Warm Places to Travel in February: Escaping the US Winter Chill

Travelers faced with a long, cold winter often have two main reactions: either embrace the snowy landscapes or seek refuge in warmth. If you’ve had enough of icy sidewalks and chilly temperatures, choosing the latter is a perfectly understandable decision. For those in the US, escaping the cold doesn’t even require leaving the country. The United States offers a variety of destinations where you can trade your winter coat for a t-shirt, making February an ideal time for a warm getaway. Finding Warm Places To Travel In February Us is simpler than you might think, with options ranging from sunny beaches to vibrant cities and unique natural landscapes.

Whether you’re dreaming of a relaxed beach escape, an adventurous wildlife encounter, or a dose of big-city culture under a warm sky, the US and its territories have destinations perfect for finding fun in the sun during the late winter months. Planning your trip to warm places to travel in the us in february means looking towards the southern states, tropical islands, or desert regions where winter is merely a milder season. Considering the [best places to travel in us in january], February presents similar, often slightly warmer, opportunities before the spring crowds arrive.

Santa Barbara, California

Located less than a two-hour drive northwest of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is an exquisite getaway destination ideal for scenic beach strolls and invigorating canyon hikes. While it’s known for celebrity residents, the primary draw is its sophisticated yet relaxed beach-town atmosphere. Explore the State Street Promenade for unique shops, artisanal food and wine stores, and abundant outdoor dining options. Follow the promenade towards West Beach, where you can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for the adventurous, or simply enjoy the views while strolling along Stearns Wharf. February temperatures here are comfortably mild, often reaching the mid-60s Fahrenheit, perfect for outdoor activities without the summer heat.

Phoenix, Arizona

There’s a compelling reason why 15 Major League Baseball teams relocate to Arizona for spring training before the regular season begins: the weather is truly phenomenal. Phoenix, in particular, boasts an average of 299 sunny days per year. While mid-summer temperatures can easily exceed 100°F, the clear-blue-sky days of late winter, averaging in the mid-70s, are perfect for enjoying the outdoors. If baseball isn’t your focus, you can still appreciate why it’s called the “Cactus League” at the Desert Botanical Garden, showcasing desert succulents and spiny plants alongside art installations. Alternatively, hit the trails in Papago Park to explore sandstone formations, or cycle through South Mountain Park, a favorite spot for trail riders.

People paddleboarding on a lake under a clear sky in Phoenix, Arizona – a warm February activity.

The Everglades, Florida

It seems the baseball teams are onto something, as the remaining teams warm up in Florida while half are in Arizona. The Sunshine State offers the warmest temperatures on the US mainland during winter. Everglades National Park stands out as the warmest national park outside of Hawaii. Winter is the dry season in the Everglades, making it a popular time for visitors and prime for wildlife viewing. As the marshes dry, animals gather in smaller areas, and migratory birds arrive seeking warmer climates, much like human visitors. Drive the Southern Everglades Highway south to Flamingo, an excellent location for spotting manatees. [best places to travel in march in us] also include many Florida spots, but February offers a sweet spot before peak spring break crowds.

Young girl in a hammock after a kayaking trip in the Florida Everglades during the warm winter season.

South Padre Island, Texas

Visit South Padre Island before the influx of spring break crowds to enjoy this popular Texas seaside resort town during its quieter period. The 50-acre South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary offers multiple viewing blinds, a tower, and boardwalks through the dunes, making it an ideal location for observing overwintering birds, alligators, and sea turtles. Isla Blanca County Park’s beach is the most frequented due to easy access to shops and restaurants. For more tranquility, explore the dunes at Edwin King Atwood County Park or the extensive sandy stretches of the North End.

Key West, Florida

Situated at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys, Key West boasts a vibrant culture that draws sun-seekers from across the USA. This 7-square-mile island oasis is known for its rich literary history, fresh seafood, and lively bars. Take advantage of the opportunity to set sail during sunset, visit the historic Ernest Hemingway House, and admire the diverse colors at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory. February in Key West is typically sunny and warm, offering a perfect escape from colder climates. If you’re looking at [islands to travel to in march], Key West remains a fantastic option, maintaining its warm climate and lively atmosphere.

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs maintains its unique cool vibe throughout the year, though rarely in terms of thermometer readings. While winter nights in the desert can be dry and cool, the average high temperature during the day never drops below 70°F. Palm Springs’ reputation as a winter oasis is well-established, and though it’s high season in the Coachella Valley, the variety of accommodations, from classic motor court motels to mid-century modern rentals with private pools, means options are available. For those seeking more activity than poolside lounging, the breathtaking Joshua Tree National Park and the quirky Salton Sea (home to attractions like the International Banana Museum) are less than an hour’s drive away.

A person cycling down a palm-lined street in Palm Springs, California, ideal for warm February trips.

St John, US Virgin Islands

Seeking warm weather combined with the feeling of being far from home? St John in the US Virgin Islands might be the perfect fit. Virgin Islands National Park covers two-thirds of the island, preserving miles of shoreline and valuable underwater reef habitats. For families traveling with children, Maho Bay is recommended for its shallow, calm waters, popular with snorkelers and green sea turtles. Visiting St John offers a truly tropical escape within a US territory. Exploring [best time to travel to estonia] presents a different travel experience entirely, highlighting the diverse global destinations available for planning unique trips outside the typical warm weather spots.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Winter in New Orleans isn’t necessarily hot and sunny—January and February average temperatures are in the mid-60s Fahrenheit—but it’s a welcome change from snowbound regions, and the crowds are generally smaller just before the major Mardi Gras festivities commence. But this is New Orleans, so there’s always a party happening, even in winter. Bonfires are lit along the levees on Christmas Eve, a tradition intended to guide Papa Noël, the Cajun Santa Claus. The annual Tet Fest, hosted by the Mary Queen of Vietnam Church to celebrate the Vietnamese New Year (late January or early February), is a significant cultural event featuring a festive fair and delicious food. The mild winter days are also ideal for exploring the city’s backstreets on one of the many bike tours available.

Jazz band performing in Jackson Square, New Orleans, where winter still brings vibrant entertainment.

Kihei, Maui

It’s true that the Hawaiian Islands experience more rain and slightly cooler temperatures during winter. However, in Kihei, “cooler” winter means an average high of around 81°F compared to 87°F in summer, with 276 sunny days annually (so a parka is definitely unnecessary). For visiting Maui in winter, stick to the south and west coasts for the best chance of sunny days. Avoid stronger surf by choosing gentler beaches like Kalepolepo Beach Park for kids or Ulua Beach for excellent snorkeling. Bypass the holiday crowds and look for deals in early winter before the peak spring break season. Then, simply relax and soak up the abundant sun.

Coastal Georgia

Travelers seeking sun in Georgia could happily spend their entire trip in the sensational city of Savannah. However, venturing slightly further east to the coast reveals a world of barrier islands and intricate waterways waiting to be explored. Tybee Island, with its popular beaches, is just a half-hour drive away and marks the beginning of a chain of subtropical islands lining the coast of the Peach State. All these islands feature mild winter weather, each possessing its own distinct character. Sapelo Island is home to a small Geechee village, preserving the history of descendants of enslaved Africans. Nature enthusiasts can book wildlife tours of Sapelo’s estuaries through the Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve Visitors Center. Historic, multicultural Brunswick serves as the entry point to Georgia’s Golden Isles, including the resort-oriented St Simons and Jekyll Island, historically a retreat for prominent American families.

Fallen tree trunk on a beach at dawn on Jekyll Island, Coastal Georgia, a warm US destination in February.

Finding Warm Places To Travel In February Us is a perfect way to break up the winter months and enjoy sunny skies, comfortable temperatures, and unique activities. From the desert heat of Arizona and California to the tropical islands of Florida and the USVI, and the coastal charm of Georgia and Texas, there are numerous destinations offering a warm respite from the cold. Plan your February getaway to recharge and enjoy the sunshine before spring officially arrives.