10 US Cities to Visit in January 2026: The Ultimate Guide

Say goodbye to your snow shovel and hello to your sunscreen! If you’re dreaming of trading sleet for sunbeams, you’ve landed in the right spot. We’ve scoured the map to find the most fabulous warm US cities to visit in January, guaranteed to defrost your spirits and fill your camera roll with sunny selfies.

Think vibrant cities, desert hikes, and beachy bliss—all while the rest of the country is shivering. So, let’s dive into the ultimate sunny guide and find your perfect warm-weather fix. The coziest (and sunniest) vacation rentals for your escape are just a click away on CuddlyNest!

Ready to escape the cold? Find your perfect stay on CuddlyNest with code DISCCN15 for 15% off!

Your 2025 Guide to the 10 Best Warm Winter Cities

1. Key West, Florida – Your Sunny Slice of Paradise

Why It’s a January Jackpot:

Ditch the winter coat for good! Key West in January is a dreamy escape with average highs of a perfect 75°F (24°C). You’ll trade snow flurries for sandy toes in this funky, historic island town at the continent’s southernmost point. It’s the ultimate “no worries” vibe meets vibrant energy. 

The Vibe: Laid-back tropical meets quirky artistic charm. Think pastel-coloured houses, roosters strutting down the street, and epic sunset celebrations.

Don’t Miss:

• Chasing Sunsets at Mallory Square: Join the nightly festival with street performers and cheers as the sun dips below the horizon.
• Exploring Old Town: Get lost in the charming streets on a bike or golf cart, admiring the Conch-style architecture.
• Snorkelling at Fort Zachary Taylor: Pristine beaches and some of the best snorkeling right from the shore.
• A Day Trip to Dry Tortugas National Park: This remote, breathtaking fort and coral reef is an unforgettable adventure (book the ferry early!).
• The Local Eats: From key lime pie on a stick to fresh-caught seafood at a dockside shack.

Getting There & Around:

Fly directly into Key West International Airport (EYW) or into Miami (MIA) for the iconic drive down the Overseas Highway—a 113-mile journey over turquoise water that’s an attraction in itself. Once there, the island is best explored on two wheels; rent a bike or scooter!

Where to Crash:

Pro Tip: Your perfect Key West hideaway is waiting on CuddlyNest! From cozy conch cottages to breezy condos, you can find it all. Use code DISCCN15 for 15% off your sunny stay!

2. Miami & South Beach, Florida – Your Glamorous Winter Escape

Why It’s a January Jackpot:

While winter coats are the uniform up north, your biggest dilemma here will be choosing between the pool and the ocean. With average highs of 74°F (23°C) and endless sunny days, Miami is a sizzling antidote to the winter blues, blending tropical warmth with unstoppable energy.

The Vibe: A high-voltage mix of international glamour, artistic flair, and non-stop nightlife. It’s stylish, sexy, and always buzzing.

Don’t Miss:

• The Iconic Ocean Drive: Stroll or rollerblade past the legendary pastel-coloured Art Deco hotels—it’s the quintessential Miami experience.
• Wynwood’s Street Art: Get your camera ready in this transformed warehouse district, a sprawling open-air gallery of massive murals.
• Little Havana’s Culture: Sip a cafecito, watch the old-timers at Domino Park, and savor authentic Cuban flavours.
• Lincoln Road Mall: Shop, dine, and people-watch at this iconic pedestrian-only outdoor mall.
• Everglades Adventure: Escape the city for an airboat tour to see alligators and unique wildlife—just an hour away!

Getting There & Around:

Fly into Miami International Airport (MIA), a major hub with flights from everywhere. While rideshares and the MetroMover are great for South Beach and Downtown, renting a car is your best bet for exploring neighbourhoods like Coconut Grove or a trip to the Everglades.

Where to Crash:

3. Honolulu, Oahu – Your Aloha-Fueled Winter Escape

Why It’s a January Jackpot:

Trade your winter blues for flower leis! Honolulu in January is pure magic, with average highs of a perfect 78°F (26°C). This is the ultimate blend of world-class city energy and laid-back island life, all set against a backdrop of iconic peaks and turquoise waves.

The Vibe: A vibrant, welcoming mix of ancient Polynesian culture and modern buzz. It’s where you can hike a volcanic crater in the morning and savor a world-class meal in the evening.

Don’t Miss:

• Catch a Wave (or a View) in Waikiki: Learn to surf on the legendary gentle rollers or simply lounge on the famous golden sand.
• Hike Diamond Head: This iconic volcanic crater offers a moderate hike with postcard-perfect views of the coast.
• Pay Respects at Pearl Harbour: A profoundly moving and essential historical experience.
• Go Whale Watching: January is peak season for spotting majestic humpback whales breaching in the warm waters.
• Explore the North Shore: Watch pro surfers tackle massive waves at Banzai Pipeline and grab a bite from a famous shrimp truck.
• Immerse in History at Iolani Palace: The only official royal palace in the United States.

Getting There & Around:

You’ll fly into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). Once there, while Waikiki is very walkable, renting a car is highly recommended to truly explore the stunning and diverse landscapes of Oahu.

Where to Crash:

Pro Tip: Find your own slice of paradise, from beachfront condos to cozy jungle hideaways, on CuddlyNest. Use code DISCCN15 for 15% off and make your island dream a reality!

4. Phoenix & Scottsdale, Arizona – Your Sunny Desert Oasis

Why It’s a January Jackpot:

Welcome to the Valley of the Sun, where January feels like a perfect spring day with average highs of 68°F (20°C). This is your chance to trade gray skies for brilliant sunshine and explore the stunning Sonoran Desert landscape without a single drop of sweat. It’s an active, stylish, and sun-drenched escape.

The Vibe: A sophisticated blend of rugged outdoor adventure and chic resort luxury. Think world-class spas, vibrant art walks, and epic hikes all in the same day.

Don’t Miss:

• Hike Camelback Mountain or Piestewa Peak: For iconic, panoramic views of the entire valley (start early!).
• Get Lost in the Desert Botanical Garden: A mesmerising showcase of towering cacti and beautiful desert flora, especially magical at sunset.
• Explore Old Town Scottsdale: Discover Southwestern art galleries, unique boutiques, and bustling saloons.
• Relax Poolside at a World-Class Resort: This is a non-negotiable Phoenix experience—order a cocktail and soak in the mountain views.
• Drive the Scenic Apache Trail: A breathtaking journey through Superstition Mountain wilderness and past the stunning Canyon Lake.
• Indulge in a Celebrity-Worthy Spa Day: The resort spas here are legendary for a reason.

Getting There & Around:

Fly directly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), a major and easy-to-navigate hub. Renting a car is essential to make the most of your trip and explore the sprawling valley freely.

Where to Crash:

• For Ultimate Luxury: The Phoenician for its stunning pools and impeccable service.
• For Retro Chic: Hotel Valley Ho, a mid-century modern masterpiece with a vibrant pool scene.

Pro Tip: Discover stylish desert casitas and chic condo rentals on CuddlyNest for a unique stay. Use code DISCCN15 to get 15% off your perfect home base for exploring the sun-drenched Sonoran Desert!

5. San Diego, California – Your Sunny Coastal Playground

Why It’s a January Jackpot:

Welcome to “America’s Finest City,” where January feels like everyone else’s perfect June. With average highs of 67°F (19°C) and endless blue skies, San Diego is the ultimate winter win. It’s a vibrant, laid-back metropolis where beach life, urban exploration, and natural beauty collide.

The Vibe: Effortlessly cool and consistently comfortable. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure of surf culture, craft beer scenes, and world-class family fun, all powered by a perpetual “no worries” attitude.

Don’t Miss:

• Explore the Wonders of Balboa Park: Spend a day wandering its lush gardens, Spanish-Renaissance architecture, and fantastic museums (the Zoo is here too!).
• Catch a Wave or a Sunset in Pacific Beach: Soak up the quintessential SoCal vibe on the boardwalk.
• Go Whale Watching: January is prime time to see majestic gray whales on their annual migration right off the coast.
• Wander through Historic Gaslamp Quarter: Discover buzzing nightlife, rooftop bars, and incredible dining in this vibrant downtown district.
• Experience the Iconic Hotel del Coronado: Stroll the beachfront of this legendary Victorian hotel, a true landmark.
• Get Wild at the San Diego Zoo: Spend a day at one of the most famous and celebrated zoos in the world.

Getting There & Around:

Fly right into the convenient San Diego International Airport (SAN). While neighbourhoods like Downtown and the beaches are walkable and bike-friendly, having a car is the best way to explore everything from La Jolla’s coves to the cliffs of Torrey Pines.

Where to Crash:

• For Retro Cool: Urban Boutique Hotel for a stylish, mid-century boutique style stay.
• For Modern Beachfront: Tower23 Hotel for a sleek, surf-chic stay right on the sand.

6. Palm Springs, California – Your Chic Desert Escape

Why It’s a January Jackpot:

Step into a sun-drenched, mid-century modern dream! Palm Springs in January is pure perfection, with average highs in the low 70s°F (low 20s°C). It’s the ultimate destination for soaking up stylish vibes, lounging by a sparkling pool, and admiring breathtaking mountain views under a brilliant blue sky.

The Vibe: Effortlessly cool and retro-chic. Think Rat Pack glamour meets modern design, where relaxation is an art form and every detail is Instagram-worthy.

Don’t Miss:

• Live the Poolside Life: This is the #1 activity. Order a craft cocktail, grab a lounger, and soak in the iconic atmosphere.
• Take a Mid-Century Modern Architecture Tour: Spot the legendary homes from the street or on a guided tour to see the stunning “Desert Modernism” style.
• Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Ascend from the desert floor to a snowy wonderland in minutes for epic hiking and views.
• Explore Downtown Palm Springs: Shop boutiques, browse art galleries, and stroll down Palm Canyon Drive.
• Hike in Indian Canyons: Discover a stunning oasis of native fan palms and flowing streams just minutes from the city center.
• Stroll Through Moorten Botanical Garden: A unique “cactarium” and family-owned desert garden that feels like another planet.

Getting There & Around:

Fly directly into the convenient and sunny Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), or embark on a scenic two-hour drive from Los Angeles or San Diego. While downtown is walkable, having a car is recommended to explore the surrounding canyons and neighbourhoods at your own pace.

Where to Crash:

Pro Tip: Find your perfect mid-century gem or a private villa with a stunning pool on CuddlyNest. Use code DISCCN15 to unlock 15% off and live out your stylish desert fantasy!

7. South Padre Island, Texas – Your Low-Key Beach Escape

Why It’s a January Jackpot:

Discover Texas’s best-kept secret! South Padre Island offers a wonderfully mild winter escape with average highs around 68°F (20°C). This laid-back barrier island serves up miles of uncrowded, white-sand beaches and a charming, relaxed vibe that feels a world away from the busier Florida hotspots—often for a fraction of the price.

The Vibe: Unpretentious, friendly, and utterly relaxed. It’s a classic beach town where the main attractions are the sand, the sea, and a spectacular sunset.

Don’t Miss:

• Beachcombing and Dolphin Watching: Stroll the pristine shores and keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the waves.
• Visit Sea Turtle, Inc.: A must-see conservation center rehabilitating injured sea turtles and protecting nests.
• Climb the SPI Lighthouse: For panoramic views of the island and the Gulf of Mexico.
• Go Birding at the Birding and Nature Center: A world-class boardwalk through wetlands teeming with native and migratory birds.
• Enjoy the Laguna Madre: The calm bay side of the island is perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing.
• Stroll the SPI Pier: Soak up the local atmosphere and see what the anglers are catching.

Getting There & Around:

Fly into Valley International Airport (HRL) in Harlingen, which is the primary airport for the island, located about 45 minutes away. While rideshares are available, renting a car is your best bet for easy exploration and getting to and from the airport.

Where to Crash:

8. Austin, Texas – Weird, Warm & Wonderful

Why It’s a January Jackpot:

Forget the beach—embrace the vibe! Austin in January offers a refreshingly mild escape with average highs of 62°F (17°C), perfect for exploring outdoors without breaking a sweat. This city is a dynamic mix of live music, legendary food, and a famously “weird” culture that makes it one of the most unique warm US cities to visit in January.

The Vibe: Creatively charged and unapologetically quirky. It’s where tech innovation meets bohemian spirit, and the unofficial motto is “Keep Austin Weird.”

Don’t Miss:

• Catch Live Music on Sixth Street or Rainey Street: From dive bars to chic bungalows, hear why it’s the “Live Music Capital of the World.”
• Feast on Legendary BBQ: Join the line at Franklin Barbecue or try Terry Black’s for a life-changing brisket experience.
• Kayak or Paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake: Get stunning views of the downtown skyline from the water.
• See the Congress Avenue Bridge Bats: (Yes, really!) From March-October, it’s a spectacle, but in January, you can still learn about this unique urban colony.
• Explore the South Congress (SoCo) District: Shop for vintage finds, grab a photo with the “I Love You So Much” mural, and enjoy the quintessential Austin atmosphere.
• Hike or Bike the Barton Creek Greenbelt: A beautiful natural oasis right in the heart of the city.

Getting There & Around:

Fly directly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), which is modern and easy to navigate. The city is very spread out, so using rideshares is your best bet for getting between neighborhoods, though downtown itself is great for walking and scooters.

Where to Crash:

• For Music Lovers: Hotel Van Zandt for its live music venue and stylish, melodic theme.
• For Trendsetters: South Congress Hotel for the ultimate people-watching and prime location.

9. Charleston, South Carolina – Historic Charm & Coastal Comfort

Why It’s a January Jackpot:

Step into a living postcard! Charleston in January offers a refreshingly mild temperatures with average highs of 60°F (16°C)—perfect for strolling its historic streets without the summer heat and humidity. This city masterfully blends antebellum beauty, world-class dining, and Lowcountry coastal charm into an unforgettable warm winter vacation.

The Vibe: Elegant, historic, and effortlessly romantic. It’s a city of gas-lit streets, pastel-colored mansions, and a hospitality that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time (but with modern, award-winning restaurants).

Don’t Miss:

• Get Lost in the Historic District: Wander down cobblestone streets, admire the Rainbow Row houses, and explore the hidden gardens.
• Take a Boat to Fort Sumter: Stand where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, right in the middle of Charleston Harbor.
• Indulge in the Food Scene: From she-crab soup to legendary shrimp and grits, this is a true foodie destination.
• Stroll The Battery & White Point Garden: For iconic views of the harbor and stunning historic homes.
• Visit a Plantation: Explore the profound history and breathtaking beauty of Middleton Place or Boone Hall Plantation.
• Day Trip to a Barrier Island: Discover the beautiful beaches and relaxed vibe of nearby Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island.

Getting There & Around:

Fly into Charleston International Airport (CHS). The historic downtown is extremely walkable and a joy to explore on foot. For visiting plantations or beaches, a rental car or rideshare is necessary.

Where to Crash:

Pro Tip: Find your own historic-inspired retreat or a cozy apartment in the heart of the action on CuddlyNest. Use code DISCCN15 for 15% off and experience Southern hospitality at its finest!

10. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina – Your Serene Coastal Retreat

Why It’s a January Jackpot:

Embrace the art of relaxation! Hilton Head in January offers a peaceful escape with mild temperatures around 60°F (16°C), perfect for golfers, bikers, and beachcombers alike. This meticulously planned island is a sanctuary of lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and world-class resorts—all without the summer crowds.

The Vibe: Upscale yet unpretentious, active yet deeply relaxing. It’s a nature-filled paradise where you can be as busy or as blissfully idle as you want.

Don’t Miss:

• Tee Off on a Legendary Course: Play a round where the pros do at Harbour Town Golf Links or explore dozens of other top-tier courses.
• Climb the Harbour Town Lighthouse: For iconic, panoramic views of the Calibogue Sound and the famous 18th hole.
• Bike the Extensive Trails: Over 60 miles of paved paths wind through maritime forests and along the beaches—the island’s best way to explore.
• Explore the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge: A stunning, untouched habitat perfect for birdwatching and spotting alligators.
• Kayak Through the Salt Marshes: Paddle through the serene tidal creeks for a true Lowcountry experience.
• Stroll Coligny Beach Park: The island’s most popular beach access with charming swings, clean facilities, and wide, hard-packed sands.

Getting There & Around:

Fly into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), located about 45 minutes away. Renting a car is highly recommended for ease, but once on the island, exploring by bicycle is a pure joy.

Where to Crash:

Pro Tip: Find your perfect island getaway—from golf course villas to cozy beach condos—on CuddlyNest. Use code DISCCN15 for 15% off and book your serene Lowcountry escape today!

How to Choose Your Perfect January Escape

• For Non-Stop Fun & Nightlife: Miami is your undisputed winner.
• For the Best Beaches & Water Sports: Key West, Honolulu, and San Diego are top contenders.
• For a Relaxing, Resort-Focused Trip: Palm Springs, Phoenix, and Hilton Head are built for poolside lounging.
• For Hikers & Outdoor Adventurers: Phoenix, Honolulu, and Austin offer incredible desert and volcanic landscapes.
• For Foodies & Culture Lovers: Charleston, Austin, and New Orleans deliver unforgettable culinary and artistic scenes.
• For a Budget-Friendly Getaway: South Padre Island offers fantastic value, especially compared to Florida.
• For a Unique Blend of City & Nature: San Diego and Honolulu perfectly balance urban energy with stunning natural beauty.

Don’t Forget to Pack:

Even in warm destinations, winter days are shorter and nights can be cool.

• Layers are Key: Pack t-shirts and tanks, but also include a light jacket, sweater, and long pants for evenings.
• Sun Protection is a Must: Sunglasses, a hat, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential.
• Versatile Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes plus sandals or flip-flops.
• A Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in dry climates like Arizona.

FAQs For Warm US Cities to Visit in January 2025

1. Is it really warm enough to swim in these places in January?

In the Florida and Hawaii destinations, yes, absolutely! The ocean will be refreshing but swimmable. In the California and South Carolina spots, it’s often pleasant for a quick dip, but the water will be chilly—perfect for a wetsuit if you’re surfing.

2. Will I need to rent a car to get around?

It’s highly recommended for most cities. While places like Key West and South Beach are walkable, having a car is essential for exploring Phoenix, Oahu, and the wider San Diego area. For Austin and Charleston, you can manage with rideshares if you’re staying central.

3. Are there any major events or festivals in these cities during January?

Yes! January features the Palm Springs International Film Festival, the PGA Tour’s The Sentry in Hawaii (Maui, but worth noting), and various bowl games and marathon events in cities like San Diego and Miami. Always check the specific city’s calendar.

4. What’s the biggest mistake people make when visiting these warm cities in winter?

Underestimating the temperature drop at night! The desert (Phoenix, Palm Springs) and the Southeast (Charleston, Hilton Head) can get surprisingly cool after sunset, so packing layers is non-negotiable.

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