17 Warm Destinations for January

Escape the Winter Blues: Palm Springs to Phuket and Beyond

January’s initial excitement can quickly fade as winter sets in. The allure of snow angels diminishes, and even the most comforting hot cocoa pales in comparison to a piña colada enjoyed on a tropical beach. The plummeting temperatures often inspire dreams of warmer climates.

Fortunately, January presents an ideal time for travel. Post-holiday travel rates often decrease, making it a budget-friendly time to explore sunny destinations. The best option depends on your priorities. Lee Thompson, co-founder of Flash Pack, suggests the Serengeti for an unforgettable warm-weather experience. Becky Blaine, Newsletter Editor at The Points Guy, recommends exploring airfare deals to Hawaii, a region benefiting from increased tourism following the Maui fires. For a blend of warm weather, convenient direct flights, beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious food, consider Curaçao. This Caribbean gem offers a unique experience, particularly with a stay at the adults-only Kura Botanica boutique hotel, housed within a UNESCO World Heritage building. Check flight options here.

If you’re seeking a winter escape, here are 17 warm destinations perfect for a January trip.

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1. Cartagena, Colombia

• Average January Temperature: 88°F
• Ideal For: Bachelorette parties, romantic getaways
• Accommodation Suggestions: House with Rooftop Pool (sleeps 8, from $255/night); Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena (inquire for rates); Sophia Hotel (from $161/night)

Cartagena offers a captivating escape. January provides ideal tropical temperatures with minimal humidity and rainfall. Explore this picturesque port city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant churches. Sample local delicacies such as palettas (refreshing fruit snacks) and pescado frito (fried fish with plantains and coconut rice). For pristine beaches, consider a day trip to the Islas del Rosario.

2. Aruba

• Average January Temperature: 86°F
• Ideal For: Travelers from JFK/Newark, water sports enthusiasts, beach lovers
• Accommodation Suggestions: Dalia’s Paradise Home (sleeps 4, from $699/night); The Ritz-Carlton Aruba (from $699/night); Courtyard by Marriott Aruba Resort (from $316/night)

Aruba, known as the “One happy island,” attracts many repeat visitors, particularly during winter. Its consistently warm weather, abundant sunshine, and cooling trade winds provide a welcome contrast to many US climates. Direct flights from JFK and Newark make it easily accessible. Beyond its beaches, Aruba offers numerous water activities such as windsurfing, jet skiing, snorkeling, catamaran cruises, and scuba diving. Explore shipwrecks like the Antilla, Debbie II, and Jane, or even two submerged planes forming an artificial reef. Travel writer Dan Koday recommends renting an ATV to explore the island and Arikok National Park. Don’t miss trying pastechis (local empanadas).

3. Palm Springs, California

• Average January Temperature: 71°F
• Ideal For: Domestic travelers, architecture enthusiasts, those seeking mild weather
• Accommodation Suggestions: Guest House (sleeps 2, from $359/night); Sands Hotel & Spa (inquire for rates); Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs (from $635/night)

Palm Springs offers perfect January weather with sunny skies and temperatures in the low 70s. This desert oasis is renowned for its mid-century modern architecture and Hollywood history. Choose from various stylish hotels, or consider renting a house in the neighborhood where Elvis and Priscilla Presley honeymooned. Enjoy swimming, spa treatments, vintage shopping, and day trips to Joshua Tree National Park. A walking tour exploring the Rat Pack’s haunts is also recommended.

8 Warm-Weather Destinations for Your January Getaway

This article explores eight destinations perfect for a warm-weather escape in January, offering diverse experiences for various travel styles.

4. Cancun, Mexico

• Average January Temperature: 82°F (28°C)
• Ideal For: Easy international travel, resorts, families, couples, and group trips.
• Accommodation Suggestions: Zen & Cozy Condo (sleeps 3, from $106/night), Beachfront Condo (sleeps 4, from $200/night), Garza Blanca Cancun (from $419/night).

Cancun offers a vibrant mix of activities catering to diverse interests. From lively nightlife attracting college students and bachelorette parties to luxurious resorts perfect for honeymoons and family vacations, there’s something for everyone. Garza Blanca Cancun, for instance, provides a surprisingly family-friendly yet luxurious experience. Beyond resorts, visitors can enjoy Playa Delfines beach, explore the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, and partake in whale shark snorkeling tours offered by Ocean Tours. Foodies can indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine at restaurants like El Rinconcito de Puebla and Los Caporales, both highly praised by TripAdvisor reviewers.

5. Chiang Mai, Thailand

• Average January Temperature: 85°F (29°C)
• Ideal For: Solo travelers, couples, cultural immersion, and sightseeing.
• Accommodation Suggestions: Treehouse (sleeps 4, from $271/night), Hern’s Artistic Studio (sleeps 2, from $90/night), Quiet Cottage (sleeps 2, from $96/night), Na Nirand Romantic Hotel (from $110/night).

Chiang Mai, known as the “Rose of the North,” offers a compelling alternative to Thailand’s popular islands. Its relaxed atmosphere and rich Lanna Kingdom heritage attract many visitors. The city boasts numerous ornate Buddhist temples, including the impressive Wat Phra Singh. Surrounding lush rainforests, mountains, and elephant sanctuaries further enhance its appeal. Chiang Mai’s slightly cooler climate compared to Bangkok allows for extended sightseeing without excessive heat.

6. Curaçao

• Average January Temperature: 86°F (30°C)
• Ideal For: Direct flights, solo travelers, couples, cultural and culinary experiences, water activities, and beach relaxation.
• Accommodation Suggestions: Villa atop a Hill (sleeps 6, from $275/night), Kura Botanica (from $229/night), Avila Beach Hotel (from $199/night), Zoëtry Curaçao Resort & Spa (from $624/night).

Curaçao presents a less-crowded Caribbean alternative, boasting beautiful beaches, delicious local cuisine (including goat barbecue, fried conch, and Antillean ice cream), and various activities like ATV riding and boat trips to the Blue Room cave. Its unique cultural identity, less Americanized than other Caribbean destinations, provides a more authentic experience. The addition of direct Delta flights in winter 2024 further enhances its accessibility.

7. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

• Average January Temperature: Highs in the 80s°F (mid-20s°C), lows in the low 70s to upper 50s°F (low 20s to mid-teens°C).
• Ideal For: Big Five safaris, international travel, and bucket-list adventures.
• Accommodation Suggestions: Four Seasons Safari Lodge (inquire for rates), Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge (from $392/night), Seronera Wildlife Lodge (from $441/night).

The Serengeti National Park, a World Heritage Site, offers an unparalleled wildlife viewing experience, especially during the dry season in January when the great wildebeest migration provides spectacular viewing opportunities. The park boasts an abundance of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo). Despite its remote location, various accommodation options cater to different budgets and preferences.

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8. Campeche, Mexico

• Average January Temperature: 82°F (28°C)
• Ideal For: Cultural immersion, families, couples, and budget-friendly travel.
• Accommodation Suggestions: Casa Boutique Onelia (sleeps 6, from $147/night), Tiny Home (sleeps 4, from $103/night), Hacienda Campeche (from $321/night).

Campeche, a less-visited gem on the Yucatan Peninsula, boasts a charming historic center with cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and impressive fortresses. Its UNESCO-listed walled city and waterfront promenade offer a tranquil escape. January’s mild weather makes it ideal for exploring its rich heritage, embarking on cultural tours, and discovering historical artifacts at sites like Edzna.

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Warm-Weather Destinations for January Escapes

This article highlights several ideal destinations for a January getaway, escaping colder climates for sunnier shores. Each location offers unique experiences and caters to various preferences.

9. Phuket, Thailand

• Average January Temperature: 88°F (31°C)
• Ideal For: Backpackers, families, couples, beach lovers, budget travelers.
• Accommodation Options: A range of options exists, from budget-friendly hostels like myPatong Social Hostel (starting at $82/night) to luxurious villas like Hebe Haven (from $556/night, sleeps 8) and Kathu Villa (from $226/night, sleeps 2), and upscale resorts such as the Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa (from $869/night).

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, offers a diverse tourism experience. From pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife to cultural attractions like Buddhist temples and exceptional diving opportunities, there’s something for everyone. Despite its popularity, affordable options remain available, particularly outside peak season.

10. Big Island, Hawaii

• Average January Temperature: 81°F (27°C)
• Ideal For: Budget-conscious travelers seeking airfare deals, outdoor enthusiasts, families, couples, resort vacations.
• Accommodation Options: Variety of options including budget-friendly stays like Pele’s Eye Tiny Home (from $97/night, sleeps 2) and Hawaiian Treehouse (from $259/night, sleeps 2), along with upscale resorts such as the Fairmont Orchid (from $920/night).

Hawaii’s Big Island provides an unparalleled blend of adventure and relaxation. Its diverse landscape features hiking trails, waterfalls, volcanic formations, and stunning beaches with unique sand colors (e.g., green sand at Papakolea Beach, black sand at Punaluʻu Beach). Visitors can explore Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, swim with manta rays, and enjoy Kona coffee tours. While January falls within the rainy season, it also brings lush greenery, blooming flowers, and less humidity. Airfare and accommodation prices may fluctuate, with potential savings mid-month.

11. Costa Rica

• Average January Temperature: 86°F (30°C)
• Ideal For: Culture enthusiasts, resort vacations, couples, eco-tourism, wildlife viewing, beach relaxation.
• Accommodation Options: Ranging from eco-lodges like Maquenque Eco-Lodge (from $205/night) to private rentals such as Jaguar Chalet (from $350/night, sleeps 3), Beachfront Bungalow (from $950/night, sleeps 4), and Treetop Hideaway (from $181/night, sleeps 2).

Costa Rica offers a vibrant blend of culture, nature, and relaxation during January, falling within the dry season. Expect fewer crowds and ideal weather for exploring wildlife reserves such as Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, Hacienda Barú National Wildlife Refuge, and Curi Cancha Wildlife Refuge. Numerous beautiful beaches along both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts provide ample opportunities for relaxation.

12. Cape Verde, Africa

• Average January Temperature: 74°F (23°C)
• Ideal For: Travelers seeking moderate temperatures, adventure activities, solo trips, group travel, beach relaxation.
• Accommodation Options: Options include budget-friendly lodges like Nature Lodge (from $143/night, sleeps 2) and all-inclusive resorts like Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria (from $170/night).

Cape Verde offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation with pleasant January temperatures. Activities include ziplining with Zipline Cabo Verde and exploring the island via 4WD buggy tours. The mild weather makes outdoor exploration enjoyable throughout the day.

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13. Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

• Average January Temperature: 84°F (29°C)
• Ideal For: Beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, families, couples, culture seekers, foodies.
• Accommodation Options: Luxury cottages (from $745/night, sleeps 4) and high-end resorts like The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman (from $1179/night).

Grand Cayman offers a classic Caribbean experience. Its calm waters, coral reefs, and Seven Mile Beach are major draws. Activities include snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing. George Town offers cultural attractions such as a colonial fort and the Cayman Islands National Museum. The Cayman Cookout, a renowned culinary event, takes place in mid-January (dates vary).

14. Bahamas

• Average January Temperature: 79°F (26°C)
• Ideal For: Beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, families, couples, groups, culture seekers, foodies.
• Accommodation Options: Upscale resorts such as Goldwyn Resort & Residences (from $924/night) and Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau (from $541/night).

The Bahamas provide idyllic weather for January getaways. Cable Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing and water sports. Cultural attractions include the Pirates of Nassau Museum and the downtown Nassau area. Paradise Island’s Atlantis Resort offers a large water park and marine exhibits (day passes may be costly). For a more laid-back day, Blue Lagoon Island provides calmer beach time and dolphin encounters.

Warm-Weather Destinations for Your January Getaway

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15. Phoenix, Arizona

• Average January Temperature: 68°F (20°C)
• Ideal For: Nature enthusiasts, spa-goers, golfers, road-trippers.
• Accommodation Suggestions: Royal Palms Resort and Spa (from $416/night); Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort (from $163/night); Home with Pontoon Boat (sleeps 9; from $391/night).

Phoenix offers a fantastic base for exploring the Sonoran Desert or embarking on a road trip to Palm Springs. Even staying within the city provides ample opportunities. Enjoy hiking Camelback Mountain or exploring the Desert Botanical Garden without the summer heat. Beyond the outdoors, Phoenix boasts a vibrant arts scene with festivals and public art installations. Luxury spas and golf resorts cater to those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Day trips to nearby Sedona and Scottsdale provide additional scenic and wellness options.

16. Sydney, Australia

• Average January Temperature: 79°F (26°C)
• Ideal For: Beach lovers, swimmers, surfers, brunch enthusiasts, and culture vultures.
• Accommodation Suggestions: Surry Hills Apartment (sleeps 2; from $189/night); Apartment in The Rock (sleeps 4; from $444/night); The Darling (from $393/night).

Sydney, often compared to Los Angeles, seamlessly blends beach and city life. Enjoy swimming in ocean pools along the Bondi-to-Coogee coastal walk. The iconic Sydney Opera House is a must-see, offering performances throughout the year. Sydney’s vibrant brunch scene is legendary, making it a perfect destination for food lovers.

17. Orlando, Florida

• Average January Temperature: 70°F (21°C)
• Ideal For: Families, theme park enthusiasts, Disney fans.
• Accommodation Suggestions: Hyatt Regency Orlando (from $223/night); Hilton Grand Vacation Clubs Tuscany Village Orlando (from $152/night); Villa in Four Corners (sleeps 13; from $158/night).

Orlando, home to Walt Disney World, offers a fantastic January escape. Visiting during this period allows you to avoid the large crowds experienced during peak holiday seasons like Christmas and Spring Break, often resulting in lower prices. Families can also enjoy the various other attractions and amenities the city has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the warmest place in the U.S. in January?

Hawaii and Puerto Rico consistently offer the warmest temperatures in January. On the mainland, the Sun Belt region, encompassing Southern California to North Carolina (including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and San Antonio), provides ample warm-weather options. However, many of these locations experience extended high seasons into January due to increased tourist demand, potentially affecting airfare prices.

What is the most affordable warm place to visit in January?

Clearwater, Florida, with average highs in the low 70s to low 80s (21-27°C), offers budget-friendly options. Big Bend National Park in Texas, with temperatures averaging around the 70s (21°C), also presents a cost-effective choice, particularly with camping or glamping. Internationally, all-inclusive resorts in destinations like Punta Cana or Puerto Vallarta often feature competitive deals.

What is the most family-friendly warm place to visit in January?

Orlando’s family-centric design makes it an ideal destination for families in January. Accommodations such as Airbnbs with private pools and game rooms enhance the family experience beyond the theme parks.

So, there you have it – seventeen sun-drenched escapes to banish those January blues. Whether you crave vibrant culture, pristine beaches, or thrilling adventures, there’s a perfect warm-weather haven waiting for you. Start planning your escape today and trade in those winter coats for swimwear!