23 Warm Places to Visit in January in the USA

Looking to escape frigid winter temps? I love a warm January getaway stateside! There’s no reason to shovel snow and endure gloomy gray skies when you could be basking on a beach or setting sail under blue skies and a turquoise sea. From Hawaii’s tropical islands and So Cal beaches to tempting desert getaways and amazing festivals, here are all my favorite spots…the best warm places to visit in January in the USA!

Warm Places to Visit in the USA in January

1. Maui, Hawaii, for Whale Watching

Go to Maui this month for the epic beaches, a scenic road trip, and humpback whales!

I love Maui in January! With temps in the mid-70s, Maui makes the ideal warm-weather getaway in January. But it’s also probably more of a dramatic improvement if you are escaping snow and freezing temps.

As someone who lives in San Diego, I do prefer the warmer water in Hawaii in spring and summer. (But you can definitely still snorkel and swim in January.)

The biggest reason that I personally head to Maui in January? It’s prime time for whale watching!

The Auau Channel here, just off the coast of Lahaina, is where the action is.

You’ll find mostly humpback whales who’ve migrated here from Alaska to mate and give birth this time of year.

My favorite way to see them is on an eco-friendly tour with a naturalist guide.

Choose Maui for your January getaway if you’re looking for top-notch resorts and gorgeous beaches.

You’ll find the best Maui resorts and hotels in West Maui near Kaanapali and Kapalua—there can be more wind here, though—as well as Wailea in South Maui. Kihei makes a nice family-friendly base on island.

In addition to whale watching and beach time, your Maui itinerary must include driving the scenic Road to Hana, sunrise or sunset in Haleakala National Park, and snorkeling the legendary Molokini Crater.

I’ve driven the Road to Hana at least three times, and I wouldn’t miss it for the world. Some travelers find it scary to drive as there are a lot of hairpin turns, but I’ve personally never had an issue.

Musts for your Maui packing list? Water shoes, reef-safe sunscreen, and a rash guard. The sun is HOT! And water shoes protect your feet from the sharp coral reefs and stingrays.

2. San Diego, California, for SoCal Beaches

Go to San Diego in January for tacos, surfing, and seals.

I’ve lived in San Diego for 30 years now and know all the best spots!

With mild temperatures and clear skies, San Diego is an incredible January destination, with its rugged beaches, maritime history, and some fantastic fish tacos. Similar to May, it’s off-season with fewer crowds and better prices! (Although water is warmer in August.)

San Diego in winter has dreamy January weather with daily highs around 65 degrees. It’s a perfect winter getaway to escape post-holiday chills. 

I hike Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve all the time for breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged, unspoiled wilderness.

The water isn’t quite warm enough for a swim, but you won’t mind because there are eight miles of trails with spectacular ocean views!

A stroll through La Jolla Cove is one of my favorite ways to spend a Saturday. There are sooo many sea lions by the cliffs here. Or kayak through the sea caves.

January in San Diego is also a perfect time for some surfing lessons.

The ocean is easily doable in a wetsuit, and as a bonus, you’ll avoid the summer tourist crowds. Head to Pacific Beach for lessons. And try a stroll along the lively boardwalk while you’re here.

Don’t miss Taco Tuesdays for margaritas and fish tacos at the eateries along Garnet Avenue. 

For history buffs, there’s the Maritime Museum of San Diego with its collection of submarines and historic vessels.

The vessels are all docked right in the water, and you can climb aboard the ships to view the exhibits.

The USS Midway Museum is another great floating museum with a 4-acre flight deck lined with restored aircraft. 

With more time, take a day trip north to cute little Encinitas!

Dee | Vanilla Papers

3. Puerto Rico for Rum Splashed Days

Puerto Rico is your spot if you love a good fiesta and easy east coast getaway.

My favorite thing about Puerto Rico in January is all the fabulous festivals…followed closely by the predictably warm and sunny days with highs in the low 80s!

The Three Kings Day (Dia de Reyes) celebration on January 6 includes parades across the island. And the San Sebastian Street Festival (Las Fiestas de la Calle San Sebastian) is a truly one-of-a-kind street party. It’s so amazing!

Among the many things to do in Old San Juan, the colorful historic district, visiting the old fortifications (now a National Historic and UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a must.

I head here for spectacular views over San Juan Bay.

Puerto Rico is known for its rum, and you must visit a rum distillery to see how it’s made (and sample some infused rum). Local cuisine features plantains, meats, and rice and beans…all super delicious!

Of course, there are lots of beautiful sandy beaches you can visit; head directly to Isla Verde and Condado. (And yes, the water is lovely in January, so bring your swimwear!)

During the day, browse the offerings by local artisans. 

Dhara | It’s Not About the Miles

Read more on USA travel:

• Best places to visit in the USA in fall. This is where I go for the very best leaf peeping!

•Where to go in November. November can be an “in between season” but there’s some great deals to be had on amazing destinations.

• Best places to spend Christmas in the U.S. This is my round-up of peak holiday experiences, including Christmas lights, decorations and where to go for snow-free adventures.

• Warm places to visit in the USA in February. When winter is dragging on, you’ll want to go to one of these spots for a serious pick-me up.

4. Oahu, Hawaii, to See Big Wave Riders

Head to Oahu this month for epic surf competitions and the best of Hawaii.

I wasn’t sure I’d like Oahu before I went because I’d only heard about Waikiki Beach and Honolulu…and I go to Hawaii mostly for crowd-free pristine beaches, to be honest.

But our January trip to Oahu was unbelievable. I think it might be my favorite Hawaiian island now as it has a little bit of everything.

What really made our trip was our stay on the north shore during big wave rider surfing competitions.

In fact, we happened upon the finals in a women’s competition and I’ll never forget it

North Shore Oahu is a lot like Kauai…It feels remote and untouched. You won’t find a lot of amenities here, but the food trucks on the north shore are tops!

In addition to smoothies, pizza, and tacos, you’ll find plenty of shrimp trucks, which are unique to this island.

The best way to enjoy a week in Oahu, in my experience, is to choose two bases—one in the south and one on the north shore—to minimize drive time to see all the sights. (We spent half a week in Ko Olina on the south shore which was gorgeous.)

While you’re down south, be sure to hike Diamond Head—one of Hawaii’s most famous landmarks—snorkel Hanauma Bay, and explore the beautiful windward coast.

My top tips: 1. Get an early start for Diamond Head as parking can be a challenge. 2. Reserve ahead of Hanauma Bay as there are limited spots daily and 3. Plan plenty of time for hiking on Oahu!

It’s also prime whale watching season this month across the state of Hawaii. You can see the migrating whales until spring.

Note: in 2022, the state of Hawaii implemented an advance reservation system for popular tourist sites so be sure to plan ahead.

How to Rent a Car for Your January Vacation

My top two recs are:

1. Discover Cars has no hidden fees, 24/7 customer service, and free cancellation. They search all the major rental car companies so you don’t have to.

Check prices and availability of rental cars here.

2. Turo is like Airbnb for cars. It saved us $$$ during the pandemic on our Hawaii rentals when rental car prices were sky-high.

5. Florida Keys for Island Time

January in the Florida Keys is perfect for water sports and perfect temps.

When visiting the Florida Keys, January is the sweet spot! The balmy winter weather here is likely why Key West is why so many rate it one of the top places to travel in the USA.

We did have some rain on and off on our January trip but it was warm rain which made all the difference.

January is great as it’s post-hurricane season but also before the searing summer temps arrive.

As you leave Miami, your first stop should be Alabama Jack’s in North Key Largo.

Relax by the water, enjoy the live music, and slip into island time while enjoying the best conch fritters you’ll find anywhere.

Each island in the Florida Keys chain (there are more than 800) will give you a different vibe.

While you’re sure to find your favorite, mine are Key Largo, Islamorada, and, of course, Key West. 

One of our favorite activities in Key West was seeing all the cats the Ernes Hemingway Home and Museum; there are nearly 60 polydactyl (six-toed) cats!

A really wonderful day trip off the coast of Key West is a visit to Dry Tortugas National Park. It’s famous for its coral reefs and birding. (Be aware that the boat won’t go, however, if seas are rough. Consider booking the helicopter ride!)

Angela | Fitting in Adventure

6. San Luis Obispo, CA, for Foodie Fun

Head to SLO for relaxed small town vibes and nearby wine tasting adventures.

I have stopped in cute little SLO more times than I can count during 30 years of travel adventures up California’s coast from San Diego.

 San Luis Obispo, on California’s charming central coast, is a wonderful spot for a January vacation. Plus, it’s not far from gorgeous Big Sur! (You can read my review on the epic all-inclusive Alila Ventana Inn here.)

While it’s not warm enough in January to swim at area beaches, daytime highs in the mid 60s are perfect for exploring outdoors.

And bring your appetite, because January is Restaurant Month in SLO! Check out NOVO and Taste! Craft Eatery. We loved our dinner at NOVO on its creekside patio!

Don’t miss touring the SLO Mission, located in the heart of downtown, while you’re here. The grounds are lovely and include the old bells of the mission.

As a college town, downtown SLO is walkable with all manner of excellent coffee shops, boutiques, art galleries, and cafes.

If you happen to be in town on a Thursday evening, do not miss the Farmers’ Market, where you can enjoy music and street performers and sample yummy treats. 

SLO is home to several small museums if you want to delve deeper into local history and culture.

And if the outdoors is more your thing, bring your hiking shoes and take to the trails. Try the Bishop Peak Trail, my favorite area hike, for stunning views of the surrounding area. It’s a moderate 3.7 mile out and back hiles with gorgeous views of the green hills from the top!

Wine lovers will want to schedule tastings at Edna Valley or nearby Paso Robles, and if you enjoy barbecue, be sure to sample Santa Maria-style barbecue when you are in town!

Dhara | Roadtripping California

7. Phoenix, Arizona, for Desert Hikes

I love Phoenix in January for mountain biking and desert hikes.

My brother lives in Phoenix so we love to visit in winter when the epic summer heat cools down! Many snowbirds from points north head here for the entire winter.

The good news is that the Cactus League, Major League Baseball’s pre-season, is not yet in full swing in January so it’s easier to find decent Phoenix hotel room rates.

With super low humidity and desert climate, it feels just about perfect. Average high temperatures are 60s and low 70s. And after any type of rain shower, the desert cacti bloom with vibrant flowers. It is a spectacular sight. 

Fun things to do in Phoenix in January include desert hikes, mountain bike rides (note that rattlesnakes are still hibernating!), and hot air balloon rides.

When the sun is too intense or you otherwise want to head indoors, check out the phenomenal Musical Instrument Museum, Taliesin West (Frank Lloyd Wright’s home), Heard Museum, and the many mouth-watering restaurants here.

Phoenix is the USA’s fourth largest city so you’ll find diverse cuisines and cultural activities to enjoy here.

Charles | McCool Travel

8. Big Island, Hawaii, to See a Lava Lake

Big Island is your vibe if you’d love to explore Hawai’i Volcanos National Park.

The big draw on Big Island? For me, it’s Volcanoes National Park.

Check the park’s website before you go to see if any erruptions from Kilauea are happening…which they frequently do! As of this update in November 2025, the most recent took place one year ago.

On our last visit, we rented bicycles and headlamps and were able to watch the lava pouring into the ocean at night. It was unbelievable!

If you have only have 3 days on Big Island, spend one day snorkeling near Kona (all the great beaches are on the Kona side of the island) and one day at Volcanoes National Park.

But even if the lava isn’t flowing, a visit to the park is definitely worth it! You’ll find ancient petroglyphs and lava tubes here, in addition to otherworldly hikes that meander through rain forests and crater moonlike surfaces.

Then explore the unusual black lava beaches on the west side of the island. You’ll also want to book a night swim with manta rays!

It’s one of the most unique and popular things to do in Hawaii…and it’s only on Big Island.

With more time, head to the island’s east side near rainforested Hilo for spectacular waterfalls.

Akaka Falls in Akaka Falls State Park makes a great stop. Then explore the wild Hamakua Coast.

You’ll also find the memorable Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden here. It’s worth every penny to wander through its rare plant collections and orchid garden. It’s the only time I’ve ever seen a black orchid!

9. New Orleans, Louisiana, for Carnival

Go to New Orleans in January for foodie paradise and ideal temps.

January means cooler temperatures in New Orleans, making it an optimal time to enjoy all the fun this city has to offer.

This is the time of year when New Orleans is gearing up for their most beloved time period, Carnival season!

While Fat Tuesday is in mid-February and officially kicks off Mardi Gras, we like to visit in January for pre-festivities during Carnival when it’s not quite is crazy.

That’s the only time you can eat King Cake, too! And it’s delish. Imagine a sweet, brioche-like cake, filled with cinnamon and cream cheese and then decorated in purple, green, and gold sprinkles. YUM!

Of course, the cooler temperatures in the city mean that you can stroll the amazing streets of the French Quarter and the Garden District without pouring sweat! 

Check out famous Jackson Square, taste beignets at Cafe du Monde, and wander Bourbon Street before you get off the beaten path to explore Frenchmen Street, the Bywater District, and the historic Treme neighborhood.

One of the best things to do in New Orleans is to just walk around and take in the vibrant atmosphere around you.

Enjoy the European-influenced architecture as a jazz band plays on the street corner. And hop aboard a street car. This is New Orleans. Take it all in!

Michelle | That Texas Couple

10. US Virgin Islands for Beach Time

USVI in January feels like tropical paradise. No passport required!

Even in the coldest month of the year, January is an ideal time to visit the US Virgin Islands as the weather is dry and sunny, with temperatures averaging just under 80° Fahrenheit.

It’s a relatively short and inexpensive flight from the US to islands that offer stunning beaches, lots of tourist attractions and viewpoints, and a laid-back atmosphere.

USVI consists of three major islands: St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, each with a unique character and attractions.

St. Thomas is the most developed of the three, famous for duty-free shopping, historical attractions, water sports, and beach-hopping.

Learn about the Caribbean’s pirate history or explore the beautiful turquoise seas of Magen’s Bay to catch sight of swimming turtles.

The best place to soak up the spectacular views of Magen’s Bay and neighboring islands? Head up to St. Thomas’s highest point, Mountain Top, while sipping on their famous banana daiquiri.

St. John is best known for its prime tropical beaches, among the most beautiful in the Caribbean. Head to maho Bay for sea turtles or Watermelon Cay for snorkeling with so many colorful fish!

Finally, pack your bags to set sail to the other islands for a day trip or longer!

If your timing is right, you can even see the tail end of the month-long Crucian Christmas Festival on St. Croix, which ends the first Saturday of the New Year.

Catherine | Nomadicated

11. Charleston, South Carolina, for Historic Homes

Head to Charleston this month for antiques, history, and gardens without the crazy heat.

I often recommend Charleston as a January escape for my east coast friends up north.

With relatively warm weather (highs in the 50s to low 60s Fahrenheit), it’s ideal weather for wandering the historic homes and mansions here. And you’ll miss hurricane season!

The Williams Mansion, also known as the Calhoun Mansion, is one of the most notable mansions to tour. This extravagant home, with over 30 rooms, is the largest privately owned home in the city. 

It’s one of the coolest things to do in Charleston!

Since I love antiques and architecture, I always visiti the Nathaniel Russel House—notable for its lovely garden and three-story free-flying spiral staircase—when I’m in town.

My other favorite sites here? Pineapple Fountain, the Battery, shops on King Street, plantations, and Rainbow Row. 

And if you happen to be visiting Charleston on the second Sunday of January, King Street is the place to be. At this time of year, it’s open only to pedestrians and is one of the most popular areas in Charleston.

Love boating? Since the 1980s, The city hosts the Charleston Boat Show this month. Definitely get your tickets in advance!

Sam | Find Love & Travel

12. Kauai, Hawaii, for Unspoiled Wilderness

Kauai is your island if you love unspoiled nature but don’t mind a little warm rain in January.

If you’re a hiker or nature lover, Kauai is the best island to visit in Hawaii. It makes an ideal winter getaway.

On our last January visit to Kauai, we split our time between Poipu in the south (the sunny, dryer, resort end of the island) and the wild north shore. Rain showers do blow through up there this time of year though.

(But don’t let that stop you…Add a rain jacket to your Kauai packing list.)

The best activities in Kauai all involve exploring nature.

Hiking the Kalalau Trail on the stunning Na Pali coast is a must-do experience…whether you just hike up the first half mile or reserve a permit months ahead to camp overnight. (Advance reservations still required for day hikes!)

I’ve done part of the trail several times. My top tips: Bring walking poles (it’s steep!) and more water than you think you need.

You’ll also want to see the green jagged cliffs from the water so be sure to also book a snorkel or sunset sail tour here. Or, just ask the lifeguard to watch your gear at Ke’e Beach while you hike the Kalalau Trail.

From Poipu, you can visit Waimea Canyon (known as the Grand Canyon of Hawaii), enjoy epic snorkeling in shallow, family-friendly bays, and get a bird’s eye view of the island on a helicopter tour!

Other things to include on your Kauai itinerary are kayaking the Wailua River—we loved it— and visiting Kilauea Lighthouse.

Slow down to island time and just breath in the beauty.

13. Death Valley, CA, for a Bucket List Sunrise

January in Death Valley is one of the very best months for not-too-hot hiking in this desert paradise.

Death Valley National Park, in southern California, is famously the hottest place on the planet, with a record-high temperature of 134°F.

Thankfully, January is quite a bit cooler, with daytime temperatures in the high 60s to low 70s, which is perfect for hiking and exploring this incredible landscape. March in Death Valley is also a great time to visit.

There are so many amazing and diverse things to do in Death Valley National Park.

For example, the park is home to the lowest point in North America, Badwater Basin, at 282 feet below sea level.

These salt flats, blanketing over 200 square miles, look like something from another planet, thanks to the geometric polygons of salt covering the ground.  

We also always make a point to catch the sunrise at the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes; it’s a bucket list experience.

Stand on top of a dune (some of which tower up to 100 feet) and watch the rising sun cast dramatic shadows across the dunes, which span miles and miles in every direction. 

If you’re looking for something a bit more active, consider the Golden Canyon, a choose-your-own-adventure trail (ranging from 2.7-7.8 miles in length), where you’ll hike through swirling badlands, towering canyons, and colorful cliffs.

The landscape here is so otherworldly that it was used as a filming location for the original Star Wars!

Jessica | Uprooted Traveler

14. South Padre Island, Texas, for Kite Fest

Go to South Padre Island for fresh seafood, fishing, and epic bird watching.

South Padre Island is so popular with snowbirds—people from Canada and the northern US states escaping cold weather—that the term “Winter Texans” is widely used to describe them. 

Why do we head to South Padre Island (SPI) in January? We come for the Gulf seafood, excellent temps (60s to 70s), and phenomenal wildlife!

Be sure to post selfies on social media to make your shivering friends back home jealous. Fishing on the Gulf of Mexico (and Laguna Madre) is one of my favorite things to do in South Padre Island.

You know what else is fun to do here in January? Birdwatching.

Five hundred different species of migrating birds use two principal migratory flyways (Mississippi Flyway and Central Flyway) that pass through South Padre and the Rio Grande Valley. 

Also, don’t miss Kite Fest! It’s one of the most popular annual events on South Padre Island and is held on the last weekend in January.

Charles | McCool Travel

15. Palm Springs, CA, for Desert Beauty

Visit Palm Springs in January for perfect temps and Old Hollywood nostalgia.

One of the best warm-weather January getaways in the United States is retro Palm Springs, a roughly two-and-a-half-hour drive from the city of Los Angeles. For us in San Diego, it’s just two hours!

January is peak season (with prices to match sometimes) because the desert temps are ideal this month.

I love the mix of rugged nature and trendy downtown here. There are great arteries and lots of colorful artwork to be explored here.

Hollywood celebrities began visiting Palm Springs in the 1920s, quickly making it one of the most popular getaways for those living in the Southern California region.

Visit the Palm Springs Walk of Stars to see Old Hollywood homes like Evis’ Honeymoon Hideway. Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope were locals here too.

Whether you have a full week or just one day in Palm Springs, the festive neighborhoods will transport you far from L.A.’s traffic and crowds.  

I love to take the Palm Springs Aerial Tram—the world’s largest rotating tram car—when I’m in town, too. In just 10 minutes, you’ll be transported from the desert floor up to snowy Mt. San Jacinto State Park (8,516 ft elevation) for 50 miles of hiking trails in a winter wonderland.

Winter is the perfect time to relax in a Jacuzzi under the stars, too.  

Monica | This Rare Earth

16. Anna Maria Island, Florida, for Sea Turtles & Manatees

See Anna Maria Island this month for idyllic weather and beachtime.

Florida’s Anna Maria Island is a paradise for anyone seeking to escape the bitter cold. The average daily high and low temperatures in January are 71 and 52 degrees, respectively.

This is where I head for a well-deserved beach vacation in winter! It’s comfortable and warm, but not oppressively hot.

In January, the weather is ideal for kayaking, riding, running, and golfing. Take a guided dolphin or manatee tour. Build a sandcastle. Rent bicycles. Explore the shops and cafes along Bridge Street.

The beaches on Anna Maria Island are perfect for sunbathing or enjoying a family picnic. Football, frisbee, and beach volleyball are all excellent winter sports here.

From dolphins and pelicans to sea turtles and manatees, Anna Maria Island is home to many unique forms of wildlife. 

Trijit | Budget Travel Buff

17. Hilton Head, SC, for Golf & Shopping

See Hilton Head in January if you’re looking for crowd-free golfing and off season relaxation.

The older I get, the less I enjoy crowds…which is why January on Hilton Head Island is so ideal.

I have 12 miles of uncrowded beaches and 60 miles of biking trails mostly to myself. The average high temperature in January is 60°F, with lows around 40°F. 

Golfers love Hilton Head this time of year too. There are more than 15 golf courses to choose from.

It’s true that January averages seven to eight days of rain, but there are plenty of rainy-day activities to enjoy. 

Check out Shelter Cove for sporting goods, jewelry, ice cream, and more. Tour Stoney-Baynar Ruins or historic downtown Bluffton.

Harbour Town is one of the most popular areas on Hilton Head Island. With shops, waterfront restaurants, and a pier, the area is perfect for families as well as couples.  

While at Harbour Town, visit the lighthouse and climb to the top for the best views of Hilton Head Island and nearby Daufuskie Island. 

Wayne | Always on the Shore

18. Las Vegas, Nevada, for Glitz & Glamour

Vegas is ideal this month for shows, hikes, and pool time.

No one wants to explore the Las Vegas strip in the sweltering heat or explore Red Rock Canyon in 100-degree weather. 

That is why I always save a visit in January for Las Vegas! Christmas and New Year’s crowds have died down but you can still some of the top tier holiday displays.

(Insider tip: Be sure to visit the holiday display at Bellagio Conservatory Gardens, one of the most beautiful exhibits in Las Vegas.)

We usually reserve an afternoon to hike in nearby Red Rock Canyon. The red sandstone landscapes are out of this world! Try out White Rock Hills Loop for an easy beginner hike to warm up for the in-town portion of your trip.

Head to Fremont Street to ride the Slotzilla Zip Line or see one of the many shows on the Strip. 

Even though it is the slowest month of the year, most shows remain open, making it easier to secure tickets.

Packing tips for Las Vegas in January: Bring layers. The weather will be perfect during the day when the sun is still up, but you may need a light jacket or sweater if you’re out in the evenings. Many hotel pools close down this time of year, so check your hotel before packing a swimsuit.

No matter what your idea of fun is, Las Vegas delivers. From adventure to glitz and glamour, visit here for a memorable break from the cold.

Julie | Family Trips and Travels

19. Santa Barbara, CA, for Monarchs & Gray Whales

Go to Santa Barbara for upscale small town ambiance.

I went to college in Santa Barbara and lived there for many years afterwards. I truly love this little central coast town!

The Spanish architecture, the top tier restaurant scene, and the walkability combine to make this a perfect couples or girlfriends (shopping) getaway.

Santa Barbara gets some top musicians, too so check the calendar at the Lobero Theater.

(Back in our youth, we lived just above the Santa Barbara Bowl, an open outdoor amphitheater, and used to invite friends for dinner to listen in to live performances of Sting and Ricki Lee Jones from our window!)

This time of year, monarch butterflies can be seen fluttering around town, and gray whales can be spotted migrating along the coastline, too.

Families head to the beautiful Santa Barbara Zoo 

If you’re feeling active, there are plenty of options for outdoor activities, like the 5 & 10K New Year’s Day Resolution Run.

January is also a great time to do the very easy hike to Nojoqui Falls, where you’ll see a beautiful 80-foot waterfall. If you’re lucky enough to be there after a rainstorm the falls are extra grand.

And if you’re looking to relax, you can catch a wave on one of Santa Barbara’s many beaches or enjoy a sunset kayak tour.

Better yet, bring an inflatable stand-up paddle board and explore the coast at your leisure.

Aptly known as the “American Riviera”, Santa Barbara is the perfect place to spend your January vacation.

Jenifer | The Evolista

20. Tuscon, Arizona for Wine Tasting

Tucson is your January getaway for desert bliss and winetasting.

Tucson, Arizona, is excellent this month.

Personally, we head directly to nearby Saguaro National Park. January makes for the perfect time for hiking in Saguaro and taking in the views of the massive saguaro cacti.

If you go, be sure not to miss the Valley View Overlook Trail and the Cactus Forest Loop Trail. In January, there are often sponsored walks or runs through the park.

Outside of hiking in Saguaro? We love to spend time at the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum. We check out the gardens first and then head up Mount Lemmon for views of Tucson.  

Another delicious thing to do in January is to visit some of the wineries. While several have tasting rooms in town, I recommend you also consider heading to nearby Willcox and Sonorita to visit the vineyards.

January’s cooler climate here means wineries will have just completed harvest, so there will be plenty of new wines to sip. 

Where to eat? Head to the Mercado de San Agustín. Seis Kitchen and 47 Scott are two popular options here.

For those who love pan dulce, don’t miss La Estrella Bakery.

Francesca | Homeroom Travel

21. Austin, Texas, for Walks & Cycling

BBQ, museums, and music is on the itinerary in Austin this month.

A January visit to Austin brings some amazing and unique ideas to a winter travel itinerary.

With average high temperatures in the 60s, you’ll only need light layers this month.

My favorite hikes? Head to the trails around McKinney Falls State Park orthe peak of Mount Bonnell for beautiful sunrises and sunsets. There’s an easy walking and bike path that winds through downtown Zilker Park.

(Also great for kayaking and paddle boarding on Lady Bird Lake!)

Feeling adventurous? Head to iconic Barton Springs for the annual Polar Bear Plunge into the beautiful 68-degree water on New Year’s Day.

Austin’s food truck park, The Picnic, was the first of its kind in the city, with everything from gyros to nachos to spring rolls.

And, since no visit to Austin is complete unless you eat your weight in BBQ, I recommend you head out of the city to Agape BBQ or Salt Lickf or some country ambiance.

When it’s chilly, we like to spend time at the Museum of Ice Cream or shop The Domain or Barton Creek Square.

For music lovers, January is quite possibly the best time to visit Austin.

Free Week Festival is a citywide celebration. It’s an admission free festival, conveniently downtown, with hundreds of bands performing. Don’t miss it!

Sierra | Very Truly Texas

22. Sedona for Red Rock Canyons

Shoulder season in January is ideal for exploring Sedona this month.

Sedona is one of my very favorite places in the west!

With its stunning natural beauty, iconic red rock formations, perpetual sunshine, epic hiking, and mystifying energy vortexes, there’s nothing like it anywhere else.

January—considered the “shoulder season” between the busy holiday rush and spring break travel—offers lovely weather and some of the lowest crowds of the year to experience it.

With bluebird days and high temperatures averaging in the 60s, this is a wonderful time to explore some of the most popular hiking trails. And there are many!

Take advantage of notably thinner crowds and hike Devil’s Bridge or Cathedral Rock, or try to find one of the “hidden” caves in Sedona such as The Subway or Soldier Pass. 

Off-roading is another popular wintertime activity in Sedona. Rent ATVs in town and explore on your own, or join one of the famous Pink Jeep tours. 

Thanks to Sedona’s central location, you can also easily enjoy the sprawling resorts, incredible food, and nightlife scenes in nearby Phoenix or Scottsdale.

Both cities are even warmer than Sedona, and an easy and scenic 1.5-hour drive.

Or, if you decide you want a taste of winter, the high-alpine mountain town of Flagstaff is less than an hour away. 

Taryn | Chasing Trail

23. San Francisco for Iconic Sights

Explore San Francisco’s famous neighborhoods and attractions in January…possibly without the fog!

While not as warm as Southern California, San Francisco can still reach temps of up to 65 Fahrenheit in January.

In summer, the city is cold and foggy but usually not in winter! Plan on bright clear days as well as a few days of rain.

The best part? January is offseason for tourists here so you can enjoy popular places like Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the many museums and attractions in gorgeous Golden Gate Park, without the crowds.

Be sure to visit some of San Francisco’s historic neighborhoods while you’re here.

The trendy Mission district hosts dozens of excellent eateries and swanky boutiques. Taste tea in Chinatown. Revisit Haight Ashbury’s 1960s heydays.

In January, San Francisco also hosts Sketchfest, one of the largest comedy festivals anywhere.

With more time, consider a short road trip to nearby Santa Cruz, Point Reyes, or Muir Woods to see the giant redwoods.

A visit to San Francisco is always a good idea…and especially in January.

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