17 Warm US Travel Destinations in February to Escape Winter
February blues got you down? We’ve rounded up the top cozy corners in the US where you can trade your snow boots for flip-flops.
Our handpicked destinations offer a perfect blend of sunshine, fun, and relaxation. Time to bid farewell to your winter woes and say hello to some serious vitamin D!
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1. San Antonio, TX
February in San Antonio hits that sweet spot of perfect weather, with temperatures dancing between 45-65°F. The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo brings Texas heritage to life with exciting performances and music.
Stroll along the River Walk when the crowds are thinner, or explore the Alamo without the summer tourist crush.
February also means you can actually enjoy outdoor attractions like the Japanese Tea Gardens and Mission Trail without melting in the Texas heat.
Insider Tip: Plan your visit for late February to avoid Spring Break crowds and enjoy pleasant temperatures.
Where to Stay: Mokara Hotel & Spa offers a luxurious stay with a rooftop pool and direct River Walk access.
2. Oahu, HI
February brings perfect beach weather to Oahu, with temperatures hovering around 70°F. The island shimmers with 200+ hiking trails, crystal-clear waters, and uncrowded beaches.
The Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail offers spectacular sunrise views, while Waikiki Beach provides the quintessential Hawaiian beach scene.
Insider Tip: Head to Kailua Beach for kayaking, snorkeling and catch the big-city vibes in Honolulu with authentic Polynesian food until sunset.
Where to Stay: The Modern Honolulu blends luxury and value, featuring a secret bar behind the lobby’s study area.
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3. Palm Springs, CA
Palm Springs in February means perfect hiking weather with highs around 75°F. The Coachella Valley transforms into a desert playground without the scorching summer heat.
The city buzzes with film festivals, architecture tours, and stellar stargazing at nearby Joshua Tree National Park.
Insider Tip: Take the aerial tram for breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks while staying warm in the desert below13.
Where to Stay: The Sparrows Lodge – An adults-only haven with hand-carved beds and horse-trough tubs. No TVs means pure desert zen.
4. Key West, FL
Key West serves up balmy temperatures and crystal-clear waters in February. You’ll find the island vibe in full swing without the spring break crowds.
Dive into water activities, from snorkeling to sunset sails, or simply wander through the charming streets of Old Town.
Insider Tip: Skip the crowded beaches and head to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park for the best swimming and snorkeling spots.
Where to Stay: H20 Suites – Adults Only. This sophisticated retreat near Duval Street offers daily happy hours and a rooftop pool.
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5. Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix shines in February with daytime temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures. The desert blooms early here, painting the landscape in subtle colors.
Hiking trails in the surrounding mountains offer spectacular views without the intense heat of other months.
Insider Tip: Visit the Desert Botanical Garden early morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
Where to Stay: Royal Palms Resort and Spa – A historic property nestled at the foot of Camelback Mountain, featuring unique rooms with hand-selected antiques and stunning garden courtyards.
6. Mobile, AL
Mobile’s February weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city’s historic districts and famous Mardi Gras celebrations.
As the birthplace of American Mardi Gras, Mobile puts on quite a show with parades, balls, and festivities throughout the month.
Insider Tip: Book accommodations well in advance if visiting during Mardi Gras season.
Where to Stay: The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa is a historic downtown hotel just steps from parade routes.
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7. South Padre Island, TX
While spring breakers flock here in March, February offers a peaceful retreat with temperatures hovering around 70°F.
The island’s 34 miles of coastline are perfect for leisurely walks and shell collecting. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins playing in the Gulf waters – it’s a common sight that never gets old.
February is prime time for birdwatching at the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. The Laguna Madre Nature Trail is teeming with migratory birds.
Where to Stay: Peninsula Island Resort & Spa offers beachfront suites with private balconies and a swim-up bar.
8. Santa Barbara, CA
February brings mild 60-70°F temperatures to this coastal gem, nicknamed the American Riviera. The Santa Ynez Mountains provide a gorgeous backdrop for your wine-tasting adventures.
Soak up the European vibes with the city’s Spanish Colonial architecture. Don’t miss the weekly farmers’ market on State Street. February is also prime time for whale watching, as gray whales migrate along the coast.
Insider Tip: Plan your visit for the first Thursday of February when galleries offer free admission.
Where to Stay: El Encanto, A Belmond Hotel – A hilltop retreat with private bungalows and cheese made from their own cow’s milk.
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9. Savannah, GA
February in Savannah means comfortable temperatures around 65°F and fewer tourists crowding the historic squares. The azaleas start their early bloom, painting the city in subtle pinks.
Ghost tours feel extra spooky in the winter twilight, and the lack of humidity makes exploring the historic district on foot actually enjoyable.
Insider Tip: Book a food tour early in your stay – it’s the best way to discover hidden local gems you can return to later.
Where to Stay: Perry Lane Hotel combines Southern charm and modern luxury, with a rooftop bar offering city views.
10. Yuma, AZ
As the sunniest city on Earth, Yuma shines especially bright in February with perfect 75°F days.
The Colorado River beckons for kayaking and fishing fun, while the Imperial Sand Dunes create a stunning backdrop for your desert adventures.
Yuma’s farm-fresh scene is in full swing during the peak growing season, with farm-to-table experiences unlike anywhere else.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park early morning when the light is perfect for photos.
Where to Stay: Historic Coronado Motor Hotel – A 1938 motor court on the National Register of Historic Places, offering retro Arizona vibes.
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11. Big Island, HI
February on the Big Island means perfect 75°F weather and prime whale-watching opportunities.
The island showcases an incredible diversity of climates and landscapes, from snow-capped Mauna Kea to black sand beaches.
Volcanoes National Park offers a front-row seat to nature’s power, while the Hamakua Coast dazzles with waterfalls and tropical gardens.
Insider Tip: Visit the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corporation visitor center early morning to avoid tour buses.
Where to Stay: Fairmont Orchid – This luxury resort boasts a private beach, sea turtle sanctuary, and traditional Hawaiian spa treatments in private hales.
12. New Orleans, LA
February in New Orleans brings mild 65°F weather and the buzzing atmosphere of Mardi Gras.
Beyond the famous celebrations, you’ll find jazz clubs in full swing, streetcars rumbling through the Garden District, and steam rising off your morning café au lait at Café du Monde.
The French Quarter feels magical with fewer tourists, except during Mardi Gras week.
Insider Tip: Book restaurant reservations well in advance, especially at Commander’s Palace, which offers 25-cent martinis at lunch.
Where to Stay: Hotel Peter & Paul – A converted 19th-century church complex turned boutique hotel, featuring rooms with European antiques and local art.
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13. Tucson, AZ
February in Tucson is pure desert magic, with daytime temperatures hovering around 67°F and crystal-clear skies.
The Sonoran Desert puts on a subtle show with pops of yellow from barrel cactus fruit. Early risers can catch winter birds in action.
The world-famous Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show transforms the entire city into a treasure hunter’s dream from late January through mid-February.
Insider Tip: Visit the Desert Museum early morning when the desert creatures are most active.
Where to Stay: Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort – This 1929 gem offers Santa Catalina Mountain views and gardens buzzing with hummingbirds.
14. Miami, FL
February brings perfect beach weather to Miami with temperatures around 75°F and the sea is a balmy 74°F.
The month comes alive with events and countless opportunities for water activities.
Visit Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science for its spectacular 3-level aquarium and 8K planetarium shows.
Where to Stay: The Betsy South Beach is a colonial-style gem with a rooftop pool and ocean views.
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15. San Diego, CA
February delivers San Diego’s famous perfect weather, with plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures.
Don’t miss the Lunar New Year celebrations at the Safari Park. Culture buffs will love the various festivals happening around town.
The winter season also means prime whale-watching opportunities as gray whales migrate along the coast. Time your visit with the San Diego Bird Festival for world-class birding opportunities.
Where to Stay: Hotel del Coronado offers Victorian charm and seaside luxury with stunning sunset views.
16. Corpus Christi, TX
Winter brings mild temperatures and refreshing coastal breezes to Corpus Christi, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
The beautiful Mustang Island awaits, with miles of pristine sand and surf. February is also prime time for birdwatching at the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center.
Where to Stay: The Omni Corpus Christi offers stunning waterfront views and easy access to the marina district.
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17. St. Augustine, FL
February in America’s oldest city means comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds to explore its brick-lined streets and European-style architecture.
The city’s 450+ years of history come alive through its Spanish Colonial buildings, horse-drawn carriages, and hidden courtyards.
Insider Tip: Visit the Castillo de San Marcos at sunset for breathtaking views and fewer tourists.
Where to Stay: The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens offers a unique stay across nine historic buildings with beautiful gardens.
