Where to Travel in February in the USA for Warm Weather

Escape the chill of winter this February by heading to warm-weather destinations across the US. From Hawaii's tropical beaches to Florida's sunny coastlines and desert landscapes of the Southwest, find out where to find temperatures in the 70s and 80s—all without breaking the bank or dealing with spring break crowds.

Key takeaways

Warmest and most tropical (Hawaii)

• Oahu: World-class surfing, Waikiki Beach, and urban energy in Honolulu with 80°F temperatures
• Maui: Luxury resorts, Road to Hana scenic drives, and peak humpback whale watching season
• Big Island: Active volcanoes at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park and diverse microclimates
• Kauai: Dramatic Nā Pali Coast cliffs and lush Waimea Canyon valleys

Warm beaches and theme parks (Florida and the Keys)

• Miami/South Beach: Art Deco architecture, vibrant nightlife, and the South Beach Wine & Food Festival (77°F)
• Florida Keys: Laidback island atmosphere, snorkeling at John Pennekamp, and Mallory Square sunsets (76°F)
• Orlando: Theme parks with comfortable 73°F weather and shorter lines than spring break
• Sanibel Island: World-class shelling, wildlife refuge, and 25 miles of bike paths (74°F)

Desert and Southwest sunshine (Arizona, California, Texas)

• Phoenix/Scottsdale, AZ: 200+ golf courses, Camelback Mountain hiking, and affordable accommodations (72°F)
• Palm Springs, CA: Mid-century modern architecture, aerial tramway, and proximity to Joshua Tree (74°F)
• Tucson, AZ: Saguaro National Park, desert hiking, and authentic Southwest culture (70°F)
• San Diego, CA: Gray whale watching, 70 miles of coastline, and family-friendly attractions (65°F)
• San Antonio, TX: Historic missions, River Walk, and authentic Tex-Mex cuisine

US Territories (No passport required)

• Puerto Rico: Old San Juan, El Yunque rainforest, and bioluminescent bays (82°F)
• US Virgin Islands: Pristine beaches, world-class snorkeling, and Virgin Islands National Park (82°F)

Top warm-weather destinations in the US for February

1. Miami, Florida

Miami comes alive in February with temperatures around 75°F. The city provides a perfect mix of gorgeous beaches and rich culture. South Beach has inviting shorelines perfect for soaking up the sun, while the Design District and Wynwood Walls showcase the art scene. Also, the South Beach Wine & Food Festival happens in February and draws food lovers from all over the country.

• Weather: 77°F average February temperature
• Top attractions: South Beach and Ocean Drive, Wynwood Walls street art district, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Little Havana cultural district, Art Deco Historic District
• Best for: Beach lovers, culture enthusiasts, foodies, nightlife seekers, urban explorers
• Average Going deal: $155 roundtrip

2. Florida Keys

The southernmost spot in the continental US stays warm with February temperatures from 73–77°F. The relaxed vibe of this island chain makes it perfect for water activities like snorkeling, fishing, and sailing. Key West's vibrant streets and the sunset celebrations at Mallory Square create lasting memories, while Marathon and Islamorada are ideal for wildlife encounters at a safe distance.

• Weather: 76°F average February temperature
• Top attractions: Mallory Square sunset celebration, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Dry Tortugas National Park, Bahia Honda State Park beaches
• Best for: Snorkelers, couples seeking relaxation, fishing enthusiasts, island hoppers, water sports lovers
• Average Going deal: $254 roundtrip

3. San Diego, California

San Diego's Mediterranean climate keeps things comfortable at about 66°F in February. You'll find stunning beaches along its 70-mile coastline, including Coronado and La Jolla Cove. The gray whale migration makes February a prime time for whale watching. Balboa Park and the world-famous San Diego Zoo are also great options if you need a break from the beach.

• Weather: 65°F average February temperature
• Top attractions: San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, Balboa Park museums, La Jolla Cove (whale watching), USS Midway Museum, Coronado Beach
• Best for: Families, whale watchers, culture seekers, beach walkers, outdoor enthusiasts
• Average Going deal: $174 roundtrip

4. Sanibel Island, Florida

Shell hunters love this paradise where February temperatures stay around 74°F. The island's unique east-west position creates perfect conditions for seashells to wash up on shore. You can cycle on 25 miles of dedicated bike paths or take a peek at some of J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge's 245 bird species.

• Weather: 74°F average February temperature
• Top attractions: J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Bowman's Beach (best for shelling), Sanibel Lighthouse, Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, 25 miles of bike paths
• Best for: Shell hunters, birdwatchers, families, cyclists, nature lovers
• Average Going deal: $146 roundtrip

5. Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix enjoys 70°F days in February with barely any rain. The city works great as a base for desert adventures. You can hike Camelback Mountain or visit the Desert Botanical Garden. Golfers also love Phoenix's 200+ courses during this peak season.

• Weather: 72°F average February temperature
• Top attractions: Camelback Mountain hiking, Desert Botanical Garden, Heard Museum (Native American art), Papago Park, 200+ golf courses
• Best for: Golfers, hikers, desert explorers, budget travelers, outdoor enthusiasts
• Average Going deal: $149 roundtrip

6. Tucson, Arizona

Tucson shares Phoenix's February temperatures but offers its own desert charm. Five mountain ranges and two sections of Saguaro National Park surround the city. Visitors can hike, bike, or ride horses through landscapes filled with iconic saguaro cacti. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum can also give you a peek into desert life.

• Weather: 70°F average February temperature
• Top attractions: Saguaro National Park (East and West), Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Mission San Xavier del Bac, Mount Lemmon scenic drive, Tucson Mountain Park
• Best for: Hikers, photographers, nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, cultural explorers
• Average Going deal: $145 roundtrip

7. Palm Springs, California

This desert gem stays around 74°F during February days. Palm Springs blends mid-century modern design with beautiful natural surroundings. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway takes you from desert to mountaintop in minutes, and Joshua Tree National Park sits just a short drive away. February also brings cultural events like Modernism Week that celebrates the area's unique architecture.

• Weather: 74°F average February temperature
• Top attractions: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Joshua Tree National Park (30 miles away), Indian Canyons hiking, Modernism Week events, downtown shopping and dining
• Best for: Architecture enthusiasts, couples, spa seekers, hikers, design lovers
• Average Going deal: $258 roundtrip

8. Hawaii (Oahu, Maui, Big Island, Kauai)

The Hawaiian islands offer the ultimate tropical escape in February with temperatures hovering around 80°F. Each island brings its own character—Oahu combines urban energy with world-class beaches, Maui delivers luxury resorts and the scenic Road to Hana, the Big Island showcases active volcanoes and diverse microclimates, and Kauai presents dramatic cliffs and lush valleys. February marks peak humpback whale watching season across all islands.

• Weather: 80°F average February temperature
• Top attractions: Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head (Oahu), Haleakalā and Road to Hana (Maui), Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park (Big Island), Nā Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon (Kauai), Humpback whale watching (all islands)
• Best for: Beach lovers, honeymooners, adventure seekers, snorkelers, volcano enthusiasts
• Average Going deal: $414 roundtrip

Related reading: How to get to Hawaii on points and miles

9. Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara combines Mediterranean charm with California coastal beauty, maintaining pleasant February temperatures around 66°F. The city's red-tile roofs and white stucco buildings create a Spanish colonial atmosphere. Visitors enjoy wine tasting in the nearby Santa Ynez Valley, exploring the historic mission, and strolling along Stearns Wharf. The American Riviera offers a more relaxed alternative to Southern California's busier beach towns.

• Weather: 66°F average February temperature 
• Top attractions: Santa Barbara Mission, Stearns Wharf, Santa Ynez Valley wine country, State Street shopping and dining, Butterfly Beach
• Best for: Wine enthusiasts, couples, culture seekers, relaxation travelers, foodies
• Average Going deal: $164 roundtrip

10. Orlando, Florida

Orlando shines in February with comfortable temperatures around 73°F and lower humidity than summer months. While famous for theme parks, the city offers much more, including natural springs, lakes, and cultural districts. February timing means shorter lines at attractions and pleasant weather for exploring parks from open to close, as the month falls perfectly between holiday crowds and the spring break rush.

• Weather: 73°F average February temperature
• Top attractions: Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, Kennedy Space Center, natural springs (Wekiwa, Blue Spring), ICON Park and entertainment district
• Best for: Families with children, theme park enthusiasts, budget travelers, nature lovers, multi-generational groups
• Average Going deal: $157 roundtrip

Related reading: Things to do in Orlando

Warm February destinations by traveler type

For families

Family-friendly destinations in February balance comfortable weather, engaging attractions, and practical amenities. The best spots offer activities for all ages without overwhelming young travelers. Theme parks operate at ideal capacity, beaches provide calm waters for children, and educational experiences make the trip memorable beyond sun-bathing.

Orlando, Florida: World-class theme parks including Walt Disney World® Resort and Universal Orlando Resort operate with shorter lines than spring break, while comfortable 73°F temperatures allow full days of exploration. Natural springs like Blue Spring also offer educational wildlife viewing beyond the parks.

San Diego, California: It’s famous zoo and Safari Park provide educational experiences for all ages, while 70 miles of beaches offer calm waters perfect for young swimmers. Balboa Park's museums also cater to diverse interests from science to art.

Sanibel Island, Florida: Safe, shallow beaches with world-class shell finding keep children engaged for hours, while 25 miles of flat bike paths are perfect for family cycling. J.N. "Ding" Darling Wildlife Refuge offers easy nature walks to spot dolphins, manatees, and over 245 bird species.

Related reading:

• Family vacation ideas for every age and travel style
• Best places to travel with kids
• Best places to travel with toddlers
• Family travel tips

For couples and romantic getaways

Romance thrives in February's warm destinations where couples can disconnect from daily routines. The best romantic spots combine natural beauty with intimate experiences—sunset celebrations, secluded beaches, and luxurious accommodations. These destinations offer the perfect backdrop for anniversaries, honeymoons, or simply creating connection away from winter's gloom.

Florida Keys: Sunset celebrations at Mallory Square create nightly entertainment, while secluded beaches on less-visited islands offer privacy. Intimate waterfront dining and luxurious beachfront resorts cater specifically to couples seeking relaxation.

Maui, Hawaii: The scenic Road to Hana provides a full-day adventure among waterfalls and coastal views, while luxury resorts in Wailea offer couples' spa treatments. Peak whale watching season adds a spectacular natural element to romantic beach walks.

Palm Springs, California: Mid-century modern boutique hotels cater to couples with private pools and mountain views, while the aerial tramway offers romantic mountaintop dining. The relaxed desert vibe and world-class spas create the perfect atmosphere for romance.

Related reading:

• Most romantic cities in the US
• Cheap honeymoon flights

For adventure seekers

Adventure enthusiasts find February perfect for outdoor pursuits in warm climates. Desert hiking becomes comfortable rather than dangerous, volcanic landscapes invite exploration, and unique ecosystems present opportunities unavailable in colder months. These destinations challenge travelers with spectacular terrain while providing the warm, dry conditions that make adventure truly enjoyable.

Tucson, Arizona: Five surrounding mountain ranges offer diverse hiking challenges, while Saguaro National Park's trails wind through forests of its namesake cacti. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum combines education with adventure, and horseback riding through desert landscapes provides a unique perspective.

Big Island, Hawaii: Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park lets visitors witness active lava flows and explore lava tubes, while diverse microclimates range from tropical beaches to volcanic deserts. Snorkeling with manta rays at night and hiking to remote waterfalls create unforgettable adventures.

Death Valley, California: Wildflower blooms transform desert hiking, while challenging trails like Golden Canyon and sand dunes provide otherworldly landscapes.

For budget travelers

Budget-conscious travelers can maximize value in February's warm destinations. These spots offer affordable accommodations, free or low-cost attractions, and reasonable dining options without sacrificing quality experiences. February's shoulder-season timing means deals on flights and hotels that make warm-weather escapes accessible to travelers watching their spend.

Phoenix, Arizona: 200+ golf courses, free hiking trails like Camelback Mountain, and the Desert Botanical Garden offer activities at every price point.

San Antonio, Texas: The River Walk, historic Alamo, and Spanish missions offer free or low-cost exploration, while authentic Tex-Mex cuisine provides exceptional value.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Shoulder-season rates make beachfront accommodations affordable, while 23 miles of beaches provide free entertainment. Water taxis offer inexpensive transportation, and the city's proximity to Miami allows day trips without Miami's premium prices.

Related reading:

• How to travel on budget
• Cheapest places to fly in the US every month
• Best budget airlines in the USA
• The 20 cheapest countries to visit

US territories with warm weather in February (No passport required)

Want to escape winter without passport hassles? US territories give you tropical warmth with all the perks of domestic travel. After years of February getaways, I've discovered these spots offer amazing value for Americans chasing the sun.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico serves up tropical warmth all year, making it perfect for a February escape. The island stays pleasant with temperatures from 70–85°F (21–29°C). These conditions create perfect days for hitting the beach or exploring. The water temperature sits at a comfortable 78°F (26°C), just right for swimming and water sports.

February ranks as one of Puerto Rico's busiest tourism months, and for good reason. You'll find amazing weather and rich cultural experiences. The humidity stays lower than summer months, and sunshine is reliable.

But the island offers more than just beaches. You can stroll through Old San Juan's colorful streets or explore El Yunque—the only tropical rainforest in the US National Forest System. Families will also love the Caribe Hilton with its multiple pools and dedicated children's area.

• Weather: 82°F average February temperature
• Top attractions: Old San Juan historic district, El Yunque National Forest, bioluminescent bays (Vieques, Fajardo), Culebra and Flamenco Beach, Camuy River Cave Park
• Best for: Culture seekers, beach lovers, families, adventure travelers, budget-conscious travelers
• Average Going deal: $264 roundtrip

US Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands welcome sun-seekers without requiring passports. February temperatures here consistently hit highs around 82°F (28°C), while nights stay comfortable around 70°F (21°C). These conditions set the stage for perfect daytime adventures and evening explorations.

February brings the driest weather to the US Virgin Islands. You'll see less than two inches of total rainfall throughout the month, meaning there should be plenty of sunny days during your trip for beach time.

• Weather: 82°F average February temperature
• Top attractions: Virgin Islands National Park (St. John), Magens Bay (St. Thomas), Buck Island Reef National Monument (St. Croix), Cruzan Rum Distillery
• Best for: Beach enthusiasts, snorkelers, divers, families, cruise passengers
• Average Going deal: $325 roundtrip

February weather comparison table

Why February is ideal for warm-weather travel in the US

February is a hidden gem in the travel calendar that sun-seekers shouldn't miss. My winters spent in warm-weather spots across America have taught me why this month gives exceptional value to travelers.

Off-season pricing and fewer crowds

February falls in the sweet spot between winter holidays and spring break, delivering exceptional value for warm-weather travelers. Because it’s shoulder season, hotels, car rentals, excursions, and even flights lower prices. Beyond the financial benefits, you'll enjoy peaceful experiences at popular attractions with fewer tourist crowds, and top restaurants that normally require weeks of advance booking often have same-day availability.

Reliable weather outside hurricane season

February's calendar placement brings stable weather patterns well outside the June–November hurricane season, keeping your travel plans generally safe from weather-related cancellations. This reliability proves especially valuable for coastal and tropical destinations where hurricane threats can disrupt travel during other months. You can book flights and accommodations with confidence, knowing severe weather disruptions are highly unlikely.

Unique winter events and festivals

Special seasonal experiences make February trips memorable beyond just escaping cold weather. Mardi Gras celebrations light up New Orleans and spread to warm coastal towns with vibrant parades, and the South Beach Wine & Food Festival gathers top chefs in Miami. Nature lovers can witness peak bird migrations at Florida's Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary through special guided walks, while the Sonoran Desert puts on an early wildflower show that creates stunning landscapes unavailable at other times of year.

Activities and experiences unique to February

February is a great time to experience unique seasonal activities in warm US destinations that you won't find once spring is in full swing. These special experiences make it worth planning a trip during February.

Festivals and events (Mardi Gras, South Beach Wine & Food Festival)

Warm regions of America come alive with amazing celebrations in February. Mardi Gras will conclude on February 17, 2026, though the fun starts as early as January 6. Nightly parades run in New Orleans from February 11–17, each with creative themes that showcase history, mythology, and pop culture. The festivities aren't just in Louisiana—Mobile, Alabama, proudly holds the title of America's oldest official Mardi Gras celebration since 1703.

Miami's prestigious South Beach Wine & Food Festival (February 19–22, 2026) celebrates its 25th year in 2026. This four-day food extravaganza packs in over 105 culinary events and brings together 500+ famous chefs. You can find tickets from $59 to exclusive $500+ experiences. Food enthusiasts should check out Mike's Amazing Burger Bash, which marks its 20th anniversary with more than 30 burger varieties.

Whale watching season (California, Hawaii)

The Pacific coastlines see peak whale watching conditions in February. Gray whales make the journey from Alaska to Baja California. Newport Beach becomes an ideal spot to see gray whales with their calves, humpback whales, fin whales, and the occasional minke whale.

Whale watching is better this time of year because of their location and they swim slower mid-migration, making them easier to spot from boats or the shore. The Pacific waters are calmer than early winter months, which means smoother boat rides with less seasickness. Hawaii also sees lots of humpback whale activity during February.

Desert hiking and outdoor exploration

February turns out to be the best time to explore the desert. Death Valley, Joshua Tree, and Arizona's Sonoran Desert have mild temperatures that are perfect for hiking—unlike summer when extreme heat makes outdoor activities risky.

Tucson visitors can enjoy sunny 70-degree days. The timing matches perfectly with early wildflower blooms throughout the desert. Joshua Tree National Park's 800+ wildflower species start their spring show, and wildlife becomes more active near the limited water sources.

Travel tips for February warm-weather trips

My years of chasing winter sunshine across the US have taught me some insider tricks to plan the perfect warm-weather escape in February. These practical tips will guide you, from scoring deals to smart packing.

How to find the best deals on flights and accommodations

The timing of your booking can make all the difference for February warm-weather getaways. But, when is the cheapest time to book flights? My golden rule is booking 1–3 months in advance for the best chances of catching domestic deals (2–8 months in advance for international deals). 

Packing essentials for warm-weather destinations

Your February getaway needs these essentials for maximum comfort:

• Sun protection trio: Sunglasses, hat, and reef-safe sunscreen (crucial if you plan to snorkel or swim in the ocean)
• Light layers: One long sleeve layer and bottoms below the knee for conservative areas or cool evenings
• Specialized gear: Waterproof pack for beach days and portable water bottle (with filter optional)
• Weather adaptability: Light rain jacket and face wipes for midday refresh

The quickest way to pack is by outfit rather than individual items—match each day's activities and expected weather to avoid overpacking.

Best booking windows for February travel

The optimal booking periods for February 2026 warm-weather trips vary by destination. Since February is largely an off season, booking 1–3 months ahead of time for domestic travel and 2–8 months ahead of time for international travel is your best bet. However, if you’re traveling somewhere that’s in its peak season (e.g., New Orleans during Mardi Gras), you should add a couple of months to each of those windows.

Weighing whether to travel in February in March? The best time to get a deal depends on the destination. Take a look at the best places to visit in March before committing to a time and place if you want to score the best price. 

Also, learn more about how to find cheap flights with our guide.

Find cheap flights to your February warm-weather escape with Going

February represents the perfect window for warm-weather travel in the US, offering sunshine, comfortable temperatures, and incredible value between winter holidays and spring break. Whether you're drawn to Florida's beaches, Hawaii's tropical paradise, Arizona's desert landscapes, or California's coastal charm, these destinations deliver the warmth you crave without the peak-season crowds and prices.

The key to maximizing your February escape is finding cheap flights to these sunny destinations. Going specializes in uncovering flight deals that make warm-weather getaways accessible to everyone. Our members save an average of $250 per roundtrip ticket on domestic flights and $550 per ticket on international flights by receiving our alerts about mistake fares, price drops, and limited-time offers to destinations like Miami, Phoenix, San Diego, and Honolulu. Don't let high airfare keep you from the sunshine. Join Going today, and turn your February warm-weather dreams into a reality.