17 Warm Places to Visit in January

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 88°F
• Recommended for: bachelor/bachelorette parties, romantic getaways
• Where to Stay:House with Rooftop Pool (sleeps 8, from $255/night); Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena (inquire for rates), Sophia Hotel (from $161/night)

Cartagena is the epitome of a steamy escape with lots of choices at your fingertips. January delivers tropical temperatures, minimal humidity and the lowest chance of precipitation. You’ll certainly appreciate the gentle breeze while walking around this picturesque port. This UNESCO-listed old town is an Insta-worthy maze of cobblestone lanes, Spanish colonial buildings with balconies covered in bougainvillea and glorious churches that dominate the tree-lined plazas. When it comes to tasty eats, find your way to a palettas, a fruity and refreshing mid-afternoon snack. You gotta try pescado frito (fried fish) with green plantains and coconut rice. For the best beaches in the area, book a day trip to the magical Islas del Rosario.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 86°F
• Recommended for: flying out of JFK or Newark, water activities, beach vibes
• Where to Stay: Dalia's Paradise Home (sleeps 4, from $699/night); The Ritz-Carlton Aruba (from $699/night); Courtyard by Marriott Aruba Resort (from $316/night)

Aruba, the happy island 48 miles west of Curaçao, welcomes hordes of repeat travelers—especially in the winter when consistently warm weather, endless sunshine and cooling trade winds sure beat the forecast in most of the U.S.—and with nonstop flights out of JFK and Newark daily means Aruba’s famed sandy beaches and rum punch are only a direct flight away. According to travel writer Dan Koday, along with overall chill-meets-luxe vibe of the island, the water activities are a main attraction: "[Whether] it’s windsurfing, riding Jet Skis, snorkeling, cruising on a catamaran or scuba diving. In fact, you’d be missing out if you have your PADI certification and left without exploring the many shipwrecks in Aruba’s waters: the Antilla, Debbie II and Jane wrecks, plus an airplane wreck site with not one but two submerged planes (they were intentionally sunk to form an artificial reef)." On land, Koday recommends renting an ATV to see the island—especially the rugged, arid Arikok National Park. But whatever you do, he tells us, "be sure to try pastechis (local empanadas) pretty much anywhere you find them." Think: flaky pastry and gooey cheese.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 71°F
• Recommended for: domestic travel, architecture buffs, mild weather
• Where to Stay: Guest House (sleeps 2, from $359/night), Sands Hotel & Spa (inquire for rates), Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs (from $635/night)

Sunshine. Highs in the low 70s. Yeah, January in Palm Springs is total perfection. The hip Sonoran Desert oasis is known for its mid-century design cred, iconic architecture and salacious tales from Tinseltown’s golden age. That raises the question of where you’re going to stay. Whether you’re a fan of retro glamor or contemporary aesthetics, stylish hotels abound. We also love the idea of renting a fabulous house erected in the famous neighborhood Elvis and Priscilla honeymooned. Of course, a pool and jacuzzi are non-negotiables regardless of where you shack up. Round out your itinerary by doing a historical walking tour to see where the Rat Pack used to party, snapping (mandatory) pics under luscious palm trees, indulging in spa treatments, shopping for vintage treasures and communing with nature on a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 82°F
• Recommended for: easy international travel, resorts, family getaways, romantic getaways, group trips
• Where to Stay: Zen & Cozy Condo (sleeps 3, from $106/night); Beachfront Condo (sleeps 4, from $200/night); Garza Blanca Cancun (from $419/night)

It’s all about sun and fun in Cancun. And it truly has activities for all types of travelers—from hard-partying college students and bachelorette parties to honeymooners and families. In fact, PureWow Editor in Chief, Jillian Quint, brought her 5 and 7-year-olds to the all-inclusive Garza Blanca and was quite surprised by how both family-friendly and luxe it still felt: "Dare I say, it reaffirmed my commitment to family travel," she wrote on her stay. Nonetheless, you’ll undoubtedly spend the bulk of your trip on the beach (hello, Playa Delfines). For a dose of culture, head over to the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and if you’re on the market for some adventure, take up some whale shark snorkeling courtesy of Ocean Tours. Have a hankering for authentic Mexican food? TripAdvisor reviewers rave about El Rinconcito de Puebla and Los Caporales.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 85°F
• Recommended for: solo travel, romantic getaway, culture, sightseeing
• Where to Stay: Treehouse (sleeps 4, from $271/night); Hern's Artistic Studio (sleeps 2, from $90/night), Quiet Cottage (sleeps 2, from $96/night); Na Nirand Romantic Hotel (from $110/night)

According to Lee Thompson, co-founder of global travel company, Flash Pack, South East Asia itineraries are popular during the month of January thanks to hot temperatures. Specifically, Chiang Mai, dubbed the “Rose of the North,” is a continual reminder that there’s more to Thailand than the islands of Phuket (though we’ll get to that later) and Koh Samui. The capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom charms tourists with its relaxed pace and rich culture. The city boasts hundreds of opulent Buddhist temples including the gilded Wat Phra Singh as well as lush rainforests, majestic mountains and elephant sanctuaries within driving distance. Since Chiang Mai has a slightly cooler climate than Bangkok, you can clock more sightseeing hours without sweating through your gauzy printed pants. Let’s be honest, it’ll still feel quite balmy.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 86°F
• Recommended for: direct flights, solo travel, romantic getaway, culture and food, water activities, beach vibes
• Where to Stay: Villa atop a Hill (sleeps 6, from $275/night); Kura Botanica (from $229/night), Avila Beach Hotel (from $199/night),  Zoëtry Curaçao Resort & Spa (from $624/night)

A less touristy spot than other Caribbean locales, you might consider Curaçao a hidden gem with less crowds, fewer tourist traps and lower prices. Don't worry. It's still replete with beaches, amazing food (like goat barbecue, fried conch, Antillean ice cream, bòkel, and iguana soup) and opportunities to kick back and explore whether on ATVs or boat to visit the famous Blue Room cave. Tirzah Statia, Curaçao native and experience curator for Curaçao Tourist Board explained to PureWow editor Taryn Pire why January was a great time to visit: “In Curaçao, winter is still summer, with temperatures averaging between 80 and 90°F [with] some rain and light winds.” In fact, many find the constant wind or breeze we experience here like “the cherry on the cake.” Weather aside, Delta added direct flights to the island in winter 2024, adding to the convenience of a winter island getaway. Unique in its identity amid the many more Americanized Caribbean destinations, during Pire's own visit to Curaçao, she felt almost immediately in the thick of local culture, passing local watering holes and lively neighborhoods.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: highs in the 80s, lows in the low 70s to upper 50s
• Recommended for: Big Five safaris, international travel, bucket-list travel
• Where to Stay: Four Seasons Safari Lodge (inquire for rates), Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge (from $392/night), Seronera Wildlife Lodge (from $441/night)

Says Flash Pack Co-Founder Thompson: "For January, I would choose an epic, bucket-list adventure." Specifically, the travel expert is talking about a unique roaming safari in Tanzania (a group tour built of solo travelers), since dry season in the Serengeti means great viewing for the great wildebeest migration. Serengeti National Park, a World Heritage Site, teems with wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs and more. Amazingly, though a safari can seem far-flung and out of reach, accommodations are available at every point. Meet ya near the lions?

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 82°F
  Recommended for: culture, families, romantic getaways, great rates
• Where to Stay: Casa Boutique Onelia (sleeps 6, from $147/night), Tiny Home (sleeps 4, from $103/night); Hacienda Campeche (from $321/night)

The Yucatan Peninsula shines as a hotbed of tourism thanks to Cancún, Playa del Carmen and Tulum. But you likely haven’t heard of Campeche. (That’s OK, we didn’t know much about it either until recently.) This less-frequented port city oozes charm and heritage. Mild weather makes January the perfect month to visit since you’ll want to spend time exploring the cobblestone streets, sherbet-hued colonial buildings, UNESCO-listed walled historic center and hilltop fortresses. The waterfront promenade is a lovely spot for a morning jog or a sunset stroll. Embark on an artisan, culinary and archeological tour or explore the historical artifacts in Edzna.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 88°F
• Recommended for: backpackers, families, romantic getaways, beach vibes, affordable accommodations
• Where to Stay: Hebe Haven (sleeps 8, from $556/night), Kathu Villa (sleeps 2, from $226/night); myPatong Social Hostel (from $82/night) Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa (from $869/night)

From backpackers and spring breakers to honeymooners and celebs, everyone loves Phuket. It’ll downright blow you away with its white sands, swaying palm trees and turquoise tides, but the stunning scenery is hardly the only draw. Thailand’s biggest island also has legendary nightlife, delicious local eats, Buddhist temples, fabled diving sites and hundreds of hotels. Despite its status as a full-fledged tourism darling and January being the preeminent time to visit, you can still score legit deals.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 81°F
• Recommended for: airfare deals, outdoor and water activities, resorts, families, romantic getaways
• Where to Stay: Pele's Eye Tiny Home (sleeps 2, from $97/night), Hawaiian Treehouse (sleeps 2, from $259/night); Fairmont Orchid (from $920/night)

Becky Blaine, Newsletter Editor at TPG, said that for a mix of activity and relaxation, Hawaii is a great option, and The Big Island is the picture-perfect place to kick off your adventures in the Aloha State. Blessed with an unimaginably diverse landscape, this tropical paradise is teeming with hiking trails, waterfalls, giant lava rocks and jaw-dropping shores in colors you’ve never imagined. On the southernmost tip, Papakolea Beach displays dazzling green sand as a result of a mineral called olivine. Basalt gives Punaluʻu Beach its black hue. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is truly unlike anywhere else on the planet. You can also swim alongside gentle manta rays with massive 16-foot wingspans. If you’re into java, be sure to book a Kona coffee tour! January falls within the rainy season for Hawaii, but the upside is that everything looks so green, and the flowers are blooming. Plus, it’s not too humid. Rates tend to be on the higher side at the beginning of January, but by the middle of the month prices drop back down to average.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 86°F
• Recommended for: culture, resorts, romantic getaways, eco-lodging, wildlife and beach vibes
• Where to Stay: Jaguar Chalet (sleeps 3, from $350/night), Beachfront Bungalow (sleeps 4, from $950/night), Treetop Hideaway (sleeps 2, $181/night); Maquenque Eco-Lodge (from $205/night)

Keep the excitement of the holidays going by escaping the frightful winter weather and trading it for sunny Costa Rica. "I think Central and South American locations can be overlooked," says Blaine. "Don’t be afraid of the language barrier—many resorts have English-speaking staff and offer guided tours and great recommendations to explore local culture." Plus, January is the perfect time to visit this Central American country because it’s just after the holiday rush and it’s the first month of the dry season. That means you can expect smaller crowds and picture-perfect weather when you embark on wildlife tours at the Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, Hacienda Barú National Wildlife Refuge or the Curi Cancha Wildlife Refuge. Costa Rica is also nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea which means countless blue water beaches to just relax and unwind at—try Playa Conchal or Manuel Antonio Beach to start.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 74°F
• Recommended for: mild temperatures, adventure, solo travel, buddy trip, beach vibes
• Where to Stay: Nature Lodge (sleeps 2, from $143/night); Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria (from $170/night)

Sure, it’s not nearly as hot as, say, Colombia, but the cool January temperatures in Cape Verde make it so it’s not too cold that you don’t want to go outside, and it’s not so hot that your afternoon adventure is ruined by your desire to get to an AC ASAP. This island off the coast of west Africa has a lot to offer for snowbirds escaping the harsh winters. And as Thompson points out, "For January, I would choose an epic, bucket-list adventure." And adventures this African spot has to offer: go on an excursion and get a different view of the Island of Sal courtesy of Zipline Cabo Verde, and those who like to keep things more grounded can still get their adrenaline pumping while on a 4WD Buggy Island Adventure.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 84°F
• Recommended for: beach vibes, water activities, families, romantic getaways, culture, foodies
• Where to Stay: Luxury Cottage (sleeps 4, from $745/night); The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman (from $1179/night)

Known for calm waters, coral reefs teeming with marine life and most famously the spectacular beauty of Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman is the quintessential Caribbean getaway. Catching rays, snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding in a bioluminescent bay and fishing are among the most popular pastimes. Need a break from the sun? Head over to George Town to watch the massive cruise ships dock in the port. The capital is also home to the ruins of a colonial-era fort and the Cayman Islands National Museum. Foodies won’t want to pass up the return of the Cayman Cookout (January 15 to 20, 2024). Held at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, the mouthwatering event brings together leading chefs, sommeliers and spirit aficionados from all over the world. Past headliner chefs include Emeril Lagasse, Deedee Niyomkul, Éric Ripert​ and ​José Andrés—just to name a few.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 68°F
• Recommended for: nature lovers, spa-seekers, country club life, road trips
• Where to Stay: Royal Palms Resort and Spa (from $416/night); Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort (from $163/ night); Home with Pontoon Boat (sleeps 9; from $391/night)

Did someone say road trip? Phoenix, Arizona, is a great place to take off from, whether you're heading to the Sonoran Desert, or Palm Springs. But, if you also just want to stick around town, Phoenix in January isn't half bad either thanks to a mild winter climate and an abundance of outdoor activities. Explore the desert hikes like Camelback Mountain or Desert Botanical Garden sans summer heat. But it's not all outdoors. The Southwest oasis is also known for its vibrant arts scene, including local festivals and public art, and the luxury spas and golf resorts attract visitors seeking a break from the daily grind. Additionally, nearby destinations like Sedona and Scottsdale offer scenic day trips and wellness retreats​.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 79°F
• Recommended for: beach bums, serious swimmers, surfers, brunch diners and culture lovers
• Where to Stay: Surry Hills Apartment (sleeps 2; from $189/night); Apartment in The Rocks (sleeps 4; from $444/night); The Darling (from $393/night)

If Melbourne is Australia's New York, Sydney is Australia's Los Angeles. It's got beach life, city life, incredibly nice people, a lively atmosphere and access to absolutely stunning nature. Do as the Aussies do and take a swim in one of the gorgeous (and cold!) ocean pools along the scenic Bondi-to-Coogee coastal path. Of course, you can't miss the Sydney Opera House, in fact, you can even try to see a show while you're there. And don't sleep on brunch. Literally, don't sleep past brunch! Sydney basically invented avocado toast.

• Average Daily Temperature in January: 70°F
• Recommended for: families, theme parks, Disney
• Where to Stay: Hyatt Regency Orlando (from $223/night); Hilton Grand Vacation Clubs Tuscany Village Orlando (from $152/night); Villa in Four Corners (sleeps 13; from $158/night)

Orlando, Florida, as in, you guessed it, Disney World. January is a nice time to hit up the parks if you want to avoid jam-packed crowds that flock to the scene during holiday breaks. Says Becca Magnusen of Family Vacation Planner: “Avoid peak times like Christmas, President's Week, Spring Break, Columbus Day and Thanksgiving to ensure that you are at least avoiding the most crowded times.” Targeting a mid-January stay can mean smaller crowds—and maybe even smaller prices—and warm weather.