Looking for the best warm places in the USA to visit in January? You’ve come to the right place!
January is a great time of the year to sneak away in search of sunny weather. If you’re itching to escape the cold weather this January or other winter months, there are plenty of warm weather places in the USA that make for fantastic warm and sunny vacation spots.
If you are planning to visit the USA in January, you’re in for a treat! While the winter season means cooler temperatures, it also brings with it beautiful beaches, exciting activities and attractions.
However, not everywhere in the USA becomes chilly in January! Here is a list of some of the best warm places to visit in January in the USA:
Quick Links:
Best Warm and Sunny Places in USA to Visit in January:
San Diego, California
Miami, Florida
Honolulu, Hawaii
Palm Springs
Houston, Texas
Phoenix, Arizona
Puerto Rico
San Diego, California:
With an average high temperature ranging from 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit (10-21 degrees Celsius) during January, San Diego is an ideal winter getaway spot. Enjoy sunny days at the beach or explore its many attractions, like Balboa Park and Sea World.
Best Things to Do in San Diego:
San Diego is a wonderful, sunny city for both visitors and locals alike to explore. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or want to explore San Diego’s many attractions, there’s really something for everyone in San Diego.
Here are just some of the top things to do when visiting:
Explore Balboa Park
The 1,200 acre beautiful park is the largest urban cultural park in the United States and is home to 17 museums, gardens, and attractions, including the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
Explore La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove is one of the most photographed spots in California, for good reason, with its stunningly beautiful views of turquoise, warm waters and jagged cliffs. You can try to spot sea lions sunbathing on rocks or go on a kayak tour of the seven sea caves.
Relax at La Jolla Shores Beach
This beach is just north of La Jolla Cove and is a perfect place for swimming, surfing, body-boarding, kayaking, or jogging along the lovely beachfront path.
Walk the Coronado Bridge
Stretching across San Diego Bay, the Coronado Bay Bridge offers expansive views of downtown San Diego and is a great way to get an overview of the city.
Take a harbor cruise
One of the best ways to explore San Diego is by boat. There are plenty of cruises that offer sightseeing tours with commentary on this beautiful coastal city and its history.
Catch a game at Petco Park
This stunningly beautiful ballpark, home to the San Diego Padres, offers gorgeous skyline views of downtown San Diego and the ocean.
Go whale watching
The waters off of San Diego are teeming with wildlife, making it one of the best places in California for whale watching. Take a boat tour and spot whales, dolphins, sea lions, and more swimming along the coast.
Tour Old Town
Explore San Diego’s history by visiting its original settlement known as Old Town. Here you can find quaint shops and restaurants inspired by Mexican architecture along with museums that tell the story of early settlers in California’s first port city.
Best Places to Stay in San Diego:
Casa Paradiso – Private Luxury Resort Home in the heart of the city with pool, spa, and outdoor lounge:
Stay somewhere absolutely extraordinary during your visit to San Diego! Casa Paradiso is a one-of-a-kind luxury home located in the heart of San Diego in beautiful Mission Hills. This is such a unique property, perfect for your visit to San Diego.
Crystal Pier: Entire Condo, Beachfront Paradise:
Located near Crystal Pier in the heart of Pacific Beach, this gorgeous San Diego condo has everything you need for a perfect vacation getaway!
This condo is beautifully decorated, offering two bedrooms with brand new carpet, a covered patio, and lovely kitchen. It is just steps away from the world-famous Pacific Beach boardwalk, perfect pristine sandy beaches, and plenty of nightlife. For beach lovers, the condo has you covered, with plenty of beach towels, beach chairs, an umbrella, a cooler, boogie boards and more!
Miami, Florida:
With nearly year-round sunshine and temperatures averaging around 75°F (24°C) in January, Miami is perfect for those looking to escape the winter weather.
Visiting Miami in January is a great choice for any traveler looking to soak up the sun and sand, all while experiencing some of the city’s best attractions. From water activities like snorkeling and surfing to nightlife hotspots and art galleries, there’s plenty to do during your stay in Miami.
Best Things to do in Miami:
Here are just a few activities you can take part in when visiting this vibrant city in January:
Spend an afternoon at South Beach
One of the most popular beaches in Florida, Miami’s South Beach offers plenty of sunshine, white sand beachemptes, and crystal clear, calm waters. Perfect for swimming or soaking up some rays, there’s also plenty of shopping and dining options nearby.
Explore the Wynwood Walls
An outdoor museum, the Wynwood Walls are home to some of the best street art in Miami. With colorful murals and graffiti scattered across the walls, this is an interesting place to explore and take photos.
Catch a game at Marlins Park
Home to Major League Baseball’s Miami Marlins, Marlins Park is where you can catch a game during your stay in January. It’s also packed with lots of exciting activities like batting cages and mini golf.
Hang Out on the Water at Biscayne Bay
Whether it be a luxury yacht or sailboat tour, sailing around Biscayne Bay is one of the most enjoyable experiences in Miami. The bay offers some spectacular views and you can even spot some wildlife like manatees.
Explore the Bass Museum of Art
Located in Miami Beach, the Bass Museum of Art is a great place to explore and admire art from around the world. It also hosts special exhibits and events throughout the year, making it one of the best cultural attractions in Miami.
Best Places to Stay in Miami:
Gated Coconut Grove home with Private Pool – 3 Bedroom 2 Bathroom
This private oasis is a cozy and safe haven for your family during a visit to Miami! This charming 3 bedroom 2 bathroom home has a gorgeous private pool and is located in a safe neighborhood. This Spanish-influenced home is a beautiful bungalow style covered in greenery, located just a few blocks off Coral Way, a perfect location! Enjoy your two BBQ grills as you spend a sunny day by your private swimming pool.
Condo with Stunning Ocean Views and High Ceilings
This beautiful large 1,400 sq ft condo has stunning high ceilings and overlooks the bay, offering gorgeous views and design! You’ll enjoy its fully-equipped kitchen with Italian cabinets, marble countertops, and premium appliances. Newly remodeled in July 2017, this gorgeous condo is ready for you!
Honolulu, Hawaii:
Visiting Honolulu in January is the perfect way to start the new year, a place where you can sneak away and enjoy warm temperatures that range from 69-81°F (about 21-27°C). With its balmy climate, gorgeous sandy beaches, diverse culture and exciting attractions for the whole family, it’s the ideal getaway when January back home turns into a winter wonderland!
Whether you’re seeking out rest and relaxation or itching to explore all that Hawaiian islands have to offer, you’ll find so much about Honolulu that you love.
Hawaii’s warm weather makes January the perfect time to spend your days lounging on the beach and soaking up the hot sun. Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular spots in Hawaii for locals and tourists alike. There are plenty of activities for everyone, like swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. Other popular beaches are Ala Moana Beach Park and Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Here visitors can learn about Hawaiian marine life while soaking in truly stunning views.
Best Things to Do in Honolulu:
Hang Out at Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach, one of the world’s most famous beaches, offers a stunning beachfront experience with plenty of activities like snorkeling, surfing, swimming, and tons of restaurants and shopping to choose from! Visiting Waikiki Beach during a trip to Honolulu is a must.
Explore Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor is the site of a devastating attack during World War II. You can visit the USS Arizona Memorial and get an up-close look at this site full of history.
Tour the USS Missouri
This active battleship is open for public tours and provides a great look at one of history’s most famous ships.
Visit Diamond Head Volcano
Hike to the top of Diamond Head for stunning views of Honolulu and the surrounding area.
Enjoy Local Hawaian Cuisine
There are plenty of delicious dining options and yummy cuisine options in Honolulu! Be sure to try some local favorites.
If Honolulu in January is up your alley, here are some beautiful resorts I recommend staying at that you’ll love:
Best Places to Stay in Honolulu:
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort is a stunning resort paradise located along the soft, sandy shores of world-famous Waikiki Beach. This beachfront oasis emulates the spirit and history of traditional Hawaii while offering its guests excellent modern amenities, luxurious accommodations, premium services, and unrivaled hospitality. It would be tough to think of a better getaway destination for the chilly month of January!
Guests of the hotel can explore its many offerings, including 2 award-winning, delicious restaurants serving up crave-worthy Pacific Rim cuisine, 5 Instagram-worthy pool areas with cabanas, a luxe oceanfront spa offering traditional Polynesian therapies and treatments, and more than 20 retail outlets, so you can do your shopping without even leaving!
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort is the perfect place to stay in Honolulu for the best warm winter vacations. Located on the legendary sands of Waikiki Beach, this marvelous hotel has been providing its guests with exquisite service since the 1920s.
This resort is truly in a class of its own, featuring gorgeous panoramic views of Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean from its prime beachfront location.
At The Royal Hawaiian, you’ll enjoy luxurious amenities such as soothing spa treatments and fine dining that will please even the pickiest traveler. Each accommodation type at this resort offers the comforts and conveniences of home. Come soak up the sun from this legendary resort!
Palm Springs, California:
If you’re looking for some warm winter sun, then you must consider Palm Springs, as it is the perfect spot to escape the cold! January is a perfect time of year to visit Palm Springs, too, with its mild temperatures and abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Here are some of the top things to do in Palm Springs in January:
Best Things to Do in Palm Springs:
Go on a home architecture tour
There are so many amazing styles of homes in Palm Springs! Go for a drive until you find streets full of architectural styles that interest you, then park, get out and walk the streets to take it all in.
Play a game of two of golf
With its spectacular mountain views, pristine green courses, and sunny weather, Palm Springs is a definite golfer’s paradise. Tee off on the many championship courses along the valley and enjoy escaping the cold weather!
Explore Palm Springs’ nature
Take advantage of the warmer temperatures and explore some of the area’s natural beautiful spots. The incredible Joshua Tree National Park is located just a short drive away and offers its visitors miles of trails that are great for hiking and biking! Or stay closer to town and check out the Coachella Valley Preserve or Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument.
Relax in hot springs
Soak up the warmth at one of Palm Springs’ many nearby hot springs, such asTahquitz Canyon, which has several pools that range from 90-110 degrees Fahrenheit. Or, Joshua Tree Hot Spring has an Olympic-sized pool perfect for swimming laps!
Go on a shopping spree
Shop ‘til you drop at Palm Springs’ many stores and boutiques. There are also many designer outlet malls, such as Cabazon Outlets and Desert Hills Premium Outlets. For more unique items, check out the vintage stores of Palm Canyon Drive.
Catch some good live music
Palm Springs has many bars and clubs, or you can choose to head to one of the venues that host regular concerts, such as The Show or The Palm Springs Convention Center.
Is Palm Springs perfect for your January getaway? Here are some of the BEST places to stay in Palm Springs:
The Best Places to Stay in Palm Springs:
La Quinta Resort & Club, Curio Collection by Hilton
Located in the heart of La Quinta, California, the aptly-named La Quinta Resort & Club, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton is a world-renowned, stunning desert oasis. This luxurious resort has something for everyone, and guests can take advantage of a whopping five restaurants, seven swimming pools, and a relaxing spa. Whether you’re on the hunt for a place to sunbathe or be spoiled head to foot, La Quinta Resort & Club is the perfect choice for your January trip to Palm Springs!
The Saguaro Palm Springs
What a dream! The colorful Saguaro Palm Springs is a modern, fun hotel located in the heart of downtown Palm Springs. It’s known for its playful and vibrant art-deco design and beautifully-landscaped grounds full of tall palm trees and other greenery. This adorable hotel offers spacious rooms decorated with bright décor and features all of the amenities one could need while in Palm Springs escaping the cold! It’s the perfect warm winter getaway when you’re craving a reprieve from the cold winter in North America.
You’ll enjoy lovely views from your private balcony. Be sure to take advantage of the three gorgeous outdoor swimming pools and Jacuzzi, and then relax at the poolside bar! You’ll love your stay at this fun and playful Palm Springs hotel.
Houston, Texas:
With daytime temperatures reaching up to 80°F (27°C) in January, Houston is a great destination for those seeking warmth without having to travel too far! With mild temperatures and loads of sunshine, visitors to Houston can enjoy all that this thriving city has to offer.
From taking in the sites at NASA Space Center Houston to exploring the Museum District, there’s something in Houston for every type of traveler. For outdoor enthusiasts, Houston offers a variety of pretty parks and trails, such as Memorial Park and the Buffalo Bayou trail, providing scenic views of the city.
With one of the largest rodeos in the world – The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo – January is an ideal time to experience what makes Texas so fun and unique!
Best Things to Do in Houston, Texas:
The city also provides a wide selection of accommodation, cuisine, and entertainment options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly Airbnb. There’s something in Houston to suit every traveler’s needs. Dining options in Houston range from upscale eateries to casual pubs, and the Houston nightlife is always bustling with live music! With so much to offer, it’s no surprise that this city is an excellent January getaway destination!
Visit Space Center Houston
This is the home of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, and a space-themed attraction that offers interactive exhibits and educational programs. Here, visitors can explore human spaceflight, see actual spacecraft from past missions, see and touch a moon rock, view a simulated shuttle launch, and experience a full-scale replica of the International Space Station.
Be Amazed by the Downtown Aquarium
The massive aquarium in Downtown Houston is home to over 200 species of aquatic life where you can see sharks, sea turtles, alligators and more. You can take a virtual ride through the underwater tunnel or watch one of the daily live shows that often feature dolphins, sea lions and more.
Shop at The Galleria
Featuring over 400 stores and restaurants, this luxury mall in uptown Houston is truly a shopper’s paradise! Head here and browse designer fashion brands like Tiffany & Co., Prada, and Louis Vuitton. You could also indulge in some retail therapy at popular department stores such as Macy’s and Neiman Marcus.
Enjoy Nature at Buffalo Bayou Park
This scenic Houston park offers plenty of outdoor activities for everyone. Go for a leisurely wander along the walking trails, view the wetlands on a kayak or rent a bike and cruise the lovely paths.
Take in a Performance at The Hobby Center
This arts center in downtown Houston is known for its signature performances that include everything from Broadway productions to classical music concerts. After your show, head out to one of the several art galleries and restaurants nearby for a fun date night out in Houston!
Does Houston’s warm weather and captivating attractions call to you? Here are some of the best places you can stay on your trip to Houston:
Best Places to Stay in Houston:
The Omni Houston Hotel is an iconic resort located in Houston, Texas. Located in the heart of Uptown Houston, it offers easy access to local attractions like the Galleria Mall and The Health Museum. With its luxurious amenities and attentive service, it’s no wonder that this hotel has become a favorite among tourists and business travelers alike. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a place to host an important meeting, the Omni Houston Hotel is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
This full-service hotel features over 500 rooms and suites, each designed with modern furnishings and luxurious bedding. You can also enjoy a meal at one of their three dining options or stop by the bar for some drinks before heading out on
Phoenix, Arizona:
Phoenix is one of the warmest cities in the USA during winter, with temperatures reaching up to 86°F (30°C).
January in Phoenix is the best time for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing. The desert landscape offers up stunning views of cacti and other desert plants, providing an excellent backdrop for all of these activities, for photography, or for just taking a leisurely stroll. But be sure to bring plenty of water when venturing out into the heat!
Also, January in Phoenix is also a perfect time to visit some of the city’s many attractions, such as Camelback Mountain or the Grand Canyon. Here are some of the things to do I highly recommend in Phoenix and area:
Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona:
Hiking Adventures
Calling all ature lovers! Enjoy the outdoors while hiking through one or more of Arizona’s amazing trails such as Camelback Mountain or South Mountain.
Tour Taliesin West
Take a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and explore his masterpieces in architecture.
Explore the Desert Botanical Garden
Admire the gorgeous and plentiful cacti and wildflowers that call the Sonoran Desert home.
Get Some Retail Therapy
Explore one of the many malls around town such as Biltmore Fashion Park, Kierland Commons or Scottsdale Quarter to get some retail therapy and find unique gifts for family and friends.
Check Out the Local Art Scene
Take in the vibrant art scene of downtown Phoenix and explore galleries such as First Friday, Roosevelt Row or Grand Avenue Arts District.
Visit a Museum
There are many museums to choose from like the Phoenix Art Museum, Arizona Science Center or Heard Museum.
Attend a Sporting Event
Watch baseball at Chase Field with the Arizona Diamondbacks or catch an NBA game at Talking Stick Resort Arena with the Phoenix Suns.
Best Places to Stay in Phoenix, Arizona:
Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton
Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, a Curio Collection by Hilton is an exquisite desert resort oasis located near the base of Black Mountain in aptly-named Carefree, Arizona. Offering up luxurious accommodations and amenities, this breathtaking resort provides every comfort of home, and more. You’ll enjoy world-class golf courses, sparkling pristine pools with cabanas and fun waterslides, a full-service spa complete with hot tub and rooftop yoga classes, 7 excellent restaurants, and lounge options serving delicious cuisine from around the globe. There is also an array of activities available for all ages, including tennis courts, an onsite petting zoo and guided nature walks. Whether you’re looking to relax or get out on an adventure, Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale has it all!
Experience the natural beauty of Arizona’s rugged Sonoran Desert and take in breathtaking views while you stay at this resort. From outdoor adventures to their award-winning spa services, they strive to make every guest experience unforgettable. Book your stay today and start planning your perfect January getaway to Phoenix!
The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale
Puerto Rico
January is also a great time to visit Puerto Rico, as the Caribbean island enjoys pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Average highs reach around 80°F (27°C), while lows remain close to 70°F (21°C), which is the perfect temperature for many travelers!
It’s typically dry in Puerto Rico during this time of year with just 0.8 inches (2 cm) on average falling throughout the month, so you should have plenty of opportunities to explore the best that Puerto Rico has to offer!
Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico:
Explore Vieques Island
This small island off the coast of Puerto Rico is great for exploring its beaches and bays. You can take part in various outdoor activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, horseback riding and more or simply just relax on one of its many beautiful shores.
Visit El Yunque National Forest
Located on Puerto Rico’s northeast coast, El Yunque National Forest boasts nearly 28,000 acres of lush rainforest perfect for hikes and exploration. There are several waterfalls located within the park that have made it a popular tourist attraction. The sub-tropical climate makes this the perfect spot for a hiking adventure during the first month of the year.
Relax at La Parguera
Located on the western tip of Puerto Rico, La Parguera is a great spot to relax and enjoy some tranquility. Its mangrove-filled bays are perfect for kayaking or simply just admiring the scenery. There are also many stunning beaches nearby that make it easy to spend a day out in the sun before going back to your holiday accommodation in town.
Go whale watching
January is a great time for whale watching in Puerto Rico as humpback whales migrate through its waters during this month. Tour operators offer trips from various coastal towns such as Rincon, Aguadilla and San Juan so you can get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.
Take a city tour
Puerto Rico’s capital city of San Juan is one of the most vibrant cities in the Caribbean. There are plenty of things to do here, from historic sites and museums to shopping and dining opportunities. Taking a guided tour through the city will help you make the most out of your trip.
Best Places to Stay in Puerto Rico:
Fairmont El San Juan Villa Experience
At Fairmont El San Juan, every guest can experience true luxury in one of their villas. From the moment you enter your villa, you will be enveloped in opulence and comfort. With spacious accommodations, exquisite décor, and unparalleled amenities like private balconies and outdoor Jacuzzi tubs, each villa is designed to provide a truly special getaway. Relax in the peace and quiet of your own secluded oasis or take advantage of the hotel’s many on-site activities such as swimming pools, spa services, a fitness center, restaurants serving international cuisine, shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs, and much more.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat or an adventure filled with fun for the whole family, as Fairmont El San Juan offers something for everyone! Make your stay even more luxurious with VIP treatments, complimentary treats and amenities, and special access to the best of Puerto Rico’s attractions.
Experience true luxury at Fairmont El San Juan and make lasting memories with every visit!
Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico
Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico is a luxurious resort located in the enchanting Caribbean paradise of Puerto Rico. This stunning retreat offers majestic views of the mountains, beachfront access and modern amenities for a truly remarkable experience. Whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure, Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve Puerto Rico will not disappoint. Enjoy an array of activities onsite including golf, tennis and cycling. Spend the day lounging in the infinity pool or exploring the nearby lagoons and beaches. Relax in one of their stylish guest rooms, each offering an elegant and contemporary design with plush bedding and modern amenities. Take a break from your busy life to enjoy some quality time this gorgeous resort!
Conclusion About the Best Places to Travel to for Warm Weather in the USA in January
For a perfect winter vacation, USA has plenty of gorgeous beaches and exciting sightseeing spots that make for ideal destinations to vacation to in January.
Whether you’re looking for sunny days spent lounging at the beach or an urban adventure, there is something for everyone during a trip to these USA warm destinations in January. With so many options available, it’s easy to find a great time at any of these hot spots! So pack your bags and enjoy some gorgeous sunshine this January! You’ll be glad you did!
Or would you rather travel during these months? I have blog posts for those, too!
The Best Warm Places to Visit in the USA in February
The BEST Warm Places to Visit in October in USA
Purchase Travel Insurance
Purchasing emergency medical travel insurance is absolutely integral. I use SafetyWing Travel Insurance, as it’s affordable, easy to use, and comprehensive. I highly recommend it!
Get a Quote for SafetyWing Travel Insurance here:
Explore SafetyWing Insurance Here
Ever Thought About Moving to Mexico, where it’s always warm?
Great news – it’s a wonderful place to live! Learn about safety of expat life in Mexico on my blog post, The Safest Places to Live in Mexico.
Become a Digital Freelancer and Work from Anywhere!
If you’re interested in starting a brand new job as a digital freelancer so you can travel the world and live in beautiful place, check out this blog post:
Best Work From Home Jobs Using Just Your Cell Phone.
PIN FOR LATER
Disclaimer: This blog post may include affiliate links. At absolutely no extra cost to you, I may receive a small commission for any purchase made through these links. Any commissions received are very much appreciated, as they help me to be able to continue posting travel blog content free of charge to my lovely readers. Of course, all recommendations are unbiased, and I will always only recommend products and services that I truly believe in. Thank you for your support!
leave me a comment