm Springs, California

From golf courses and outdoor activities to spas and resorts, Palm Springs is USA’s most popular warm winter escape. It’s a place of glitz, glamor, and outdoor fun.

palm springs

The perfect 70-degree weather is an excellent time for nature exploration, including the scenic Mount San Jacinto or a horseback ride through Indian Canyons. You can also go hiking on the Cactus to Clouds Trail in the sunny and warm winter without melting your face off.

For some shopping, stroll along Palm Canyon Drive’s boutiques and galleries. If you’re traveling with kids, head to The Living Desert – a botanical garden and zoo combined.

palm springs

Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for spectacular views of the valley from 8,000 feet, and drop into Workshop Kitchen + Bar for trendy cocktails and seasonal food.

Stay at: Westin Mission Hills Villas, Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa

27. Phoenix, Arizona

With average December to February temperatures around 70 degrees, Arizona’s dry and sunny desert climate is a perfect winter escape.

phoenix
phoenix

Las Noches de Las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden and Zoolights at the Phoenix Zoo are events you can check out. Some popular hiking routes include Camelback Mountain, Papago Park, Peralta Canyon, and Yavapai Point.

phoenix arizona
phoenix arizona

A short drive to Arizona Snowbowl will allow you to hit the ski slopes for an afternoon and head back to Phoenix. Some popular annual events at this time include Chihuly in the Desert, Rock N’ Roll Marathon, Fiesta Bowl, and Arizona Renaissance Fair.

Stay at: The Phoenician, Royal Palms Resort & Spa

28. San Antonio, Texas

A hidden gem behind Austin’s shadows, San Antonio has average winter temperatures of 40 – 67 degrees and many activities for people of all ages.

san antonio river walk

Foodies can follow the San Antonio Food Trails (like the Margarita Trail, Barbecue Trail, or Taco Trail). And a stroll down San Antonio’s River Walk feels magical and gets extra special around the holidays.

You definitely can’t miss the biggest cultural attraction of the city – The Alamo, an important Texas landmark. There are also amusement parks in San Antonio to enjoy on your winter getaway, like Six Flags Fiesta Texas (with more than 100 rides), and water parks like Wet n’ Wild Splashtown.

the alamo

The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is Texas’ only UNESCO World Heritage site.

Stay at: Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk, Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk

29. San Diego, California

beach sunset san diego

With temperatures between 50 – 66 degrees, San Diego is a popular warm winter getaway in the USA.

This place has gorgeous weather all year round with so much to do. Over 70 miles of pristine beaches, the San Diego Zoo, hiking through the stunning Torrey Pines State Park, and kayaking in La Jolla are some highlights.

sea lion at la jolla cove san diego
sea lion at la jolla cove

Special events around the holidays worth checking out include La Posadas in Old Town, Holiday Bowl Balloon Parade, and the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights. You can also, visit vibrant Little Italy in Downtown San Diego, filled with restaurants, patio cafes, cozy boutique shops, and amazing galleries.

Stay at: Pacific Terrace Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown

30. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Boasting glorious warm weather all year round, the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico is a US territory, and you don’t need a passport to go there.

san juan puerto rico
san juan puerto rico

With winter blissfully in the upper 70s, San Juan makes a great warm winter getaway. The Christmas celebrations go on for weeks in San Juan, starting right after Thanksgiving all the way through mid-January.

The Puerto Rican Ponce Carnival begins soon after the 45-day Christmas celebration.

san juan
san juan

Visit Old San Juan for its historic sights and bright, colorful buildings, cruise through the San Juan Bay, head to the Bacardi Factory for a rum tasting, and explore Condado – a resort district lined with great shops and beachfront hotels.

Stay at: El Colonial, Double Tree by Hilton Hotel San Juan

31. Santa Barbara, California

santa barbara california

Santa Barbara is the perfect warm winter getaway with the best of all worlds – city, mountains, and the beach. Not to forget, temperatures hovering between 45 – 66 degrees.

If budget travel was something you wanted, Santa Barbara during winter months is one of the more expensive places. With a Mediterranean-like climate, the American Riviera is also big on culture and history.

Drop by the Funk Zone – a trendy area filled with vintage stores, boutique shops, breweries, wine-tasting rooms, and fabulous restaurants. Holiday-themed activities like the Annual Holiday Boat Parade are a great experience, and for film buffs, there’s Santa Barbara International Film Festival in February.

Old Mission Santa Barbara
Old Mission Santa Barbara

Go on the 2.5-mile Seven Falls hike, visit the El Presidio (an open-sky museum), Santa Barbara County Courthouse, and Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens, or rent a bike for a fun ride along the coast.

Stay at: Brisas Del Mar, Four Seasons Biltmore Resort

32. Savannah, Georgia

The charming Southern city of Savannah has winter temperatures around the lower 60s – ideal for a warm winter getaway.

Things you can’t miss here are the famous Forsyth Park and fountain (to walk under the giant Spanish moss-covered oak trees), a meal at The Olde Pink House, ice cream at Leopold’s, and a visit to River Street (especially for stunning New Year’s fireworks).

Christmas decor in the Historic District is simply stunning. Also, sip on some afternoon tea at the cozy Gryphon Tea Room, and consider taking a ghost tour in Savannah – one of America’s most haunted cities.

The Savannah Book Festival and Telluride Mountainfilm Festival are among some of the winter events worth checking out here.

Stay at: The Marshall House, JW Marriott Plant Riverside

33. Scottsdale, Arizona

For temperatures between the high 60s and mid-70s, Scottsdale, in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, is the place to visit.

scottsdale arizona
scottsdale arizona

Scottsdazzle, from late November to December-end, is the annual month-long festival where you can enjoy incredible food, live music, entertainment, events, and seasonal decor.

Old Town Scottsdale has many shops, galleries, and restaurants worth visiting, and Scottsdale Fashion Square, Arizona’s biggest mall, has many luxurious high-end shops. 

scottsdale arizona
scottsdale arizona

If you love playing golf, there’s no better place than Scottsdale and no better time than the Waste Management Open at TPC Scottsdale in February. Other places to visit are Butterfly Wonderland, OdySea Aquarium, Camelback Mountain, and Scenic Trail (for some hiking).

Stay at: Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, Boulders Resort & Spa 

34. Sedona, Arizona

Iconic red rock formations, splendid hiking trails at 34 – 61 degrees Fahrenheit, and peace and tranquility – that’s Sedona for you in the winter.

cathedral rock
cathedral rock

The famous Devil’s Bridge and Cathedral Rock have some dramatic rock formations worth hiking to. Considered to have powerful ‘energy vortexes’, Sedona attracts many healers from around the world. You can visit one of Sedona’s many wellness and spiritual centers for a spa or relaxing massage.

airport view
airport view

Go on the Sedona Grand Canyon Sunset Tour and the epic Nighttime UFO & Stargazing Tour for some memorable experiences. And dine at Elote Cafe or Mariposa to enjoy some of Sedona’s flourishing food scene.

Stay at: L’Auberge de Sedona, Amara Resort & Spa

35. Tucson, Arizona

Tucson Cactus

Temperatures in the upper 30s to upper 60s and lots of Arizona sunshine make Tucson’s winter.

With over 30 different hiking trails, Saguaro National Park is one of Tucson’s highlights.

The enthralling Winterhaven Festival of Lights and Tucson Gem and Mineral Show are some winter events worth catching. You can also visit the lovely Tucson Botanical Garden to spend some time amidst nature or explore the Colossal Cave.

arizona sonora desert museum
arizona sonora desert museum

Other places worth visiting include the Willcox wineries, Franklin Auto Museum, Pima Air and Space Museum, and Arizona Sonora Desert Museum.

I highly recommend breakfast at Nook or Seis Kitchen and dinner at Agustin Kitchen.

Stay at: Hotel Congress, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson

36. Virgin Islands

Winter doesn’t get any warmer than in the U.S. Virgin Islands, with temperatures between 75 – 82 degrees.

Sunbathe on the endless white sand beaches, swim in the dreamiest turquoise water, and dine at the vibrant restaurants here.

us virgin islands

Do what your heart feels like doing in summer, but do it in winter on the Virgin Islands – hike, snorkel, paddle, swim, boat ride, sail, and more. St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix are the three islands here, each with its unique appeal.

us virgin islands

Stay at: Emerald Beach Resort, Bluebeards Resort

In Conclusion

There’s nothing like a warm getaway to escape the winter blues (and grays) to refresh and relax enough to get you pumped with enthusiasm to get through the rest of the season.

Take your pick from these 36 warm winter getaways in the USA and plan your itinerary for that break your heart longs for.

Perhaps, you’d also like to read about the 28 Famous Landmarks in the US You Need to Visit.

I covered all of the costs involved in writing this post on warm winter getaways in the USA. Just so you know, this post does contain some affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

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