Everyone is different regarding the purpose of one’s winter vacation. Some people are interested in going to a snowy spot to ski or enjoying other winter activities. However, not everyone likes cold; some people would much rather be soaking in the sun and swimming in warm tropical waters. Surveys have found that 23% of Americans prefer winter vacations rather than the summer, with the top reasons found to be the lack of tourists and to get away from the bad weather. In addition, 2022 research shows that 63% of American travelers are interested in enjoying beach destinations and nearly two-thirds of travelers are enthusiastic about family travel, overtaking romantic trips.
Therefore, if you want a warm place to visit in winter, continue reading to learn about some of the top winter beaches in the United States and beyond. You may choose from a wide variety of beautiful coastlines, from the tropical waters of Hawaii to the beautiful shores of Florida or the pristine waters of the Sea of Cortez. Here is a list of the best warm beaches in the USA and beyond to relish your next winter vacation with your family.
Maui, Hawaii
If you go to Maui in the winter, you’ll have the sunshine you need to enjoy the beach with fewer visitors, and you’ll get to see some of the world’s most excellent whale watching. Beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, waterfalls, and some of the most scenic drives in the world.
The whale season lasts from December to May, and Pride of Maui provides a two-hour whale-watching excursion that includes snorkeling a stunning coral reef. Then, head to Maui’s north shore in the winter to catch some big wave surfing, another terrific thing you and your family shouldn’t miss. Finally, you can visit Kanaha and Pa’ia for the best waves!
Temperatures hardly drop below 60°F in the numerous beach resorts that populate the island during the coldest winter. As a result, visitors to Maui often enjoy pleasant weather all year long. Additionally, swimming without a wetsuit in ocean waters is possible since the water temperature off the coast of Maui is 75°F.
San Diego, California
San Diego’s winter is the most incredible time to visit since it is lovely, the weather is mild, and fewer tourists visit the city’s attractions and beaches. This destination is a year-round outdoor playground for families with an average temperature of 72°F. You can enjoy the laid-back vibe while staying in one of the many beachfront places to stay to embrace the best of coastal living.
Bike tours along the Mission Bay Bike Path are a great way to exercise during San Diego’s winter while taking in the most beautiful water scenery. On this three-mile boardwalk along the bay, you may discover hip surf shops and cafés. Another must-do activity is whale watching; be sure to catch the 20,000 gray whales migrating from Alaska to the balmy seas of Baja, Mexico. Also, you can experience a fun Pacific Beach Point surfing adventure with beginner-friendly reef-exposed waves, which are ideal in the winter. A famous boardwalk surrounds it with several amenities.
Seaside, Florida
Seaside, Florida, is a family-friendly vacation spot with picture-perfect beaches and brightly painted homes. This quiet coastal village has everything to transport you back in time and distinguishes itself throughout the holiday season with its adorable winter festive decor. Winter on 30A means low Gulf water temps and a terrific time of year for standup paddle boarders and kayakers since the Gulf and lakes are as smooth as glass.
If you’re in Seaside during the winter, don’t miss the annual 30A Songwriters Festival, which takes place in late January. Amphitheaters, town halls, restaurants, theaters, pubs, and covered patios are transformed into music venues with outstanding cuisine and atmosphere for the occasion.
St. Simons Island, Georgia
Winter is an excellent season to visit St. Simons Island, Georgia. During the winter, coastal Georgia often sees temperatures in the mid-60s. Summer crowds and dog restrictions are also gone in the winter so that you may enjoy a visit to the beach with your favorite furry friend.
In January and February, plan a family trip to nearby Jekyll Island to look for Island Treasures like handcrafted glass floats. Book a guided nature tour around the island to view a rich array of wildlife, including North Atlantic Right Whales and over 400 bird species.
Festive winter family-friendly events like the Lighting of the City Christmas Tree in Jekyll Island and the Brunswick Christmas Parade are fantastic things to do when heading to the island for the holidays.
South Padre Island, Texas
South Padre Island is Texas’ only tropical island with mild temps, making its beach ideal for strolling, shell gathering, fishing, and watching the waves roll in. With almost 34 miles of shoreline, you may go for a walk on the beach in the winter, and it’s nice to know that you can bring your canine companions along for the walk and enjoy the beach together.
Book a sandcastle lesson while you’re at the beach. This is a fun way to spend a day with kids without getting wet at the beach. You can also add a dolphin-watching tour to your winter getaway by taking a leisurely boat ride on the bay. Horseback riding is available all year, but in the winter, you don’t have to worry about the sun burning down on you. Instead, a comfortable sweater is all you need for a pleasant gallop on the beach.
South Padre Island’s typical winter temperature is in the mid-70s, so you can still enjoy an island vacation without being concerned about the cold.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Winter months are a popular season to visit Cabo. The weather is mild and sunny, ideal for staying outside longer and enjoying the sunshine. The water temperatures range from 72-75°F. Winter vacations are all about chilling, and one of the things you can do here to relax is to go on a sunset cruise to watch the incredible sunset against the iconic Arch of Cabo San Lucas.
A guided camel ride is a truly unique experience for a winter getaway on the Baja California beach. You will get outside and enjoy the sunshine while enjoying the natural beauty from a new perspective. A camel ride is for families with children over five years old. And if you are looking for a thrilling adventure in the water, a whale shark snorkeling excursion near Cabo will surely be an unforgettable experience. You can book this whale shark dive with Cabo Adventures.
Cabo San Lucas is the ideal location for a luxurious getaway with your family. When you want the ultimate holiday vacation, this destination offers a variety of high-end accommodations that feature amenities like infinity pools, home gyms, private chef services, and personal trainers.
Anna Maria Island, Florida
This barrier island is famous for its picture-perfect scenery of white sand beaches and turquoise oceans. Anna Maria Island’s winters are known for their dry weather and beautiful sunshine. While you’ll most likely spend most of your trip lounging in the sun, you might want to include family-friendly activities like the Bradenton Beach Lighting of the Tree on your schedule. In addition, the Bradenton Area River Regatta, held in February, is a fun and free event that includes interactive family activities and musical entertainment.
Winterfest is another event to include in your plan, where residents and visitors congregate at Holmes Beach Field each winter season. This festival has plenty to offer everyone. There are a variety of vendors exhibiting artwork and a variety of other products for sale.
And to make the most of your winter adventure, Anna Maria Island offers a variety of places to stay to accommodate families with kid-friendly amenities for a comfortable and unforgettable trip.
Planning Your Family-Friendly Winter Beach Vacations
This list hopefully will encourage you to go on a family journey to have a winter getaway on any of these beautiful beaches. Always consider local health and safety rules at your potential vacation spot before booking your family beach trip to ensure everyone’s well-being.
