The 13 Ultimate Winter Getaways in the US

Winter is a time of joy and festivities, marked by snowfall and twinkling lights, along with celebrations like Thanksgiving and Christmas. It’s when much of the country shines at its best. However, if you want to escape the chill, there are warmer destinations to discover. The finest winter vacations in the US range from stunning beaches to majestic mountain peaks—and, of course, plenty of snow.

Festive family getaways, romantic New Year’s retreats, and essential escapes from the January and February blues—all featured in my guide to the 13 top trips to enjoy in the US this winter.

Top winter vacations in the US

The finest warm winter getaways in the US

Just because winter is here doesn’t mean you need to shiver. There are numerous US destinations that promise winter sun and warm temperatures. Beyond tropical havens like Hawai‘i and Puerto Rico, you can enjoy the sunny shores of Florida on the mainland.

Key West, Florida

Ideal for: Enjoying winter sunshine without leaving the mainland

When it comes to winter warmth, there’s no better spot on the US mainland than Key West. Trade cozy fires for sunny afternoons and brisk hikes for relaxing on the beach. With average high temperatures in the 70s, you could spend most of the season in bikinis and boardshorts.

Among all the Florida Keys, West is the most remote. Covering seven square miles of quirky charm and entertainment, its buildings and boats sparkle with festive joy and a warm welcome. 

For a beach day, Smathers Beach is well-liked, but it can't compare to the stunning sands of Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. Stay until sunset for a breathtaking view if you’d rather avoid the crowds at Mallory Square.

Alternatively, embrace a literary vibe with a morning swim at South Beach, said to be the favorite spot of Tennessee Williams. After your swim, visit Hemingway House to explore his magnificent Spanish villa and its gardens. Finish the day al fresco at the quirky Blue Heaven, enjoying classic Caribbean cuisine in the very garden where Hemingway once officiated boxing matches. 

Puerto Rico

Ideal for: A quick island getaway

Tropical and temperate, Puerto Rico provides a delightfully warm winter getaway just a short flight from the US mainland. With temperatures lingering in the high 70s, the skies are bright, the seas glisten, and the forests flourish.

Begin your adventure in the capital, San Juan—one of the most walkable cities in the Caribbean. The vibrant and historic Old Town is rich with stunning architecture and endless photo opportunities, perfectly situated near some of the most exciting and lively beaches. The shining highlight is Isla Verde, often dubbed the Copacabana of Puerto Rico.

The best beach vibes can be found on the west coast at Rincón. Known for its bustling local and international surf community, head to Domes Beach for impressive November swells. If you prefer a more tranquil experience, check out Steps Beach in the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve, where you can sunbathe and look for parrot fish and hawksbill turtles.

Big Island, Hawai‘i

Ideal for: Tropical beaches and warm weather

Winter in Hawai‘i elevates the island experience to new heights. Temperatures range from the high 70s to low 80s, with brilliant skies showcasing breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Warm beaches come alive with vibrant celebrations for Christmas and New Year.

My recommendation is the youngest and largest island in the Hawai‘ian chain, known as the Big Island. It boasts the warmest and most tropical conditions during winter. The lush valleys along the Hilo and Hāmākua coasts to the northeast receive ample rain, creating a tropical paradise filled with stunning scenery, including cascading waterfalls, black sand beaches, and taro farms. To the south lies the remarkable Volcanoes National Park.

The sun-kissed Kona district dominates the island's warmer west side. While it’s undoubtedly busier and more tourist-oriented than the east, this region offers more than just its touristy hub, Kailua-Kona. Discover the coffee country, visit local beaches, and explore the marine reserve just offshore.

US Virgin Islands

Ideal for: Winter festivities in your swimsuit

Although it’s just a few hours' flight from the mainland to the US Virgin Islands, it feels like you’ve entered another world. This is especially true in winter, when temperatures rarely drop below 80° and the sun shines brightly.

So, which island should you choose? The truth is, if you’re seeking clear blue skies, warm temperatures, and picture-perfect beaches, they’re all quite similar. To avoid the crowds from cruise ships, steer clear of Saint Thomas. Opt for Saint John if your ideal winter getaway involves more forest hiking and wild swimming than lounging with cocktails on the beach.

For me, the perfect balance is found on Saint Croix, the largest of the Virgin Islands situated far to the south. Here, nature and civilization coexist beautifully. You’ll discover some of the Caribbean's finest diving at Cane Bay Wall, which is easily reachable from the shore and plunges over 13,000 feet into the deep blue.

Follow this with a nighttime Mytour adventure through the bioluminescent waters of Salt River Bay National Historical Park. It’s only fitting to conclude the day with a local drink, courtesy of the Cruzan Rum Distillery.

The best winter beach vacations in the US

Beach getaways aren’t just about sandy toes and sunbathing. Some of my favorite beaches shine in winter, adorned with frost, whipped by wild waves and towering surf.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Best for: Rugged beach walks and serious surfing

The best US beaches don’t need to be hot and sunny to impress, as evidenced by the wild coastline of Nantucket in winter. Once a summer retreat for the affluent, it transforms into a scene of serene beauty as temperatures drop and crowds diminish.

With many tourist amenities closing for the winter, beaches become quieter and take on a more remote feel. At aptly named Surfside Beach, surfers take on the powerful winter waves.

The extensive wildlife refuge encompassing Coatue and Coskata beaches is particularly vibrant. Wander its miles of trails to discover oak forests and red cedar savannahs, while keeping an eye out for harbor seals basking in the dunes and marshes.

On clear days, windswept Madaket Beach showcases the most breathtaking sunsets. Gather around a beachside fire, roast some marshmallows, and savor the end of another perfect Nantucket winter day. Pure magic.

San Diego, California

Best for: Scenic bike rides and people-watching

Ask a local from San Diego and they'll say the city and its beaches are at their best in winter. The mild weather keeps all but the dedicated swimmers and surfers from taking a dip, resulting in fewer crowds and more stunning views.

Blacks and Torrey Pines are among the more accessible cliffside beaches (though Blacks remains a bit of a trek). They offer wild waves and dramatic scenery. Not far off are the sparkling city beaches, equally vibrant with surf and excitement.

Hop on a beach cruiser and ride the three-mile Ocean Front Walk stretching from North Pacific Beach to South Mission Beach. Make stops to explore the side streets and grab a bite at the numerous restaurants and bars. If you have room, enjoy the beachfront roller coaster at Belmont Park. Take your time and indulge in some people-watching – it's like a colorful human zoo.

The best winter family vacations in the US

Whether you love winter weather or prefer to escape it, the top US winter destinations have something for everyone. From East Coast theme parks to West Coast ski resorts, there’s a variety of experiences to enjoy.

Orlando, Florida

Best for: Family fun and the world’s top theme parks

Winter can be tough with kids. Cold and rainy weather often keeps families indoors, leading to dreaded cabin fever. Orlando is an ideal family destination all year, but it truly shines in winter. No snowy chills, freezing storms, or dreary skies here.

With its warm Florida climate, the attractions are designed for family fun. In addition to Toy Story Land and Disney World, there’s the Universal Resort and Harry Potter’s Wizarding World. But beyond theme parks, there’s the enlightening Kennedy Space Center, vibrant Boxi Park, the nearby Everglades, and for entertainment, Cirque du Soleil.

Perhaps the ideal spot is Winter Park. Created for those escaping harsh New England winters (thus the name), it offers a family-friendly blend of entertainment and dining, with great shopping, wonderful restaurants, parks, boating lakes, diverse museums, and charming boutique hotels.

Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada

Best for: Enjoying the chill on an outdoor family adventure

Lake Tahoe is a sprawling family-friendly natural winter paradise. Whether you're by the lake or up in the mountains, there's truly something for everyone, regardless of age or interest (as long as it involves the great outdoors).

Around the lake, you'll find about two dozen ski resorts. To the south, Heavenly Ski Resort is renowned for its vertical drop and variety of runs suitable for every skill level. On the opposite side, Northstar is a complete family destination, offering epic skiing, snowboarding, sledding, tubing, excellent ski schools, and some of the finest hot chocolate you’ll ever enjoy!

The excitement doesn't stop at the shore. Take an extraordinary road trip around Lake Tahoe’s 72-mile circumference, stopping for fishing, boat tours, stone skipping, and wildlife spotting. Strap on snowshoes to traverse miles of trails and savor the forest greens and vibrant blues of Emerald Bay.

If you visit at the end of the season, don't miss the Lake Tahoe Snowfest, a lively two-week celebration of everything snow-related.

Taos, New Mexico

Best for: A budget-friendly family winter getaway

The charm of Taos is abundant. Surrounded by stunning landscapes and steeped in the history of its Native American heritage, it also offers incredible affordability with numerous free activities and plenty of budget-conscious lodging options.

At Taos Pueblo, visit one of the oldest continuously inhabited villages in the US, home to the Taos Tribe for over 1,000 years. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and a National Historic Landmark, entry is free for children under 10.

Beyond the village, the mountains beckon. If skiing is on your agenda (be sure to book early before the peak season arrives), the Taos Ski Valley boasts 110 trails suitable for all levels. Alternatively, the hiking trails are breathtaking, winding through snow-laden forests to reveal expansive panoramic vistas. Look west to catch a glimpse of the Rio Grande Gorge, a natural wonder that's well worth the visit.

The top winter vacations with snow in the US

When it comes to traditional winter vacations, snow is a must. The coldest months blanket much of the US in a thick layer of snow, offering a wealth of incredible destinations to explore.

Mount Rainier, Washington

Best for: A wide range of snow-filled adventures

For guaranteed snow coverage, Mount Rainier is your best bet. Renowned for its heavy snowfall, it receives hundreds of inches of snow annually. This ensures that the area is well-equipped to accommodate winter activities, making it an ideal spot for snowy enjoyment.

Every snow lover's dream awaits here. Start your adventure at Paradise, where you’ll find trails and summit hikes galore. Begin at the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center to plan your journey. Whether you choose to ski, snowboard, or horseback ride, there’s plenty to do. Interact with reindeer and feed the elk, or join a complimentary snowshoe hike led by a park ranger on weekends.

For easy trail access, consider staying at the historic Paradise Inn, one of the great lodges of the west. If you seek a truly secluded, wild winter getaway, try winter camping in the northeastern part of Mount Rainier National Park.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Best for: Experiencing nature in its winter splendor

In winter, Yellowstone National Park transforms into a snowy wonderland, with most roads closed. Travel becomes an adventure over the snow on snowmobiles, snowshoes, horse-drawn sleighs, or skis—definitely a lot more fun!

A trip to Yellowstone isn't complete without visiting Old Faithful and the Canyon area. Take a snowmobile tour to witness the geysers up close. Surrounded by snow yet still steaming dramatically, they create a captivating scene. Strap on your snowshoes for a hike to the stunning Yellowstone waterfalls, which, frozen in time, evoke an otherworldly ambiance.

For those who prefer to drive, one road remains open year-round. Enter through the north entrance and traverse the Lamar Valley, often bustling with buffalo, which stand out against the pristine white landscape. Continue to Mammoth Springs to see its breathtaking travertine terraces covered in snow. When the temperature drops, indulge in the natural outdoor hot springs.

The best winter mountain getaways in the US

What happens when you mix mountains with snow? Unmatched fun! The truth is, if there’s snow, you’re bound to have a fantastic time at most mountain resorts. However, these two are among the absolute best.

Vail, Colorado

Best for: Backcountry skiing

When it comes to winter mountain vacations in Colorado, you are spoiled for choice. With options like Aspen, Breckenridge, Beaver Creek, and Crested Butte, all offering incredible snow experiences, but for the ultimate mountain resort, look no further than Vail.

Perched at the foot of Vail Mountain, the town of Vail sits at an impressive 8,000 feet above sea level. Towering peaks encircle a massive ski resort featuring over 200 trails and runs linked by around 30 lifts, offering diverse terrain for all skill levels. On the mountain’s west side, you can conquer the famed Back Bowls in just one day, promising an unforgettable snow experience.

Vail town shines when it comes to après ski as well. This festive winter wonderland boasts an array of luxurious hotels, chalets, shops, restaurants, and bars. Families can enjoy an ice skating rink and a kids’ snowmobile track.

Mammoth Mountain, California

Best for: Skiing (and après skiing) until you can’t anymore

Rising above the trails and waterfalls encircling Mammoth Lakes is a stunning lava dome mountain that exceeds 11,000 feet. Its slopes boast 3,500 acres of some of America’s most thrilling and snow-laden skiing and snowboarding.

For those seeking peaceful trails and a chance to discover some backcountry solitude, consider visiting midweek. However, Mammoth truly shines with the crowds. On weekends, it becomes a vibrant hub for twentysomethings from Los Angeles who come to ski, snowboard, and enjoy the nightlife. The mountain restaurants come alive, the slopes buzz with groups of skiers, and the atmosphere is electric yet manageable—it feels distinctly Alpine.

To fully appreciate the area’s supermodel beauty, take a ride on a gondola. The breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada ridgeline, volcanic lakes, and Inyo National Forest are simply awe-inspiring.

What was my process for selecting the top winter vacation spots?

Having spent several winters living and traveling across the US, I’ve observed how the country embraces inclement weather and the festive season. While my expertise lies on the coasts, I’ve built friendships throughout the nation and gathered their top winter vacation recommendations. Some are passionate about outdoor activities, others prioritize family-friendly experiences, and nearly all adore the snow. For those who prefer alternatives, I’ve also included my favorite tropical getaways within the US.

Explore more of the top winter getaways in the US

I’ve just scratched the surface of my favorite winter destinations in the US, but there are many more to discover. As fall wraps up, think about some of the best places to visit in November. If you’re into winter sports, check out Europe’s High Alps and Japan’s ski resorts. Alternatively, if you prefer warmer weather, here’s where to find warmth in December.