A trip to a beautiful and welcoming destination refreshes the senses and revitalizes the spirit. According to a study conducted in 2022, over two-thirds of travelers are more interested in taking vacations with their families than in having romantic getaways. Therefore, it is very likely that many parents are starting to plan their next winter holiday. And nothing lifts the mood more than a few days with the family in pleasant weather during a long and dismal winter season. The good news is that you may take a break from the icy weather, however brief it may be.
Many places in the United States maintain pleasant temperatures throughout the year, making them ideal for a winter getaway with the family. So if you’re looking to get away from the cold during winter, here is a list of warm, family-friendly destinations in the United States.
1. Palm Springs, California
There’s something special about visiting Palm Springs in the winter. Palm Springs welcomes winter vacationers with pleasant temperatures, brilliant sunshine, and clear blue skies. Most visitors seek to take advantage of the fantastic weather and participate in outdoor activities that are only available during the warmer months elsewhere. If you and your kids enjoy camping near Palm Springs, you can find Joshua Tree and Lake Cahuilla, offering a plethora of exciting campgrounds, horseback riding, fishing, hiking, and parks.
Make sure to include a visit to the famed Robo Lights Sculpture Garden in your family trip itinerary. This magical wonderland blends art, science fiction, sculpture, and a magnificent light display during the holidays.
But when the kids still crave the snow, go to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway since there’s a high chance you’ll find it atop the San Jacinto Mountains. Plus, you can enjoy the ski lodge atmosphere at the top, complete with hot coffee or a steaming bowl of clam chowder.
2. Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, are some of the most beautiful expanses of powdered white sand in the United States, and they remain warm, dry, and sunny even in the winter months. You may sunbathe, parasail, fish, go on a tour to see dolphins, or kayak in the company of sea turtles, manatees, and even alligators during your winter vacation here.
Gulf State Park is a fantastic place to take the family on a hike, with its nine distinct ecosystems accessible via the park’s 28 miles of concrete roads and boardwalks. You may walk, jog, or ride your bike on most of these paths. The stunning and unique landscape of the Alabama Gulf Coast will surely wow you. If you happen to be in the area around Christmas, you should check out the Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade and LuLu’s NOON Year’s Eve.
3. San Diego, California
The most fantastic time to visit San Diego is during the winter because of the beautiful scenery, moderate weather, and fewer crowds. With an annual average temperature of 72 degrees, this spot is the ideal outdoor playground for families. In addition, there are several beachfront accommodations to choose from, making it easy to take advantage of the coast’s many recreational opportunities.
A bike ride down the Mission Bay Bike Path in the cold months of the year is a great way to get the whole family out into the fresh air and take in some of San Diego’s most stunning ocean vistas. In addition, the 20,000 gray whales that migrate from Alaska to the waters off Baja, Mexico, every year make the area a prime spot for whale-watching enthusiasts. Finally, to top off your trip, throughout the winter months, you may surf or enjoy other water sports on the reef-exposed waves at Pacific Beach Point, making it a prime destination for novice surfers.
4. Scottsdale, Arizona
Many travelers come to Scottsdale for golf getaways and other activities such as spas, museum tours, shopping, and fine cuisine. However, families will also discover various kid-friendly activities and events here.
The Sing-Along & Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa at the Farmer’s Market are two great winter activities for families. In addition, you can visit the Desert Botanical Garden’s trails which are illuminated by thousands of hand-lit luminarias and dazzling white lights.
A visit to Taliesin West, the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter house, is a unique attraction that both parents and kids will enjoy. It is open seven days a week and offers self-directed audio tours and 90-minute guided walking excursions. Another must-see in Scottsdale with kids is the Butterfly Wonderland, which has America’s biggest butterfly conservatory and a display of fluttering beauty.
5. Anaheim, California
Disneyland and perfect temps in the 70s are why Anaheim, California, is a great family vacation spot in winter. Disney California Adventure Park, the Downtown Disney District, and Disneyland Park are must-see attractions. Although you might easily spend your whole vacation at Disneyland, make time for a unique family experience at the Flightdeck Flight Simulation Center, where parents and kids over ten can fly for 30 to 120 minutes.
After all the excitement in the city, a short drive away is the Yorba Regional Park, which has a playground and a lake with paddle boats and kayak rentals. Another outdoor activity near Anaheim that is great for families with teens is a hot air balloon ride in Temecula over the vineyards and citrus fields as the sun rises over the mountains.
6. St. Simons Island, Georgia
The winter season on St. Simons Island is very extraordinary. Temperatures around the middle of the 60s Fahrenheit are usual throughout the winter near the Georgia coast. Because there are fewer people at the beach during the winter, you and your beloved four-legged companion are free to enjoy a stroll down the sand.
Make reservations for a guided nature tour to see some of the island’s more than 400 species of birds and North Atlantic Right Whales. Then, go to Jekyll Island to check out the Lighting of the City Christmas Tree and the Brunswick Christmas Parade. These events are fantastic opportunities for families to spend quality time together during winter.
7. Seaside, Florida
You’ll discover this charming beachfront community along Highway 30A, situated between Rosemary Beach and Destin. Seaside, Florida, with its gorgeous white sand beaches and brightly painted cottages, is a beautiful destination for families. This little coastal village shines with its stunning Christmas decorations during the winter holidays.
When the Gulf and its lakes are as calm as a mirror in the winter, the paddle boarders and kayakers in your family rejoice. Visit Seaside in late January for the annual 30A Songwriters Festival. Arenas, town halls, restaurants, theaters, pubs, and covered patios are just a few places that transformed into great concert halls with delicious food and pleasant atmospheres.
8. South Padre Island, Texas
Since South Padre Island is the only tropical island in Texas and the weather is usually warm, even in the winter, it is the ideal place to go for a stroll, gather shells, and do some fishing.
While you’re there, join in a sandcastle-building lesson, this is a great way to spend the day with kids. Then, add a boat ride on the bay to your winter vacation and maybe even an excursion to see dolphins. You may also plan a family horseback riding adventure without worrying about the heat.
9. Maui, Hawaii
Families may view some incredible whales in Maui during the winter, and the island will be much less crowded, making it the perfect time to relax on the beach. In addition, the area may have some of the world’s most beautiful coasts, rainforests, waterfalls, and drives.
Between December and May, when whales are most active, Pride of Maui offers two-hour tours that include whale-watching and snorkeling on a pristine coral reef. When done, you and your loved ones should head to Maui’s north shore for some big wave surfing. Kanaha and Pa’ia have some of the world’s best surfing in the winter.
As a rule, the climate in Maui is pleasant at all times. An added plus is that you may go swimming in the ocean off the coast of Maui without needing a wetsuit, as the water temperature rarely drops below 75 degrees.
10. Anna Maria Island, Florida
The white sand beaches and clear blue waters of this barrier island are significant draws for vacationers. Anna Maria Island’s winters are renowned for their lack of rain and abundant sunlight. While lounging in the sun and splashing around in the water may take up most of your vacation time, don’t forget to plan family-friendly activities like the Bradenton Beach Lighting of the Tree. Additionally, the Bradenton Area River Regatta, held annually in February, is a fun and free event that everyone in the family may enjoy.
Include the annual Winterfest, a favorite of both locals and visitors. All winter long, you can catch this at Holmes Beach Field. Attendees of all ages will have a good time at this celebration. Artists and other merchants set up booths to sell their wares. Also, Anna Maria Island’s many family-friendly lodgings make a winter getaway there a great idea.
Plan a Memorable Family-Friendly Winter Vacation
Pack up the kids and head to one of these sunny destinations for a break from the cold on a fun and relaxing warm winter trip. However, before making any arrangements, it is essential to learn about the local health and safety rules at your desired vacation destination to ensure the well-being of your complete family.
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