After a long winter, many Americans are ready to take a break from snow and frost with a trip to sunnier climes. Hawaiʻi and the Caribbean are the classic choices for warm-weather destinations. They're relatively close, and their white-sand beaches and blue waters are among the best in the world, so it's no surprise that they're among AAA's most-booked destinations for trips from December through February.
Others travel farther afield to take advantage of the Earth's tilt: Winter in the Northern Hemisphere means Southern Hemisphere destinations like Argentina are enjoying summer. Even more paradisiacal are the Galapagos Islands, which sit on the equator and thus don't experience traditional seasons. Below, we explore some of the conventional (and not-so-traditional) warm-weather destinations for you to consider on your next wintertime vacation.
North America and the Caribbean
There’s nothing wrong with staying close to home for a warm weather getaway — these are some of our favorite destinations to keep warm when it’s cold outside.
1. Orlando, Florida
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: Typically in the 70s°F.
Lows: Usually in the 50s°F
Must-do activities:
- Walt Disney World Resort
- Gatorand
- Orlando Science Center
It's no surprise that the home of Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios Florida and a slew of other attractions makes our list. Anything visitors can imagine doing is here, from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Cirque du Soleil, to a dizzying array of shopping and dining options.
You’ll need your Orlando travel guide to ensure you don’t miss a single attraction or experience. It’s no wonder so many choose Orlando as their winter destination — while the lows can get a bit chilly, the daytime highs in the 70s Fahrenheit make for a comfortable temperature to spend all day walking in.
2. Palm Springs, California
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 70-80°F
Lows: 40-50°F
Must-do activities:
- Palm Springs Art Museum
- Palm Canyon Drive
- Indian Canyon Hot Springs
Taking off to Palm Springs, California, in the winter just makes sense for several reasons. Since peak season is between January and April, you can expect fewer crowds in December when those frigid temps roll in over the north. And with a dip in visitors comes a dip in hotel rates — AAA Members already save, making this a preferred destination for the budget-conscious traveler. Plus, Palm Springs is one of the top LGBTQ+-friendly travel destinations in the U.S., making it inclusive for all.
There’s no shortage of warm weather — the daily highs during the winter months are a warm 70 to 80 degrees, perfect for hiking, golfing or a dip in the hot springs. During the winter, Palm Springs hosts several special events like the Palm Springs International Film Festival and the Palm Springs Modernism Show. During your trip, check out the desert landscape, home to vibrant wildflowers in bloom during the winter months.
3. O’ahu, Hawaii
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 75-85°F
Lows: 65-75°F
Must-do activities:
- Waikiki Beach
- Diamond Head State Monument
- Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Hawaiʻi's most populous island has its fair share of the beauty the state is known for, with Honolulu adding big city amenities. Whether you're learning to surf off Waikiki Beach, touring ʻIolani Palace, digging into kalua pork at an authentic luau or seeing history firsthand at Pearl Harbor, Oʻahu is always worth the trip. While visiting, make sure you carve out time to visit some of the best waterfalls in O’ahu, which will surely take your breath away.
During the winter months, the weather in O’ahu is warm and sunny, making for the perfect tropical escape. While you might see an occasional rain shower, they shouldn’t last too long, making your winter getaway an overall pleasant experience.
4. Maui, Hawaii
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 75-85°F
Lows: 65-75°F
Must-do activities:
- Kaanapali Beach
- Haleakala National Park
- Whale Watching
Maui has a little of everything, making it one of the top places to stay in Hawaii. Ready to hit the beach? Kaʻanapali is one of the best. Looking for rainforests and waterfalls? Drive the scenic Hana Highway. Or maybe a volcano is more your style? Watch the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala. Visitors can take a break from hiking and driving to tour a pineapple plantation. See how the fruit is planted, harvested and processed, then taste different varieties right from the field.
Don’t let the idea of traveling to this beautiful wonderland in the winter frighten you. With average temperatures in the high 70s and warm, sunny weather in abundance, you’ll never want to leave paradise.
5. Los Cabos, Mexico
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 75-85°F
Lows: 60-70°F
Must-do activities:
- Whale watching at Cabo San Lucas Marina
- San José del Cabo Historic Center
- Cabo San Lucas Arch
Located at the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, the once-remote area of Los Cabos has transformed itself into an international resort destination. Many visitors come for the stunning beaches and what is known as the Corridor, a 33-kilometer stretch of spectacular coastline that runs between the twin towns of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.
Winter is the heart of whale watching season off Baja California as humpback and gray whales migrate south from their summer feeding grounds to breed in the winter. Want to see newborn baby humpback whales? January and February are your best bets. And you don’t need to worry about cold weather in Los Cabos during the winter — the weather is a beautiful 75 to 85 degrees.
6. Aruba
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 80-85°F
Lows: 70-75°F
Must-do activities:
- Eagle Beach
- Natural Pool
- Aruba Aloe Vera Plantation
Aruba is the smallest of the “ABC” (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao) islands. Just 15 miles north of Venezuela, its exceptionally dry climate is considered one of the most desirable in the Caribbean. Aruba's arid interior, marked by surreal, wind-bent divi-divi trees, sprawling stands of cactus and aloe vera and huge boulders strewn like marbles, contrasts sharply with the more tropical, palm-lined southwest coast.
The dry weather is perfect for growing aloe vera, which is celebrated for its healing properties. Visit the Aruba Aloe Museum to learn the history of humankind's relationship with the plant. Then, take a complimentary factory tour to see how aloe goes from plant to product. Whether staying at one of Aruba’s best all-inclusive resorts or finding different accommodations, you’ll be sure to enjoy the warm, if not hot, winter weather.
7. The Bahamas
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 75-85°F
Lows: 65-75°F
Must-do activities:
- Cable Beach
- Exuma Islands
- Nassau
You can’t think of a warm winter vacation without thinking about the Bahamas. There are plenty of resorts in the Bahamas for all types of visitors — couples, families and friends alike. Regardless of where you stay, whether on resort property or another accommodation, there are some things you don’t want to miss while enjoying the beautifully warm weather.
For a truly unique vacation experience, visit the Exuma Islands. It’s made up of over 360 different islands and cays where you can experience some once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Swim with visitor-friendly pigs at Pig Beach, or head over to Compass Cay to hang out with human-friendly iguanas during your stay in one of the most relaxing vacation spots.
8. Montego Bay, Jamaica
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 80-85°F
Lows: 65-75°F
Must-do activities:
- Doctor's Cave Beach
- Dunn's River Falls and Park
- Montego Bay Craft Market
With so many things to do in Montego Bay, Jamaica, you’ll never be bored. With average winter temperatures in the 80s, you’ll have plenty of perfect weather for sightseeing, cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Make sure you check out local Jamaican cuisine and climb the famous waterfall at Dunn's River Falls and Park.
It’s important to note that November and early December are the quieter months to travel to Montego Bay. You’ll get a more tranquil and often more affordable trip than during peak season. Regardless of what month you plan on visiting, it’s best to plan your trip (including hotel and car reservations) at least three months in advance.
9. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 80-85°F
Lows: 65-75°F
Must-do activities:
- Playa Arena Gorda
- Imagine Punta Cana
- Scape Park at Cap Cana
This beach region is home to dozens of high-end resorts that draw millions of tourists each year, all looking for sun, surf, fishing, high-speed boating and many other ocean-themed activities. For landlubbers, there's also an array of golf courses and sightseeing tours. Wherever you spend your time, there’s lots to do in Punta Cana that you can write home about.
Central and South America
Traveling to Central and South America for its warm vacation spots is great for several reasons, partly because its travel options are often more affordable than other popular destinations.
10. Ambergris Caye, Belize
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 80-85°F
Lows: 70-75°F
Must-do activities:
- Placencia Peninsula
- Belize Barrier Reef
- Bacab Jungle Reserve
If sunny days and mild, pleasant temperatures are what you seek in the winter, there’s no better place than Ambergris Caye, Belize. This destination provides you with a fantastic birdwatching opportunity — you can see toucans, parrots and hummingbirds virtually everywhere on the island.
There’s also plenty of opportunity to get out and explore the waters of this island, perfect for an epic adventure vacation. You can take a canoe or kayak to explore the Belize Barrier Reef or snorkel and dive at one of the beautiful and picturesque beaches Ambergris Caye offers. While you might see some spotty rain showers during the winter, most days are exactly what you want when your friends and family back home have to deal with lower temperatures.
11. Costa Rica
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 80-85°F
Lows: 65-75°F
Must-do activities:
- Manuel Antonio National Park
- Corcovado National Park
- Los Sueños Marriott Ocean Resort
If you’re escaping to warm weather destinations and love to be in the water (or just in proximity), you’re in luck — there are seven must-see beaches in Costa Rica to spend your days relaxing in the sun. The winter weather will be perfect for it — with temperatures in the 80s, it can be easy to spend the whole day basking in the sun (just don’t forget your sunscreen).
If lounging on a beach isn’t your idea of a fun time, don’t worry. There are plenty of adventurous activities in Costa Rica, such as white water rafting on the Pacuare River or hiking the trails of Arenal Volcano National Park.
12. Galapagos Island, Ecuador
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 80-85°F
Lows: 65-75°F
Must-do activities:
- Isla Isabela
- Isla Santa Cruz
- Isla San Cristóbal
About 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos are 18 islands world-renowned for their unique, pristine ecosystems, making them some of the best islands to visit globally. Many species of animals can only be found on the islands, such as the Galapagos finches, marine iguanas, flightless cormorants and the famous Galapagos giant tortoise.
The islands' volcanic geology is no less impressive than its wildlife, as exemplified by the lava tubes near the village of Santa Rosa on the island of Santa Cruz. They extend for miles underground and have electric lighting, making them easy to explore independently or with a hired guide.
13. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 65-75°F
Lows: 45-55°F
Must-do activities:
- Plaza de Mayo
- La Boca
- Teatro Colón
A trip to Argentina will almost certainly begin in the capital of Buenos Aires. It's a walkable city with a hint of a European feel but a distinctly Latin American flavor. Highlights include the restaurant scene (steakhouses are particularly well-represented), the museums and the distinct architecture of each neighborhood. Branch out from the city to see the world's largest series of waterfalls at Iguazu National Park, the vast plains and vibrant coastline of the Pampas region, the dramatic glacial landscapes of Patagonia and the colonial history of Cordoba.
Buenos Aires has milder winter temperatures than other warm-weather destinations mentioned. However, you can still expect to enjoy temperatures in the high 60s and 70s, making for quite a pleasant time.
14. Peru
Average winter temperatures:
Coastal regions: Highs in the 70s-80s°F, lows in the 60s°F
Highlands: Highs in the 50s-60s°F, lows in the 30s-40s°F
Must-do activities:
- Paracas National Reserve
- Mancora
- Machu Picchu
The Inca ruins of Machu Picchu are Peru's most famous attraction, but there's much more to see in South America's third-largest country. The nearby city of Cuzco, once the center of the Inca Empire, is still overflowing with history and culture. The capital of Peru, Lima, has stellar examples of Spanish Colonial architecture and great museums. While the Amazon River is commonly associated with neighboring Brazil, the river starts in Peru and is one of the best places to see Amazon wildlife.
This monumental fortress and community provides a vivid illustration of Inca urban planning. Laid out in a simple grid with cobblestone streets, perfectly constructed stone walls, and canals, many of the buildings and residences date back 600 years or more. While going through Peru, be aware that Peru has vastly different winter weather temperatures. Coastal regions are warmer than temps in the highlands, so make sure you bring appropriate attire.
Asia and the Middle East
Asia and the Middle East are warm places to visit in January, with temperatures averaging between 75 and 85 degrees all winter. Ditch the snow and plan your winter vacation in a place that is perhaps underrated for warm-weather vacations.
15. Bangkok, Thailand
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 80-85°F
Lows: 65-70°F
Must-do activities:
- Wat Pho
- Wat Phra Kaew
- Chatuchak Weekend Market
Perhaps one of the best reasons to explore Bangkok in the winter is the unique experiences you’ll have. You can see ancient temples and a vibrant city life, plus witness events like the Loy Krathong Festival and the Chinese New Year celebrations. A big perk of traveling to this destination is the weather — you’ll find nice warm, dry weather when most of the U.S. is experiencing a deep freeze.
While staying in Bangkok, prioritize culture and history. Visit Wat Pho, one of the city's most famous temples, or Wat Phra Kaew, home to the Emerald Buddha. If you prefer shopping and market-exploring, try visiting the Chatuchak Weekend Market for various goods or Siam Paragon, a high-end shopping mall.
16. Bali, Indonesia
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 80-85°F
Lows: 70-75°F
Must-do activities:
- Kuta Beach
- Ubud
- Tirta Empul Temple
Bali has plenty to offer for one of the best warm places to travel in the winter. Stunning beauty awaits you as Bali is home to volcanic mountains, picture-perfect beaches and wondrous rice terraces. Enjoy the outdoors with adventurous activities like whitewater rafting, hiking and surfing. Or take it slow by enjoying some of Bali’s cultural experiences, like the sacred Hindu Tirta Empul Temple.
On top of the breathtaking views and important cultural icons, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful winter weather. With highs in the 80s and lows only reaching the 70s, vacationing in Bali will be your only slice of paradise.
17. The Philippines
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 80-85°F
Lows: 70-75°F
Must-do activities:
- Palawan
- Bohol
- Baguio
Part of going to warm weather destinations when your own weather is dreary is seeing the beautiful landscapes. Luckily, there’s no shortage of that in the Philippines. With mountains, rainforests and beaches, the Philippines has everything for you to take in. And, of course, there’s no shortage of sun during the winter months; with temperatures in the 80s, you’ll be sure to get your daily dose of Vitamin D.
Besides trying authentic Filipino cuisine like adobo, you can have the adventure of a lifetime. Check out the nightlife at Boracay, visit the Chocolate Hills of Bohol and hike the trails of Mount Apo National Park to really get out and see the sights. Just don’t forget to unwind and relax, perhaps at Cebu, which has exquisite beaches.
18. Dubai, UAE
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 75-85°F
Lows: 55-65°F
Must-do activities:
- Burj Khalifa
- Palm Jumeirah
- Dubai Mall
If relaxing on a beach doesn’t sound like your dream vacation, consider visiting the always-bustling city of Dubai in the UAE. Hands down, it is one of the best cities in the world to visit for luxury. You’ll be met with beautiful architecture, breathtaking views and endless options for adventure, not to mention near-perfect warm winter weather.
Visit the Dubai Mall, but you may spend an entire day exploring the over 1,200 shops that it offers. Or, explore the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and take in views of the city below from its observation deck. Regardless of what activities you end up doing, exploring Dubai will surely be one of the most fascinating vacations you’ll take.
19. The Maldives
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 80-85°F
Lows: 75-80°F
Must-do activities:
- Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru
- Soneva Fushi
- Ari Atoll
If you wish to find paradise for your warm weekend getaways, look no further than the Maldives. Quite literally a flawless and serene atmosphere, this destination is all about rest, relaxation and topical heaven. Visit The Maldives for a picture-perfect babymoon or a simple, tranquil getaway with your favorite person.
Resorts are the big to-do in The Maldives, with plenty to choose from. Soneva Fushi is an eco-friendly resort with treehouse villas and a special underwater restaurant. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is known for its world-class amenities (and floating villas). At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, you can visit a marine conservation center while enjoying your stay.
Oceania and the Pacific
Want some warm vacation spots in December that’ll make you never want to leave? Check out these popular spots in Oceania and the Pacific.
20. Fiji
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: 80-85°F
Lows: 70-75°F
Must-do activities:
- Mamanuca Islands
- Cloudbreak
- Natadola Beach
Fiji offers its visitors crystal clear waters, luxurious private island experiences and adventures galore. Diving and snorkeling are some of the most preferred activities, as you can explore the many coral reefs making up this exquisite island. Visitors can also hike through Fiji’s rainforest land, which overlooks waterfalls along the way. And for surfers, you cannot go to Fiji without visiting Cloudbreak, the famous surf break (but only for surfers who have experience).
To get away from the hustle and bustle of the day, head to Yasawa Islands, which are more secluded than some other offerings. Bring a blanket, relax on the beach or visit Taveuni Island to view the beautiful rainforests.
21. New Zealand
Average winter temperatures:
North Island: Highs in the 60s-70s°F, lows in the 40s-50s°F
South Island: Highs in the 50s-60s°F, lows in the 30s-40s°F
Must-do activities:
- Abel Tasman National Park
- Wanaka
- Hanmer Springs.
Taking a New Zealand adventure in the winter slightly differs from the other destinations we’ve previously covered. You won’t find tropical weather here — instead, you’ll find comfortable and mild temperatures in the North Island and slightly colder temperatures in the South Island. However, this does give you complete control over how you will spend your time since there is always so much to do.
New Zealand has several ski resorts, including those in Queenstown. But if you’re looking to avoid the cold, stay on the North Island. You can spend countless hours relaxing at the hot springs of Hanmer Springs. For wine enthusiasts, make sure you stop by Hawke's Bay or Marlborough for a delightful wine tasting.
22. Sydney, Australia
Average winter temperatures:
Highs: Typically in the 70s°F
Lows: Usually in the 50s°F
Must-do activities:
- Sydney Opera House
- Sydney Harbour Bridge
- Royal Botanic Garden
Take a trip down under to Sydney, Australia, for one (or many!) warm-weather vacations. With so much to see and do, you’ll book your next trip as soon as you leave. There are plenty of things to do in Sydney — Start with the famous Sydney Opera House, where you can admire the stunning architecture and fantastic shows. If you’re not afraid of heights, explore the Sydney Harbour Bridge, where you can climb to the top of the bridge and view the city from above for a breathtaking view.
While the weather won’t be especially warm, you’ll be happy to enjoy the very comfortable 70 degrees that Sydney has to offer in the winter. Just be sure to bring some warm clothes to sleep in, as the nighttime temperatures can still get pretty chilly.
Make Your Dream Vacation a Reality
It's not too late to make your warm weather destinations a reality. Whether you’ve been dreaming of exploring Maya ruins, hiking the Andes or just relaxing on a sun-kissed beach, AAA Travel is your go-to resource for planning.