As the chill of winter takes hold in many parts of the United States, the allure of warm destinations becomes increasingly irresistible. December, with its festive spirit and holiday break, offers the perfect opportunity to escape the cold and explore some of the warmer locales across the country.
From the sun-drenched beaches of Florida to the scenic deserts of Arizona, here’s a guide to some of the best warm places to visit in December in the USA.
1. Miami, Florida
Miami is a vibrant city known for its lively culture, pristine beaches, and bustling nightlife. In December, the city hosts numerous art events and offers warm weather perfect for outdoor activities.
- How to go: Miami is easily accessible via Miami International Airport, which offers numerous domestic and international flights. Major highways also connect the city to the rest of Florida and the U.S.
- Things to do: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife, explore Art Basel for contemporary artworks, relax on South Beach, or shop in the Design District.
- Weather conditions: Expect warm and pleasant weather with average highs around 77°F (25°C), making it perfect for enjoying outdoor activities.
2. San Diego, California
With its mild climate, San Diego is ideal for visiting famous attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park. The city’s extensive beaches also make it a great spot for water sports and sunbathing.
- How to go: Fly into San Diego International Airport or drive in from major Californian cities via Interstate 5.
- Things to do: Visit the San Diego Zoo, explore Balboa Park, or spend a day at Coronado Beach.
- Weather conditions: Mild temperatures with averages around 65°F (18°C). It’s usually sunny, making it ideal for touring and beach activities.
3. Key West, Florida
This island city is the southernmost point of the continental USA, known for its laid-back atmosphere, historic sites, and spectacular sunsets. Water sports, fishing, and beautiful beaches are key attractions.
- How to go: Accessible by flying into Key West International Airport or driving down the scenic Overseas Highway from Miami.
- Things to do: Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, enjoy snorkeling, or experience the sunset celebration at Mallory Square.
- Weather conditions: Warm with average highs around 76°F (24°C), perfect for enjoying the island’s outdoor cafes and water activities.
4. Phoenix, Arizona
The capital of Arizona offers a desert escape with plenty of sun and warm weather. Attractions include the Desert Botanical Garden and hiking trails that showcase the region’s unique flora and fauna.
- How to go: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport serves as a major hub, or you can drive via Interstate 10.
- Things to do: Hike in the Desert Botanical Garden, visit the Phoenix Art Museum, or take a hot air balloon ride over the desert.
- Weather conditions: Generally mild with daytime temperatures around 68°F (20°C), cooler in the evenings.
5. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is famous for its entertainment industry, shopping, and beaches. December in LA is cooler than summer but still pleasant enough for visiting outdoor attractions like Griffith Park and Venice Beach.
- How to go: Fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or drive on several major freeways that crisscross the metro area.
- Things to do: Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame, explore the Getty Center, and enjoy shopping on Rodeo Drive.
- Weather conditions: Mild to warm with average temperatures around 68°F (20°C), occasionally cooler in the evenings.
6. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans Known for its rich history, vibrant music scene, and unique cuisine, New Orleans is a cultural hub. December features mild weather and festive events, making it a lively time to visit.
- How to go: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport serves the city, or drive via Interstate 10.
- Things to do: Explore the French Quarter, enjoy live jazz music, and don’t miss tasting the local Creole cuisine.
- Weather conditions: Mild with average highs around 64°F (18°C), ideal for exploring the city on foot.
7. Honolulu, Hawaii
Hawaii’s capital offers tropical landscapes, beautiful beaches, and a variety of cultural experiences. December is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and the city’s vibrant nightlife.
- How to go: Honolulu International Airport is the main gateway to Hawaii.
- Things to do: Visit Pearl Harbor, relax on Waikiki Beach, or hike up Diamond Head for stunning views.
- Weather conditions: Tropical climate with average highs around 80°F (27°C), perfect for beach activities and sightseeing.
8. Austin, Texas
Austin Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” Austin offers a dynamic cultural scene. The city’s outdoor spaces and mild winter weather make it a perfect December getaway.
- How to go: Fly into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport or drive via Interstate 35.
- Things to do: Enjoy live music, visit the Texas State Capitol, and stroll through the Zilker Botanical Garden.
- Weather conditions: Mild with average temperatures around 62°F (17°C), suitable for outdoor music events and festivals.
9. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is famed for its well-preserved architecture, rich history, and southern charm. The mild December weather is ideal for exploring the city’s historic districts and local markets.
- How to go: Accessible by flying into Charleston International Airport or driving on Interstate 26.
- Things to do: Explore historic plantations, take a carriage ride through the old city, and enjoy southern cuisine.
- Weather conditions: Mild with average highs around 60°F (16°C), comfortable for walking tours and outdoor dining.
10. Savannah, Georgia
With its historic parks, antebellum architecture, and oak-lined streets, Savannah is quintessentially Southern. The city’s pleasant December weather makes it a great time to enjoy outdoor cafes and riverfront walks.
- How to go: Fly into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport or drive via Interstate 95.
- Things to do: Walk around Savannah’s historic district, visit the Bonaventure Cemetery, or enjoy a riverboat cruise.
- Weather conditions: Generally mild with temperatures around 63°F (17°C), ideal for exploring the city’s parks and historical sites.
11. Palm Springs, California
This desert oasis is known for its hot springs, stylish hotels, and mid-century modern architecture. Its warm, sunny days are perfect for exploring the outdoors and the vibrant art scene.
- How to go: Fly into Palm Springs International Airport or drive from Los Angeles via Interstate 10.
- Things to do: Tour mid-century modern homes, visit the Palm Springs Art Museum, and take a tram ride up to Mount San Jacinto.
- Weather conditions: Warm with average highs around 70°F (21°C), perfect for golfing and poolside relaxation.
12. Orlando, Florida
Best known for its theme parks, Orlando is a hub of entertainment and magical experiences. The weather in December is cooler and less humid, ideal for visiting Disney World and Universal Studios.
- How to go: Orlando International Airport serves as the primary entry point, with major highways providing access by road.
- Things to do: Visit Walt Disney World, and Universal Studios, and explore Orlando’s numerous water parks.
- Weather conditions: Mild to warm with average highs around 74°F (23°C), great for enjoying theme parks and outdoor attractions.
13. Tucson, Arizona
This city offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Its desert landscape is ideal for outdoor activities, and the mild winter weather makes December a pleasant time to visit.
- How to go: Tucson International Airport is the main airport, with easy road access via Interstate 10.
- Things to do: Explore Saguaro National Park, visit the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, or learn about the area’s history at Mission San Xavier del Bac.
- Weather conditions: Generally mild with average temperatures around 65°F (18°C), ideal for hiking and outdoor explorations.
14. Naples, Florida
Known for its high-end shopping, dining, and white sandy beaches, Naples is a luxurious escape in southern Florida. The warm December weather is perfect for golfing and beach activities.
- How to go: Fly into Southwest Florida International Airport, then drive or take a shuttle to Naples.
- Things to do: Enjoy the white sand beaches, visit the Naples Zoo, and explore the local art galleries.
- Weather conditions: Warm and sunny with average highs around 77°F (25°C), perfect for beach and water activities.
15. San Antonio, Texas
Famous for the Alamo and its River Walk, San Antonio is rich in history and culture. The festive decorations and mild weather in December enhance its charm.
- How to go: San Antonio International Airport is centrally located, with Interstate 10 providing road access.
- Things to do: Visit the Alamo, stroll along the River Walk, especially beautiful during the holiday light displays, and explore the city’s missions.
- Weather conditions: Mild with average temperatures around 64°F (18°C), comfortable for sightseeing and exploring the outdoor markets.
16. Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Often known as the “Venice of America” due to its expansive canal system, the city is great for boating and exploring the beaches. December weather is warm, ideal for outdoor activities.
- How to go: Fly into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, or drive from Miami along Interstate 95.
- Things to do: Visit the beaches, explore the Museum of Discovery and Science, and take a boat tour of the canals.
- Weather conditions: Warm with average highs around 76°F (24°C), ideal for enjoying the ocean and outdoor activities.
17. Corpus Christi, Texas
Corpus Christi, a coastal city in Texas is known for its beautiful beaches and maritime activities. Mild temperatures in December make it a great place for bird-watching and visiting the Texas State Aquarium.
- How to go: Corpus Christi International Airport serves the city, with access also available via U.S. Highway 77.
- Things to do: Explore the Texas State Aquarium, relax on the Gulf beaches, or visit the USS Lexington.
- Weather conditions: Mild with average temperatures around 65°F (18°C), great for beach days and coastal drives.
18. St. Petersburg, Florida
St. Pete offers a vibrant arts scene, beautiful parks, and access to some of Florida’s best beaches. December’s warm weather is perfect for exploring the city’s museums and outdoor spaces.
- How to go: Fly into Tampa International Airport and drive across the bay to St. Petersburg, or directly into St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport.
- Things to do: Visit the Salvador Dali Museum, stroll through the Sunken Gardens, or relax on the beautiful Gulf beaches.
- Weather conditions: Warm with average highs around 72°F (22°C), perfect for museum visits and beach activities.
19. Las Vegas, Nevada
While known for its vibrant nightlife and casinos, Las Vegas also offers unique desert landscapes and luxury shopping. The cooler but still mild December weather is ideal for exploring the city and surrounding areas.
- How to go: Fly directly into McCarran International Airport or drive via Interstate 15.
- Things to do: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife, see a show, or explore nearby natural attractions like Red Rock Canyon.
- Weather conditions: Generally mild with cooler nights, average daytime highs around 58°F (14°C), suitable for daytime explorations and evening entertainments.
20. Sarasota, Florida
This city is known for its vibrant arts community, stunning beaches, and botanical gardens. The warm December weather is perfect for enjoying the outdoors and the city’s cultural offerings.
- How to go: Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport provides easy access, with Interstate 75 nearby for road travelers.
- Things to do: Visit the Ringling Museum of Art, enjoy the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, or relax on Siesta Key Beach.
- Weather conditions: Pleasantly warm with average highs around 73°F (23°C), ideal for enjoying the arts and the outdoors.
Conclusion
Choosing a warm place to visit in December can transform the winter blues into a memorable end-of-year adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the beaches, the deserts, or vibrant cityscapes, these destinations offer a delightful escape from the cold with a dose of seasonal cheer.
