Warm Weather Vacation In December

If you are not looking forward to the time of year when the ground is cold, the skies are gray, and everything seems bleak, then you’re not alone. But it doesn’t have to be that way. There’s a key to warm weather vacation in December: travel south!

Winter is coming, it’s only a matter of time. As much as we’d like to enjoy the outdoors, November through March are primarily cold and snowy here in the Midwest. We could pretend that the Florida Keys aren’t calling to us, but we’d be lying. This winter, don’t let the chance of early snow scare you away from what is literally a warm weather vacation in December.

Winter is coming! That isn’t a Game of Thrones reference, despite what the headlines might lead you to believe — it’s an actual fact of Meteorological Winter, which occurs in December. True, we don’t all move at a snail’s pace like Westeros residents do; winter weather in December does not take quite as long to get here. Still, it’s typically about this time when people begin dreaming of warmer destinations. Beaches and ice cream on vacation are dream come true for a lot of folks…but why wait until December?

When it’s cold and snowy in your city, it’s probably in the 80s somewhere in Florida. You like warm weather, and you like vacationing. Many tourists don’t realize just how far their dollar can go when going on vacation, especially to a tropical destination.

If you’re looking for an affordable way to escape the winter weather blues and get some rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation, why not travel to a warmer climate this winter? The days are getting shorter, it’s cold outside, and you’re tired of being stuck at work. It is definitely time to start planning your next vacation (or maybe your first vacation).

If you are searching for warm places to visit in December in USA, to spend your winter vacations, look no further! This list is packed with great suggestions on places where you can travel whether for a break from the winter blues or to spend your Christmas holiday.

Warm Weather Vacation In December

Being the USA such an extensive country with an incredible variety of climates and weather, you have a variety of places where you can travel if you are looking to escape the cold.

Although you will see that Florida and California seem to be the most popular places where to go in December, you will find a nice choice of interesting off-the-beaten-path places if you love to explore lesser-trendy destinations in the USA.

I have curated this massive guide to the best places to visit in December in the USA, where professional writers and travelers suggest their favorite warm places in the USA winter.

We have made sure to select places where the temperature never (almost) goes below 65F.

So, pack your T-shirts and sundresses and chose among these fabulous winter wonders!

Table of Contents

The best warm places to visit in December in USA

1) Kauai, Hawaii

Contributed by Aram @ Next is Hawaii

Queen bath in Kauai at sunset -warm places to visit in December in USA


December is a wonderful time to escape to Hawaii as it will greet you with warmth, palm trees, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Kauai is one of the best places to visit in December in US and the most underrated. In fact, December is an ideal time to visit if you are suffering from the winter blues a bit early in the season.

During December, Kauai does get a bit of rainfall (approximately 15 days) and the temperatures are slightly cooler with an average low of 53F and a high of 71F.  The ocean remains a bit chilly too at around 75F. 

However, this is a fantastic time to go for a hike in the cooler weather (and avoid many crowds) and it is still going to likely be warmer than where you live on the mainland or abroad!

One thing to note is that prices do rise a bit in Kauai during the Christmas season and New Year as this can be the peak time to visit. 

During December on Kauai, you will enjoy gorgeous state parks like Polihale State Park and Kokee State Park.  And, naturally, a trip to Kauai is not complete without visiting the Na Pali Coast and taking a helicopter tour to view this Jurassic World from over the Pacific Ocean.

There are several things to do in Lihue and other places on the island. 

But, be sure not to miss one of the most beautiful waterfalls, Wailua Falls, during this time. Because of the rainfall, it will be powerful and even more breathtaking than usual!


2) Big Island of Hawaii

Contributed by Francesca Makana @ Homeroom Travel

Big island beach overview
Photo © Francesca

Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, is one of the best warm places in the United States to visit in December. The weather is warm, in the high 70s, without too much humidity. Thus, it makes for a great place to escape the colder weather elsewhere. 

You can get to the Big Island by flying to Kona International Airport. There are many direct flights from the United States and Asia. Flights can range from $200-$600. Plan to rent a car to get around the Big Island. 

Opt to spend at least 5-7 days exploring what the Big Island has to offer. The main city, Kona, contains tons of great restaurants, bars, and beaches.

You can also opt to go on a night snorkel with Manta Rays as well. If looking for a more laid-back vibe, head to the eastern side of the island and spend some time in Hilo. Both Kona and Hilo are great places to base yourself on your stay. 

Other can’t miss places on the Big Island include Pololu Valley, Waipio Valley, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, South Point, and Mauna Kea. Make sure to grab a shaved ice or two before you leave!

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