Summer got out of dodge quick and fall is now in full swing. As the leaves begin to fall and the cold creeps in, everyone is feeling the relief of everything slowing down and getting back to routine. But some places get a little too cold and many travelers are seeking out warm weather destinations to visit this winter.
Whether you’re looking to stay domestic or go abroad, there are warm places to visit all year long. Here’s a list of some of our favorite warm weather destinations to check out as the days get shorter and the temperatures drop.
1. Turks & Caicos
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A picture-perfect archipelago, the Turks & Caicos Islands is considered the best-kept secret of the Caribbean. It’s made up of 40 small islands surrounded by turquoise waters and white sand. Travelers can’t get enough of the beaches located here. So TCI is a great choice if you’re trying to escape the cold and snow. There’s a ton to do here from scuba diving and snorkeling to shopping and fine dining. When it comes to accommodations, the new, luxury Rock House is a new 46-villa property with in-room spa treatments, secluded beaches, and breathtaking views of the island.
2. Palms Spring, California
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Californians know that Palm Springs is a desert oasis worth visiting any time of the year. But travelers in other places may not be as privy to the lush offerings this destination has to offer. Palm Springs has a thriving culinary scene and an abundance of boutique hotels to choose from. While you’re visiting, be sure to ride the Aerial Tramway. The 11-minute ride gives you an incredible view of the city below from 500 feet in the air. Travelers suggest staying at the L’Horizon hotel when in Palm Springs and enjoying the hotel’s golden-era Hollywood vibes.
3. Hawaii
Hawaii is breathtaking year-round. The state is warm and welcoming with palm trees galore. All of the islands here are wonderful so do some research to see which one meets your winter travel needs. Kauai is said to be an underrated beauty and there’s plenty to see on the island including waterfalls, state parks, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Hawaii can get a bit of rain during the winter months so keep that in mind when visiting in the upcoming months.
4. Seychelles
A thousand miles from the African coast, Seychelles is the fantasy winter destination you’ve been dreaming of. The archipelago gets warm weather year-round and attracts visitors from all over the world. Like Hawaii, these islands also get a substantial amount of rain during the winter. However, the humidity doesn’t make the temperature skyrocket and it’s still a worthy destination for wintertime travel.
5. The Maldives
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One traveler said there is no bad time to go to the Maldives. Another little group of islands, this destination offers sandy shores, clear skies, and warm weather throughout the year. The best time to visit the Maldives is during British winter, which runs from October 30 to March 26. The Maldives has a few amazing hotels however Gili Lankanfushi and Patina Maldives seem to be traveler faves.
6. Key West, Florida
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Located at the southernmost point of the Continental US, Key West is a warm weather destination with something for the entire family. Temperatures in December are about 75 degrees so there won’t be any snowflakes falling during your stay. Water sports will still be happening throughout the winter and people gather each evening at Mallory Square to watch the sunset. If you’re looking for the best restaurants and bars, head down to Duval Street.
7. Cabo San Lucas
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Cabo is bursting with excursions, restaurants, and enchanting spaces that keep US tourists visiting every year. The wintertime is no exception and many travelers choose Cabo San Lucas as their cold weather destination. The city has a variety of exotic hotels and resorts including the super intimate and sexy Esperanza Resort. There are plenty of beaches here and thrilling excursions like ATV riding and zip lining are always accessible. The authentic Mexican cuisine in Cabo is incredible so add the city to your travel bucket list for this winter.
8. Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
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Tenerife is Spain’s largest Canary Island and it’s equally as beautiful as all the rest. There are 42 miles of beaches stretching around the island and beach lounging is one of the top things to do here. Two of the best beaches in Tenerife are Alcala and Los Gigantes Beaches. When you’re not beach bumming it up, you can explore the volcanic, lava-filled landscape of Teide National Park.
9. Dubai
A favorite destination for millennial travelers, Dubai offers endless sunshine all year long. If you visit this UAE country, expect to receive extraordinary service and hospitality. For non-stop beach access, make sure you stay along the Palm. A man-made shore full of stellar hotels, you’re sure to find amazing accommodations here. Dubai has great shopping boutiques down but if you’re looking for some old-world magic, be sure to visit the Old Souk. Dubai Design District and Al Quoz are two art districts making waves on the international scene set up just for the artsy, creative traveler.
10. Bali
Bali is heaven on earth and many travelers visit the country during the winter to escape the cold. The entire aesthetic of Bali is contemporary and clean. Some people consider it a home away from home and journey here every year. Bali is full of tropical foliage, lush pools, and boho beach destinations. Another warm weather getaway to add to the list, this Indonesian island is the place dreams are made of.