50 Warm Winter Getaways In The USA

As the winter season settles in, many seek refuge from the cold and snow by heading to warmer destinations.

The United States offers an array of options for those in search of a warm winter getaway. From sandy beaches to lush greenery, the country boasts some of the best places to escape the winter chill.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat or a family-friendly vacation, there’s a perfect time and place for everyone.

1. San Diego, California

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 50°F to 66°F (10°C to 19°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 51 mm

With an average winter temperature of 66°F, San Diego, California has some of the warmest winter temperatures in the country. 

During the holidays, you’ll be met with dozens of special events like the Las Posadas in Old Town, Balboa Park December Nights, and the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights. 

There’s no shortage of winter activities, either. You can go skating in the UTC Ice Sports Centre and eat at one of the restaurants in the shopping centre. 

If that’s not your style, you can instead go ice skating by the sea and enjoy the beautiful views of the coast. 

Other activities include whale watching in San Deigo’s Birch Aquarium, hiking in Torrey Pines State Park near La Jolla, and visiting San Diego’s numerous theme parks and museums. 

2. Palm Springs, California

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 72°F to 80°F (22°C to 34°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 13 mm

Palm Springs, California encourages visitors to go out and about during winter. 

In Palm Springs, you won’t have to stay in and get cosy by the fire day and night. With sunny skies and temperatures that range in the lower 70s and 80s, the weather in Palm Springs is pleasantly mild. 

Dubbed by its locals as a desert paradise, Palm Springs offers a near-endless list of things to do during winter.

Whether you want to spend a day immersing yourself in art or treat yourself in El Paseo’s upscale shops and boutiques, you’re in for the getaway of a lifetime. 

If you’re visiting in early January, don’t miss the Palm Springs International Film Festival and Parade of Lights & Holiday Festival.

3. Las Vegas, Nevada

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 28°F to 61°F (-2°C to 16°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 25 mm

Known for its fine dining, shopping, and nightlife, Las Vegas, Nevada is a city that keeps on giving—especially during the winter months.

There’s something for everyone in Vegas, whether you’re visiting as a lone traveller or as a family. 

Take advantage of the cooler temperatures and enjoy the many sceneries and destinations it has to offer, including the Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend Overlook, and many others.

If you’d rather stick to the city, take a drive around the Las Vegas Strip and discover its many restaurants, casinos, and entertainment districts.

You can also visit some of Las Vegas’ unique museums, like The Neon Museum, or the much-loved Fremont Street with its souvenir shops and eateries.

4. Keywest, Florida

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 76°F to 80°F (18°C to 31°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 61 mm

Located in the Southernmost point of the US, Keywest, Florida is known for its lively nightlife, picturesque pastel-hued houses, serene beaches, and botanical gardens. 

Those who visit Keywest, Florida during the winter season enjoy mild marine climates of 76 to 80°F.

From December to early February, you’ll experience clear days with refreshing ocean breezes, allowing you to explore beaches and go snorkelling without fighting for your turn.

While in Keywest, Florida, you can visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, explore the iconic Duval Street, and take pics at the Southernmost Point of the Continental US. You can also visit museums, national parks, and aquariums.

5. New Orleans, Louisiana

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 51°F to 66°F (10°C to 18°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 127 mm

As the most populous city in Louisiana, New Orleans is chock full of fun activities and events. It’s a one-of-a-kind destination that everyone should visit at least once, especially during winter.

If you’re a first-time visitor, visiting the Historic New Orleans Collection should be at the top of your list.

Located in the heart of the famous French Quarter, the Historic New Orleans Collection gives you a glimpse of New Orleans’ history and culture.

It displays an amazing collection of paintings, artefacts, and visuals of war that’ll leave you in awe. 

Other places to visit include the Couturie Forest, the New Orleans Botanical Gardens, and the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Gardens. 

6. Joshua Tree National Park, California

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 51°F to 66°F (10°C to 18°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 25 mm

Located in southeastern California, Joshua Tree National Park is an 800,000-acre desert surrounded by stunning rock formations, towering cacti, and spiny, tree-like plants known as Yuca Palm trees or Joshua trees. 

Winter is arguably the best time to visit Joshua Tree National Park because it’s not too hot or too cold. You’ll be able to stay the night under the stars without freezing to death and go for an afternoon hike without sweating buckets. 

There’s a surprising number of things to do in Joshua Tree National Park. You can discover rock formations like the Skull Rock, Split Rock, and Arch Rock, take pictures of wildlife, go rock climbing, visit the cactus garden, and many more.

It’s a phenomenal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy nature at its most exquisite. 

7. South Padre Island, Texas

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 58°F to 71°F (14°C to 21°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 35 mm

Known for its beaches, calm waters, and mild temperatures, South Padre Island is one of the best winter destinations for families looking to escape dropping temperatures. 

There are dozens of fun things to do in South Padre Island, from dolphin watching to jet skiing to snorkelling.

You can also visit the island’s birding centre, hike down the Laguna Madre Nature Trail, or spend a day go-karting or golfing in Gravity Park. 

If you want to learn a bit about the island’s history, sign up for a tour at the Port Isabel Lighthouse Historic Site, which was built in 1852.

8. Los Angeles, California

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 58°F to 68°F (14°C to 20°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 76 mm

Los Angeles is one of America’s most popular tourist destinations, hosting around 35 million visitors each year.

This is thanks to its world-class museums, vibrant food scene, diverse culture, and seemingly never-ending activities to enjoy.

Like most of the cities on this list, LA experiences mild to warm winters, rarely falling below 58°F. Its winters are long but mild, with plenty of sunny days to enjoy. 

From beach outings to theme park thrills, there’s a multitude of incredible things to do in LA during winter.

You’re not limited to negative temperatures and knee-deep snow, so you can enjoy your vacation as you would during the summer. 

9. Santa Barbara, California

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 44°F to 65°F (6°C to 18°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 82 mm

With gorgeous palm-lined beaches, family fun activities, and delicious dining, Santa Barbara, California is an unforgettable winter vacation destination for the whole family. 

This coastal beach town gets extra fancy during the winter season, with twinkling lights, live performances, and more parades than you can count. 

There are dozens of things to do in Santa Barbara during winter. Though there isn’t much snow, you can still enjoy the winter spirit by heading out to Goleta’s indoor ice-skating rink to skate or watch ice-skating shows. 

If you’re not one to skate, you can instead visit Coronado Butterfly Preserve, discover Paseo Neuvo’s shops and restaurants, and even catch a holiday show in the Granada Theatre. 

10. San Antonio, Texas

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 47°F to 67°F (8°C to 19°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 44 mm

For most cities, winter is a time to cuddle up by the fire and hibernate, but not for those living in San Antonio, Texas. With an average winter climate in the high 60s, San Antonio’s winters are short and mild. 

In San Antonio, you can book a trip to the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch and take pictures of over 500 native and endangered species that roam free. 

You can also visit the McNay Art Museum and admire its collection of 19th and 20th-century European and American art. 

While there, be sure to visit its gorgeous Japanese-inspired courtyard, complete with a garden and fishpond. It’s a quiet place to relax and ponder.

11. Charleston, South Carolina

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 46°F to 62°F (7°C to 16°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 89 mm

As the oldest and second-largest city in South Carolina, Charleston offers a never-ending list of activities and destinations to enjoy.

From wine-tasting to shopping to museum hopping, the Palmetto State knows how to keep its tourists busy during the winter. 

Start your journey with King Street’s excellent dining options, charming locally-owned boutiques, and nightlife.

Then, visit the area’s centuries-old plantations and gardens, which feature attractions such as nature trails, herb gardens, petting zoos, wildlife observation towers, and much more.

12. Anna Maria Island, Florida

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 65°F to 77°F (18°C to 25°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 65 mm

Known for its sugar-white beaches, sparkling blue waters, and jaw-dropping sunrises and sunsets, Anna Maria Island, Florida has always been a prime summer destination for locals and tourists alike.

That said, the fun doesn’t stop when winter comes—in fact, it’s completely normal to visit the beach for a swim in the middle of January.

Crowds are at their minimum during winter months, giving you the opportunity to experience authentic Florida culture without the rush of tourists. 

13. Fort Lauderdale, Florida

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 65°F to 77°F (18°C to 25°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 84 mm

Fort Lauderdale is another one of Florida’s coastal cities, located 30 miles north of Miami. This charming city offers a little something for everyone, from nightlife to cuisine. 

The Hugh Birch State Park is a good place to start, where you can find rentals for bikes to discover the area.

Don’t forget to take your camera so you can snap pictures of the 250+ native birds that regularly visit the place. 

If you don’t mind the cool waters, you can visit one of Fort Lauderdale’s many beaches and swim, surf, or snorkel.

Alternatively, you can relax on a hot tub boat tour as you soak up the sights of Fort Lauderdale’s stunning coastline.

14. Santa Monica, California

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 51°F to 66°F (10°C to 18°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 76 mm

Located west of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica is a popular weekend getaway filled with style, art, and adventure. It’s home to the Museum of Flying, the Santa Monica Pier, and the Hippodrome among others. 

Those who prefer fashion can explore Santa Monica’s high-end boutiques and thrift stores, while those who like food can visit the area’s open-air cafes, restaurants, and dining spaces. 

The coastal city is bustling with life, even during the coldest of winters—which doesn’t drop below 51°F.

15. US Virgin Islands

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 64 mm

Made up of four principal islands—St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix, and Water Island – The US Virgin Islands offers a range of luxury accommodation and a vast array of outdoor activities including hiking, boating, swimming, and snorkelling.

Winter temperatures in the US Virgin Islands rarely fall below 80°F, making it a prime destination for those looking to escape sub-zero temperatures. 

16. San Francisco, California

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 48°F to 59°F (8°C to 15°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 91 mm

San Francisco is a delight to visit any time of year. There’s an endless number of things to do in Golden Gate City, whether it’s sauntering through Mission Dolores Dar or hiking in the Muir Woods. 

Taking pics at the Gold Gate Bridge is a must-do, as well as visiting Golden Gate Park. The park is home to top-notch attractions and notable museums like the California Academy of Sciences. 

Afterwards, head down to the waterfront at Fisherman’s Wharf and indulge in some of the best foods the city has to offer.

17. Laguna Beach, California

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 43°F to 68°F (6°C to 20°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 70 mm

Laguna Beach conjures images of hidden coves, pristine beaches, and white sand as far as the eye can see. It’s one of the most popular summer destinations in California, but it’s often overlooked during winter. 

Which is a shame, because Laguna Beach is quite beautiful during this period. It offers plenty of restaurant specials, holiday offerings, and events that only appear during winter.

The best part is, you can still visit the beach and enjoy its refreshing ocean breeze and stunning views.

18. San Juan, Puerto Rico

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 75°F to 81°F (24°C to 27°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 82 mm

Searching for a winter-friendly destination that doesn’t fall heavy on your pocket? San Juan is your answer. 

San Juan is Puerto Rico’s largest city, with dozens of tourist attractions, historical sites, and crystal-clear waters. The city has a relaxed yet vibrant vibe, especially in winter when the streets are less busy. 

Grab a lounge chair and admire the calm waves of San Juan’s many beaches, or walk around the colourful streets of Old San Juan.

Tour San Juan’s impressive architecture, drink cocktails, and dance at La Factoría, or shop and dine locally along Calle Loíza—your options are limitless! 

19. Miami, Florida

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 68°F to 77°F (18°C to 24°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 64 mm

As one of the world’s most popular vacation spots, it’s no wonder that Miami, Florida made it to this list of top winter getaways. 

Winter temperatures in Miami rarely fall below 68°F, with average highs of around 77°F. Winters are comfortable and mostly clear with little to no rainfall, making it a pleasant destination for most activities. 

Winter gives you plenty of opportunities to bask in Miami’s thriving cultural scene, partake in its winter festivals, and visit the city’s museums, parks, and gardens. 

20. Oahu, Hawaii

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 76°F to 77°F (24°C to 25°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 137 mm

Oahu’s winter temperature rarely falls below 76°F, making it a top candidate in this list of warm winter getaways. During winter, festivals are plentiful, attractions are less crowded, and room rates are at their lowest.

Activities include surfing at Sunset Beach, diving in the LCU (Landing Craft Utility) Wreck, horseback riding at Kualoa Ranch, and visiting historic battle sites like Pearl Harbor. 

21. Savannah, Georgia

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 41°F to 63°F (5°C to 17°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 81 mm

Bustling with Southern charm, Savannah, Georgia is a charming winter escape where period architecture, art, and trendy boutiques meet. 

Known for its beautiful coastal landscapes and rich, vibrant history, it’s one of the US’s oldest and most historic religious sites.

This makes it a prime destination for both history buffs and admirers of old cobblestone streets and historic buildings. 

22. Phoenix, Arizona

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 70°F to 74°F  (8°C to 20°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 25 mm

Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon State,” Phoenix, Arizona prides itself on its year-round sun and desert beauty. With winter temperatures ranging from 70°F to 74°F, Phoenix’s winters are cool and mostly clear.

Desert nights and mornings can get chilly, but temperatures rarely fall below 57°F, making it a great escape from winter blues. 

There are hundreds of fun things to do in Phoenix. You can go hiking in Phoenix’s Mountain Parks, walk the tranquil paths of the Desert Botanical Garden, or visit local wineries and eateries. 

Golfing is a popular sport in Phoenix, with over 200 golf courses to choose from in the Phoenix Metro area. So if you enjoy the sport, Phoenix should be at the top of your “to-visit” list. 

23. Jackson, Mississippi

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 39°F to 61°F (3°C to 16°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 127 mm

Jackson is home to dozens of top-rated tourist attractions, including the Jackson Zoo, Petrified Forest, and the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science.

Winters in Jackson are a bit colder than other locations on this list, with a high average temperature of 61°F and a low of 39°F. 

Still, the weather is pleasantly cool and comfortable; you won’t have to bundle yourself in multiple layers to get around. 

24. Atlanta, Georgia

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 38°F to 57°F (3°C to 13°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 102 mm

Known for its rich history, Atlanta, Georgia is home to several must-visit museums which cover a wide range of topics, including civil rights, natural sciences, African-American culture, sports, and art.

It’s home to Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park, High Museum of Art, and Fernbank Museum of Natural History, three of the top-rated museums in the US. 

Beyond its museums, Atlanta is a city with a long list of things to do, bars to check out, and restaurants to try. From botanical gardens to aquariums and theme parks, you’ll have a blast spending your winter vacation in Atlanta. 

25. Orlando, Florida

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 53°F to 75°F (12°C to 24°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 62 mm

Aptly nicknamed the Sunshine State, Orlando, Florida experiences mild temperatures year-round. 

Orlando offers hundreds of exciting attractions for tourists, including legendary theme parks including; Walt Disney World and the Universal Orlando Resort.

It’s a great winter destination for both solo travellers and families alike, with nearly endless activities to indulge in. 

26. Kauai, Hawaii

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 67°F to 85°F (19°C to 29°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 162 mm

Kauai, also known as the Garden Isle, is the second-oldest island in Hawaii after Niʻihau. Its winter temperatures vary from 67°F to 85°F, so you can hit the waves even in the coldest of months. 

Winter activities in Kauai include surfing, snorkelling, kayaking, and whale watching.

You can also visit its many museums, like the Kauai Museum, the Grove Farm Homestead and Sugar Plantation Museum, and the Kokee Natural History Museum. 

27. Albuquerque, New Mexico

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 47°F to 52°F (8°C to 11°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 13 mm

In Albuquerque, New Mexico, winter temperatures range between 47°F and 52°F, rarely falling below 37°F or exceeding 62°F. It can get quite chilly at night, so you’ll need to bundle up when going out for a night stroll.

As one of the most culturally diverse areas in New Mexico, Albuquerque prides itself on its cultural centers, unique architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine.

It’s home to over 70 ethnicities, which you can experience through local shops and museums. 

28. Mobile, Alabama

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 44°F to 63°F (7°C to 17°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 127 mm

Winters in Mobile, Alabama aren’t nearly as harsh as its neighbouring states, allowing you to partake in exciting activities more comfortably. 

You can visit museums, sign up for a Dolphins & Wildlife Kayak Tour, walk along the 5 Rivers Delta Center, or watch a live performance at the Crescent Theater.

You can also tour Bellingrath Gardens and Home, famous for its fine gardens and historic mansions. 

If you’re lucky, you can witness the bloom of Cascading Chrysanthemums, which open up in the colder months. 

29. Honeymoon Island State Park

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 42°F to 62°F (5°C to 16°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 64 mm

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a family vacation, there’s nowhere quite like Honeymoon Island State Park. It’s one of Florida’s pride and joy, quaint and peaceful, with more than four miles of beach to explore. 

Winter activities include fishing, hiking, bicycling, and shelling. Swimming isn’t off limits, but you might want to hold off until Spring as the waters can be quite cold during winter. 

30. Big Island, Hawaii

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 70°F to 81°F (21°C to 27°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 204 mm

Though it’s the youngest island in Hawaii, it’s the biggest. In fact, it’s nearly twice as big as the other Hawaiian island combined, hence the name “Big Island.” 

Unimaginative name aside, Big Island is brimming with activities for travellers to enjoy.

Winter activities include visiting the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, hiking up the Mauna Kea summit, and gazing upon the red-hot lava in one of the Big Island’s many volcanoes (but only when it’s active). 

You can also swim with manta rays, take a guided tour through the wild forests and cliffs on the Hamakua and Kohala coasts, or just chill by the beach.

31. Sedona, Arizona

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 34°F to 61°F (1°C to 16°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 25 mm

Sedona is a desert town surrounded by majestic red rock formations and canyons. 

In winter, feel free to take a water-to-wine kayaking tour, go mountain biking, or visit Socal’s wildlife preserve. In the preserve, you’ll be met with bobcats, javelina, coyotes, mule deer, and other desert-dwelling animals. 

You can also sample Sedo’s viticulture in Winery 1912, which features the largest and most diverse vineyard in the state.

32. Austin, Texas

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 43°F to 63°F (6°C to 17°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 66 mm

As the state capital of Texas, Austin has a lot to offer to its tourists. Home to world-class museums, unique attractions, and breathtaking natural resources, it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s playground. 

Affectionately dubbed as the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin values its music as much as it values its culture. You’ll find musicians performing all over town, from theatres to coffeehouses to airport terminals. 

With more than 250 live music venues, there’s always a live show somewhere. If you’re a hardcore music lover, Austin is a destination you shouldn’t miss. 

33. Pensacola Beach, Florida

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 46°F to 81°F (7°C to 27°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 137 mm

Pristine, sugar-white sand, emerald-green waters, and mild winter temperatures are what first come to mind when describing Pensacola Beach.

With its historic charm and relaxing atmosphere, it’s one of the best winter destinations to escape from the hubbub of the city. 

While there, don’t forget to visit the James P Morgan Park and Botanical Garden, UFO’s Mini Golf, Ice Cream & Arcade, and Radical Rides’ Jet Ski & Parasailing Rentals. 

34. Gulf Shores, Alabama

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 46°F to 64°F (8°C to 18°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 127 mm

Located on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, Gulf Shores is a quintessential family beach vacation spot during winter.

Besides swimming, popular activities include hiking at the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, go-karting at the Track Family Fun amusement park, and encountering exotic animals at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. 

You can also visit the Gulf Shores Museum, a World War II-era house with interesting exhibits and artwork. 

35. Virginia Beach, Virginia

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 39°F to 54°F (3°C to 12°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 89 mm

Virginia Beach is a delightful oceanfront town that sits within the metropolitan area of Hampton Roads. It’s the longest pleasure beach in the world, spanning 38 miles long.

It offers various activities to enjoy, from museums to aquariums, to special tours and amusement parks. 

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is one of the most popular places in the area, surrounded by shops and eateries. It’s perfectly paved for biking, skateboarding, jogging, and relaxing. 

36. Santa Fe, New Mexico

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 45°F to 50°F (7°C to 10°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 19 mm

Winters in Santa Fe, New Mexico can get pretty cold, with daily temperatures falling between 45°F to 50°F.

That said, temperatures rarely fall in the sub-zero mark, so you won’t have to bundle yourself up with multiple layers to enjoy Santa Fe’s outdoor activities.

This includes hiking at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, immersing yourself in the stark beauty of Santa Fe’s high desert, or visiting Santa Fe’s museums.

37. Death Valley National Park

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 41°F to 68°F (5°C to 20°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 13 mm

Death Valley conjures thoughts of the macabre, and that’s not too far off considering the fact that it’s one of the most dangerous national parks in America. 

It’s the land of extremes, considered to be the hottest, lowest, and driest national park in the country. It’s a beautiful but challenging landscape with nearly 1,000 miles of roads.

But don’t let these facts scare you—if you’re an adventurer looking to push your limits, Death Valley is worth the visit. 

Winter is the best time to travel to Death Valley as the temperatures aren’t nearly as hot.

38. Clearwater Beach, Florida

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 40°F to 74°F (4°C to 23°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 66 mm

Known for its dazzling waters and sparking white sand, Clearwater Beach is a sight to behold. It’s located in Pinellas County, Florida, northwest of St. Petersburg and Tampa. 

Clearwater Beach draws visits year-round for its warm temperatures, jet-skiing adventures, and casual seafood restaurants and cafes.

Attractions include the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Clearwater Dolphin Watching Tour, and Pier 60 Park.

39. Channel Islands National Park, California

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 54°F to 65°F (12°C to 18°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 69 mm

Featuring five of the right Californian islands, the Channel Islands National Park—also known as the “American Galapagos,”—is an untouched landscape surrounded by the most breathtaking views the world has to offer.

Winter activities in the Channel Islands National Park include hiking, camping, kayaking, and diving underwater. 

Note that there are no services on the islands. You won’t find restaurants, hotels, or shops. It’s completely untouched by urbanization, so pack accordingly. 

40. Lafayette, Louisiana

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 47°F to 65°F (8°C to 18°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 127 mm

There are countless reasons to visit Lafayette, Louisiana during winter. Aside from its soulful music, incredible wintertime food, and interesting people, it has its fair share of exciting activities and festivals. 

While in Lafayette, take the time to admire the city’s authentic historic buildings, explore its Acadian exhibits and films, and visit its museums.

Honorable mentions include the Lafayette Science Museum, the Hilliard Art Museum, and the LARC’s Acadian Village.

41. Marfa, Texas

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 30°F to 67°F (-1°C to 19°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 127 mm

With a population of only 2,000, you’d think there’s little to do in Marfa. That couldn’t be far from the truth. In fact, it’s filled with art galleries, unique tourist destinations, and picturesque landmarks to visit.

The Presidio County Courthouse is one of the town’s main landmarks, built back in the 19th century.

Enter its halls and admire its old furniture, historic paintings, wooden staircases, and creaky floorboards. It’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back in time.

42. Lanai, Hawaii

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 63° to 73°F (17°C to 23°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 85 mm

Lanai, Hawaii boasts mild and sunny weather year-round. Despite it being the smallest inhabited island in Hawaii, it’s full of personality. It has something for everyone in every season, from snorkeling to fishing to exploring. 

You can visit the Garden of the Gods, an otherworldly place with a red-dusted alien landscape. Get into a four-wheel vehicle and take in the one-of-a-kind sights for an exquisitely memorable experience!

43. Orange Beach, Alabama

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 46°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 127 mm

Located on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, Orange Beach is a small city that offers dolphin-sighting, fine-dining experiences, cruises, championship golf courses, and nature hikes among others.

There are numerous options for nightlife, too, from rocking roadhouses to family entertainment. 

Enjoy live music, plays, and concerts at local cafes and eateries, and partake in watersports like deep sea fishing, jet skiing, and snorkelling.

44. Houston, Texas

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 46°F to 63°F (8°C to 17°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 102 mm

A Texas-style winter is one of the best ways to spend your holiday vacation, and where better to start than the largest city in Texas, Houston? 

With daily temperatures in the high 60s, Houston’s winters are dry and cool. This, paired with world-class attractions and events, makes Houston one of the top places to visit during the winter season.

Houston is home to the Space Center, the Downtown Aquarium, the Houston Zoo, and the Houston Museum of Natural Science; attractions that every traveller should visit at least once. 

45. Catalina Island, California

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 52°F to 67°F (11°C to 19°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 66 mm

Also known as the Hidden Paradise in Southern California, Catalina Island is a travel destination with plenty of wonders. 

From its private beaches to its casinos, it attracts crowds that enjoy luxury, fine dining, and shopping.

Don’t worry, though; you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to enjoy your stay on Catalina Island. There are a lot of affordable activities to do, like parasailing, hiking, and gaming at the Three Palms Avalon Arcade.

46. Tucson, Arizona

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 44°F to 68°F (6°C to 20°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 13 mm

With plenty of sunshine and a temperate climate, Tucson, Arizona makes a great year-round winter destination. 

During winter, Tuscon goes all out with twinkling lights and winter deco, so you’ll enjoy the holiday spirit while exploring the city.

While there, you can partake in winter festivals, such as the Winterhaven Festival of Lights and Las Mujeres Verdes Mercados. 

Of course, you can indulge in foods beyond the classic Tucson cuisine. From chili pies and briskets to Sonoran-style Mexican food, you’ll be spoiled for choice by food that is best enjoyed in winter.

47. Maui, Hawaii

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 189 mm

Maui is the second largest island in Hawaii. It’s known for its crystal-clear beaches, ʻĪao Valley burial grounds, and farm-to-table cuisine.

If you’re lucky enough to visit in winter, you’ll be able to watch the migrating humpback whales, partake in the Pacific Special Holiday Luau, and view the Art Festival in Lahaina.

48. Pass-A-Grille, Florida

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 58°F to 67°F (14°C to 19°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 69 mm

Lined with locally-owned restaurants, outdoor art markets, rooftop bars, and boutiques, Pass-a-Grille Beach is a picturesque destination with a quaint, laid-back feel.

Winter temperatures rarely fall below 58°F, with average highs of 67°F.

49. Big Bend National Park, Texas

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 37°F to 59°F  (3°C to 15°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 13 mm

Located in West Texas, Big Bend National Park impresses with its vast starry skies and temple-like canyons. It’s one of the country’s most enchanting parks, away from civilization and light pollution.

50. Flagstaff, Arizona

This makes it an outstanding playground for bird watchers, campers, hikers, stargazers, canoers, and nature lovers alike. 

🌡️ Average Winter Temp: 21°F to 45°F (-6°C to 7°C)
☔️ Average Monthly Rainfall: 41 mm

Flagstaff is a historic, picturesque town surrounded by mountains, pine forests, and deserts.

It has a rugged natural beauty that can only be found in Arizona, making it one of the more unique destination spots on this list. 

In Flagstaff, you can explore the Coconino National Forest, visit the Museum of Northern Arizona, and hike up the Grand Canyon National Park – don’t forget to swing by the Flagstaff Mall to scoop up some souvenirs before you leave.