The Warmest Places in the US in January

Don’t let Jack Frost ruin your mood as the new year rolls in; instead, pack your bags and embark on a sun-soaked adventure.   

From sandy beaches that beckon you to relax with a cocktail in hand, to vibrant cities where flip-flops are the footwear of choice, we’ve got you covered. 

From the hottest on down, the list below has all the top warm destinations in the US that I recommend for an unforgettable trip in January.

If you are reading this article, you may also be interested in my recommended Warm Places to Visit in the US in February. 

1. Kailua-Kona, Island of Hawaii

High 81° Low 66°

Kailua-Kona, located on the western coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, is known for its consistent sunshine throughout the year and offers warm temperatures.

There are numerous adventurous activities to choose from. Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life by exploring some of the best snorkeling spots like Kealakekua Bay or Kahalu’u Beach Park. For adrenaline junkies, try paddleboarding or surfing along the pristine coastlines or exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Enjoy its historic charm by visiting Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park or Huliheʻe Palace – both showcasing ancient Hawaiian culture and traditions.

 

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2. Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

High 80° Low 66°

Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii located on Oahu Island, is a vibrant metropolis offering endless attractions for visitors seeking warmth during January.

From world-famous Waikiki Beach to picturesque Lanikai Beach, you’ll find plenty of sandy shores to relax under swaying palm trees while enjoying gentle ocean breezes.

 

Pay homage to history by visiting the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri Memorial, both located within Pearl Harbor. These sites offer a glimpse into America’s past while commemorating those who lost their lives during World War II.

There’s also vibrant nightlife with live music venues, trendy bars, and exquisite dining scenes scattered across Waikiki or downtown Honolulu.

And if you like the outdoors, Oahu is home to several scenic trails, such as Diamond Head State Monument and Manoa Falls Trail. 

3. Miami, Florida (& Everglades National Park)

High 76° Low 63°

While many people associate Miami with its vibrant beaches and sizzling summer parties, this remarkable city has plenty to offer during the winter season too. 

Here are a few things to add to your itinerary: take an airboat tour of the Everglades National Park, discover the best Latin-American-infused cuisine at San Pocho and Mondongos, stroll through the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, tour one of the most unique attractions in Florida, Coral Castle, check out the art deco historic district, cruise along Millionaire’s Row, and peruse the street art at Wynwood Walls. 

If you’re a water enthusiast, visit Biscayne National Park, one of the only places to see a living coral reef system in the continental United States. It’s about an hour south of Miami and many of the highlights can be seen on a day trip.

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4. Fort Lauderdale, Florida

High 76° Low 59°

Just north of Miami is another must-visit city on Florida’s southeastern coast. 

Whether you favor outdoor activities, historic attractions, or simply beautiful beaches, Fort Lauderdale has something for everyone.

Wander down Las Olas Boulevard for shopping and dining, visit Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, stroll through the new Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District, and hop on the water taxi for scenic views of the canals and waterfront mansions, known as the “Venice of America.”

 

5. Key West, Florida

High 75° Low 67°

Key West is an idyllic paradise that enchants visitors with its spirited culture, breathtaking sunsets, and laid-back atmosphere. This captivating island is one of the best warm places to visit in January with all that it has going on.

Enjoy a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and an array of exciting activities that make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking relaxation or adventure. January is also the month of the annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival so book early if you plan to visit that weekend. 

To help plan your trip, here are the best 20 things to see and do in Key West, Florida. 

6. Marco Island and Naples, Florida

High 73° Low 54°

Marco Island and Naples are two neighboring classy towns, known for high-end shopping and upscale dining along with close proximity to laid-back beaches and outdoor activities. 

Make sure to check out the Naples pier, Marco Island South Public Beach, go shelling on Keewaydin Island, sample the seafood at Snook Inn, visit the botanical gardens, and walk the boardwalks at the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. 

 

7. Orlando, Florida

High 72° Low 51°

The best thing about an Orlando trip is that it doesn’t have to be all about Disney! It’s the perfect base to explore Central Florida and because of the theme parks, there are a ton of lodging options that range from budget-friendly to 5-star accommodations. 

There are unique day trips from Orlando including snorkeling with manatees, visiting one of the oldest towns in America, and taking a glass-bottom boat ride. 

But there are also so many other fun things to do right in Orlando too. 

8. Yuma, Arizona

High 71° Low 44°

With over 350 days of sunshine, Guinness World Records claimed it as the World’s Sunniest City.

Nestled on the banks of the Colorado River, Yuma offers a unique experience with rich history, natural wonders, and warm hospitality. 

Things to do and see include the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, Castle Dome Ghost Town, Century House Museum, Sanguinetti House Museum and Gardens, the Riverfront Trail, Colorado River State Historic Park, and ATV rentals at the Imperial Sand Dunes. 

9. Anna Maria Island, Florida

High 71° Low 52°

Anna Maria Island is one of the warm places in January that provides a peaceful getaway with unspoiled beaches and quaint small towns.

You won’t find high-rise buildings or chain restaurants on this barrier island. Expect local eateries, boutique shops, kayaking expeditions, and friendly residents. 

A few must-visits include The Donut Experiment, Rod and Reel Pier, Coquina Beach, The Waterfront Restaurant, and Anna Maria Island Historical Society. 

Another quiet, and magical Florida island is Sanibel Island. It’s slowly recovering from hurricane damage, but it’s coming along and can use the tourism. 

10. Tampa, Florida

High 71° Low 53°

Tampa is a great destination in January, because it not only has stunning Gulf Coast beaches, but there are also plenty of other activities to choose from. 

Explore the 2.6-mile Tampa Riverwalk with multiple parks, bars, restaurants, and museums, or enjoy exhilarating roller coasters and exotic animals at Busch Gardens. Take a fishing charter out on the open water or tour the opulent Henry B. Plant Museum and Gardens.

If you’re there for a few days, look into picking up a City Pass that includes some of the above attractions and also a dolphin or sunset cruise, admission to the Aquarium, and Museum of Science and Industry.

 

11. Crystal River, Florida

High 70° Low 43°

Between mid-November and March, Crystal River offers an extraordinary Florida adventure: swimming with manatees. It’s one of the rare places in the world where you can experience this.

You’ll quickly understand why they’re nicknamed “sea cows” and be captivated by these gentle creatures, especially when their massive size makes you mistake them for floating boulders.

Though initially nervous due to not being a strong swimmer, I’ve taken the plunge multiple times, and each experience has been unforgettable. Here’s your guide to swimming with manatees in Crystal River, Florida.

While exploring the area, don’t miss out on visiting Monkey Island, meeting Lu at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, dining at Waterfront Social Grill & Tiki Bar, strolling through historic downtown Crystal River, or kayaking along the Chassahowitzka River.

 

12. Death Valley National Park, California

High 67° Low 40°

January is a GREAT time of year to explore some if our nation’s magnificent national parks. The weather is pleasant and the parks are less crowded. 

Death Valley National Park, one of the hottest places on earth, is ideal in the winter. 

It is the largest national park outside of Alaska and holds the record for the hottest air temperature ever recorded, so you don’t want to visit this one in the summer. 

The highlights of a self-guided driving tour should include Artists Drive, the Devils Golf Course, Twenty Mule Team Canyon, Dante’s View, Badwater Basin, and Zabriskie Point. 

13. Phoenix, Arizona

High 69° Low 48°

Phoenix is a fantastic January destination, offering a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

Here are some must-visit spots to make your trip unforgettable: South Mountain Park and Preserve, Cosanti Originals, Desert Botanical Gardens, Phoenix Art Museum, Children’s Museum of Phoenix, Camelback Mountain, and Piestewa Peak. 

14. South Padre Island, Texas

High 69° Low 55°

South Padre Island is a completely different place in the winter. Since the weather is mild, many opportunities exist to take advantage of the outdoors. 

Enjoy horseback riding and zipline tours at South Padre Adventure Park, try watersports like kiteboarding or kayaking, walk or bird watch on the Laguna Madre Nature Trail, or climb to the top of Port Isabel Lighthouse for stunning views of the Gulf. 

15. Lake Havasu, Arizona

High 69° Low 45°

Nestled on the border of sunny Arizona and California, Lake Havasu is a stunning manmade reservoir along the Colorado River, offering a perfect winter escape.

It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with year-round hiking trails, fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic biking routes. But the fun doesn’t stop there—Lake Havasu is also home to vibrant breweries, fascinating historical landmarks, lively casinos, and energetic party bars.

To make your trip even more memorable, consider these additional activities: explore the London Bridge, go off-roading, take a sunset charter tour, or visit Lake Havasu State Park. 

16. San Diego, California

High 69° Low 47°

San Diego is a fantastic place to visit throughout the year, but during the winter, you’ll experience fewer crowds.

The city has plenty to offer for all kinds of travelers. After an unforgettable journey along Route 66, we explored the incredible San Diego Zoo, enjoyed the thrilling rides and exhibits at SeaWorld, toured a few iconic local breweries like Green Flash, and took day trips along the coast to gems like La Jolla and Carlsbad. 

With January being peak season for the gray whale migration, it’s an ideal time to spot them along the coast on your adventures. 

17. St. Augustine, Florida

High 67° Low 47°

In my view, St. Augustine ranks as one of the top travel destinations in the U.S. during the winter months. This charming historic town has remained a hidden gem, offering a delightful mix of history, culture, and coastal beauty. With a lovely beach nearby and an exciting downtown area, it’s a superb choice for a memorable winter getaway.

Enjoy a ride on the hop-on-hop-off trolley to explore the city’s highlights, tour the historic Castillo de San Marcos fort, embark on a scenic boat cruise, climb the iconic lighthouse, wander down the lively St. George Street, or dive into the mysteries of a ghost tour. The town, one of the oldest in the United States, offers an abundance of activities to keep visitors entertained and inspired.

 

 

 

Wondering where to find the warmest spots in the U.S. this January? Head down south or catch a flight to the sunny shores of Hawaii, the Aloha State, for a perfect dose of tropical bliss!

Do you have any recommendations for the best places to visit in January USA for a warm weather getaway? Tell us in the comments below!