Looking to escape winter and visit someplace hot and sunny this January? You don’t have to leave the United States to enjoy great weather. Here are the best warm places to visit in the USA in January.
January is one of the best times to travel in the US as prices are lower and people are back in school and work after the holiday season.
Best Warm Places to Visit in January in the USA
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Kauai, Hawaii
Weather in January: Average Temperature: 72°F; Average High: 78°F; Average Low: 67°F
The beautiful island of Kauai is known as the “The Garden Isle” due to its lush green landscapes.
Don’t miss Nā Pali Coast, one of most beautiful places in the US. One of the best ways to see it is on a helicopter tour.
Other things to do in Kauai include finding hidden beaches, hiking all or part of the Kalalau Trail, seeing waterfalls and visiting Waimea Canyon (known as the Hawaii’s version of the Grand Canyon).
Key West, Florida
Weather in January: Average Temperature: 69°F; Average High: 74°F; Average Low: 64°F
Key West is located in a tropical climate and is known for being the southernmost city in the continental United States. Whether it’s bar hopping, foodie spots, sightseeing, or enjoying the great outdoors, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the “Conch Republic”. Check out our detailed 3 day in Key West itinerary for the best things to do, what to eat, where to stay and more.
Although Key West has its own airport, it is located only about 160 miles from Miami so you can rent a car, take a bus or day tour and visit both places on a week long vacation.
St. Augustine, Florida
Weather in January: Average Temperature: 58°F; Average High: 68°F; Average Low: 47°F
St. Augustine is the oldest continually inhabited city in the United States. Although this charming city is not as warm as South Florida, St. Augustine has a warm pleasant climate in January.
January is one of the best times to visit as you can see its historic district light up with millions of holiday lights. The Annual Nights of Lights runs through January 26, 2025. You can see the lights by trolley tour, electric cart or on a pirate ship tour.
Other must do activities include taking a harbor cruise during sunset and visiting the Old Jail Museum. You can find 3 day weekend in St. Augustine itinerary here for more things to do.
Maui, Hawaii
Weather in January: Average Temperature: 69°F; Average High: 79°F; Average Low: 59°F
Maui is known as the ‘valley isle’ and is the second largest Hawaiian island. Known for its stunning coastline, world class resorts and next level surf, Maui is where adventure meets luxury. Although Maui is warm year round, January is one of the best times to visit as it is during peak season for whale watching.
More incredible things to do in Maui include driving the road to Hana (one of the best road trips in the USA), seeing the sunrise over Haleakala and snorkeling Molokini.
Check out this 5 day Maui itinerary for the best things to do, where to eat, where to stay and other essential travel tips written by a local.
Big Island, Hawaii
Weather in January: Average Temperature: 75°F; Average High: 80°F; Average Low: 69°F
Hawaii’s Big Island offers diverse landscapes and warm temperatures in January. Witness the power of nature at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can explore lava fields and steam vents. Relax on black sand beaches at Punalu’u or snorkel in the clear waters of Kealakekua Bay. Don’t miss a stargazing session at Mauna Kea’s summit, one of the best observatories in the world. Although the Big Island is warm year round, January is one of the best times to visit as it is during peak season for whale watching.
Check out this Big Island itinerary for the best things to do, where to eat, where to stay.
Miami, Florida
Weather in January: Average Temperature: 68°F; Average High: 76°F; Average Low: 60°F
Miami has a tropical climate and is one of the hottest major cities in the US. In addition to its beaches, Miami is known for its trendy nightlife, great food scene, art galleries, street art and luxury hotels. Must see attractions include Miami Beach, Wynwood Walls and the Little Havana neighborhood. You can find a 48 hours in Miami itinerary here.
January is one of the best months to visit for warm weather without the crowds found during spring break, Art Basel or the holidays.
If you want to escape the city, take a day trip to the Everglades to see wildlife including alligators and manatees.
Palm Springs, California
Weather in January: Average Temperature: 58 °F; Average High 69°F; Average Low: 46°F
Situated in the desert, Palm Springs is a popular getaway for many celebrities many of which have homes in the area. The popular resort city is known for its sunny weather, natural hot springs, restaurants, shopping and its many golf courses, spas, and resorts.
San Diego, California
Weather in January: Average Temperature: 60°F; Average High: 69°F; Average Low: 51°F
With its temperate climate and miles of coastline, San Diego is an ideal place to visit any time of year. San Diego is packed with tourist attractions from theme parks to beaches.
Must see places in San Diego include: Balboa Park (America’s largest cultural park which is home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo and many gardens and museums), the USS Midway Museum, Old Town, the Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy. Outdoor lovers will enjoy surfing, hiking, whale watching and more.
No trip to San Diego would be complete without spending some time at the beach. Just outside San Diego, La Jolla is the quintessential laid-back California beach town and a playground for surfers, beach bums, volleyball players, and all others who enjoy the endless southern California sun. La Jolla Cove is an excellent spot for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding and kayaking.
San Antonio, Texas
Weather in January: Average Temperature: 51°F; Average High: 62°F; Average Low: 40°F
San Antonio is known for its rich history and romantic atmosphere. Explore the Alamo, stroll along the scenic River Walk and savor authentic Texan barbecue.
Tucson, Arizona
Weather in January: Average Temperature: 53°F; Average High: 66°F; Average Low: 40°F
Tucson’s mild January temperatures make it a great destination for outdoor experiences. Must see attractions include Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and the Pima Air and Space Museum. Foodies will love Tucson’s UNESCO-recognized gastronomy scene, with authentic Southwestern and Mexican cuisine. Saguaro National Park is located in the middle of the city) is a great spot for hiking.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Weather in January: Average Temperature: 54°F; Average High: 63°F; Average Low: 44°F
Known as the “Big Easy,” New Orleans is famous for its nightlife, music scene and its Creole and Cajun cuisine.
January is a great month to visit for Mardi Gras events before it gets too crowded. January 6, 2025 marks the official start to the Mardi Gras season, with the Krewe of Joan of Arc and The Société Des Champs Elysée parades.
Some must do activities in New Orleans include visiting the French Quarter, trying a beignet and enjoying a bowl of piping hot gumbo. Nature lovers can join bayou swamp day tour. You can find more things to do in New Orleans in January here.
Looking for more destinations to visit in the USA in January? You might enjoy our USA travel bucket lists:
