Winter in North America doesn’t have to mean heavy coats, icy roads, and crowded ski towns. If you’re craving sunshine, warm temperatures, and a relaxed pace, winter is actually one of the best times to travel—as long as you know where to go. While many popular destinations are buried under snow, several sunny places across North America enjoy mild weather, fewer tourists, and better travel deals during the winter months.
Why Winter Is the Perfect Time for a Sunny Getaway
Traveling in winter means:
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Comfortable temperatures instead of extreme heat
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Less crowded beaches, cities, and attractions
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Lower hotel prices and easier bookings
This guide is designed for travelers from the U.S. and Canada who want to escape winter without flying halfway around the world. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a longer warm-weather escape, these destinations offer the perfect mix of sun, scenery, and calm energy.
What You’ll Find in This Guide
Below, you’ll discover the best sunny places to visit in winter in North America—destinations with little to no snow, manageable crowds, and plenty of things to do. If you’re dreaming of warm days, blue skies, and a slower winter travel experience, you’re in the right place.
🌴 1. Palm Springs, California
☀️ Winter Weather
Palm Springs enjoys warm, sunny winter days with temperatures averaging 65–75°F (18–24°C)—perfect for escaping cold northern winters.
🌵 Why Visit in Winter
Winter is the best season here. The desert heat cools down, hiking becomes enjoyable, and the city feels relaxed rather than packed. Snowbirds spread out across the valley, keeping crowds manageable.
🎯 Top Things to Do
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Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
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Hike Indian Canyons or Tahquitz Canyon
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Lounge by mid-century modern pool resorts
🏨 Where to Stay
Winter brings excellent resort availability, from boutique hotels to luxury desert retreats—ideal for slow, sun-soaked stays.
👌 Best For
Couples, design lovers, wellness travelers, and relaxed winter escapes.
🌴 2. San Diego, California
☀️ Winter Weather
San Diego stays comfortably warm in winter, averaging 60–70°F (16–21°C) with plenty of sunshine.
🌊 Why Visit in Winter
While summer crowds fade, the beaches remain beautiful. Winter is ideal for exploring neighborhoods, coastal walks, and outdoor dining without the rush.
🎯 Top Things to Do
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Walk La Jolla Cove and spot sea lions
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Explore Balboa Park museums
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Enjoy beach sunsets in Pacific Beach
🏨 Where to Stay
Beachfront hotels and coastal Airbnbs are easier to book and often more affordable during winter.
👌 Best For
Beach lovers, families, and travelers who want sun without tropical humidity.
🌴 3. Key West, Florida
☀️ Winter Weather
Key West offers 70–78°F (21–26°C) winter temperatures with low humidity and steady ocean breezes.
🌺 Why Visit in Winter
Winter is peak season—but crowds are calmer than summer, and the weather is at its best. No snow, no jackets, just island vibes.
🎯 Top Things to Do
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Watch sunset celebrations at Mallory Square
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Snorkel coral reefs
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Explore Old Town and Duval Street
🏨 Where to Stay
From historic inns to waterfront resorts, winter offers the most reliable conditions for island stays.
👌 Best For
Island lovers, couples, and slow tropical-style travel.
🌴 4. Tucson, Arizona
☀️ Winter Weather
Tucson stays mild and sunny with winter temperatures around 60–70°F (16–21°C).
🌄 Why Visit in Winter
This is hiking season in the Sonoran Desert. The city feels authentic, uncrowded, and deeply connected to nature and culture.
🎯 Top Things to Do
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Explore Saguaro National Park
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Visit Mission San Xavier del Bac
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Enjoy local Southwestern cuisine
🏨 Where to Stay
Eco-lodges, desert resorts, and quiet boutique hotels shine in winter.
👌 Best For
Nature lovers, hikers, photographers, and peaceful travelers.
🌴 5. Scottsdale, Arizona
☀️ Winter Weather
Scottsdale averages 65–75°F (18–24°C) in winter, with blue skies nearly every day.
🌞 Why Visit in Winter
Winter is prime season, but the city is built to handle visitors without feeling overwhelming. Outdoor dining and spa culture thrive.
🎯 Top Things to Do
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Desert jeep tours
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Golf and spa days
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Old Town shopping and dining
🏨 Where to Stay
Luxury resorts and stylish hotels offer excellent winter packages.
👌 Best For
Luxury travelers, wellness seekers, and short winter getaways.
🌴 6. Los Cabos, Mexico
☀️ Winter Weather
Los Cabos enjoys 75–80°F (24–27°C) winter temperatures with very low rainfall.
🌊 Why Visit in Winter
Winter is ideal for whale watching, beach relaxation, and avoiding the intense summer heat.
🎯 Top Things to Do
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Whale watching tours
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Beach lounging and snorkeling
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Sunset cruises
🏨 Where to Stay
All-inclusive resorts and beachfront hotels are popular and reliable in winter.
👌 Best For
Resort lovers, couples, and easy international escapes.
🌴 7. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
☀️ Winter Weather
Expect warm, pleasant days around 75–85°F (24–29°C) with low humidity.
🌺 Why Visit in Winter
Puerto Vallarta blends beach relaxation with culture, and winter brings perfect weather without the summer crowds.
🎯 Top Things to Do
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Walk the Malecón boardwalk
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Explore Old Town
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Day trips to hidden beaches
🏨 Where to Stay
From budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts, winter offers strong value.
👌 Best For
Beach lovers, cultural travelers, and longer sunny stays.
