January is the coldest month of the year for much of the United States. Wonderful warm places to visit in the USA in January provide a welcome escape from freezing temperatures and snowstorms.
From tropical island paradises to sunny desert oases, America offers myriad options for warm-weather vacations during the winter chill.
Warm Weather Destinations in the USA in January: Hawaii & Caribbean
St. Thomas, USVI
The United States Virgin Islands bask in pleasant temperatures year-round. Average highs in January reach the mid 80s Fahrenheit on St. Thomas with plenty of sunshine to enjoy gorgeous beaches.
Where to Stay on St. Thomas
There is no shortage of excellent resorts on St. Thomas. Top options include:
- Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas: Luxurious rooms and suites overlooking Great Bay plus fine dining options.
- Sugar Bay Resort & Spa: All-inclusive resort perfect for relaxation with 5 pools to enjoy.
- Bolongo Bay Beach Resort: Lively hotel offering water sports plus beachfront dining and bars.
Maui, HI
Wonderful warm places to visit in the USA in January don’t get better than Hawaii! Maui sees average highs in the 80s during January along with minimal rainfall.
Miles of stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and epic waterfalls await exploration in paradise.
Where to Stay on Maui
From budget to luxury, excellent places to stay on Maui include:
- Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort: Chic suites and villas featuring Polynesian flair overlooking the ocean.
- The Ritz-Carlton Maui: Elegant rooms and suites nestled along the white sands of fabled Ka’anapali Beach.
- Maui Seaside Hotel: Value hotel across from Kamaole Beach Park II offering gorgeous ocean views.
Warm Destinations in the USA in January: California
Catalina Island, CA
Catalina Island enjoys a balmy climate year-round, with temperatures in the 60s Fahrenheit being the January norm. Spend sunny days exploring Avalon’s shops and restaurants or hiking in the island’s nature preserves.
Where to Stay in Catalina
Great places to stay include:
- Aurora Hotel & Spa: Charming beachfront hotel featuring an on-site spa located near the center of Avalon.
- The Inn on Mt. Ada: Elegant former mansion offering luxurious accommodations with panoramic views from its hilltop perch.
- Hotel Vista Del Mar: Affordable hotel above downtown Avalon providing complimentary breakfast and gorgeous balcony views.
South Bay Los Angeles, CA
Wonderful warm places to visit in the USA in January can be found right in Los Angeles, where average January highs reach into the mid 60s.
Base yourself in beach towns like Manhattan Beach or Hermosa Beach to enjoy the area’s renowned strand with fewer summer crowds.
Where to Stay in the South Bay of Los Angeles
Great South Bay lodging options include:
- The Belamar Hotel: Stunning beachfront hotel featuring an outdoor pool deck located steps from the sand in Manhattan Beach.
- Beach House Hotel Hermosa Beach: Boutique luxury rooms only a 3-minute stroll to the beach, some with ocean views.
- Residence Inn Redondo Beach: Spacious suite-style rooms near the beach, many with full kitchens, at an affordable price.
San Diego, CA
Consistently pleasant weather makes San Diego one of the country’s top wonderful warm places to visit in the USA in January. Average temperatures reach into the mid-60s.
Spend sunny winter days immersed in Balboa Park’s museums and gardens before enjoying dazzling sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.
Where to Stay in San Diego
Top lodging picks include:
- Fairmont Grand Del Mar: Mediterranean-style luxury set amid 400 acres near Del Mar with a renowned spa and golf course.
- Hotel del Coronado: Legendary Victorian beach resort featuring elegant rooms and endless facilities across from Coronado Beach.
- The Lafayette Hotel: Charming 1920s hotel with a vintage vibe located downtown near attractions like the Gaslamp Quarter.
Palm Springs, CA
Nestled in the desert, Palm Springs boasts very warm, dry weather during January. Average highs exceed 70°F in the shade.
Spend days lounging poolside before exploring Palm Canyon Drive’s boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.
Where to Stay in Palm Springs
Outstanding places to stay include:
- The Ritz Carlton: Elegant property set at the base of the mountains offering a spa, pools, and access to two acclaimed golf courses.
- The Saguaro: Vibrant, Instagram-worthy hotel featuring colorful décor with pool parties and DJs to liven the social scene.
- Desert Riviera: Mid-century modern hotel near downtown featuring spacious suites along with outstanding dining options.
Warm Vacation Spots in the USA in January: Southwest
Sedona, AZ
With average high temperatures around 50°F and over 300 days of annual sunshine, Sedona makes an excellent warm-weather destination in January.
Go hiking among the area’s famed red rock formations and vortex sites or enjoy a restorative spa treatment.
Where to Stay in Sedona
Fabulous places to stay in Sedona include:
- L’Auberge de Sedona: Luxurious creekside cottages and lodge rooms located near Uptown Sedona, many with private hot tubs.
- Arabella Hotel Sedona: Contemporary hotel in the heart of Uptown providing access to galleries, shops, and restaurants.
- Southwestern Inn at Sedona: Affordable hotel offering comfortable accommodations with stunning red rock views.
Tucson, AZ
Boasting more than 300 days of sunshine per year, Tucson maintains warm winter weather—expect average highs around 65°F in January.
Get your fill of culture at attractions like the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and Mission San Xavier del Bac or hike in Saguaro National Park.
Where to Stay in Tucson
Outstanding lodging options include:
- JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa: Sprawling resort set amid the desert landscape with pools, a spa, golf, and panoramic mountain views.
- Hotel Congress: Funky historical hotel near downtown nightlife with a hip vibe and live music.
- Lodge on the Desert: Mid-century modern hotel featuring Southwestern-style rooms on six lushly landscaped acres.
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix sees warm winter weather, with average January high temperatures of around 67°F plus very minimal rainfall.
In between rounds of golf and exploring Desert Botanical Garden, check out cultural attractions like the Heard Museum and Phoenix Art Museum.
Where to Stay in Phoenix
Terrific places to stay include:
- Royal Palms Resort & Spa: Mediterranean-style resort offering romantic rooms amid lush, flowering courtyards near Camelback Mountain.
- The Camby: Art-focused boutique hotel featuring bold decor along with a rooftop pool deck overlooking the city.
- FOUND:re Hotel: Modern, design-conscious hotel with a youthful social scene located downtown near CityScape.
Las Vegas, NV
Las Vegas enjoys very mild, sunny winter weather ideal for tackling attractions along the Strip—average January highs hover around 58°F.
After the sun sets, enjoy one of the city’s famous glitzy performance shows or try your luck at the casinos.
Where to Stay in Las Vegas
Where you stay becomes part of the Vegas experience.
Awesome options include:
- The Venetian: Massive suites complement over-the-top Italian Renaissance theming, along with endless entertainment, dining, and shopping options on-site.
- Aria Resort & Casino: Contemporary luxury hotel featuring stylish amenities like fine art collections and acclaimed restaurants from renowned chefs.
- Golden Nugget: Landmark downtown hotel offering a classic old Vegas experience with a giant waterslide winding through the lobby.
Warm Places to Visit in the USA in January: Texas
Austin, TX
Austin’s enjoyable winter weather—expect average January highs around 61°F—makes it one of the most wonderful warm places to visit in the USA in January.
Between reveling along Sixth Street and touring the Texas State Capitol building, indulge in Austin’s storied live music and BBQ scenes.
Where to Stay in Austin
Fantastic Austin lodging options include:
- Hotel Van Zandt: Ultra-hip hotel along Rainey Street featuring live music, infinity-edge pools, and craft cocktails.
- Four Seasons Hotel Austin: Discover modern luxury along the lakefront complete with an award-winning spa and excellent dining options.
- The Driskill: Historic, passionate hotel occupying a gorgeous Romanesque Revival-style building downtown since 1886.
South Padre Island, TX
With the Gulf of Mexico moderating temperatures, South Padre Island sees average January high temperatures above 70°F.
Laze along Texas’ only tropical beach or try exciting activities like deep sea fishing, dolphin watching cruises, or eco-tours of Laguna Madre Nature Trail.
Where to Stay in South Padre
Marvelous lodging options include:
- Pearl South Padre: Modern beachfront resort offering massive guest rooms with private balconies mere steps from the sand and waves.
- Isla Grand Beach Resort: All-suite hotel overlooking the Gulf that’s perfect for families with amenities like a lazy river pool and mini golf course.
- Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island Beachfront: Reliable mid-range beach hotel providing direct beach access in a prime location.
Big Bend National Park, TX
Experience pleasant high desert winter weather averaging in the 60s in Big Bend while taking in the park’s awe-inspiring landscapes. Hike among the magnificent Santa Elena Canyon cliffs or navigate off-road 4×4 trails.
Where to Stay in Big Bend
While lodging inside the park is limited, quality options near the park include:
- Lajitas Golf Resort: Luxurious resort and spa surrounded by mountains on a sprawling 24,000-acre property near Terlingua.
- Desert Sportsman Lodge: Rustic mountain lodge and RV park in close proximity to the park featuring outfitters offering gear for desert adventures.
- Hotel El Capitan: Historic stone and adobe lodge built in 1944 providing Southwestern hospitality near the ghost town of Terlingua.
San Antonio, TX
Winter weather in San Antonio is pleasantly warm for exploring its myriad attractions—average highs hit the low 60s.
Meander along the River Walk, visit the legendary Alamo, or embark on a Tex-Mex food tour of vibrant San Antonio.
Where to Stay in San Antonio
Outstanding places to stay include:
- Hotel Emma: Luxury hotel in a former 19th century brewhouse with an eclectic art collection located along the River Walk near The Pearl.
- JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa: Lakeside resort featuring languid river rides along with world-class golf and dining among 600 acres of grounds.
- The St. Anthony Hotel: Historic downtown hotel within walking distance of the Alamo and the River Walk that has hosted celebrities and politicians throughout its elegant history.
Warm Weather Getaways in the USA in January: Southeast
New Orleans, LA
Winter weather hardly registers in balmy New Orleans. Expect average January highs around a comfortable 62°F.
Spend sunny days wandering the charming French Quarter and devouring Cajun cuisine before catching vibrant live jazz at iconic venues around town after dark.
Where to Stay in New Orleans
Fantastic places to experience NOLA hospitality include:
- The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans: Regal French Quarter hotel in a historic Beaux-Arts building featuring elegant rooms along with a spa and renowned brunch.
- Windsor Court Hotel: Stately uptown hotel near art galleries providing refined suites, a pool with city views, and afternoon tea service.
- Soniat House: Intimate French Quarter guest house composed of nine 18th century buildings encapsulating timeless Southern charm.
Savannah, GA
Lovely Southern hospitality meets magnificent antebellum architecture in Savannah, which sees average temperatures reach into the 50s during January—quite balmy for Georgia winters!
Explore charming urban squares and fascinating historic homes before indulging in Lowcountry cuisine.
Where to Stay in Savannah
Surround yourself with Southern opulence by staying at locations like:
- The Alida Savannah: Trendsetting riverfront hotel blending contemporary and classical aesthetic located in the hip Savannah Historic Arts District.
- Perry Lane Hotel: Luxurious rooms and suites bring guests modern comfort in a landmark building while maintaining Southern grandeur.
- Kehoe House: Historic mansion built in 1892 that’s on the Historic Register providing 13 one-of-a-kind rooms brimming with ambiance.
Charleston, SC
Charleston charms visitors with its horse-drawn carriages, lush private gardens, rainbow-hued antebellum architecture, and cobblestone streets. Average January highs reach into the upper 50s.
Where to Stay in Charleston
Immerse yourself in Charleston’s inimitable atmosphere by staying at accommodations like:
- Belmond Charleston Place: Iconic hotel reflecting Charleston’s elegance with club-level rooms providing access to the exclusive Club Level Lounge.
- The Spectator Hotel: Historic early 20th century hotel reimagined to evoke 1920s style complete with lavish rooms featuring soaking tubs and rainfall showers.
- The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina: Spacious condo-style accommodations overlooking Charleston Harbor, some with full kitchens and waterfront balconies.
Warm January Destinations in the USA: Florida
Orlando, FL
Orlando sees picture-perfect warm weather in January to enjoy its world-famous amusement parks—expect highs around 73°F.
Go on exciting rides at Walt Disney World or Universal Studios in between indulging in decadent brunches at Disney’s signature restaurants like California Grill.
Where to Stay in Orlando, FL
Make the most of Orlando’s amenities by staying at these fantastic hotels:
- Four Seasons Resort Orlando: Luxurious rooms in an elegant resort near Disney Parks featuring a spa, 5 pools, golf, and diverse dining options.
- Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort: Colorful, budget-friendly hotel ideal for families with easy theme park access via convenient walking paths.
- Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate: Sprawling resort nestled among thousands of acres with two PGA Championship golf courses plus 10 pools.
Anna Maria Island, FL
Ringed by pristine white-sand beaches, Anna Maria Island boasts wonderful winter weather with average January highs in the 70s.
Spend hours reading on the beach, embark on leisurely sunset strolls, and feast on superlative Florida seafood.
Where to Stay in Anna Maria Island
Idyllic places to stay include:
- Sandaway Waterfront Suites & Residence: All-suites hotel directly on Holmes Beach offering full kitchens and private screened-in porches to enjoy ocean breezes.
- Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club: Stunning beachfront location providing amenities like a spa, beach cabanas, umbrella service, bike rentals, and more.
- Tropic Isle Beach Resorts: Charming Old Florida-style rooms and beach houses nestled amid lush tropical landscaping mere steps from the Gulf.
Naples, FL
Naples stakes its claim as a winter haven with average January high temperatures touching the upper 70s.
Play acclaimed golf courses or explore spectacular nature by kayaking through the Everglades before enjoying sophisticated dining and arts after dark.
Where to Stay in Naples
Outstanding places to enjoy Naples in style include:
- The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort Naples: Posh rooms amid 36 holes of Greg Norman-designed fairways plus a lavish spa and six tennis courts.
- Edgewater Beach Hotel: Recently updated stylish high-rise hotel directly on the beach offering full kitchens in all suites.
- The Inn on Fifth: Prime location in downtown’s entertainment hub along chic Fifth Avenue South with a rooftop terrace and bar.
Clearwater, FL
Clearwater Beach lures visitors with its sparkling Gulf coastline during balmy winters—expect average high temperatures around 72°F in January.
Days spent lounging along America’s #1 beach get even better when capped off with epic sunsets celebrated nightly at Pier 60.
Where to Stay in Clearwater Beach
Soak up the beachfront views at these wonderful hotels:
- Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach: Sleek contemporary high-rise hotel featuring a rooftop pool deck and bar overlooking the beach and Pier 60.
- Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa: Recently built resort nestled along a tranquil lagoon providing direct access to the powdery white sands of Clearwater Beach.
- Pier House 60 Marina Hotel: Prime harborfront location with a popular open-air rooftop restaurant renowned for unparalleled sunset views.
Cedar Key, FL
On a collection of islands off Florida’s Gulf coast, Cedar Key charms visitors seeking warm refuge from winter. Average January temperatures reach into the 60s.
Kayak through salty estuaries, discover fantastic seashells along unspoiled beaches, or explore area nature preserves teeming with diverse wildlife.
Where to Stay in Cedar Key
Outstanding places to stay include:
- Island Hotel Cedar Key: Historic waterfront hotel built in 1860 featuring antique-filled rooms along with a new marina, spa, and excellent on-site dining.
- Dockside Inn: Quaint bed and breakfast nestled in downtown along the harbor offering complimentary afternoon cocktail hours.
- Faraway Inn: Charming Victorian house providing sumptuous daily breakfasts as well as sunset views overlooking the Gulf from its private veranda.
Key West, FL
Key West enjoys tropical weather year-round. Average highs in January linger around 75°F surrounded by dazzlingly blue waters.
Soak up the funky, free-spirited ambiance along Duval Street, admire pastel-hued Victorian architecture, or relax at an authentic tiki bar.
Where to Stay in Key West
Make the most of island life by staying at these amazing hotels:
- Santa Maria Suites Resort: Sophisticated one-bedroom suites with full kitchens located in historic Old Town overlooking the Gulf.
- 24 North Hotel: Contemporary hotel stunningly set on the Atlantic Ocean side of the island offering balconies to enjoy ocean views and breezes.
- Orchid Key Inn: Intimate waterfront bed and breakfast nestled downtown providing gourmet breakfasts daily.
Key Largo, FL
As the first major island within the Florida Keys, Key Largo maintains tropical balmy weather in January with average highs in the mid-70s.
Snorkel or dive the fascinating coral reefs at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, go sport fishing around the Gulf Stream waters, or simply relax beside the world’s third largest barrier reef.
Where to Stay in Key Largo
Outstanding places to stay include:
- Baker’s Cay Resort: Spacious rooms and suites at this luxe waterfront resort feature amenities like marina access, ocean-view balconies, and on-site dining options.
- Ocean Pointe Suites: Two-bedroom apartments offering private screened porches with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico only 45 minutes from Miami.
- The Islander Resort: Lively waterfront resort featuring a gigantic freeform pool along with oceanfront rooms mere steps from dining and nightlife.
Everglades National Park, FL
Visitors find pleasant winter weather averaging around 75°F in Everglades National Park. Take to the water by kayak or canoe to discover exotic wildlife like alligators, manatees, and tropical birds around this unique River of Grass wilderness sanctuary.
Where to Stay in Everglades National Park
Immerse yourself in untamed wilderness beauty by staying at these exceptional lodges near the park:
- Ivey House Bed & Breakfast: Elegant bed and breakfast situated on a 28-acre wilderness sanctuary near the park providing raised boardwalk trails for wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Everglades Rod & Gun Club: Historic 6-cottage hideaway open since 1864 featuring a lush tropical setting, rocking chairs on porches, and incredible homemade breakfasts.
- Pelican Cove Resort & Marina: Waterfront suites offer screened lanais overlooking Florida Bay where boats depart daily for backcountry tours to secluded mangrove islands.
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