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Looking for some warm places to visit in December in USA to escape the winter cold? We’ve got not one, but 22 places — time to plan for some warm winter destinations!

Does the thought of spending another long winter clad in wool socks and tucked under your down comforter send you screaming into the night? Start planning your warm weather winter getaway right now. C’mon, do it now before you’re too hibernated to leave your socially-distanced winter cocoon!

Between the 5 or 6 months of generally overcast skies, dry skin from being baked in front of your nightly fire (if you’re lucky to have a fireplace), and the unpredictability of all the snow, ice, and sleet many parts of the US can throw at you — winter in many parts of the US can be brutal.

So let’s get you someplace warm, OK? Where every morning you wake up and open the shutters has you jumping for joy at the sight of bright blue skies, sunny weather, and oversaturated color in everything you see.

Warm US winter destinations make the best getaways and there are quite a few in the US that will change the way you look at winter.

We’ve compiled 22 best places to visit in the US in December for warm weather this winter, so you can plan your escape!

Which of these warm US winter vacations is right for you?

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Warm Places in the US in December (by State)

Florida

Nevada

US Caribbean

Texas

Louisiana

Hawaii

Arizona

California

Warm Places to Visit in December in USA

Florida

When it comes to having some of the best options for warm places to visit in December in USA, Florida is hard to beat. The Sunshine State is one of the best places to visit in US in December, period! But… but — not every place in Florida is a prime destination during the winter.

Parts of North Florida and the Florida Panhandle can get snow and ice during late December and into January and February!

If temps in the 40s, 50s, 60s are good with you, then just about everywhere in Florida will work.

Luckily, the state is so big, you really have a great selection of places to go for the short sleeve, balmy, 70-80 degree weather you’re craving.

Florida from the central Gulf coast (Tampa, St. Pete, and Clearwater) down to southwest Florida and the Florida Keys offer many great options for great winter destinations.

Not only are these good places to visit year round, but visiting in the wintertime offers better wildlife viewing: migratory birds are typically back in the area, and eagles, osprey, and wading birds like herons, egrets, and roseate spoonsbills are abundant.

And the best part about Florida in the winter? Manatees are back in the springs keeping warm!

Fiery sunsets in Naples Florida

1. Naples

Average Winter High: 74-77°F

Located at the southwestern tip of Florida’s Gulf coast, the cities of Naples and Marco Island — collectively known as the Paradise Coast — are two great warm weather places to visit in the US if you want a warm and balmy tropical destination. Ahhh the paradise coast… sounds dreamy right?

This part of Florida is among the warmest places in the US in December!

Often known as one of Florida’s most upscale locales, there are plenty of things to see and do in Naples that everyone will enjoy. If you’re looking for a great Florida beach vacation, Naples has the warmest beaches in Florida in December — one for every day of the week.

If a pampered luxury getaway is more your speed, the options are truly endless with sublime spa treatments, culture and nightlife, and dining al fresco (yes, even in winter). Naples has over 700 amazing restaurants.

But given its proximity on the doorstep of the Florida Everglades, this part of Florida is a nature and outdoor lover’s paradise with unique hiking, boating, and wildlife galore.

Go early in December to enjoy the light display at the Naples Botanical Garden, Christmas boat parades, and catch a holiday performance at Artis Naples.

Where to Stay in Naples:

Situated in the heart of beautiful downtown Naples, The popular Inn on Fifth is a luxurious Mediterranean-inspired hotel that is close to some of the best restaurants in Naples and also has a full-service spa.

Check availability and rates here.

Bellasera Resort is a moderately priced hotel with poolside cabanas, a heated outdoor pool, and a fitness center and it’s just an easy walk to 5th Ave S. for some of the best dining and shopping Naples has to offer.

Check more details and availability.

2. Marco Island

Average Winter High: 74-77°F

Just 15 minutes south of Naples Florida is its sister city of Marco Island on the Paradise Coast. But while it’s close by, the city of Marco Island is different from Naples in several ways. You can expect more of a quiet luxury community on Marco, if that’s the vibe you’re going for.

When it comes to beaches, you’ll have more of a selection in Naples than Marco, but Marco Island is closer to the Ten Thousand Islands and the Everglades for outdoor enthusiasts. In fact, Marco Island is the largest of the Ten Thousand Islands!

As for restaurants? The dining scene in Marco Island is equally good with everything from Italian to seafood and everything in between.

Where to Stay in Marco Island:

Planning a visit to Marco? You can’t go wrong with a stay at Marriott Crystal Shores resort. With direct access to South Marco Beach and great sunset views, the resort features 2 pools, a fitness center, restaurant and a long list of amenities.

Check current rates and availability.

3. Orlando

Average Winter High: 68-73°F

If you’ve been dreaming of Disney, Orlando offers one of the best warm winter vacations in the USA. And visiting in early December offers some of the smallest crowds of the year — don’t worry, Santa starts his Christmas visits early at Disney World, beginning the second week in November.

While Orlando may be landlocked between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, there are plenty of fun water activities and day trips you can take, from kayaking at Blue Spring State Park and taking in the beautiful holiday lights around Lake Eola in downtown Orlando including the Eola Wonderland 72–foot Christmas tree with a synchronized light and music show.

You’ll never be without a great Christmas celebration sometime in December. It’s what makes Orlando one of the best US winter destinations.

How about Grinchmas at The Islands of Adventure? Or the “Dazzling Nights” display at the Harry P. Leu Gardens that transform the gardens into a winter wonderland with over a million dazzling light displays, twinkling lights, and beautiful sculptures — nearly a mile long interactive holiday experience.

Where to Stay in Orlando:

Orlando may not have a beach on the ocean, but you can still feel the vibe with a stay at Universal's Endless Summer Resort - Surfside Inn and Suites. The resort offers early admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and Universal's Volcano Bay water park, and provides complimentary transportation to Universal Orlando Resort's 3 theme parks and Universal CityWalk.

Click here to check availability at this amazing resort.

If you need a beach fix, Clearwater has just what you need

4. Clearwater

Average Winter High: 70-73°F

If you’re looking for a warm US winter vacation, Clearwater Florida is a great option for winter getaways.

Beach lovers should head to Honeymoon Island State Park, located about 25 minutes north of Clearwater Beach with four miles of stunning beaches to explore. It’s a great place to lounge in the sun, go swimming, fishing, biking, kayaking, or hiking along the 3-mile trail through one of the last remaining virgin slash pine forests.

Or, take the ferry across the channel to Caladesi State Park — it’s even less crowded and rocky than Honeymoon Island. On your way out, stop at Frenchy’s Outpost on the Dunedin Causeway for their Grouper sandwich. One bite and you just might start looking to pack up and move here.

Where to Stay in Clearwater:

Just opposite the sugary sand beach and featuring an outdoor heated pool among its many amenities, Pier House 60 Clearwater Beach Marina Hotel is only a 3 minute walk from premier dining and shopping, and just over a mile from the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

Check here for the latest rates and availability.

5. Fort Lauderdale

Average Winter High: 78°F

Like most destinations in southern Florida, Fort Lauderdale in the winter is warm and inviting. Situated on the southeastern coast of Florida, the city is famous for its beautiful beaches, fishing, and boating. Most major airlines have direct service to the Fort Lauderdale Airport, or fly into Miami, rent a car, and drive the 25 miles north on scenic A1A.

The city is much more than just great beaches and every water sport imaginable. Stroll the promenade known as The Strip for upscale shopping, a cocktail at one of the many bars, and dining at excellent outdoor restaurants.

In early December, catch the annual Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade, one of the longest boat parades in Florida at over 12 miles long! Private boats and megayachts twinkle with hundreds of thousands of lights, blasting music, and showing off their festive holiday spirit!

Enjoy world-class shopping along Las Olas Boulevard, and walk the beautifully landscaped Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk. There are arts and cultural events for the whole family. Take an easy day trip to the Everglades National Park for hiking, experiencing this unique environment, or take an exciting airboat ride.

Where to Stay in Fort Lauderdale:

Premiere Hotel is less than one block from the beach and features a saltwater outdoor pool. The hotel is located in a popular part of Fort Lauderdale close to shops and restaurants.

Check more details and availability.

Swimming with manatees in Crystal River is one of the best warm winter vacations in USA

6. Crystal River

Average Winter High: 74°F

You may not have heard of this small city in Florida but no doubt you’ve heard of its most famous activity. Crystal River is one of the most popular warm winter destinations in the US for one, very large, reason… the return of its most famous resident, the West Indian manatee!

Located on Central Florida’s central Gulf Coast, Crystal River sits on Florida’s Nature Coast. The city and the surrounding area is full of small, natural warm springs, found commonly throughout central Florida’s limestone shelf. The springs bubble up from below and remain a constant 72°F, offering manatees a warm sanctuary when the Gulf of Mexico turns cold in December.

But the best part is, Crystal River offers visitors a chance to get in the water (wetsuits required!) and swim alongside the manatees to passively observe these gentle creatures in their natural habitat.

It’s one of the coolest warm places in the US to visit throughout winter — December, January, and February too.

Don’t want to get in the water to see them? No worries. Visit Three Sisters Spring in downtown Crystal River and stroll the elevated boardwalk that surrounds the spring. You’ll sometimes see hundreds of manatees huddled together keeping warm in the crystal blue water.

Where to Stay in Crystal River:

Situated on 232 acres close to King’s Bay, the Plantation on Crystal River, Ascend Hotel Collection features a 27 hole championship golf course, a spa, a cool poolside Tiki bar, and 4 on-site restaurants.

For your next getaway check here for availability.

Sanibel Island is the Shelling Capital of the World

7. Fort Myers and Sanibel

Average Winter High: 74-77˚F

The historic town of Fort Myers in southwest Florida is one of the top year round destinations in Florida, with winter being the most popular time of year.

The great part about visiting Fort Myers is all the additional amazing buck-list places you can easily visit just minutes away — from the shelling beaches of Sanibel and Captiva Islands, to Fort Myers Beach, Pine Island and the artsy town of Matlacha, the geography has the city of Fort Myers surrounded by them all.

The city of Fort Myers has incredible turn of the century history having been a favorite summer residence of Thomas Edison and his friend Henry Ford, and their homes are must see attractions in Fort Myers. Nearby Fort Myers Beach is the ideal location for parasailing, a lively beach scene, or a guided fishing trip.

The holidays in Fort Myers are also fun, kicking off with the annual Sand Sculpting Championships on Fort Myers Beach and leading into the local Christmas Boat Parades, the Cape Coral Festival of Lights, and the impressive Holiday Nights at the Edison and Ford Winter Estate.

Where to Stay in Fort Myers Beach:

Although we generally don’t stay in chain hotels, But the Best Western Plus Beach Resort has one of the best beachfront locations in Fort Myers Beach sitting on a white sand beach with an outdoor pool and rooms with a private balcony. Included among the many amenities are barbecue and laundry facilities.

Check availability and current rates.

Where to Stay on Sanibel Island:

The Sundial Beach Resort & Spa features a special Gulf-side spa and 5 swimming pools. Kayaks, paddle boards, tennis and pickle ball courts , 4 onsite restaurants, and a take-out sushi shop all make for a very relaxing stay.

Check rates and details on a Sanibel Island getaway.

Smathers Beach in Key West

8. Key West, Florida

Average Winter High: 77°F

If you are looking for one of the best winter destinations with an island feel and a lively social scene, Key West may be the perfect place for you.

Located at the very end of the beautiful Florida Keys, Key West is officially the Southernmost City in the USA, making it the warmest place in US in December — probably January and February too — outside the US Virgin Islands.

It’s a tropical outpost party atmosphere waiting to happen — it can be loud and raucous or as laid-back as you want, it’s really up to you. That’s the beauty of the Conch Republic.

Getting to Key West is easy, and a few ways are even more adventurous. You can fly directly into Key West from anywhere in the US. Or take the 3-hour high speed catamaran ferry from southwest Florida called the Key West Express.

But for the adventure of your entire winter, take a road trip! The Miami to Key West drive is something every traveler should do in their lifetime, and the journey itself can be the destination!

There’s lots to do in Key West from the touristy to the hidden gems fewer travelers discover. Head to Duval Street to do your own self-guided pub crawl — known as the Duval Crawl — from one famous watering hole to the next. Or get off Duval and wander the side streets of Old Town to the Key West Cemetery and check out the headstones. In the evening, head to Mallory Square for the daily evening sunset celebration.

Where to Stay in Key West:

Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages is one of our favorite places to stay in Key West. Whether on your honeymoon or just getting away from it all this quiet resort in the heart of Old Town is the perfect stay! This is an adults only resort offering a complimentary continental breakfast, 4 onsite pools, and is an easy walk to Duval Street. Click here to book your stay.

Or check out our favorite Key West Airbnbs in Old Town from the hundreds to choose from!

Nevada

View of the Seven Sisters from scenic Valley of Fire State Park near Las Vegas, Nevada

9. Las Vegas

Average Winter High: 59-66°F, Average Low 40-44°F

If you’re looking for a little more adult action in your warm winter break, there’s always Vegas! And if you haven’t been there in a while, well, it ain’t what it used to be.

Las Vegas is still the playground it always was, only now it’s so much more than casinos and gaming, and very family-friendly (for the most part). While the night are considerably cold, the desert is sunny during the day and perfect for 18 holes of golf and high-end shopping. But for the adventurous travelers, the best parts about Las Vegas lie outside the city.

Go boating at Lake Mead Recreational Area or visit the Hoover Dam. There’s great hiking in the Red Rock National Conservation Area just west of the city. This is just one of the attractions in the Mojave Desert, known for its towering red sandstone peaks and Native American petroglyphs.

Just south of Hoover Dam and the town of Henderson you’ll find some incredible outdoor activities too, including a trail of hot springs that can actually soak in that will keep you busy for days.

If you’re going around the holidays, the Las Vegas Motor Speedway has an amazing light display, and the Las Vegas Festival Of Lights at Craig Ranch Park is a must-see!

Where to Stay in Las Vegas:

You can relax at Desert Paradise Resort and still be just a short drive to the Strip and Fremont Street. A great location with spacious suites that include a laundry and a full kitchen, an adult pool, a family pool and whirlpool, and a long list of amenities will make your stay comfortable and convenient.

Check here for availability and the latest rates.

US Caribbean

Beautiful Trunk Bay on St. John

10. St. John, USVI

Average Winter High: 78°F

Winter in the US Virgin Islands may be your ultimate warm winter US destination if you’re longing for the Caribbean — winter is perfect beach weather. Winter in St. John (and all the islands) offers the same vibrant culture and historic architecture as you’ll find year round, not to mention the island’s amazing food, sprinkled with flavors from across Africa, America, Europe, and the West Indies.

But the USVI are most famous for their gorgeous white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, where you can spend all day sunbathing or lounging in a hammock somewhere.

If you crave activity, there’s every kind of water water sports to fill your days from snorkeling, diving, sailing, deep-sea fishing, horseback riding, and hiking. In fact, St. John stands apart from its sister islands with the presence of the St. John National Park where you’ll find some awesome hiking trails.

And the best part about a warm winter getaway to the Virgin Islands? There’s no exchanging currency and no translation apps needed (though the local patois may take some getting used to).

Where to Stay in St. John:

Estate Lindholm is a lush Indonesian inspired resort with an outdoor pool and great panoramic sea views. Some rooms have a kitchen and a direct direct view of the sea. You’ll find this family run business friendly and very helpful for getting around during your stay.

Check current rates and availability.

Gozalandia Waterfall in San Sebastian Puerto Rico

11. Puerto Rico

Average Winter High: 80°F

If you’re dreaming of a warm tropical island escape, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico may be the right answer! This beautiful Caribbean island and unincorporated territory of the United States has so much going on, from breathtaking mountain landscapes to centuries-old architecture at the fortresses of El Morro and La Fortaleza.

Not to mention the beaches are some of the best in the world, and the surfing at Rincon is world-class.

Rent a garita cart (the island’s golf cart) and explore the cobblestoned streets and over 500 years of history of Old San Juan, or take a guided tour to El Yunque Rainforest, the only tropical rainforest that’s part of the US National Forest System.

The 28,000-acre rainforest is home to amazing wildlife and unique flora, and includes 25 waterfalls, several rivers, and ancient petroglyphs of Taíno deities. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Whether you spend a week or a few days in Puerto Rico before hopping to another nearby island, this US territory makes a great warm winter destination in December.

Where to Stay in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico:

Perfectly located in the heart of Old San Juan, Fortaleza Suites Old San Juan is close to great restaurants and shopping, and is only an 8 minute walk to Pier 4. With a very friendly and helpful staff this is one of the best in the area.

Check current availability and rates.

Texas

12. South Padre Island

Average Winter High: 61-64°F

South Padre Island is a well-known beach resort town just off Texas’ southern Gulf coast. Vacationers love the beaches here to escape winter. The water is calm and warm enough for a swim or just about anything you can do on the water. Premier fishing and boating are major activities.

The island has a lot for nature lovers and especially birdwatchers as the island is home to a variety of migrating birds. The South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center has a 5 story watchtower to get great panoramic views. There is the Dolphin Research & Sealife Center that has boat tours and touch tanks for the kids. And Sea Turtle Inc. rescues and rehabilitates, well, sea turtles so they can be released back into the sea.

When you get tired of the beach, SPI has a wealth of art and culture. Enjoy a taste of Mexico with a day trip to Matamoros. You can be there in less than an hour. Just remember to bring your passport. Or take the short 30 minute drive to Brownsville, one of the most historic places in Texas.

Where to Stay in South Padre Island:

With direct access to a beautiful beach the La Copa Inn Beach Hotel is conveniently located to shopping, restaurants, and water activities. The hotel amenities include the Bar & Grill restaurant, a Starbucks, and a hot breakfast with an omelet station.

Check availability and rates here.

The famous, colorful Riverwalk of San Antonio

13. San Antonio

Average Winter High: 64-68°F

Located in south-central Texas, San Antonio has plenty to do when you need to get away from the cold and snow. For those that don’t relish high temperatures and humidity, San Antonio is a perfect destination. With average daytime temperatures ranging fro the mid 60s to the high 70s, it’s easy to get out and around exploring the sights and sounds of the city.

No trip to San Antonio would be complete without a visit to the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park, a UNESCO world heritage site that includes 4 missions along with the famous Alamo. The 15 miles long Riverwalk along the San Antonio River has at it’s heart a 5 mile stretch running through downtown with lots of shops, restaurants, and bars.

Visit The Witte Museum to see the dinosaur exhibits and Texas history. The Museum of Art features exhibits from around the world and defitiely check out the Japanese Tea Garden which dates back to 1919. There is so much to do and see in San Antonio, and plenty of things for the entire family.

Where to Stay in San Antonio:

Hotel Contessa-Suites on the Riverwalk offers 4-star accommodations with a hot tub. There is an excellent onsite restaurant, fitness center, and an outdoor pool. This hotel enjoys a great location close to the most popular sites and activities.

Check more details and current rates.

Louisiana

There’s more to New Orleans than the French Quarter

14. New Orleans

Average Winter High: 64-66°F

Not only is the city of New Orleans, Louisiana one of the most culturally unique cities in America, it also happens to be a great city to visit when the cold temps dip down to unbearable — a great time to get combine your warm winter escape with some of the best things to see and do in the US. Where else can you get the raw energy of the French Quarter, vibrant jazz, rich history, and some of the best food in the country than in The Big Easy!

It’s the perfect US city for those looking for warm winter getaways. If you can wait to escape until January, go for Mardi Gras, a celebration unlike any other. Mardi Gras begins on January 6th and runs until Fat Tuesday with most events and parades held the last two weeks before Fat Tuesday.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll see why the cuisine makes New Orleans such a great culinary city (Cafe du Monde for beignets is a must!), but the amazing craft cocktails like the Sazerac, and the history that goes along with them, are equally compelling.

Explore the French Quarter and visit the Voodoo Museum for unbelievable history. It’s one of the best NOLA attractions for couples on a winter getaway. If you’re driving or have a rental car, be sure and take a day to see the River Road plantations west of New Orleans — highly worth a visit.

Where to Stay in New Orleans:

The best selection of hotels and apartments for any budget is at the famous “French Quarter”, by far the best area to stay in New Orleans to be close to the action and attractions.

For a quieter, more local experience, we love the Hotel Indigo New Orleans Garden District. This excellent hotel is located on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line giving convenient access to shopping, attractions, and restaurants. Or stay onsite and enjoy local specialties and coffee at Babin’s Bar & Bistro.

Check current rates and availability.

Hawaii

The lush Garden Isle of Kauai

15. Kauai

Average Winter High: 72°F

The Hawaiian Islands have always been on the radar for travelers seeking to get away from the winter chill, but Kauai stands out as the perfect choice in the islands for those wanting a laid-back location in a lush natural setting.

Nicknamed the “Garden Isle”, the island is almost totally covered by rainforest with more shades of green than can be imagined. Add in spectacularly beautiful beaches — some quite secluded — surfing, and hiking in Waimea Canyon and on the Nounou Trail near Kapa’a, and you have a great recipe for a warm destination.

Go kayaking the 20 mile long Wailua River, then cool down at Opaekaa Falls and Wailua Falls.

The only way to Kauai is to fly with many airlines now offering non-stop service. If you are flying into Oahu first, the good news is that it’s only a 25- minute flight from the Honolulu International Airport.

Where to Stay in Kauai:

The Waimea Plantation Cottages enjoy an ideal location on a stunning black sand beach. The oceanfront cottages feature plantation period furnishings and patios with a seaside view of the Pacific Ocean. You’ll enjoy the oceanfront pool and barbecue facilities. The property is within easy walking distance of Waimea River Park and the Waimea Theater.

Check current availability and rates at Waimea Plantation.

16. Oahu

Average Winter High: 74-78°F

Want to hop a quick flight to Hawaii and plant yourself for a week of fun in the sun? Then Oahu may be your ideal Hawaiian island. Home to the main airport on Hawaii, Honolulu International Airport, you can fly in, unpack your swimsuit and hit Waikiki Beach within the hour!

Oahu is the most visited of the Hawaiian islands for several good reasons, and the ease of getting there is a big one. Add in all the fun activities you can see and do without going far and a vibrant night life scene, and you can see why it’s a favorite destinations among many travelers.

For history and culture lovers, Oahu is a clear favorite to explore as it’s the site of Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial with its somber World War II history. It’s also the home of Hawaii’s Royal History, and the ʻIolani Palace, the royal residence of the rulers of the Kingdom of Hawaii beginning with Kamehameha III under the Kamehameha Dynasty.

For nature outings, there are plenty of water activities and hiking trails to choose from, and a hike to the summit of Diamond Head volcano for stunning views over Waikiki is at the top of the list. Surfers will head to the North Shore for some of the world’s premier surfing. Or book a boat tour to dive with spinner dolphins or go whale watching offshore.

Where to Stay in Oahu:

Located in a favored area of Honolulu, the Queen Kapiolani Hotel is just one block from famous Waikiki Beach. Enjoy sunsets with a panoramic view of Diamond Head from the outdoor pool and terrace. Beach towels and beach chairs are available. The hotel is convenient to shopping, restaurants, and activities.

Check more details and availability.

Can you think of a better warm winter destination than Maui?

17. Maui

Average Winter High: 70-72°F

If you’re looking for a good mix of nature and outdoor activities with a full array of touristy things to do, Maui is the Goldilocks Hawaiian island for you — not as touristy as Oahu and not as lush as Kauai…. juuust right!

On Maui, you’ll have your choice of amazing restaurants, luaus, and shopping areas around Lahania and Kihei and Kahului. But venture out and drive the road to Hana to see the full spectrum of natural beauty the island has to offer. You’ll find lush waterfalls and verdant countryside along the twisty winding road on the eastern side of the island until you round the bend to the south side past the Seven Sacred pools.

Eventually the drive brings you to the volcanic landscape of Haleakala, past black sand beaches lava fields that empty right into the sea.

One of the biggest rewards for driving this incredibly scenic roads? The Tedeschi Winery at Ulupalakua Ranch, on the west side of the island and a beautiful place to visit in Upcountry Maui. And, everyone aged 21 and up will be rewarded with free wine tastings — how can you pass that up?

And all of this can be seen in one day!

So what about the rest of your time? Watch the sunrise at Haleakala National Park, swim in the amazing water, try your hand at wind surfing, go whale watching, or snorkeling trip to nearby Molokini.

Where to Stay in Maui:

We can recommend this property because we’ve stayed here. Aston Kaanapali Shores is located right on beautiful Kaanapali Beach along with its oceanfront pool and restaurants. Onsite massages are available as are free scuba lessons and ukelele classes.

Amenities include a salon, sauna, hot tub, fitness center, tennis courts, and the property is family friendly. American and local cuisine including sushi is available all day.

Check rates and current availability

Arizona

18. Tucson

Average Winter High: 45-65°

The city of Tuscon is located an hour and a half southeast of Phoenix in southern Arizona. With a year-round average of 70.9°, Tuscon is a nearly perfect destination to warm-up in winter. The city boasts numerous museums and venues on the area’s heritage and culture. A particularly interesting museum is the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures

Main Gate Square near the University of Arizona is a popular shopping and dining district with over 30 restaurants with cuisines from around the world. Explore Tuscon by renting a Pedego electric bike and make your way to the Tuscon Botanical Gardens.

Hiking, golfing, and horseback riding are all popular. Reid Park Zoo and the Boyce Thompson Arboretum are also at the top of most visitor’s list of things to do. Tuscon is very family friendly and you definitely won’t run out of things for the entire family to do.

Where to Stay in Tucson:

Situated on 14 beautifully landscaped acres in downtown Tucson, the Arizona Inn features 3 onsite restaurants and an out door heated pool. Enjoy fine dining in the Main Dining Room, or stop by the Audubon Bar for a more casual lunch or dinner. The long list of amenities includes tennis courts and free bike rental.

Check availability and the latest rates.

The famous Cathedral Rock in Sedona

19. Sedona

Average Winter High: 60-64°F Low: 34-36°F

With stunning red rock landscapes, New Age vortex vibes, and over 120 unique hiking trails for just about every skill level, Sedona, Arizona is a favorite winter getaway for nature lovers and shopaholics alike. While it’s not the warmest place in US in December, it made our list because it’s a great over US winter destination.

Like any desert location, you’ll be plenty warm during the day as you hike or wine taste your way around town, but it does get cold at night. Like in the 30s!

The landscapes around Sedona are unparalleled — one more breathtaking than the next — and a photographer’s dream, especially at sunset when the rocks glow endless shades of orange.

Road trippers can easily expand a trip to Sedona with the Grand Canyon, Montezuma Castle in Jerome, and Scottsdale, all close by.

Sedona also has some great shopping options, boutiques and art galleries filled with authentic Navajo pottery and artwork complete with certificates of authenticity.

Like Florida, Arizona is a huge snowbird state, drawing sun seekers, retirees, RVers, healers, and hikers from all over the western US and beyond to admire the amazing rock formations, buttes and canyons. It’s one of the best warm US winter vacations to satisfy everyone — just about everything you could want except the ocean and balmy nighttime temperatures.

Where to Stay in Sedona:

We have stayed at and highly recommend L'Auberge de Sedona on Oak Creek. The property has a great location with views of the mountains and easy access to Sedona and the stunning landscapes surrounding the city. There is a spa, an outdoor pool, and free shuttle service to uptown, and fine dine at L’Auberge Restaurant on Oak Creek.

Check availability and current rates at L'Auberge de Sedona.

California

20. Huntington Beach

Average Winter High: 65° F

If you’re dreamin’ of your warm USA winter vacation in California, you don’t have to hang ten to love Surf City USA! Huntington Beach is a great place to visit if you love an overall cool beach town, biking at the beach, luxury spas, great restaurants and shopping, and unique restaurants and eateries to fit any budget.

Located in Orange County, there’s plenty to do in Huntington Beach, and it’s a prime spot to base yourself to explore nearby Bolsa Chica State Beach, Seal Beach, and the surrounding cities of Anaheim (home of Disneyland), Santa Monica, and of course LA which offers endless great options for fun!

Huntington Beach is the quintessential surfing town, complete with the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum and the Surfing Walk of Fame honoring the many surfing legends who’ve surfed the waves here. Stroll the Huntington Beach Pier, one of the longest on the West Coast, then rent bikes and see the beautiful beach on 2 wheels along miles of paved bike paths.

Where to Stay in Huntington Beach:

Paséa Hotel & Spa is located almost directly across the street from the Huntington Beach Pier and features a spa, outdoor pool, and lovely sun terrace. Watch the sunset from your room then enjoy any of the great restaurants all within walking distance.

Pacific City is next door with restaurants and upscale shopping. We love Huntington Beach and so will you.

Check the current rates and availability.

Sunset over San Diego California

21. San Diego

Average Winter High: 66°F

San Diego is a great warm weather destination located in southern California only 20 miles from the Mexican border. When visiting you can take advantage of this closeness for a day trip to Tijuana which takes just a bit over 30 minutes.

For beach lovers one thing to remember is your on the Pacific Ocean which tends to be relatively cold year round maxing out in the high 60s. But not to worry, Mission Beach is a family favorite with soft sand, a fun boardwalk, and a crazy roller coaster.

Some popular activities are touring the USS Midway, a WWII era aircraft carrier that has been turned into a museum and is open to the public, and spending time at the world class San Diego Zoo. For an educational taste of the ocean, visit SeaWorld San Diego, and in the evening for drinks and dinner make your way to the seaside Gaslamp Quarter. San Diego will keep you busy and relaxed for days, and it’s warm.

Where to Stay in San Diego:

If you’re looking for something a bit different with a very cool laid-back vibe, a stay at Moxy San Diego Gaslamp Quarter might just be for you. This fun hotel is close to the heart of downtown, the waterfront, and a wide variety of restaurants.

Check availability and current rates.

The wonders of Joshua Tree National Park

22. Palm Springs and Joshua Tree

Average Winter High December, January, February: 58-63°F

Perhaps best known as California’s chic vintage desert oasis, the bustling city of Palm Springs exudes style. Without a doubt you can shop to your heart’s content in cool vintage boutiques and design stores before noshing on lunch or sipping wine for the rest of the afternoon in El Paseo, the Rodeo Drive of Palm Springs. This is also a top gold destination for those dying to get out on the links.

But the city is also close to some of the most beautiful natural areas in the state, and the ideal winter temps around 70° is perfect for taking it all in. The surrounding Coachella Valley has incredible hiking and biking, or go horseback riding through Indian Canyons.

Better yet, add Joshua Tree National Park to your itinerary! This national park is one of the best warm winter destinations in the US for outdoor lovers looking for the next enticing trail — seriously, the adventure activities and unique desert landscapes of Joshua Tree’s are unlike anything else in the country.

Go crack climbing on the tall cliff wall faces or bouldering on gigantic rocks strewn throughout the Park, hike along trails to a lush oasis, or just grab your camera and have at it — there’s 800,000 acres to explore.

Where to Stay in Palm Springs:

ARRIVE Palm Springs is only one mile from downtown Palm Springs with an onsite bar, ice cream shop, and coffee at Cartel Coffee Lab. Complimentary water refills, a bocce court and fire pits, and free bikes round out the list of onsite amenities. Close to restaurants and shopping.

Check here for availability and rates.

Where is your favorite warm winter place in the US to visit in December?

Destinations, USALori SorrentinoAugust 5, 2022Florida, Arizona, California, Puerto Rico, St. John, Caribbean, Louisiana, Texas, Nevada, Hawaii, South Florida, Central Florida, seasonal, United States