10 Warm USA Winter Getaways: Escape the Cold

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.

Photo byDenys KostyuchenkoonUnsplash

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.

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).

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.

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).

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

6. Clearwater Beach, Florida

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.

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.

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.

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.

8. 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.

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.

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.

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.

10. Kauai, Hawaii

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.

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