Best Winter Vacation Destinations in the United States & Mexico

It goes without saying that this year hasn't been the best when it comes to exploring new places. Even for those of us who are willing and able to travel, our options are still limited - especially internationally.

As we head into the winter months, you may be deciding whether to travel for the holidays or not. If so, our guide below is a good starting point:

Read: 2020 Holiday travel guide: How to celebrate safely

Keep in mind that the CDC has advised Americans not to travel for Thanksgiving, and that some states - including traditionally festive destinations like New York City - remain off-limits to visitors due to Covid-19 quarantine restrictions. 

KlookTip: If you do decide to travel and you're taking a flight, don’t forget to book an airport transfer for enhanced safety to and from the airport. You can also get 5% off hotel stays when you book through Klook.

The good news is that there are plenty of stunning winter destinations in the US for you to consider when it's safe to travel again. Whether you’re looking for warmer weather or picturesque snowy scenes, there’s no need to crave a European getaway.

Check out seven of our favorite winter escapes below.

Sedona is a season-agnostic option for hikes, spiritual energy and outstanding natural beauty. Given its location in northern Arizona, this desert town stays warmer in the winter months, and cooler than neighboring Phoenix and Las Vegas during the peak of summer. A crisp 60 degrees is what you'll get in Sedona during the winter days.

We recommend making the most of the red rocks and blue skies by taking a daytime hike to the famous Devil’s Bridge while the crowds are smaller than in summer months.

 👉 Sedona activities

Klook Recommends:

With its semi-tropical, Polynesian climate, Hawaii is another destination that stays pretty warm year-round. The ‘winter’ months may be a little cooler with temperatures falling into the 50s at night, but during the day Hawaii weather is characteristically warm and humid. Note: you can expect frequent showers ...and beautiful rainbows! 

While visiting, think about taking a Circle Island Tour Oahu to see the famous landmarks like Dole Plantation or relax with a Sunset Cruise Waikiki for amazing ocean views. If you like underwater adventures, try a Kona Snorkeling Tour to see colorful fish and sea creatures around Hawaii's beautiful coral reefs.

Hawaii has implemented a robust testing system for out-of-town tourists during Covid-19, so make sure you familiarize yourself with the guidelines before you book.

Read: Hawaii Reopening Guide: What You Need to Know

We can’t promise sunny weather in Portland during winter (snow is rare, but rain is likely), but what we can guarantee is eccentric charm and natural beauty.

Portland is known for its eco-friendliness and has plenty of recreational spots including parks, bridges and cycle-paths, so there’s plenty of things to do that are both budget friendly and allow for social-distancing.

We recommend road-tripping down Oregon's scenic coast: this 363-mile stretch is filled with spectacular landscapes, and stormy weather makes for stunning coastal views. Plan to stop by Ecola State Park (one of the filming locations in the Twilight movies, FYI) which is located on the shoreline itself.  

👉 Portland Activities

If you’re not fussed about Mardi Gras - or you’ve already ticked that box - visiting NOLA off-season is a great way to experience this city without the crowds. Plus, you can save money on hotel rates by visiting in winter, too.

We recommend booking a guided tour to learn all about the French, African and American origins influences of the Big Easy and how the candy-colored architecture and vibrant nightlife came to be hallmarks of this city.  

👉 New Orleans Activities

Klook recommends: 

The arrival of winter in Las Vegas, means more manageable temperatures, which makes exploring the desert just that little bit more comfortable! Aside from the bright lights and delights of The Strip, LV is a great destination if you want to plan some epic hikes. 

Read: Best Outdoor and Family Activities Near Las Vegas

👉 Las Vegas activities

For the sun worshippers amongst us who aren’t willing to let go of summer just yet (/ ever), Florida is an obvious but solid choice for a winter break - especially with the crowds gone and hurricane season over.

In fact, the winter climate in FL is the mildest you’ll find in mainland USA. So, whether you fancy water-based activities, such as kayaking and snorkeling in Key West, visiting the theme parks and space museums in Orlando with smaller crowds, or soaking up Miami’s culinary scene, there’s plenty of choices for you to warm up to kick the winter blues.

👉 All Florida activities

OK we know this isn't in the US but we couldn't help but include Mexico on our winter destination list.

International travel is (mostly) still off the cards in 2020/21 due to border closures and Covid restrictions, but Mexico is one of the few destinations open to Americans (as long as you're arriving by air). At time of writing, Mexico doesn’t ask for a negative Covid test or require visitors to quarantine on arrival. 

Bordering the Caribbean sea and home to world-famous Mayan ruins, Cancún is an alluring destination for history and relaxation alike. Even though the crowds may be heavier with fellow winter-sun seekers, it’ll be 100% worth it to be able to crack out your sandals and shorts in the winter months.

👉 Mexico activities

Don’t forget: Covid-19 pandemic is still here. We recommend consulting with your doctor before you travel, and if you do choose to fly or drive between states, make sure you mask up and practice social distancing at all times. 

For enhanced safety traveling to and from the airport, book a Klook airport transfer.

You can find 100,000s more winter activities at great prices on Klook.com.

Don’t forget - if you refer a friend to Klook, you’ll both get $10 off your first booking. Here’s how it works.