17 Warm Places to Visit in February in the USA (2026)

Ah, February! The holidays are a distant memory, but in many places, freezing temps and icicles still refuse to budge. It’s one of the very best months to go in search of sand, surf, or breezy desert getaways. From Hawaii’s tropical breezes and Florida’s white sand beaches to Sedona’s red rocks and Las Vegas nightlife, here are my favorite warm places to visit in February in the USA.

Many of these are a good place to go on vacation in the U.S. at other times of the year, too, but they’re outstanding in February!

Warm Places to Visit in the USA in February

1. Oahu, Hawaii to Watch Big Wave Surfers

Oahu was such a surprise!

It was the last Hawaiian island I visited because I thought it was going to be more of a city and less tropical paradise than the other islands. I was so wrong! Oahu is magical.

In fact, it may be my favorite Hawaiian island…because it offers a little bit of everything.

I absolutely loved our February visit here! In fact, Oahu is one of the best Hawaiian islands to vacation this month because it is the time to see pro surfers compete on the north shore. There’s a vibrant food truck scene on the North Shore, too! Oahu is the only island that offers loads of delicious shrimp food trucks.

But back to the surfing events. When we were here, we saw finalists compete in the Billabong Pro Pipeline at the Banzi Pipeline. I will never forget watching those monster waves roll in!

With a week on Oahu, you’ll have plenty of time to explore all over he island. On the south end of the island, you can see Pearl Harbor, snorkel famous Hanauma Bay, and take a surf lesson in Waikiki near Honolulu.

Definitely check out all the shrimp food trucks clustered on the north shore!

You’ll find bars and shopping in Honolulu, but plenty of empty, pristine beaches, too. In fact, you’ll even see the gorgeous shallow reefs here from the air as you fly into Kona.

Hiking in Oahu is excellent. There are easy out-and-back trails to places like the top of Diamond Head, remote beach walks, and uphill treks that are a major workout for hard-core adventurers.

With daily highs around 79°F, Oahu makes the ideal February escape from the cold, although it’s also a lovely spring destination in the U.S, too!

2. Biscayne National Park in Florida for Snorkeling and a Boat Trip

February is the perfect time to visit Florida’s Biscayne National Park. My favorite thing about it? The park, which is 95 percent water, features the northernmost section of the Florida reef.

We did lots of snorkeling here to see neon tropical fish, coral, and even a shipwreck! It’s a favorite destination for divers, too.

In February, you’ll enjoy nice weather—average highs of 68°F/ lows of 61°F— with no threat of fall hurricane season.

Another one of our favorite activities: A kayak tour through mangrove swamps around the islands, followed by a hike on Elliott Key, the largest island here.

Not only is it cooler in February, but on our trip, we found a lot fewer bugs to bother paddlers and hikers. 

February is also when the park rangers offer one-hour lectures twice a day. (We took a 90-minute paddle clinic to learn how to kayak around the islands.)  

We love boat trips here, too. You can hire an expert guide to explain the area’s history and ecology as you cruise across the bay and around the islands. 

Don’t miss the picturesque Boca Chita Lighthouse. 

With more time, swing by the park’s visitor center, the Dante Fascell Visitor Center, as we did. There’s an interesting museum and frequent movies about the park.

You’ll find it next to the main access harbor in Homestead, about an hour south of Miami.  

James Ian | Parks Collecting 

3. Saguaro National Park in Arizona for Desert Hikes & Epic Sunsets

February getaways need not always be beachy. In fact, one of our favorite winter vacations to escape February’s frigid chill is Saguaro National Park in southern Arizona.

Located right outside of Tucson, where the average high in February is about 70°F, Saguaro is ideal this month.

With summer temperatures well over 100 degrees, winter allows for exciting hiking opportunities without the danger of heat stroke. 

Our favorite February hike here? Wasson Peak on the west side of the park.

(There are two separate districts of the park with the city of Tucson in between.)

The low sun also makes for spectacular sunsets across the cactus-clad valleys. 

Saguaro National Park is famous for its enormous groves of saguaro cacti that cover the mountainous landscape.

This particular type of cactus only grows in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona and northern Mexico, as well as in limited areas of southeastern California.

While it may be what most people think of when they think “cactus”, you won’t find it anywhere else on earth…although there are similar species in Mexico and Bolivia.

And while it might grow all over southern Arizona, the national park holds the most spectacular collection.

On top of saguaros, the park also contains numerous other cactus species, as well as other fascinating desert vegetation.

A visit to Saguaro in February will be one of the highlights of your year!

Chris | Around the World with Me

How to Rent a Car for Your February Trip

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 price and availability on 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.

4. Big Island, Hawaii for Volcano Viewing

Have you ever seen a volcano erupt? Seeing this spectacular sight is one of the best things to do in Hawaii!

On our last visit to Big Island, we saw lava pouring into the ocean at night. It was an incredible sight. We rented rickety bikes with headlamps and headed out after dark across an old hardened lava path to the edge of the sea to see it.

Kilauea volcano began erupting in September 2021 and has erupted on and off throughout the years since. So, while there’s no guarantees, the opportunity to see it is not as rare as you might think.

When I checked while updating this post early December 2025, they were expecting another fountaining event soon! You can check the latest update here.

The best reason to head to Big Island in February over other popular Hawaiian islands—I’m looking at you, Maui—is that they can frequently be jammed with tourists and traffic in the winter months.

But Big Island sees fewer visitors…leaving all those beautiful black lava beaches near Kona with far more breathing room.

Whatever you do, don’t miss the chance to do a night swim with manta rays! We didn’t know about this during our visit until we saw photos from others in the airport lounge when headed home.

Seriously kicked ourselves for missing that!

Aside from seeing the volcano spew lava here, this experience can’t be beat. If you’re SCUBA certified, you can enjoy this as a dive. Snorkelers float on a giant styrofoam noodle.

You’ll find all the best beaches for snorkeling and sunbathing up and down the Kailua-Kona coast.

Leave ample time in your Big Island itinerary for beach time before heading to Volcanos National Park in the middle of the island.

Then wrap up your winter visit with majestic waterfalls on the rainier side of the island near Hilo.

5. Sedona, Arizona for Red Rock Magic

I adore Sedona in winter!

Known for its stunning red rock formations, ponderosa pine tree forests, and spiritual vibes, it’s one of my very favorite places and is strikingly unique from any other red rock country in the U.S.

It’s not as warm as some spots on this list, but you can still expect bright sunny days with average temperatures around 61°F. (Bundle up for chilly nights, though! Expect lows near 33 F.)

Winter makes for the perfect weather to explore the city’s spectacular outdoor scene.

Additionally, while this teeny town frequently swells with tourists, especially in the early spring, February is just early enough, so you’re likely to enjoy this incredible place mostly by yourself.

For one of the best ways to get outside and take in the epic scenery here, explore one of the many gorgeous hikes in Sedona.

My favorites were the easy Yavapai Vista Trail and Cathedral Rock trail, but if you’re looking for a more challenging walk, head to Devil’s Bridge and scramble your way up a red rock cliff.

Here, you’ll find a sandstone arch, over 50 feet in the air, providing dramatic views of the surrounding landscape.

The town is believed by some to have “energy vortexes” that are supposed to be conducive to healing and meditation. And I loved seeing a flutist soaking up the energy high in the red rocks!

The New Age-y vibes can be felt throughout town, with plenty of crystal shops and quirky art galleries to be explored if you need a break from the great outdoors.

My favorite meals? Don’t miss lunch at Mariposa Grill (reserve ahead) and 89Agave Cantina for great Mexican.

Jessica | Uprooted Traveler

6. Santa Barbara, CA for Upscale Relaxation + Wine Tasting

Santa Barbara is one of the best warm places to visit in the USA in February. (It also makes a great place to travel in spring and in fall when summer crowds are gone.)

I went to college in Santa Barbara and lived there for many years. These days, I visit friends in town annually. It’s truly the best of Southern California if you enjoy swank small towns on the coast.

Surrounded by the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara makes the perfect escape from snowy places with its brilliant year-round sunshine (but you will find some morning coastal fog). 

February will typically be less crowded than the peak summer months, making it a great time to save on lodging.

One of the most popular places to visit in Santa Barbara is Mission Santa Barbara.

This mission, founded in 1786, is one of the 21 missions that make up the network of old Spanish missions up and down California. It’s gorgeous inside so I highly recommend you add it to your itinerary.

Other fun sites to visit in Santa Barbara include the colorful Insta-worthy Chromatic Gate, Stearns Warf, and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art.

If you love to hike, head to Chumash Painted Cave State Park. 

Santa Barbara is a mecca for wine tasting…and in February, just after the grape harvest, you’ll find plenty of new wines to enjoy.

Head either to the Funk Zone wineries right in town or drive 30 minutes up to famous Santa Ynez Valley,

Santa Barbara also has an outsized dining scene for a town of its size. It’s honestly hard to go wrong here. Brophy Brothers with its harbor view has been serving seafood since I lived there in the 1980s!

Or try the paella at Loquita. La Super Rica Taqueria on Milpas is where I always head first when I’m in town! It was a Julia Childs favorite. Just bring cash and prepare to stand in a line out the door. Worth it!

Francesca | Homeroom Travel

Read more on USA travel:

• Warm US winter destinations in January

• Places to visit in California during winter

• Best December vacations in the USA

7. Big Bed National Park, Texas for Rio Grande Views

Big Bend National Park is one of the best places to visit in Texas in February or March.

The mild weather this month—with highs around 64°F—makes it an ideal month to see the park; it’s perfect hiking weather.

(During other times of the year, hiking can be pretty dangerous due to the heat.)

Some of my favorite hikes here include The Lost Mine Trail, the Balanced Rock Via Grapevine Hills Trail, Emory Peak, Boquillas Canyon Trail, and Santa Elena Canyon Trail.

I love to walk The Lost Mine Trail at sunset. Emory Peak is challenging but worth it for the incredible views. Make sure to bring plenty of water, even in the winter. It can still get pretty toasty!

Another great reason to come in February is to soak in the hot spring.

If you go in the early morning when the temperatures are cool and the crowds are low, you’ll love a soak in the warm springs.

It’s located right next to the Rio Grande River, so the views are incredible! And if you get too hot, jump into the chilly river. 

Just be aware that you’ll be in a food desert near this park so plan accordingly. Also, gas up whenever you can as gas stations are few and far between!

Michelle | The Wandering Queen

8. San Diego, California for Fish Tacos

Southern California is one of those destinations that is nice to visit at any time of the year, but there are many unique things to enjoy in winter.

I’ve lived here for 30 years so believe me when I say it can be a gorgeous time to visit.

It’s low season for tourists, which means great deals on flights and San Diego accommodations.

The weather will be pleasant, ranging from the mid-60s to the low 70s. Feb is the rainiest time of year for us but we’re talking 2 or 3 inches on average so chances are good that you’ll still see many sunny days.

While not quite warm enough to swim—head here in August for the best ocean temps—you can still tan, enjoy water sports, and hike in San Diego without dripping sweat. 

Visiting in February also provides the opportunity to spot gray whales on a boat tour. The whale-watching season runs from mid-December through early April.

In fact, I’ve been on whale watching tours in the San Juan Islands and Hawaii several times, but the best whale watching I’ver personally experienced is right here in San Diego!

Check price and availability on a whale watching tour here.

Plus, the negative tides at this time of year mean great tide-pooling La Jolla Cove tide pools.

Encinitas in nearby North County makes a great day trip for fish tacos, window shopping, and “locals-only” beaches. My personal favorite is The Taco Stand on the 101, but prepare for a line!

There are also a few different annual events in February in San Diego.

February is Museum Month, with discounts on tickets at over 40 local museums for tourists and locals alike.

While you may not think “museums” when you visit San Diego, you should definitely swing through Balboa Park for the gardens and Spanish architecture, even if you don’t step inside a museum. The Prado at Balboa Park makes a lovely lunch in their outdoor courtyard. 

Nine out of 10 times, Mardi Gras will fall on one of the last weekends in February, and you can join the party on 5th Street in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Chinese New Year also happens at the beginning of February and is celebrated over two days in Old Town San Diego, the location of the first European settlement in California!

Also in February: The Vietnamese Tet Music Festival, the Bird Festival, and the Jewish Film Festival.

Chelsey | Chelsey Explores

9. Destin, FL for Foodie Festivals

Although Destin, Florida is fun year-round, we love to visit this area of the Emerald Coast in February because of the small crowds, beautiful weather, and special events throughout the month.

Mardi Gras may be based out of New Orleans, but Destin brings a taste of the festivities to Florida in February!

Destin, Beach, and Fort Walton Beach each have Mardi Gras parades and events, including a 5k run, pub crawl, and parties with food and live music.  

And if it’s festivals you’re after, you’ll love the Baytowne Wharf Gumbo Festival, 30A Wine Festival, and Destin Shrimp & Grits Festival!

Although the water may be a little cool to swim in in February, you can’t miss with the soft white sand and emerald green waters this time of year.

We head directly to Henderson Beach State Park for miles of beach, a hiking trail, a playground, picnic areas, grills, and camping.  

Other faves? Check out Topsail Hill State Park and Grayton Beach State Park, two other excellent nearby options. 

The average high temperature in February here is about 63°F, while the lows average around 50°F, making it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the cold.  

Wayne | Always on the Shore

10. St. John, US Virgin Islands for Crystal Clear, Warm Water

The US Virgin Islands is an excellent area for a cold-weather escape in February because there’s something for everyone!

On our agenda here is always plenty of beach time for snorkeling, kayaking, hiking, and sipping cocktails.

The temperature is warm and sunny, but not too hot, with highs around 79°F. The islands here in the USVI are surrounded by beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water.

Expect to see luxury on display here with upscale storefronts and mega yachts.

Our favorite places on St. John are Trunk Bay , Mao Bay to see turtles and Cinnamon Bay for snorkeling. Definitely reserve a boat trip while you’re here as well.

In addition to plenty of “snowbirds,” St. John draws honeymooners and nature lovers, with its dedicated parklands and pristine beaches.

It’s a bit less hectic (and more beautiful, in my opinion) than St. Thomas so you may have the beach to yourself, even in February!

Nearby St. Croix is the perfect place to explore the area’s colonial heritage and history of slavery.

Whether you visit one, two, or all three U.S. Virgin Islands—St. John, St. Croix, or St. Thomas—the warm and sunny weather means you’re sure to have a bucket list experience.

Brodi | Our Offbeat Life

11. Joshua Tree National Park, CA for Desert Hikes

Located in Southern California, Joshua Tree National Park is about an hour’s drive from Palm Springs.

Because the park consists of two deserts—the Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert—Joshua Tree can get very hot and dry, making it uncomfortable to explore the park in summer and early fall. 

However, in February, the temperatures tend to be around the mid-60s…perfect weather to enjoy the park before it heats up in summer. (June is another great month to visit!)

Joshua Tree National Park is known for its unique landscapes full of Joshua Trees and granite boulders, which are plentiful throughout the park.

Our favorite trails to explore with only one day in Joshua Tree include Hidden Valley Trail, Skull Rock, Arch Rock, Barker’s Dam, and the Cholla Cactus Garden. 

We also adore stargazing here because Joshua Tree is an International Dark Sky Park, meaning there is very little light pollution for a stunning night sky.

With sunset around 5:30 pm this time of year, you’ll enjoy plenty of time to see winter constellations like Orion’s Belt, Gemini, and the Taurus constellation.

You’ll find plenty of places to stay near Joshua Tree, too…from artsy abodes to upscale luxury desert getaways.

Sam | Find Love & Travel

12. New Orleans, LA for Mardi Gras

When I’m up for a warm weather city break (as the Europeans say) in February, I head to New Orleans!

It is a fantastic walking city—ideal this month before the extreme summer heat has arrived. 

Double-check dates, but Mardi Gras is frequently held in February; it’s always 47 days before Easter.

The streets come alive with colorful parades and floats, wild costumes, and celebratory music.

While all of Louisiana celebrates Mardi Gras, the largest and craziest celebrations are found in New Orleans. 

It’s so fun and easy to get caught up in all the lavish excitement and festivities. (I had to talk Steve out of buying a purple sequined coat here once!)

We love to walk the French Quarter and listen to the live jazz spilling out of all the bars as we meander the cobblestone (pedestrian only!) zones. There is so much rich history here!

This is also going to be quite the eating adventure! You’ll want to taste test the jambalaya, po boys, and King Cake, a festive ring-shaped cake decorated with purple, green, and gold and only available from January 6 (Epiphany) through Mardi Gras.

Do not miss the beignet either! This cross between a donut and a pastry is covered in powdered sugar and typically served with hot chocolate at famous Cafe Du Monde.

Make sure that you leave yourself some free time to enjoy the many buskers and street performers that you will come across all over the French Quarter.

Some of them are extraordinarily talented and worthy of a larger stage.

 If you would prefer an indoor activity, then set aside a half day to explore the National WWII Museum, a fantastic interactive museum and favorite New Orleans activity for families.

Nicole | Go Far Grow Close

13. Catalina Island, CA for Scuba

The weather on Catalina Island in February is lovely, with highs in the mid-60s.

You’ll enjoy ideal temps for water activities this month on the island, including scuba diving, snorkeling, boogie boarding, parasailing, and jet skiing. Catalina makes a particularly idyllic getaway for couples.

In February, the annual Avalon Harbor Underwater cleanup is underway.

It’s the only day when scuba diving is allowed in picturesque Avalon Bay.

Make the most of it by pitching in to help clean up the marine habitat with other volunteers.

After a swim, take in Catalina’s breathtaking ocean views by zip line: take the shuttle that climbs 600 feet and then zigzag your way back down for a super scenic adrenaline rush.

To get to Catalina Island, you can catch the passenger ferry (or rent a helicopter) from either the port at Long Beach or Los Angeles.

Remember, there are no cars on Catalina Island. Consider staying in Avalon Bay for easy access to shopping and restaurants. Everything’s just a walk away.

Otherwise, golf carts are the main mode of transportation here. Join in the fun!

Ossama | Awesome Traveler

14. Las Vegas, NV for All the Things

Head to Las Vegas in February!

We often visit this month as the weather is much more agreeable than in summer. Temps are typically 55 to 65°F which is just lovely.

Located in the middle of the Mojave Desert, this bustling city is characterized by mild and short winters that beckon visitors to enjoy the sunshine.

Be aware that many of the hotels on the Strip offer outdoor Vegas shows that are completely free to attend.

Some of our freebie favorites? Watching the volcano erupt in front of the Mirage Hotel and the musical fountain show at the Bellagio.

If you head indoors, there’s also a free circus, Venetian carnival, and even an indoor rainstorm.

Animal lovers will adore the free wildlife habitat hosted by the Flamingo Hotel.

At this lesser-known attraction, flamingos, pelicans, swans, and ducks roam the grounds beside cozy waterfalls and tranquil ponds. Only in Vegas!

If you’re willing to head off-Strip, the Valley of Fire State Park is just a short drive away and one of our favorite Vegas day trips. Think bright red Aztec sandstone, petroglyphs, and ancient petrified trees!

With so much nearby, you’d be forgiven for forgetting that are also art galleries, museums, themed dining, tours, parks, indoor gardens, quirky shows, and even amusement parks here. This city has it all!

Since February is off-season, it’s also easy to find airfare deals during this month, making it one of the best times to visit to save money on your vacation!

Jillian | Adventure Dragon

15. Orlando for Fairytale Theme Parks

Located in central Florida, Orlando is an excellent pick for its lovely February weather, with highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s. 

Even in February, it’s easy to day-trip to the beach from Orlando to enjoy the sun and the sand.

Plus, holiday tourists are gone, leaving you to enjoy a crowd-free experience at Orlando’s popular theme parks.

Orlando is home to Disney World (Avatar Flight of Passage in the Animal Kingdom is epic), Universal Studios (ride the Jurassic World VelociCoaster), and Harry Potter World (try the butter beer!).

February is also a great time to visit one of the amazing natural springs near Orlando.

With cooler weather, it’s a great time for water activities here like kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, too.

Shannon | Adventuring with Shannon

16. Phoenix, Arizona for a Ghost Town

 Phoenix is ideal in February!

It’s a great place to go hiking and it’s the perfect time to enjoy all the fun outdoor things to do in Phoenix.

There are so many lovely outdoor parks and shopping areas. 

Or head to Goldfield Ghost Town, an old ghost town with a train ride, mine tours, ghost tours, and restaurants. 

Plus, the Arizona Renaissance Faire is on all month here! There are new performers weekly at the 16-stage theater plus a 50-acre circus, an arts and craft fair, a jousting tournament, and a feast. Families are welcome!

Tempe Beach Park offers a beautiful path in Phoenix that’s perfect for walking, biking, or scootering.

No bike? Rent one from Bicycle Cellar. You can also rent paddleboards or paddle boats to enjoy the Salt River. 

A great neighborhood to explore is the Roosevelt Row Arts District.

This is such a fun and lively neighborhood with beautiful murals throughout. It is also a great place to grab a bite to eat and visit art galleries.

Candice | CS Ginger

17. Miami Beach, FL for Beachy Festivals

With an average February temperature of around 71°F, Miami Beach is a warming destination for body and soul in this winter month.

Much like visiting in the fall, you’ll miss the summer crowds.

Staying in one of the myriad hotels along Miami Beach, you are only minutes away from surf, sand, waves, bars, and nightlife! 

And it’s not only the winter sun that draws travelers to Miami Beach.

Famous places like the Art Deco district, Muscle Beach, and glamorous South Beach are well known for hosting the rich and famous.

They’re just a short walk or tram ride away.  

Check out the vibrant Groundup Music Festival at the North Beach Bandshell this month, or the Miami International Boat and Yacht Show. It’s the largest boat and yacht fair in the world! 

Also in February: the iconic Calle Ocho over at Little Havana is home to the Gay8 Festival.

This Hispanic street fair dedicated to the LGBTQ community attracts 80,000 people to a fiesta of art, music, dance, food, and culture. 

For artsy souls, the Coconut Grove Art Festival offers visual, performing, and culinary arts experiences that happen just over on the shores of Biscayne Bay.

Shop and eat on the Lincoln Road promenade, hit the pool, and bask on the beach. Miami Beach awaits!

Hege | Epic Nomad Life

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