Top 10 Warm Destinations to Explore in March

Spring has arrived, and the Northern Hemisphere is heating up quickly. Many areas are entering their peak season, bringing rising prices and larger crowds. However, the top warm spots to visit in March also offer plenty of peaceful beach time.

In Central and South America, beach resorts are readying their loungers and blending cocktails. As temperatures rise, excitement builds, so be prepared for increased competition for prime accommodations—booking early is essential. March also marks the month when the mainland US can truly embrace its beach allure, with amazing options on both coasts. Here’s where to find warmth in March.

Where can you find warmth in March?

Top warm destinations to visit in the US during March

Spring ushers in delightful warmer temperatures across much of the US. On the mainland, Florida, Texas, and California promise fantastic beach getaways, while Hawai‘i remains reliably sun-drenched.

1. St. Augustine, Florida

• Average temperature: 63°F
• Average hours of daylight: 12 hours

With 500 years of history to explore, St. Augustine stands as the most historic city in the US. Its compact, easily walkable National Historic Landmark District is filled with colonial architecture. From the Castillo de San Marcos to the Misión de Nombre de Dios, history spills out from lively taverns and charming wooden houses onto the streets. 

With daytime temperatures often in the mid-70s, March is perfect for beach outings. After all, this is Florida. At St. Augustine Beach, you can rent a fishing rod at St. Johns Pier or catch some waves at the end of A Street. Further along, Anastasia Beach offers a more rustic experience with opportunities for delightful wildlife watching. 

On March 9th and 10th, the Celtic Music and Heritage Festival brings a taste of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales to the city. Engage in Celtic games, savor the local food and culture, and enjoy the world’s oldest St. Patrick’s Day parade.

2. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

• Average temperature: 54°F
• Average hours of daylight: 12 hours

Carmel exemplifies the quaint and charming side of California. With fairytale cottages and elegant mansions, along with an array of stylish boutiques, relaxed galleries, and independent eateries—you won’t encounter any large chains here. Affluent (but not ostentatious) locals enjoy its renowned white-sand beach alongside surfers and sea lions during their daily dog walks. Everything seems to move at a leisurely pace.

In March, average high temperatures rise into the late 60s; warm enough to relish the stunning outdoors, yet cool enough to deter the crowds. This compact village is highly walkable, featuring a network of courtyards and passageways that link its unique architecture to centuries-old tales. The remarkable Carmel Mission Basilica appears as if it were lifted from the scenes of a Spaghetti Western.

To the south, Point Lobos State Nature Reserve offers a hiker's paradise. Expect dramatic rocky cliffs, winding trails, and breathtaking views. To the north along 17-Mile Drive, you'll find America's most photographed tree: the mysterious Lone Cypress, perched on a granite promontory overlooking Carmel Bay.  

3. Big Bend National Park, Texas

• Average temperature: 60°F
• Average hours of daylight: 12 hours

There are parks, and then there’s Big Bend National Park, Texas’s ‘gift to the nation’. Among its natural wonders lies the entire Chisos Mountain range along with a substantial portion of the Chihuahuan Desert. Interwoven are winding rivers, hiking paths, vibrant wildlife, and the rich history of Native Americans.

March marks the peak season for visitors, yet Big Bend’s natural seclusion ensures it never feels overly crowded. Temperatures soar during the long days, averaging in the mid-70s, drawing adventurers and nature lovers from around the globe. It's the season of the bluebonnet bloom, when the state flower carpets the landscape, transforming green fields into vast, white-capped seas of blue.

The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive offers a straightforward 30-minute introduction to its beauty. From there, you can choose your path. Popular routes like Santa Elena Canyon and Langford Hot Springs may be busier, while you might prefer the lush surroundings of Cattail Falls or, after rainfall, the waterfall at the end of Pine Canyon Trail. Fly into El Paso, and it's a four-hour drive to reach Big Bend.

4. Pensacola Beach, Florida

• Average temperature: 60°F
• Average hours of daylight: 12 hours

As the westernmost city in the Florida Panhandle, Pensacola promises a dreamy beach getaway in March. With average high temperatures reaching the 70s and 18 miles of pristine white sand and emerald waters waiting to be explored, it’s an ideal destination.

Located on the barrier island of Santa Rosa, Pensacola Beach is the go-to spot. Amidst the large hotels, adventure parks, and tourist attractions, there’s ample space to find tranquility and immerse yourself in nature. 

It lies in the heart of the US’s largest protected coastal area, the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Untamed and wild, it offers a perfect setup for visitors with a variety of outdoor activities—hiking, biking, boating, birdwatching, ranger programs, and diving trips. Its warm waters and gentle waves attract aspiring surfers. To experience it all, stroll along the marked Eco Trail that showcases the area's rich wildlife.

5. Island of Hawai‘i

• Average temperature: 67°F
• Average hours of daylight: 12 hours

The Big Island stands out as the most geologically diverse and breathtaking of the Hawai‘ian islands, making it one of the warmest destinations to visit in March in the US.

The main attraction is certainly Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, home to its two active volcanoes. Dominating the park is the massive but dormant Mauna Loa. Below it lies Kīlauea, featuring its expansive steaming double crater that has been erupting lava continuously for 25 years. If hiking becomes too strenuous due to the heat, take a drive around the rim of the Kīlauea crater. The road winds down to the sea, leading you past the stunning Chain of Craters.

Back at sea level, sun-drenched beaches are ready to soak up the warmth into your bones. My top choice is Kua Bay on the Kona Coast, a stunning crescent of pristine white sand and azure waters that naturally attracts crowds. If it feels too busy for your liking, take a hike along the coastal trail to the nearby Kukio Beach.

6. Tampa, Florida

• Average temperature: 67°F
• Average hours of daylight: 12 hours

Tampa has always embraced its rough-around-the-edges charm, standing in contrast to glitzier neighbors like Orlando. Look beyond the surface, and you’ll discover a city enhancing its vacation offerings. With beautiful beaches and parks, plus some of Florida’s most enjoyable nightlife, you can relish daytime temperatures in the 70s throughout the year. 

Downtown features the revitalized Riverwalk that meanders along the Hillsborough River to the Garrison Channel. Spanning nearly three miles, this boardwalk is lined with parks, markets, attractions, bars, and restaurants, all set against striking contemporary architecture. Begin your visit at Heights Market, enjoy some people-watching at Curtis Hixon Park, and wrap up the day with drinks at Sparkman Wharf.

As night falls, the historic and cosmopolitan Ybor City comes alive with vibrant parties. Bars and clubs buzz, especially during Spring Break, while the aroma of freshly rolled cigars fills the air. 

Top beach vacations in March

For many, myself included, temperatures across much of the US might not yet call for a classic beach getaway in March. However, broaden your search and you’ll discover a stretch of golden sand waiting for you nearby. 

7. Saint Barthélemy

• Average temperature: 79°F
• Average hours of daylight: 12 hours

More commonly known as Saint Barts, this petite French island is a true gem in the sparkling Caribbean crown. With 20 miles of coastline, each of its 14 stunning beaches would be the highlight in almost any other destination. Here, however, they only seem to outshine one another. 

For the ultimate scene, look no further than Saint-Jean Beach, which includes a runway for easy access by private jet. Personally, I prefer the tranquility of Colombier Beach on the leeward coast and Saline Beach on the windward side. Both require a hike to reach, but that just means fewer crowds and more enchantment.

Settle in the charming capital, Gustavia. With its colonial architecture and superyacht-filled harbor, the blend of old and modern vibes coexist effortlessly. Historic sites like Fort Karl sit alongside upscale hotels and restaurants such as Bonito Saint Barth. It’s all quite delightful—especially from March 21st to 24th, when the St. Barths Bucket Regatta transforms the town into a vibrant celebration.

8. Mulegé, Mexico

• Average temperature: 62°F
• Average hours of daylight: 12 hours

During my first road trip down Baja’s Highway 1, the charming little town of Mulegé emerged as a welcoming refuge amid a lengthy, dusty drive. Nestled along the Gulf of California in a narrow arroyo of the Río Mulegé, its old-world charm embodies the unique allure of Baja.

Lush palm and mangrove forests create an oasis in the arid landscape. At the town's center, a collection of hotels encircles the historic town square. To the south, the 18th-century Misión Santa Rosalía de Mulegé stands tall, offering not only a great photo opportunity but also scenic views of Mulegé’s main attraction: the stunning beaches.

Make a beeline for Bahía Concepción, arguably the most breathtaking beach in Baja. It’s a pristine paradise, untouched by development and proudly showcasing its raw beauty. Scattered throughout its numerous bays are palapas in various conditions, providing shade from the sun. While there are camper parks with facilities, why would you need them when there's plenty of space to stretch out? I spent a whole week there. The closest airport is in Loreto, but this area truly calls for a road trip.

9. Cartagena, Colombia

• Average temperature: 82°F
• Average hours of daylight: 12 hours

Cartagena is a testament to the idea that you can indeed have it all—a city rich in history and culture, paired with stunning beaches straight out of a postcard. In March, the heat is on, with average temperatures in the mid-80s and the dry season offering long, sunlit days.

Once the powerful heart of the 16th-century Spanish Empire, the city boasts a wealth of historical treasures, from the formidable Castillo San Felipe de Barajas to the eerie Palacio de la Inquisición. The Old Town's streets are lined with vibrant casas that have been transformed into boutiques, bars, galleries, and cafés.

As the temperature rises, Cartagena’s beaches are just a stone's throw away. None is more accessible than the flashy Bocagrande, often dubbed the Miami Beach of Colombia. For a more laid-back vibe, head to Playa El Laguito in the Castillegrand neighborhood. From there, you can hop on a boat to the beautiful shores of Isla de la Tierra Bomba or venture further to Isa Barú, where the beaches are pristine and the crowds are thinner.

10. Placencia, Belize

• Average temperature: 79°F
• Average hours of daylight: 12 hours

A hidden gem for spring travelers, Placencia is located at the southern tip of a slender peninsula in Belize. Known as ‘the cay you can drive to,’ the 27-mile road connecting it to the mainland showcases its allure for tourists.

Once you arrive, the charm becomes evident. This vibrant blend of Belizean and Mayan cultures, enriched by Creole and Garifuna influences, transforms it into a beachside paradise. The food, art, and music capture this eclectic mix—mysterious, captivating, and utterly delicious.

Moreover, the nearby jungle is teeming with Mayan history and legends. Key attractions include Lubaantun, Nim Li Punit, and Xunantunich. While visiting, don’t miss the chance to spot jaguars at the world’s first jaguar sanctuary, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Birdwatchers will also delight in the 500-plus species that inhabit Placencia.

And let's not forget the beaches—expanses of pristine white sand, shimmering waters, and a marine environment designed for diving and snorkeling. The ultimate getaway for March.

Where can you find warmth and affordability in March?

As spring temperatures rise in the Northern Hemisphere, opportunities for a warm and budget-friendly vacation are quickly multiplying. Mexico continues to be a reliable choice, along with the quieter resorts further south in Belize, Guatemala, and throughout Central America. In fact, swift and affordable flights make most of South America easily accessible. Need assistance in narrowing down your options? Consider Dinogo Explore.

The criteria for selecting these destinations

These locations were selected based on a blend of data analysis and personal insights. The criteria for choosing these destinations include:

• Weather and sunshine hours: Weather information is sourced from a reliable third-party platform, Weatherbase, providing daily averages for temperature, daylight, and sun exposure.
• Firsthand knowledge: Our seasoned travel writers explore year-round, often pursuing sunny locales. To enrich Dinogo’s data with personal flair, writers are encouraged to feature destinations they’ve experienced themselves.
• A balance of short and long distances: To create a well-rounded list, we include both short-haul and long-haul options, ensuring there's something for everyone—whether you crave a tropical escape or a nearby sunny getaway.

If you can’t wait for March, there are numerous warm destinations to explore in February. Alternatively, consider mixing beach relaxation with festive celebrations, as spring festivals bloom worldwide, many of which I’ve detailed in the best places to visit in March.