Katie and Pierce
Dreaming of escaping the winter chill? The United States offers incredible destinations where you can trade your snow boots for flip flops and your winter coat for a swimsuit. From sun soaked beaches to desert oases, here are the best warm winter destinations that don’t require a passport (well, most of them, anyway!).
1. Maui, Hawaii
When it comes to winter tropical paradise, it’s hard to beat Maui. You’ll find yourself mesmerized by the perfect temperatures and stunning beaches like Kaanapali, where the only decision you’ll need to make is whether to surf, snorkel, or simply lounge under a palm tree.
Don’t miss the legendary Road to Hana, where each turn reveals another jaw dropping view of waterfalls and rainforest. The west side of the island offers world class resorts where you can pamper yourself between adventures, while the upcountry region around Haleakala provides a completely different experience with its volcanic landscapes and stunning sunrises.
Winter brings an extra special treat as this is prime whale watching season, when humpbacks put on spectacular shows right offshore.
2. Key West, Florida
At the southernmost point of the continental U.S., Key West feels like a Caribbean island that somehow drifted up and attached itself to Florida. You’ll find yourself strolling past charming pastel colored conch houses and diving into a culture that’s equal parts quirky and laid back.
The island’s connection to Ernest Hemingway isn’t just a tourist gimmick. You can actually feel the creative energy that drew him and other artists here as you explore the streets. Start your winter mornings with Cuban coffee and end your days at Mallory Square, where street performers and locals gather for the nightly sunset celebration.
The waters around the island are perfect for snorkeling and diving, with the third largest coral reef in the world just offshore. Whether you’re bar hopping on Duval Street or kayaking through mangrove tunnels, Key West’s charm is irresistible.
3. San Diego, California
San Diego’s perfect winter weather isn’t just tourist board hype. With 70 miles of coastline and an average of 266 sunny days per year, this city really delivers on its promises. You’ll find yourself perfectly positioned to combine big city attractions with beach town vibes.
Start your day watching surfers catch waves at La Jolla, then head to Balboa Park where you can explore 17 museums and the world famous San Diego Zoo. The city’s craft beer scene is legendary, so you’ll want to save time for a brewery tour in neighborhoods like North Park or Miramar.
For a perfect winter afternoon, grab fish tacos from a local stand and head to Coronado Beach, where the sand literally sparkles thanks to mineral mica deposits. Don’t forget to explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter, where Victorian era buildings house some of the city’s best restaurants and nightlife.
4. Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix might be in the desert, but don’t let that fool you. This city knows how to make the most of its sunny winter climate. You’ll find yourself surrounded by opportunities for outdoor adventure, from hiking Camelback Mountain at sunrise to exploring the Desert Botanical Garden’s incredible collection of cacti and desert flora.
The city’s resort game is strong, with world class golf courses and spa experiences that take full advantage of indigenous ingredients and treatments. When the afternoon sun warms up, cool off in one of the many resort pools or head to nearby Salt River for tubing adventures.
The food scene here is exploding, with innovative chefs putting modern spins on Southwestern classics. For a perfect evening, head to one of the city’s rooftop bars where you can watch the desert sky transform into a spectacular light show at sunset.
5. Miami Beach, Florida
Miami Beach hits you with a sensory overload in the best possible way. You’ll find yourself immersed in a world where art deco architecture provides the backdrop for a vibrant fusion of cultures. South Beach isn’t just about beautiful people and nightlife (though there’s plenty of that).
It’s about experiencing the energy of a place where Latin American and Caribbean influences create something entirely unique. Start your winter day with a walk or bike ride along Ocean Drive, admiring the historic art deco buildings in their pastel glory.
The beaches here are exactly what you’re picturing: pristine sand, turquoise waters, and colorful lifeguard stands that have become icons in their own right. Don’t miss the art scene in Wynwood, and make sure to sample your way through Little Havana’s authentic Cuban cuisine.
6. U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands offer all the Caribbean charm you’re craving without the need for a passport. You’ll find yourself hopping between St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, each with its own distinct personality.
St. John is a nature lover’s paradise, with two thirds of the island protected as a national park. The beaches here, like Trunk Bay, consistently rank among the world’s best. On St. Thomas, you can split your time between shopping in Charlotte Amalie and snorkeling with sea turtles at Magens Bay.
Water sports enthusiasts will find paradise here. Whether you’re into sailing, diving, or snorkeling, the crystal clear waters offer endless opportunities for winter adventure. The pace of life is deliciously slow, and you’ll quickly find yourself adjusting to “island time.”
7. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is where desert vibes meet midcentury modern style, creating a winter retreat that’s both sophisticated and relaxed. You’ll find yourself stepping into a world that feels frozen in the golden age of Hollywood, with architecture that would make Don Draper feel right at home.
The pool culture here is legendary. Spend your days lounging by one of the many boutique hotel pools, cocktail in hand. When you’re ready for adventure, Joshua Tree National Park is just a short drive away, offering otherworldly landscapes and spectacular stargazing opportunities.
The food scene has exploded beyond the standard resort fare, with innovative restaurants and hip bars popping up throughout downtown. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for a dramatic ascent into the San Jacinto Mountains, where you can escape the desert heat and enjoy hiking trails with stunning views.
8. San Juan, Puerto Rico
In San Juan, Caribbean warmth meets Spanish colonial history to create something magical. You’ll find yourself wandering through the blue cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, where 500 year old Spanish colonial buildings house trendy restaurants and boutiques.
The food scene here is incredible. From traditional mofongo at local restaurants to innovative fusion cuisine from rising star chefs. Beaches like Condado and Isla Verde offer perfect spots for swimming and sunbathing, while the nearby El Yunque National Forest provides tropical rainforest adventures just an hour away.
The nightlife is legendary, with everything from salsa clubs to craft cocktail bars. Don’t miss the chance to kayak in the bioluminescent bays, where the water glows with every paddle stroke. The best part? You’re technically still in the U.S., so no passport required for this perfect winter escape.
9. Tucson, Arizona
Tucson offers a different take on desert living, where Southwestern culture and natural beauty create a unique winter escape. You’ll find yourself surrounded by the iconic Saguaro cacti that have become symbols of the American Southwest. They’re everywhere in Saguaro National Park, which flanks the city on two sides.
The food scene here is internationally recognized for its gastronomic heritage, blending Native American, Mexican, and American ranch traditions. The hiking and mountain biking opportunities are endless, with five mountain ranges surrounding the city.
At night, take advantage of some of the clearest skies in the country for stargazing. There’s a reason why Tucson is known as the Astronomy Capital of the World. The Arizona Sonora Desert Museum offers a perfect introduction to desert ecology, while the historic Mission San Xavier del Bac provides a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture.
10. Naples, Florida
Naples combines sophisticated Gulf Coast charm with natural beauty in a way that few other places can match. You’ll find yourself strolling down Third Street South and Fifth Avenue South, where upscale shopping and dining options abound, all just steps from some of Florida’s most pristine beaches.
The water here is calm and warm, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding, while the white sand beaches are ideal for collecting shells or watching spectacular sunsets. Nature lovers can explore nearby Everglades National Park or the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, where boardwalks wind through ancient cypress forests.
The golf scene is legendary, with more courses per capita than almost anywhere else in the country. Don’t miss the Naples Pier, especially at sunset, when locals and visitors gather to watch the sky transform into a canvas of tropical colors. Winter here means perfect temperatures and zero chance of snow.
11. Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu perfectly balances city excitement with island paradise vibes, making it an ideal winter getaway. You’ll find yourself waking up to the sight of Diamond Head crater looming over Waikiki Beach, where the gentle waves are perfect for beginning surfers.
The city expertly blends modern luxury with Hawaiian culture. You can start your day with a sunrise hike up Diamond Head, spend the afternoon exploring the historic Pearl Harbor memorials, and end with a sunset Mai Tai at a beachfront bar. The food scene ranges from traditional plate lunches at local spots to innovative Hawaii Regional Cuisine at upscale restaurants.
Hanauma Bay offers some of the best snorkeling on Oahu, while the North Shore is just an hour away if you want to watch pro surfers tackle massive waves (in winter) or snorkel in calm waters (in summer). Don’t miss the cultural experiences like hula shows and luaus, which offer genuine insights into Hawaiian traditions.
